Things to do in Carmel By The Sea
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Carmel Art Association
Shopping is a favorite pastime for locals and visitors alike, and Carmel has plenty of outlets to satisfy the urge, with a particular abundance of galleries, boutiques and high-end specialty stores, including some national chains.
Many of Carmel's 100-plus galleries are laden with frolicking dolphin sculptures and oil paintings of local scenery (including golf courses). But serious browsers will be rewarded with persistence. The weighty and free Carmel Gallery Guide can help with your hunt. The Carmel Art Association has been showcasing the best of local artists since 1927 and is a good place to begin.
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Carmel Heritage Society
Checking out the once modest cabins that have taken on the trappings of wealth along Carmel's tree-lined neighborhoods is reason enough to stroll outside of the shopping area. Better yet, go with a guide from the Carmel Heritage Society. The Society operates 90-minute walking tours at 09:30 on Saturday, which leave from First Murphy House, a former home with exhibits of local history and lore.
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Tor House
Even if you've never heard of 20th-century poet Robinson Jeffers, a pilgrimage to Tor House, which was built with his own hands, offers fascinating insights into bohemian Old Carmel. A porthole in the Celtic-inspired Hawk Tower reputedly came from the wrecked ship that carried Napoleon from Elba. Make reservations for tours (no children under 12).
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Point Lobos State Reserve
They bark, they bray, they bathe and they're fun to watch - sea lions are the stars of Point Lobos State Reserve, 4 miles south of Carmel. Its dramatically rocky coastline offers excellent tide-pooling. The full perimeter hike is 6 miles, but even short walks take in Bird Island and Whalers Cove. Arrive early on weekends; parking is limited.
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Forge in the Forest
Many of the employees at the Forge are also the owners through a trust. They bring an enthusiasm to this fun place that's infectious. Dine on the well-heated and flower-bordered patio or on an antique table inside. The huge menu features great sandwiches, steaks and pizzas. The bar is a fine place for a drink.
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San Carlos Borroméo de Carmelo Mission
A mile south of downtown, gorgeous San Carlos Borroméo de Carmelo Mission is an oasis of calm and solemnity, ensconced in flowering gardens. Its stone basilica is filled with original art, while a separate chapel holds the memorial tomb of founder Junípero Serra.
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Casanova
From the time you step past the home grown lavender and into this cottage until you get the bill, you'll know you are someplace special. The food and service is all high end and the seasonal menu blends French and California cuisines. Most ingredients are organic and sourced locally.
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Jack London's
In a walkway off Dolores St, Jack London's serves hot food until midnight. A Carmel mainstay since 1973, it pairs upscale pub grub (burgers, ribs) with a selection of microbrews and potent mixed drinks. With a cozy fireplace, the bar is a good place for just a drink.
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Carmel Valley
Go about two miles inland on Carmel Valley Rd and you'll hit sun almost every time. This Mediterranean-feeling valley is home to organic farms, upscale gated communities and posh garden shops. Scenic mountain roads lead over the hills to the Salinas Valley.
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Caffé Cardinale
This spot gets rave reviews for its rich coffee (roasted on the premises), but also does tasty baked goods, soups and panini sandwiches. It's tucked away in an alley off Ocean Ave.
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Forest Theatre & Outdoor Stage
This venue was founded in 1910. Musicals, drama and comedies, as well as movie screenings, take place in a lovely setting surrounded by trees and anchored by two large fire pits.
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Rio Grill
Southeast of the mission, Rio Grill is a jazzy bistro, where local ingredients find their destiny in wickedly flavored Southwestern dishes.
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Tuck Box
This is a snug British tea room in a tiny cottage that should be made out of gingerbread. People queue for its homemade scones and pies at afternoon tea.
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Golden Bough Theatre
This is the home of the revered Pacific Repertory Theatre (www.pacrep.org), whose repertoire ranges from Shakespeare to contemporary works.
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Nico
This small Italian restaurant is run by the charming Enzo Ruben Nico. The menu has all the classics, including numerous pastas and pizza.
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Bruno's Market & Deli
Downtown, Bruno's Market & Deli makes a mean tri-trip beef sandwich and has all the accoutrements for a picnic.
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Village Corner
This classic California bistro has a lovely, flower-filled patio with an open-pit fire. The menu is long and portions are generous.
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Carmel Beach
If you're afraid of sunburn, you'll love the Carmel Beach, a nice crescent of white sand.
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