the NorCal coast: part 2: Carmel-by-the-Sea

An evening in Carmel-by-the-Sea

After spending time in Monterey and Pacific Grove, CA, we were ready to see more of the picturesque coast of Northern California. The next stop on our road trip was Carmel-by-the-sea. Known for the museums and library of the historic Carmel Mission, the quaint little beach town is an architectural dream. After dinner and drinks at Alvarado Street Brewery & Bistro, we headed towards the beach to catch the golden glow of magic hour.

While the beach, just before sunset, is always a beautiful sight worth seeing, we were excited to explore the downtown and the famous cottage architecture. The streets & avenues are meticulously maintained and everywhere you look are stunning secret alleyways and courtyards. Many of the boutiques and homes were built in the whimsical cottage style of Hugh Comstock, making the entire city appear to be ripped from the pages of a fairytale. There are a myriad of things to do in Carmel-by-the-sea, but strolling through town is definitely my favorite.