Carmel-by-the-Sea | California
World-renowned for its thriving arts scene, European-style ambiance and cute cottages, Carmel-by-the-Sea is an idyllic coastal village nestled in the northern reaches of California’s Big Sur. First settled by Spanish missionaries in the late 1700s, Carmel-by-the-Sea is still home to the 18th-century San Carlos Borromeo de Carmelo Mission and since its official founding in 1902 has gained a reputation as one of the USA’s most romantic getaways. Honored with an array of accolades including being named one of National Geographic’s Best Beach Towns, Carmel-by-the-Sea offers everything from white sandy beaches, boutique shopping, art galleries and solely locally owned restaurants.