Internationally known for its scenic beauty and rich artistic history, Carmel-by-the-Sea lies on a gently rising slope above a magnificent white beach on California's Monterey Peninsula, some 200 miles south of San Francisco. Despite its relatively small size, Carmel-by-the-Sea offers the visitor a plethora of activities and experiences. These include fine dining, wine-tasting, historical walking tours, hiking, shopping, art collecting, golf, performing arts, spas, and beach activities. It is also a preferred location for destination weddings and romantic escapes. Carmel-by-the-Sea is strategically located near popular destinations such as Cannery Row, Big Sur, Carmel Valley, and the 17-Mile Drive, making it a perfect spot from which to explore the entire Monterey peninsula.

CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA, USA TODAY/10Best  PHOTO SHOW