For unsuspecting tourists who wander into Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA, it looks like a period version of the Truman Show. Establishments and homes in Carmel do not have addresses, only street names and a post Office box alloted to each.
And there’s no postal delivery. You need to collect your own mail from the Central Post Office. Inspite, or perhaps partly because of these eccentricities, the one square mile of ocean front land known as Carmel is one of the most beautiful, serene and quaint attractions in a region dotted with world famous tourist attractions.
Carmel Mission Basilica: The 2nd Mission in upper California, this historic Mission is also a thriving parish and a school. The tomb of Father Sierra Junipero, the founder of the Mission, along with the living quarters of the monks in their original preserved state, are available for viewing by visitors.
The Mission is a very popular wedding spot, with thousands of nuptials being conducted every year, which are open to both invitees as well as tourists.
So chances are that if you wander into the Mission as a tourist, you might end up as a wedding crasher. And don’t forget the post wedding parties on Carmel Beach, or at one of the historic Carmel hotels or restaurants. Website: http://www.carmelmission.org/
Point Lobos State Reserve: The entrance to this little slice of paradise is located 3 miles south of Carmel on Highway 1. Incredible natural beauty, unique geological formations, over 250 animal and bird species, 350 plant species and endangered architechtural sites await you at Point Lobos, along with jogging trails, scuba diving and picnic spots.
Website: http://pt-lobos.parks.state.ca.us
Sunset Cultural Center: With world class entertainment including modern dance and classical ballet, theater, and music festivals, this place is ground zero for performances, shows and get-togethers in Carmel.
With a Church like feel to it, the Sunset Cultural Center has a large enough stage to accomodate a full orchestra, live jazz combos, stage shows and full musicals. The Center regularly organizes music festivals. Check their event calender for current information on scheduled events. Website: http://www.sunsetcenter.org/
Carmel Hotels: A stay at a hotel in Carmel is more than just a place to sleep or rest. It’s a history tour by itself. Carmel hotels, like the rest of the city, are part and parcel of the tourist attraction.
The Pine Inn, built in 1889, was the first Inn built in carmel-vy-the-Sea, and it’s lobby still features the antiques and the period look of its early years. The Playa Hotel’s original building, a part of which still stands, was built by artist Christopher Jorgensen as a luxurious home for his bride, a member of San Francisco’s famous Ghirardelli chocolate clan.
Photos courtesy & copyrights - City of Carmel; More info - Restaurants & Bars, Shopping