Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

Tucked along California’s central coast, Carmel-by-the-Sea is a one-square-mile village beloved for its white-sand beach, fairytale architecture, and walkable downtown filled with independently owned inns, boutiques, art galleries, hidden courtyards, and more restaurants per capita than any other small city in America. The ideal destination for a mindful, peaceful escape, Carmel-by-the-Sea is completely walkable and offers a rich mix of art, nature, and culture. Visitors can explore galleries on a self-guided Art Walk, enjoy boutique shopping and walking tours, or partake in outdoor activities including scenic hikes, cycling, and world-class golf nearby at Pebble Beach Golf Links and Spyglass Hill. Carmel Beach is a highlight, with soft white sand, and dogs happily splashing in the waves.

The unparalleled culinary scene features Michelin-starred, Bib Gourmand and James Beard-awarded eateries, serving up flavors from across the globe and farm-to-table dining that emphasizes the fresh and often organic bounty of the Monterey Peninsula. This focus on quality, seasonality, and mindful preparation allows travelers focused on wellness to enjoy exceptional cuisine without compromising their health goals.

Visitors seeking a digital detox can further embrace “screenlessness” and catch live theater and musical performances at the Outdoor Forest Theater or Sunset Cultural Center, then enjoy accommodations as unique as the village itself, many of which are complete with fireplaces, soaking tubs, and personalized service. The quiet village is known to close down early at night, making Carmel-by-the-Sea a top choice for travelers looking for a restful night’s sleep, or simply to unplug, reset, and slow down.