Looking to go on a quick vacay to get away from the three-digit heat in Fresno? Lucky for us Fresnans we live only a hop, skip, and a jump away from one of the most quaint towns in the state, Carmel-By-The-Sea. No exaggeration, it’s roughly only a two and a half hour drive up the 152 until you arrive in the fairytale-style beach city.

Walking along Ocean Avenue, you’ll feel as though you jumped right into a page of a storybook. With quaint cottage-style shops, art galleries galore, and dogs as the favorite local accessory, Carmel’s charm makes it the perfect getaway spot.

So, let’s get to the good stuff. With the neighboring towns of Pebble Beach and Monterey, the activities are limitless, whether you’re on a romantic getaway or a family vacay.

If you’re there for the romance, why don’t you:
Stroll through town and admire art in the nearly 70 art galleries in Carmel
Go wine tasting in picturesque Carmel Valley
Walk through the sacred halls of the Carmel Mission and discover why Father Junipero Serra found it to be his favorite out of all the Missions
Pamper yourselves with a day of R&R at the award-winning Spa at Pebble Beach (#deeptissue #juicebar)
Picnic at Lover’s Point in Pacific Grove and take in the perfect sunset (totally cheesy but why not?!)

If you’re on a family vacation or just looking for some enjoyable pastimes, you should:
Golf where the pros play at the famous Pebble Beach Golf Links (don’t forget to pick up a jacket from one of the stores to make all your buddies jealous)
Hike in Big Sur (BONUS: In order to get there, you have to take the spectacular Highway One, probably the prettiest highway in the country. ANOTHER BONUS: You’ll get the perfect photo opp of the famous Bixby Bridge along the way -- cue the soundtrack to Big Little Lies and keep your eyes peeled for Reese and Nicole)
Visit the adorable sea otters and other sea life at the renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium (PS: don’t forget to let your kiddos know that Disney’s Finding Dory was based on this very aquarium)
Go Skydiving with Monterey Bay Skydiving (reserved for only the 18-and-older daredevils out there)
Relax, play and take it all in on dog-friendly Carmel Beach.

I know what you’re thinking… “This all sounds great but what about FOOD?!”. We got you. Check out some of the best restaurants in town including:
Casanova
Rio Grille
Little Napoli
Demetra Cafe
La Bicyclette
Forge In The Forest (Fun tip: If you bring your puppies they’re given their own menus with only the best dog food selections available. Other fun tip: Order the skillet cookie with ice cream for dessert. You’re welcome.)

Okay, BRB. We’re heading to Carmel. See you there!

RPM PR’s Definitive Guide to Carmel