A lone bagpiper silhouetted at sunset along the Pacific coastline near Pebble Beach, one of the most romantic evening traditions in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
A Local’s Guide to an Unforgettable Romantic Getaway in Carmel
Carmel-by-the-Sea is one of the most romantic coastal towns in California, known for its white sand beaches, hidden courtyards, and candlelit restaurants. If you’re planning a romantic getaway in Carmel-by-the-Sea, you’re already halfway there.
Carmel is not loud. It’s not flashy. It doesn’t compete for attention.
It whispers.
The white sand beaches. The tucked-away courtyards. The firelit restaurants. The coastal fog that rolls in just before sunset.
As the owner of Carmel Retreats, I’ve hosted hundreds of couples celebrating anniversaries, honeymoons, birthdays, proposals — and quiet reconnections. These are the experiences my guests come back for again and again.
Here are my top 10 most romantic things to do in Carmel and Big Sur:
1. Watch the Sunset at Carmel Beach with Champagne
There is nothing quite like a Carmel Beach sunset.
Pack a picnic basket with:
A bottle of champagne from Caraccioli Cellars
Two proper glasses (never plastic)
Warm throw blankets
Bare feet in the sand
Arrive 30 minutes before sunset. The sky turns lavender, then rose, then molten gold.
Sit close. Let the Pacific do the talking.
Few places in California feel this intimate.
(Pro tip: From your cottage at Carmel Retreats, you can walk to the beach in minutes.)
2. Chocolate & Port in the Secret Courtyard of Der Ling Lane
Hidden down Der Ling Lane is one of Carmel’s most romantic little secrets.
Step into the quiet courtyard:
Buy handcrafted truffles at Xocolatl Garden Chocolates
Walk next door to Galante Vineyards Tasting Room
Order a glass of rich port wine
Sit by the fountain as the sun drops and the courtyard lights glow. It feels like Europe. It feels private. It feels like you’ve discovered something together.
This is a perfect pre-dinner ritual during a romantic weekend in Carmel.
3. Sunset Bagpipers at The Inn at Spanish Bay
Every evening at sunset, something magical happens at The Inn at Spanish Bay in Pebble Beach.
A lone bagpiper walks across the rolling green hills overlooking the ocean. The music carries on the wind. Fire pits glow. Guests gather quietly.
Order a cocktail. Sit by the outdoor firepit. Hold hands.
It is dramatic, cinematic, and deeply romantic.
This is one of the most unforgettable sunset experiences in Monterey County.
4. Fire lit Cocktails at Anton & Michel
Romance doesn’t need spectacle.
Sometimes it’s simply:
A loveseat
A crackling fire
Soft lighting
A well-made cocktail
Anton & Michel, just steps from your Carmel cottage, has one of the coziest bar lounges in town.
Slide into the loveseat. Order something classic. Let the night unfold slowly.
5. Host Your Own Private Film Night (With a Carmel Twist)
Many couples don’t know this: several iconic Hollywood films were shot in and around Carmel and Big Sur.
At Carmel Retreats, I’ve curated a small private film collection for guests featuring classics like:
The Sandpiper (Elizabeth Taylor)
From Here to Eternity
If you’re feeling bold and playful, drive 30 miles south to Pfeiffer Beach in Big Sur, where the famous beach scene was filmed — and recreate it for yourselves.
Romantic. A little mischievous. Completely unforgettable.
6. Couples Massage & Mineral Baths at Refuge Spa
Just 7 minutes from your cottage is one of the most romantic spa experiences in California: Refuge Spa in Carmel Valley.
Book a couples massage, then spend hours:
Soaking in mineral pools
Moving between hot and cold plunges
Relaxing in outdoor baths overlooking the Santa Lucia Mountains
It’s quiet. It’s restorative. It’s deeply sensual in the most peaceful way.
Perfect for anniversaries or honeymoon getaways in Carmel.
7. Hike the Coves of Point Lobos (Especially China Cove)
If you want one of the most beautiful coastal hikes in California, go to Point Lobos State Natural Reserve.
Most visitors miss the most romantic spots.
If you hike just one cove:
→ China Cove
If you can add another:
→ Whaler’s Cove
Go early. Parking fills quickly.
Walk slowly. Sit on the cliffs. Watch sea lions below.
The turquoise water alone will make you feel like you’ve flown somewhere exotic.
8. Write a Love Note in the Hidden Journal at Carmel River Beach
This one is deeply personal.
At Carmel River Beach, under a bench overlooking the ocean, there is a small hidden mailbox. Inside it is a journal.
For decades, people have written:
Love letters
Notes to lost loved ones
Letters to the sea
Bring a pen. Write something honest.
Leave it behind.
There are few more intimate rituals in Carmel.
9. Rent a Vintage Roadster & Drive to Big Sur
If you want adventure with your romance, this is it.
Rent a vintage convertible from Monterey Touring Vehicles. Put the top down. Turn on your favorite music.
Drive south on Highway 1 through Big Sur to Nepenthe.
Order burgers and beer on the clifftop deck. Look out over the Pacific Coast Highway winding along the cliffs.
It feels like a movie. It feels like freedom. It feels like you’re 25 again.
10. Dinner at Aubergine (2 Michelin Stars)
For an extraordinary culinary experience, book the tasting menu at Aubergine Restaurant.
Chef Justin Cogley recently earned the highest Michelin distinction in Monterey County. The experience is refined, artistic, and unforgettable.
If you prefer something more intimate and Old World, try Casanova Restaurant, just four blocks from your cottage.
Both are perfect for proposals, milestone birthdays, or simply celebrating being together.
Why Carmel Is One of the Most Romantic Getaways in California
Carmel-by-the-Sea is built for romance:
Walkable streets
No street addresses
Hidden courtyards
Soft coastal light
Fireplaces everywhere
Beaches without crowds
It’s not about checking boxes.
It’s about slowing down.
Stay in the Heart of It All
If you’re planning a romantic weekend in Carmel, location matters.
At Carmel Retreats, you can:
Walk to Carmel Beach
Walk to restaurants
Walk to wine tasting
Return to a warm, private cottage built in 1923
Our historic cottages were designed for comfort, intimacy, and reconnection.
If you’re ready to plan your romantic escape:
👉 Visit CarmelRetreats.com to check availability
👉 Book direct and save
👉 Or call me personally to plan something special
Carmel isn’t just a place you visit.
It’s a place you remember.
— Barry
Carmel Retreats