The Guide | The 3-Day Carmel Valley Itinerary

The Guide | The 3-Day Carmel Valley Itinerary

Stephanie
From a California-raised traveler, this three day resort-like itinerary will guide you through the cutest and most “Carmel-ly” spots in the ocean town.
Updated ago
Save
Share

To Stay

Bernardus Lodge & Spa
@stephaniewu
Charming. Intimate. Comfortable. The serene character of Bernardus Lodge & Spa echoes an authentic Wine Country retreat. Our Carmel resort nurtures a relaxing escape from the bustle of life—to calm and revitalize all of the senses, providing the finest resort experience of all Carmel Valley hotels.
Add to
Details
Quail Lodge & Golf Club
@stephaniewu
Add to
Details
Carmel Valley Ranch - The Unbound Collection by Hyatt
@stephaniewu
Carmel Valley Ranch has always been an escape with plenty of room to roam, to explore, to discover. Where people rekindle romances, reunite with friends and family, revive spirits, or simply get away and play. And these days, play is more important than ever.
Add to
Details

Day One

Morning

If you’ve arrived before check-in, head downtown and grab a coffee and donuts at Dutch Door. Check out the many stores, like Anthropologie or Arhaus, or restaurants and outdoor seating areas!

Dutch Door Donuts
@stephaniewu
Add to
Details

Afternoon

Check in to your hotel, and take a little break at the pool. If you’re at Quail Lodge you can also grab a snack at Covey Grill or Edgar’s. Then get dressed up for dinner!

Covey Grill
@stephaniewu
Add to
Details
Edgar's at Quail Lodge
@stephaniewu
Add to
Details
Lucia Restaurant & Bar
@stephaniewu
Add to
Details

Evening

Visit the famous Casanova for an excellent Italian meal. I highly recommend the escargot, linguini, and cannelloni. The hefty wine list, and accompanying sommelier, will help you find a nice pairing for your dinner.

Casanova
@stephaniewu
Add to
Details

After, head home and relax for Day Two!

Day Two

Morning

Grab a coffee at the hotel, then brunch at Mission Bistro.

Mission Bistro
@stephaniewu
Add to
Details

Then spend a few hours browsing the shops at Carmel Plaza, or mosey down to the beach for views of clear waters and white sand.

Carmel Plaza
@stephaniewu
Add to
Details

And if you get hungry again, get a pastry at Rise + Roam.

Rise + Roam Bakery and Pizzeria
@stephaniewu
Add to
Details

Afternoon

One of the more special places in Carmel Valley, the Refuge spa is a place I frequent over and over again.

Add to
Details

Evening

After a few hours at the spa, head back towards downtown for a light and refreshing dinner.

Seventh & Dolores
@stephaniewu
Add to
Details

Day Three

Morning

After some relaxing hours at the pool or gym, grab a coffee and breakfast at Covey.

Afternoon

Get lunch at either Stationaey or Pangaea Grill.

Stationæry
@stephaniewu
Add to
Details
Pangaea Grill
@stephaniewu
Add to
Details

Then head over to 17-Mile Drive for a gorgeous (you guessed it) 17 mile drive through some of the most gorgeous scenery you can imagine.

17 Mile Drive
@stephaniewu
Add to
Details

Evening

If you are still in town, try out another favorite restaurant of mine, La Bicyclette.

La Bicyclette Restaurant
@stephaniewu
Add to
Details

You may also want to mosey to Monterey and stay at one of the following hotels I love!

InterContinental the Clement Monterey, an IHG Hotel
@stephaniewu
Enjoy panoramic ocean views and radiant sunrises on beautiful Monterey Bay at InterContinental The Clement Monterey. Overlooking the sapphire waters of Monterey Bay on Cannery Row, our waterfront hotel, resort and spa is where beauty and luxury indulge your senses. Whether you are planning a family vacation, romantic getaway, or special event, The Clement Monterey is an inspiring Monterey Bay hotel with urban energy, modern luxury, and coastal charm. Escape to the California Coast and feel the spirit of Monterey.
Add to
Details
The Sanctuary Beach Resort
@stephaniewu
Nestled on 19 acres of pristine Pacific shoreline, The Sanctuary Beach Resort invites you to escape and enjoy the best of the California Coast. Rise and shine to beachfront views, savor artisanal cuisine, and take in nature's beauty. At the end of the day, cozy up by a firepit on the sand and fall asleep to the sound of breaking waves. When you’re ready to explore, discover local wineries and all the sights of Monterey Bay. You’ll also find open spaces, modern facilities, state-of-the-art technology, and California hospitality perfect for hosting groups and events.
Add to
Details

Another option is to drive down to Big Sur, stay at a relaxing hotel or try a hike for gorgeous views.

Alila Ventana Big Sur
@stephaniewu
An adults-only stay, Ventana Big Sur offers luxury accommodations and unique experiences along the dramatic California coastline.
Add to
Details
Post Ranch Inn
@stephaniewu
The Post family worked this land for generations, first as a homestead and then later as a farm. Today it retains much of its original character, with the added distinction of offering visitors a serene getaway and retreat.
Add to
Details
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park Vista Point
@stephaniewu
Add to
Details
McWay Falls
@stephaniewu
Add to
Details

Many thanks!

Stephanie ✨

* * *
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Stephanie
California-based Adventurer & Travel Designer. For over a decade, I explored systemic connections in Canada, Malawi, The Netherlands, Beijing, Hong Kong, Southeast Asia, and the Bay Area. I fell in love with traveling while looking for a career that acknowledges and expands the status quo through intentionally designed experiences. Now I choose to do work that guides people into deeper connection with themselves, their work, and others. Aside from my work, I’m an amateur ceramicist, casual interior designer and gravel biker, intense Google Sheets and Notion template maker, and avid book reader. As often as I can, I’m off the grid backpacking internationally, or taking a campervan across US National Parks! I am always up for an adventure, a life-changing conversation, and partnering on work that leaves the planet 🌍 better than we found it. DM me via Instagram (@thebungalow.sf) to inquire about my personalized travel planning services. ✨✨✨ 📍San Francisco, California
Send A Tip
Support Stephanie’s work.
Select your tip amount
$5
$10
$20
$50
Or type in other amount
Powered by Thatch
The home for unique & authentic travel
Powered by Thatch: Where great trips are made.
© Stephanie 2024 Help Privacy Terms Copyright Become a Seller Seller Academy About Careers Blog Explore Places