Local Laws
Several local laws preserve the natural beauty and rustic charm of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Franchise stores and restaurants are banned in the city and permission must be sought to chop down any tree.
Bird Sanctuary
Carmel River State Beach includes a freshwater lagoon that is preserved as a bird sanctuary, making it an ideal destination for ornithology enthusiasts.
Pets
Carmel- by-the-Sea welcomes four-legged friends and encourages you to take them exploring with you: Dogs are allowed to run off their leashes on the beach at designated times; many hotels and restaurants welcome them, too.
Accolades
Carmel-by-the-Sea was voted "Best Destination" by TripAdvisor in 2008; listed as one of "America's Best Beaches" by the Travel Channel in 2006; and Condé Nast Traveler magazine awarded the city "Number 1 for Ambiance" and "Number 6 Travel Destination" in the United States in 2008.
Fun Fact
Famous local resident Clint Eastwood was elected mayor of Carmel-by-the-Sea and served for one term during the late 1980s.
Article Written By J.C. Lewis
J.C. Lewis is the editor and co-owner of a weekly newspaper, as well as a staffer and regular contributor to a group of three newspapers in Los Angeles, Calif. Her writing has appeared on USAToday.com, Hotels.com and various other websites. Lewis holds a Bachelor of Science in politics from the University of Bristol, England.
