A Wine Lover’s Carmel Itinerary: What to Do and See
Set against the stunning backdrop of California’s Central Coast, Carmel is a paradise for wine lovers seeking a perfect blend of sophistication and charm. This picturesque region boasts boutique tasting rooms showcasing world-class wines, a thriving food scene filled with locally sourced delights, and endless opportunities for scenic exploration. In this guide, you’ll discover a Carmel itinerary that goes beyond the glass, combining unforgettable wine tasting experiences with indulgent local cuisine, breathtaking coastal views, and must-see attractions that highlight the unmatched allure of Carmel, California.
Day 1: Downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea Wine Tasting
Morning: Breakfast at Village Corner
Enjoy breakfast al fresco at the Village Corner California Bistro, established in 1948. It’s a beloved Carmel-by-the-Sea dining spot offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, it features diverse menu options, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dishes. Located at Dolores Street and 6th Avenue, it’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike for its laidback ambiance and fresh, locally inspired meals. Explore their full menu here. Open daily, except Monday evenings.
Late Morning: Carmel-by-the-Sea Wine Walk
With 18 wine tasting rooms all within walking distance of most downtown hotels and inns, a self-guided Carmel Wine Walk tasting tour is an essential Carmel-by-the-Sea activity. It’s the ideal location to try some of Monterey County’s award-winning wines with Carmel tasting rooms all conveniently congregated in one place.
First, we recommend stopping by Caraccioli Cellars to experience their distinctive sparkling wines made from premium varieties grown in the Santa Lucia Highlands. Next, wander over to Talbott to discover their estate-grown, cool-climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from their legendary Sleepy Hollow Vineyard. Then, wrap up your walking wine tour at Wrath Wines to taste their site-driven, sustainably grown Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, and Syrah.
Lunch at Terry’s Lounge at the Cypress Inn
Now that you’ve worked up an appetite, head over to Terry’s Lounge at the Cypress Inn for lunch. This famously dog-friendly restaurant seamlessly blends vintage Hollywood charm and classic Carmel style in a modern restaurant and lounge known for its original cocktails and locally sourced cuisine. Offering indoor and outdoor seating, diners can enjoy live music in the living room and, on Sundays, on the patio. Visit Terry’s Lounge for more details.
Afternoon Tasting at Scheid Wines
Cap off day one of your Carmel Itinerary with a visit to Scheid Vineyards’ Carmel-by-the-Sea tasting room near Ocean Avenue. Guests can explore estate grown wines via one of two tasting flights offered each day while learning about the vineyard’s commitment to sustainability. Scheid Family Wines emphasizes environmental stewardship, employee well-being, and renewable energy, earning accolades like the California Green Medal Environment Award.
Day 2: Carmel Valley Vineyard Tours
Morning: Breakfast at Earthbound Farm Stand
As you’re venturing into Carmel Valley for wine tasting and vineyard adventures, stop by the Earthbound Farm Stand to fuel up for the day ahead. Established in 1992 as an outdoor seasonal farm stand to sell Earthbound’s organic produce, today the farm stand is also home to an organic cafe serving homemade pastries, coffee, sandwiches, hot meals, and an ever changing organic salad bar.
Wine Tasting at Joyce Wine Company and Lunch at The Wine House
After breakfast, head to Joyce Wine Company to experience what the cool climate wines of Monterey County are all about. Joyce Wine Company is family-owned and driven by a passion for producing authentic, site-specific wines that reflect a true sense of place.
After your tasting, pop across the courtyard to The Wine House to sip on small production local wines and savor a round up of small bites at a communal table. Stick around for a game of bocce ball!
Evening: Dinner at Cafe Rustica
When dinner rolls around, make your way across the road for a memorable meal at Cafe Rustica. Blending Alsatian and Tuscan flavors, Cafe Rustica dishes up signature specialities like wood fired pizzas, flammekueche, housemade pastas, an array of salads, signature entrees, and more. Expect a casual, warm, and inviting vibe with a great outdoor patio.
Day 3: Scenic Sightseeing and Wine Tasting
Morning: Scenic Drive and Big Sur Hike
No Carmel itinerary would be complete without a scenic drive south on Highway 1 to soak up breathtaking views of the coastline. Stop at Point Lobos for a brief hike or continue driving to Big Sur for a trail hike of your choosing. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, grab lunch on the river at the Big Sur River Inn.
Afternoon: Tasting at Morgan Winery
When you head back up the coast, stop in for a tasting at Morgan Winery. Our heated, dog-friendly patio is the perfect place to enjoy organic, sustainably farmed wines made with minimal intervention practices. These techniques have allowed us to produce balanced, structured, and elegant wines one vintage after the next. Book your wine tasting experience in advance here.
Evening: Farewell Dinner at 7D Steakhouse
End your trip to Carmel on a high note with elevated steakhouse fare, sustainable seafood, local wines, and craft cocktails served in airy, upscale quarters at 7D Steakhouse. Their steaks are all-natural, humanely-raised, and sourced exclusively from Niman Ranch’s network of small, independent farmers, with steaks dry-aged for a minimum of 28 days. Make your reservation here.
Additional Carmel-by-the-Sea Restaurants Worth Your While
Here are a few other Carmel-by-the-Sea restaurant recommendations to check out while you’re in town:
- Breakfast: Stationaery – Hip eatery with a coffee bar. Serves brunch daily.
- Lunch: Il Fornaio at the Pine Inn – Tried and true Italian chain, and one of the only patios in downtown Carmel-by-the Sea with an ocean view.
- Upscale Dinner: Foray – An elegant choice for sophisticated, seasonal dishes that are like a guided culinary tour of the Central Coast’s forests and ocean.
- Casual Dinner: Rio Grill – A relaxed, family-friendly option with a Southwestern flair and easy parking.
- Seafood: Flying Fish Grill – Romantic spot for inventive East-West seafood and a thoughtfully curated wine list.
- Cocktails with a View: Sunset Lounge at the Highlands Inn – Pair small plates, seafood, and local wine with panoramic vistas of the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy live music, too.
- Special Occasion: – L’Aubergine: Two Michelin star winner featuring a tasting menu with a curated wine list for special moments.
- Dessert: Forge in the Forest – End the night with their signature chocolate chip cookie served in a cast iron skillet.
Additional Carmel-by-the-Sea Activities
Pet-Friendly Restaurants and Cafes
Carmel-by-the-Sea is one of the top destinations in America to travel with your four legged friend. Famously pet-friendly, there are a ton of dog-friendly hotels and restaurants for visitors to choose from. Forge in the Forest and Terry’s Lounge are two popular spots to dine with your furry friends. Check out this round up of dog-friendly dining options and tasting rooms from Visit Carmel-by-the-Sea for additional options.
Scenic Hikes and Outdoor Activities
In addition to Point Lobos State Natural reserve and hiking in Big Sur, outdoor enthusiasts should check out the famous 17-mile drive. This is one of the most scenic drives in the world that can be experienced by bike or car to soak up coastal views with dramatic cliffs, snow-white beaches, enchanting forests, and famous golf courses. Alternatively, head to Carmel Beach, a beautiful, dog-friendly beach ideal for a morning walk or sunset stroll.
Monterey Bay Aquarium
A visit to the Monterey Bay Aquarium offers an unforgettable opportunity to explore the vibrant marine life of California’s Central Coast, including interactive exhibits and stunning ocean views. It’s an inspiring, family-friendly stop that perfectly complements the natural beauty and charm of a Carmel getaway.
Carmel Valley’s Wine Tasting Rooms, Golf, and Horseback Riding
Carmel Valley offers a rich itinerary for wine lovers, golfers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Visit premier tasting rooms like Bernardus Winery or Cowgirl Winery to sip local wines while enjoying scenic views. Tee off at the renowned Carmel Valley Ranch Golf Course. Otherwise, explore the valley’s stunning landscapes with horseback riding adventures through Holman Ranch or Garland Ranch Regional Park.
Plan Your Wine Lover’s Getaway to Carmel
This Carmel Itinerary provides the ultimate wine lover’s getaway, blending exceptional wine tasting experiences with unforgettable dining, scenic exploration, and world-class hospitality. From downtown wine walks and vineyard tours in Carmel Valley to indulgent meals and breathtaking coastal views, this itinerary ensures a memorable escape filled with adventure and moments meant to be savored.
