Carmel-by-the-Sea, or simply Carmel, is situated on the Monterey Peninsula and known for its natural scenery and rich artistic history. Carmel has inspired artists, sparked romances and attracted celebrities for decades, plus it consistently ranks as a top 10 U.S. destination. A European-style village, Carmel is nestled above a white-sand beach with everything in walking distance.

What makes Carmel so unique is the creative culture of locals who take pride in offering one-of-a-kind items and experiences. The city has had several mayors who were poets or actors, the most famous being Clint Eastwood. It all lends to a place that feels familiar, but is very different. Don’t expect to see street addresses, mailboxes, parking meters, or streetlights. But do expect to be welcomed. Mingle with the local winemakers, chefs, artists, innkeepers and shopkeepers – and pretty soon you’ll feel local too.

If charm could be bottled, it would be bottled in Carmel.

California & Arizona - Small & Friendly Hotels

Take the grand tour of the West and see the majestic Grand Canyon, stand in awe of the waterfalls at Yosemite National Park and descend to the depths of Death Valley.

California Coastal Cool

Enjoy the wind in your hair experience on this relaxed fly-drive along California's Highway 1. Considered one of the world's most scenic drives.

California Magic- An Independent Rail Tour

Enjoy The Beautiful City on the Bay, San Francisco, and the California coast on this leisurely rail holiday.

California Landscapes

Explore the Californian landscapes from the rugged North Coast to the stunning Yosemite National Park and the miles of golden beaches in between.

Northern California - Trafalgar Escorted Holiday

This eight day escorted tour of Northern California is a perfect introduction to this scenic part of USA

California Coast and Heavenly Hawaii

Few stretches of coastal road can compare to the Pacific Coast Highway and most islands in the world can't begin to equal the beauty of the heavenly Islands of Hawaii.

Alcatraz

Located 1.5 miles offshore from San Francisco, reached by a ferry ride from Pier 33, Alcatraz is also referred to as The Rock. The small island served as a lighthouse, a military fortification, a military prison and finally, what it is most...

Whale Watching on the California Coast

The waters off the California coast are among the best in the world for spotting migrating whales.

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Monterey Bay Aquarium is the largest aquarium in the USA, with more than 500 species and tens of thousands of specimens...

Big Sur

In the late 18th century, Spanish colonists at Carmel named this stretch of land El Pais Grande Del Sur, the Big Country of the South, and the coastline of California's Big Sur region has been attracting hyperbole ever since.

Where you stay is the heart of your holiday. Location reigns supreme but do you prefer resort facilities or unique and boutique? Historic and old world or modern and shiny?

We aim to present choices across the spectrum but there are many hundreds of places to stay and not room to feature them all. Do speak to your Bon Voyage travel consultant and click the video for our take on this important topic.

We would rate the Bellagio as one of the best hotels we have ever stayed in. Fabulous, glitzy, exciting. We loved having breakfast at the poolside café... one of our best experiences ever. If it hadn't been for you we wouldn't have had the suite or cabana and we loved them. We both agreed that the hotel was the best for us and you had suggested that so well done!
Leonore & Mike Rumford

La Playa Carmel By the Sea

Located in one of California's most prestigious neighbourhoods this historic mansion, that once belonged to the Ghiradelli chocolate family, is steps from the beach and shops. The property is immaculate and the service fit for royalty.