CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA
A WELCOME RELIEF FROM THE ‘RAT RACE’ OF L.A.

Life in Carmel-by-the-Sea, at least from an L.A. native’s point of view, is slower and calmer than the ‘rat race’ we face on a daily basis. When in Carmel, there is no agenda, instead stroll down any little street and wander into one of the town’s numerous art galleries and admire some quality art.

In between time spent on Carmel’s pristine beach where you can take a gander at Pebble Beach, or a casual walk into wine shops and art galleries, or sitting down for a nice meal, “serenity” is the word that describes time spent in Carmel.

Must-do activities in town include checking out Doris Day’s iconic Cypress Inn—a dog-friendly landmark boutique hotel of the Central Coast since 1929. Drinks at the über cool Terry’s Lounge are a must. Think of this as the kind of bar that would make Cassavetes proud. The bar is open from noon to 11pm (midnight on Friday and Saturday). Terry’s offers an impressive array of cocktails, including tried and true classic drinks that have passed the test of time, paying tribute to the era of glamour and glitz from pre-Prohibition America to the 70’s and beyond.

Cypress Inn is located at Lincoln and 7th Street. Call 831-624-3871.

 

Another place not to be missed is Clint Eastwood’s Mission Ranch, which sits on 22 acres with spectacular views of Point Lobos, Carmel River Beach and the Pacific Ocean. The property was preserved and restored by former Carmel Mayor, Clint Eastwood. A longtime Carmel resident, Eastwood rescued this landmark resort from condo developers, and renovated the entire property to provide a unique resort experience. While dining at the restaurant, known for its American Cuisine and Piano Bar, you can watch the sheep graze in the meadow. Located about a mile from downtown Carmel, you’ll want to drive or cab it. A drink at the bar is a must, and rumor has it if Eastwood is in town, chances are you’ll find him at the bar between 5-6pm.

Mission Ranch is located at 26270 Dolores Street. Call 831-625-9040.

Keep in mind, the shops of Carmel tend to close early, at least by L.A. standards, and if you feel like you want to keep the party going after the bars have closed at either 11pm or midnight (depending on the night of the week), there’s only one place in town for late night drinks and that’s Sade’s, a dog-friendly, cash-only watering hole that reeks of smoke. It’s nothing fancy but you can get a stiff drink at this local’s dive. Consider this place only if you are itching for another drink or more conversation after “last call.”

Sade’s is located at Lincoln Street and Ocean Avenue. Call 831-624-0787.