Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
white
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
30 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
1 600 m
Frequently asked questions
Carmel Beach: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity crystal, average temperature +17.0°C, warms up to +22.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Carmel Beach: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — moderate. Average wave height — 1.0 m.
Carmel Beach: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 30 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Carmel Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — white. Texture — powdery. Beach length — 1 600 metres.
Carmel Beach: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in June, July. It ends in September. The best month for a holiday is September. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Carmel Beach: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as excellent. Rip currents are likely — swim only in designated areas. Jellyfish risk — low. Shark risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Carmel Beach: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: stingrays. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Carmel Beach: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: showers, toilets, changing rooms, parking. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Carmel Beach: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
Lifeguards are on duty on the beach — an important safety factor. A first aid station is available.
Carmel Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Carmel Beach Restaurant. Cuisines available: Californian. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Carmel Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Warm clothes, Flip-flops, Cash, Hat.
Carmel Beach: when is the best time to swim?
The best time to visit is morning or evening. In the evening — beautiful sunsets.
Carmel Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Dogs must be under voice control. Making fires is prohibited. Take your rubbish with you.
Carmel Beach: what activities are available?
The beach offers: diving, surfing, kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Carmel Beach: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for couples and those seeking a quiet holiday. Suitable for walks, surfing and dog walking. Not suitable for swimming due to cold water.
Carmel Beach: what makes this beach unique?
World-famous beach with powdery white sand, considered one of the purest in the world. A popular spot for off-leash dog walking.
Carmel Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Powdery white sand, Crystal-clear water, Picturesque crescent-shaped bay, Dogs allowed off-leash, Developed infrastructure: parking, toilets, showers, Lifeguards in season, Scenic sunsets. Cons: Cold water, Crowded on weekends, Paid parking, Limited shade.
Carmel Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Scenic Road, Carmel Town, Point Lobos. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Carmel Beach: how do I get to the city of Monterey?
The beach is located near the city of Monterey. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Monterey.