Carmel River State Beach, Carmel

4.8

Beach · Hidden Gem · Nature / Park

Create an itinerary including Carmel River State Beach

With two of Monterey's most pristine seaside locations, Carmel River State Beach offers white sands, blue ocean, and a classic panorama of the California coast. With more than 1.6 km (1 mi) of beachfront near the Carmel River and a significant stretch right at the edge of the city itself, the sand and surf are ideal for picnicking, walking, jogging, or simply relaxing. Both areas are vital parts of the rich peninsular ecosystem and teem with sea life, including whales, sea lions, kelp forests, and a wide variety of fish. Try kayaking to get an up-close view of the aquatic residents. Despite the beaches' tranquil appearance, the water's strong currents and steep drop-off from the shore can make swimming dangerous. Before you head to Carmel, plan trip itinerary details with our user-friendly Carmel trip itinerary builder site, to make sure you see all that Carmel has to offer, including Carmel River State Beach.

Improve this listing »

Create a full itinerary - for free!

Tours to Carmel River State Beach

FROM $75 BOOK WITH VIATOR Scenic Carmel-By-The-Sea Guided E-Bike Tour Scenic Carmel-By-The-Sea Guided E-Bike Tour

4.9

Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes

Tours from $75 ›

FROM $75 BOOK WITH VIATOR Carmel-by-the-Sea 2.5 Hour Electric Bike Tour Carmel-by-the-Sea 2.5 Hour Electric Bike Tour

5.0

Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes

Tours from $75 ›

FROM $8 BOOK WITH VIATOR Carmel Point: Discover its rugged coastline on an audio walking tour Carmel Point: Discover its rugged coastline on an audio walking tour

5.0

Duration: 90 to 120 minutes

Tours from $8 ›

Carmel River State Beach reviews

TripAdvisor traveler rating

2,467 reviews

Google

4.8

By KatDavisMeow

There is construction going on here, but the beach is amazing and the color of the water is out of this world.

There is construction going on here, but the beach is amazing and the color of the water is out of this world. more »
By DianaRae

Such a magical place to be at sunset. My husband and I strolled as the sun went down and there were quite a few others there for the experience and it just felt festive and beautiful

Such a magical place to be at sunset. My husband and I strolled as the sun went down and there were quite a few others there for the experience and it just felt festive and beautiful more »
By Baerbel D

It was close to our hotel, however the waves are strong no swimming and deep walk down over the sand

It was close to our hotel, however the waves are strong no swimming and deep walk down over the sand more »

See more on TripAdvisor ›

Google

By Andrea K

Although parking is tricky at this location (roughly 20 spots) it is worth making the trip. I recommend avoiding weekends at all cost. This beach has Carmel river access AND beach access. The river side is shallow and is perfect for children and new swimmers to get their feet wet. The beach may not be suitable for smaller children as the warnings are posted due to the drop off close to the beach. A lifeguard tower is present, but it wasn't manned on a Monday. There is no shade so bring a beach tent or umbrella. It can get very windy so tie them down well. I saw people with kites, canoes, boogie boards, and even some on paddle boards to explore a little up river. Water depth varies by season and when the river is actually flowing it deltas into the ocean and currents may be too strong. Currently (early August) the river and ocean are separated by a large sand dune. We enjoy coming here to soak up the sun and let the children play risk free in the shallow waters of the river.

more less
By Michael Brown

We had two amazing days at this beach with our toddlers. The hike down is easy, as there are stairs, and the beach isn't far from parking. The tide pools at the beach are full of amazing sealife and provide hours of exploring. An artist was there painting both days and I captured some truly marvelous photos. It's a really great spot.

more less
By Teri Clark

Absolutely breathtaking. Perfect spot for a visiting family to spend a day at the beach. Not many shells, but tons of cool rocks for kids to "discover". Wildlife is plentiful, large rocks to climb, and perfect weather make it a great spot!!

more less
By Dean Hoppe

This park is perfect to walk and enjoy the waves and the beach. I visited in October 2022. - Not kid friendly, as the waves can be bigger. - Not dog friendly as they must be leashed at all times. - Does get quite breezy here, so be prepared. - Facilities are quite clean and seem well maintained. - FYI, lot and lots of Seagulls and Pelicans.

more less
By Jose Alvarez

The beach was great it's on the smaller side but not as busy as there other beach. Parking is small but not hard to find. They only have two bathrooms so be prepared to wait a bit. They do have a life guard on duty so that's pretty Kool.

more less