The Best Park / Open Space in Carmel-By-The-Sea

Carmel River Beach

Mile-long beach with trails, a shallow lagoon for children and wildlife viewing. There is a public telephone and public restrooms in the parking lot. Dogs must be on a leash. Because of the dangerous surf, swimming is not permitted. Directions: From... more

Devendorf Park

A large expanse of lawn surrounded by stone pathways, benches and shade trees, occupying an entire block of downtown Carmel between Ocean Ave and 6th. This park is the site of numerous public festivities throughout the year and a favorite spot for a... more

Flanders Mansion

Built in the 1920's as the residence of the Flanders family, the house was purchased by the city of Carmel-by-the-Sea in 1972. With its surrounding acreage, it became part of the city's Mission Trail Preserve, which encompasses the trails used by the... more

Forest Hill Park and Playground

A 2-acre park that includes a large children's playground, a shuffle board court, horseshoe pits, a volleyball court on sand, barbecues and picnic tables and a public telephone. more

Garland Ranch Regional Park

Garland Ranch Regional Park is located at 700 W. Carmel Valley Rd., 8.6 miles east of Highway 1 and about 1/2 mile west of the Laureles Grade. The Visitor Center is located just within the park. From the parking lots along Carmel Valley Road, ente... more

Lester Rowntree Native Plant Garden

A one-acre hillside garden of mature native California plants, with meandering paths and comfortable benches at especially scenic outlooks; a quiet woodland retreat for the enjoyment of the beauties of nature. Evening is the ideal time for bird lover... more

Mission Trail Nature Preserve

Mission Trail Park encompasses 35 acres of unspoiled native vegetation, containing a rich diversity of habitats - meadows, a grove of Oak trees and a dense Monterey Pine forest. This is a perfect spot for an early morning jaunt or an evening stroll -... more

Piccadilly Park

Small and quaint and the perfect place to relax under a giant shade tree. Designed by landscape architect Walter Guthrie, the garden demonstrates the use of drought-tolerant species appropriate to the Carmel area. Many of the garden's plants are foun... more

Vista Lobos Park

Small park with vistas of Point Lobos. There are outdoor tables, a barbecue, benches and restrooms. There is also a free city parking lot, where you can park your car all day and walk to town. more

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