Answer: Carmel-by-the-Sea is known for its charming atmosphere and excellent local seafood. There are several standout restaurants where you can enjoy fresh seafood in a memorable setting, perfect for a special dinner.

Answer: For a trip to Carmel and the surrounding Monterey Coast, both staying in town and choosing a VRBO slightly outside have pros and cons, especially considering your interests in hiking, biking, and cooking.

Answer: For a large group visiting Carmel and the Monterey County area, hiring a private driver with a van is a convenient option, especially if you want to explore multiple sites without worrying about parking or navigating unfamiliar roads.

Answer: Carmel-by-the-Sea is a charming town that’s perfect for a walking tour with kids. The fairytale cottages, art galleries, and quaint streets make it a delightful exploration for both adults and children. With a 40-minute walking window in mind, you can plan a short loop that balances sightseeing with fun stops for treats.

Answer: Carmel and the nearby Monterey coastline offer some stunning spots for dinner and drinks with sunset views. Since the coastline faces west, you’ll want a location with an ocean view to catch the sun dipping into the Pacific.

Answer: Carmel-by-the-Sea is known for its charming, romantic dining experiences, perfect for celebrating a milestone wedding anniversary. Many restaurants in town emphasize local, fresh ingredients and have an intimate, upscale vibe, making them ideal for a special occasion.

Answer: Good question! Sounds like you’re talking about Roy’s at Pebble Beach / The Inn at Spanish Bay (not the Maui Roy’s), since you're in Carmel / Monterey County. The nightly bagpiper is a beautiful and very special tradition — here’s a detailed breakdown of when to go, what to expect, and some tips — especially for a May visit.

Answer: Finding restaurants in Carmel and the surrounding Monterey Peninsula area with convenient parking can be a bit challenging, especially downtown where streets are narrow. Since your dad has a handicap placard, prioritizing accessible parking spots or restaurants with their own parking lots is ideal. Below are some options that should suit your preferences for Italian, seafood, Chinese, or classic American fare, while avoiding the areas you mentioned.

Answer: Carmel-by-the-Sea is a charming town with narrow streets and limited parking, so planning ahead for a full day with a large SUV is important. Most parking in Carmel is metered or in public lots, and many streets have time limits, so paid parking lots are the best option for longer stays.

Answer: Point Lobos is one of the most popular state parks along the California coast, and even after Labor Day it can attract a significant number of visitors. Timing your visit is key to finding parking and enjoying the trails without heavy crowds.

Answer: Driving from San Jose (SJC) to Carmel via Santa Cruz can be a scenic and enjoyable route, and choosing between Hwy 17 and Hwy 9 depends on what kind of experience you want.

Answer: Both the Cypress Inn and Hotel Carmel are excellent choices in Carmel, but they offer slightly different experiences depending on what kind of birthday trip atmosphere you’re looking for.