California State Parks Near Carmel-by-the-Sea

Discover 11 parks within driving distance of Carmel-by-the-Sea

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
3 miles away

"A charming coastal town known for its art galleries, shops, and white-sand beaches. Locals and tourists alike visit Point Lobos for its natural beauty."

Point Lobos SNR offers dramatic ocean views, unique geological formations, and abundant wildlife. It's a premier destination for nature lovers, photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts.

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Monterey State Beach

Monterey, California
5 miles away

"Carmel-by-the-Sea is known for its charming downtown and art galleries. Visitors enjoy the proximity to Monterey State Beach for sunbathing and water activities."

Monterey State Beach features wide sandy beaches, gentle waves, and excellent opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and wildlife watching. Its proximity to downtown Monterey and the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail makes it a convenient destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

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Monterey State Historic Park

Monterey, California
5 miles away

"Carmel-by-the-Sea locals and tourists alike enjoy the close proximity to Monterey’s historic district, adding cultural exploration to their coastal adventures."

Monterey State Historic Park features a unique collection of historic adobes, museums, and gardens in the heart of Monterey. The park offers guided tours, educational exhibits, and special events celebrating California’s heritage.

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Asilomar State Beach

Pacific Grove, California
7 miles away

"Carmel-by-the-Sea is known for its artistic community and charming downtown. Visitors often combine trips to Carmel and Asilomar for a full coastal experience."

Asilomar State Beach features a mile-long stretch of sandy beach and rocky coves along the Monterey Peninsula. Renowned for its natural beauty, it offers accessible walking paths, tide pools, and spectacular sunsets.

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Marina State Beach

Marina, California
15 miles away

"Carmel-by-the-Sea is renowned for its charming village, art galleries, and beautiful coastline. Residents and tourists enjoy Marina State Beach for its natural dunes and tranquil setting."

Marina State Beach features expansive sandy dunes and panoramic Pacific Ocean vistas. The park is popular for hang gliding, kite flying, and beach walks.

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Point Sur State Historic Park

Big Sur, California
19 miles away

"Famous for its charming downtown and art galleries, Carmel-by-the-Sea is a convenient base for exploring Point Sur’s dramatic landscapes and maritime history."

Point Sur SHP features the iconic Point Sur Lighthouse perched atop a volcanic rock, offering guided tours and sweeping vistas of the Pacific Ocean. The park highlights California’s maritime heritage and the rugged beauty of the Big Sur coastline.

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Andrew Molera State Park

By Pacific Southwest Region USFWS from Sacramento, US, Public domain

Andrew Molera State Park

Big Sur, California
22 miles away

"Carmel-by-the-Sea is famous for its charming downtown, art galleries, and white-sand beach. Residents and tourists alike visit Andrew Molera State Park for hiking and beach outings."

Andrew Molera State Park is a natural gem along the Big Sur coast, offering miles of hiking trails, beach access, and stunning ocean vistas. Its diverse landscapes provide opportunities for exploration and relaxation in a less-crowded setting.

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Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

Big Sur, California
26 miles away

"Carmel-by-the-Sea offers charming shops, art galleries, and stunning beaches, providing a relaxing getaway for those exploring the Big Sur coastline."

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is renowned for its majestic redwoods, scenic river, and diverse wildlife. Visitors enjoy hiking, camping, and exploring the natural beauty of California’s iconic Big Sur region.

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Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

Big Sur, California
32 miles away

"Carmel-by-the-Sea offers charming shops, art galleries, and beautiful beaches, and is a convenient stop for travelers heading to Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park."

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park features dramatic ocean vistas, lush redwood forests, and the famous McWay Falls. Visitors enjoy hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring one of California’s most picturesque coastal landscapes.

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John Little State Natural Reserve

Big Sur, California
36 miles away

"Carmel-by-the-Sea is a charming seaside town known for its art galleries and beaches. Its proximity to Big Sur makes it a perfect base for exploring John Little SNR."

John Little SNR preserves a pristine stretch of Big Sur coastline with dramatic cliffs and rare plant communities. The reserve offers scenic views and opportunities for wildlife observation, though public access is restricted.

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Limekiln State Park

Big Sur, California
50 miles away

"Carmel-by-the-Sea is a charming arts community. Visitors come to Limekiln for its redwoods, waterfalls, and peaceful coastal setting."

Limekiln State Park is renowned for its coastal redwoods, scenic hiking trails, and the historic limekilns that give the park its name. The park also features a beautiful beach and a stunning 100-foot waterfall.

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