Carmel Walk Guided Tour Carmel by the Sea
Things to know
About the Activity
As featured in the Los Angeles Times and San Francisco Chronicle, CARMEL WALKS is the premier walking tour voted "best of" by Trip Advisor in 2024. You'll embark on a delightful 2-hour adventure with a lively, well-informed local guide through the heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea—a village celebrated for its storybook architecture, scenic coastal beauty, and vibrant artistic legacy. Along the way, you’ll uncover hidden gems, hear the stories behind the town’s most colorful characters, and gain fresh insights into the culture that makes Carmel truly one of a kind. Meander through charming streets and secret passageways, explore award-winning galleries, lush gardens, and historic landmarks steeped in legend. The listed itinerary is just the beginning—plenty of unlisted delights are in store. Well behaved dogs are most welcomed on this fun walk too. Let us show you the very best of this whimsical village! You’ll leave inspired, enchanted, and—dare we say—feeling like a local.2 hours
Instant Confirmation
Mobile ticket
Availability and Prices
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)
Travel Date
//
Travelers
Inclusions & Exclusions
Award winning, 2-hour guided tour through the enchanting village of Carmel-by-the-Sea!
More Activities in Monterey & Carmel
Filter By Date
//
Sort By
Travel Itinerary
- Maximum 12 travellers in this tour.
Locations in the itinerary
1
We'll embark on your journey at The Pine Inn, nestled on Ocean Avenue, where you're invited to experience Carmel’s timeless charm in the comfort of its historic elegance. Just steps from Carmel Beach, allow yourself to delight in the fresh sea breeze as you learn how the original Hotel Carmelo was carefully moved down Ocean Avenue—on actual pine logs—and how that remarkable journey gave rise to its current moniker. It’s a story of ingenuity, charm, and the spirit that helped shape Carmel’s character.15 minutes • Admission Ticket FreeView Location
2
The Pilgrim's Way Community Bookstore and Secret Garden
Dolores Street, Between 5th and 6th, Carmel, United States, 93921We’ll step into The Pilgrim’s Way Community Bookstore & Secret Garden and you’ll feel as though you’ve discovered Carmel’s best-kept secret. Cherished by locals and visitors since 1969, this warm and independent bookstore has been more than a place to find books—it’s a community haven, a cozy gathering spot where literary curiosity and creativity flourish. Tucked behind the shop, a tranquil garden awaits your discovery. Fountains, statues, crystals, and handmade treasures—each thoughtfully chosen to uplift the spirit—come together to create a sanctuary and oasis for the curious soul.15 minutes • Admission Ticket FreeView Location3
Carmel Art Association
Dolores Street Between 5th &, 6th Ave, Carmel, United States, 93921As we enter the Carmel Art Association, you'll discover a living gallery where creativity has flourished for nearly a century. More than a gallery, the Carmel Art Association is a storybook of California’s artistic legacy—founders like Jennie V. Cannon, Mary DeNeale Morgan, and even Salvador Dalí helped champion its spirit—and today, that creative lineage still hums in every brushstroke and sculpted curve. You may even find yourself in conversation with one of the 100 juried artists who bring the gallery to life! Find inspiration or pick up a thoughtful gift as your guide shares insights and the fascinating history of this artist-run haven.15 minutes • Admission Ticket FreeView Location4
First Murphy House
Sixth and Lincoln avenues, Carmel, United StatesThe First Murphy House is more than just a quaint cottage—it's a cornerstone of Carmel’s origin story. Built in 1902 by Michael J. Murphy, who would go on to become one of the town’s most influential master builders, this modest home is where Carmel’s architectural journey truly began. At just 17 years old, Murphy crafted this house using hand tools and local materials, setting the tone for the town’s signature blend of rustic charm and artistic expression.15 minutes • Admission Ticket FreeView Location5
Tuck Box
Dolores St, Carmel, United StatesCrafted by Hugh Comstock in 1926–27, this “storybook” structure was originally built as an office & dollhouse-like showcase for his wife’s handcrafted “Otsy Totsy” dolls. Allow your guide to share the Tuck Box's fascinating evolution, from its early origins, to a 1940's classic tea room, and finally, the beloved Carmel restaurant it is today. Through every chapter, one thing has remained constant: a warm and whimsical allure that continues to charm visitors, year after year. With its irregular chimneys, candy-striped awnings, & enchanted-by-design feel, you'll be stepping into nearly a century of Carmel’s history and a lovingly preserved slice of nostalgia.15 minutes • Admission Ticket FreeView Location6
This Spanish-Eclectic architectural gem was constructed in 1929. Blending Hollywood glamour with Mediterranean charm, this cultural landmark was co-purchased by Hollywood icon and animal rights activist Doris Day in the mid-1980's. She believed pets deserved the same warm welcome as people—planting the seeds of Carmel-by-the-Sea’s lasting love for pet-friendly hospitality. Today, the lobby celebrates Ms. Day’s extraordinary life and career, adorned with classic film memorabilia, cozy fireplaces, and a lounge that holds an unexpected connection to one of America’s most infamous figures.10 minutes • Admission Ticket FreeView Location
7
Church of the Wayfarer
Lincoln Street & 7th Avenue, Carmel, United States, 93921The Church of the Wayfarer stands as a living piece of Carmel’s soul, rich in history and coastal grace. Constructed in 1904 to serve the growing turn-of-the-century Protestant community, its beautiful shingle‑style architecture and graceful stained-glass windows bathe the sanctuary in gentle, reflective light. Nestled behind the chapel, The Biblical Garden offers an intimate, soulful connection with nature and history. Designed to include many plants mentioned in the Bible, you’ll find elegant arbors and other carefully curated plantings like olives, lilies, and biblical herbs—all restored and refreshed with the evolution of the seasons. Discover the inspiration behind the church’s name, which speaks to the idea that we are all wayfarers navigating life’s path.15 minutes • Admission Ticket FreeView Location8
The House of Hansel & Gretel
between 5th and 6th Ave., east side of Torres St., Carmel, United StatesSituated along a charming quiet lane in Carmel-by-the-Sea, the House of Hansel & Gretel is a living fairy tale crafted in stone, wood, and wonder. Designed in 1924 by self-taught builder Hugh Comstock for his wife, this whimsical Tudor-style cottage—one of Carmel’s very first fairytale homes—looks straight out of a storybook, with its curving rooflines, crooked chimney, and cozy proportions. The success of Hansel sparked a beloved architectural movement, inspiring Comstock to build dozens more fairy-tale cottages in the area, shaping the village's magical aesthetic. Can you guess what critical building tool Comstock did not utilize to allow for the walls and ceilings to gently lean and sway for a handcrafted, organic effect?15 minutes • Admission Ticket FreeView LocationMeeting and Pickup
Starting point
1
ON LINCOLN BETWEEN OCEAN & 6TH AVENUEView Location
End point
Pickup details
Customers must make their own way to and meet at the start point- Travelers CANNOT choose a custom pickup or meeting location.
Additional Information
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Language And Guide
Tour Guide Available In
- English
Ticket Details
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- One per booking
Ticket Redemption
No redemption point. This is a direct entry ticketCancellation & Refunds
Cancellable up to 24 hours before the travel date (local supplier time) for a full refund. A 100% cancellation penalty applies for cancellations submitted less than 24 hours before the start time.- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Suplier may cancel the activity on account of bad weather conditions.
- Suplier may cancel the activity due to too few participants.
- Cancel at least 1 day before activity starts in America/Los_Angeles time to receive 100% refund.
Reviews from Travelers
★52 Reviews
Excellent
★★★★★ (2)
Good★★★★ (0)
Average★★★ (0)
Poor★★ (0)
Terrible★ (0)
Filter By Rating
Sort By
No reviews found!Operated by Carmel WalksCreated on 13 Jul 2025Created on 04 Aug 2025
Can we help?Can' t find the tours you want? Contact Travalour. We'll find them for you.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply