Attractions Near Normandy Inn

Experience the Best of Carmel

Fall in love with “California’s Jewel City”! Excellent shopping and dining, legendary landmarks and attractions, a vibrant arts scene, and an abundance of natural beauty are all yours to experience during your stay here in Carmel-by-the-Sea and the Monterey Peninsula.

People on the shore of Carmel Beach

Carmel Beach

Set against the backdrop of the dramatic Pacific coastline, this gorgeous, white-sand beach is just three blocks away from our hotel. Bring a picnic and spend a relaxing day with friends and family.

Arts & Shopping

Comstock Fairy Tale Cottages

Hugh Comstock began building his fairy tale cottages in the early 1920’s.

Art Galleries

Few cities can claim the distinction of boasting nearly 100 galleries within a one square-mile radius.

Sunset Center

Sunset Center has established itself as one of the foremost performing arts centers in the area, and offers events ranging from dance performances and musicals to stand up comedians and much more.

Carmel Plaza

Treat yourself to a little retail therapy at this fashionable shopping center, located right near our hotel.

Attractions

Carmel Walks

Discover Carmel’s hidden gems – the sights and attractions that only a local would know!

Carmel Mission Basilica

Established in 1770 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Robinson Jeffers Tor House

Built in 1919, this architectural wonder was home to poet Robinson Jeffers and his family for eighty years.

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Arguably the state’s most spectacular park, Point Lobos is paradise for nature lovers. 

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Monterey Bay is home to some of the world’s most extraordinary ocean life.

Big Sur

Less than 26 miles away from the hotel, Big Sur is a great destination for a day trip.

National Steinbeck Center

The Center is located in Salinas, a short drive from Carmel, where writer John Steinbeck grew up.

Hearst Castle

The Julia Morgan-designed estate of newspaper giant William Randolph Hearst sits atop "The Enchanted Hill" in San Simeon, California a magnificent hilltop perch on the central coast.

Activities

Wine Tasting

Experience the bounty of the region’s vineyards in one of Carmel’s numerous tasting rooms, bottle shops and wine bars.

Whale Watching

No mater what time of year you visit Monterey Bay, you’ll have the opportunity to catch a glimpse of these magnificent creatures in action.

Pebble Beach Golf

If you love golf, you simply can’t visit the area without playing a round or two at one of these world-famous courses.

WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca

If you feel the need for speed, then head to this iconic 2.238-mile racetrack in nearby Salinas, California.

California State University Monterey Bay (CSUMB)

​Located along the central coast of California, Monterey Bay is a vibrant and dynamic community that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions.