Top Spots for a Summer Sunset in Carmel

Carmel’s sunsets are legendary—there’s just something magical about watching the sky turn gold and pink above the Pacific, especially on a warm summer evening. Whether you want a romantic spot to share with someone special, a scenic overlook for the perfect photo, or just a quiet place to pause at the end of the day, Carmel offers sunset views you’ll never forget. Here are the top spots to take it all in:

Carmel Beach (End of Ocean Avenue)

This is the classic choice for a reason. The gentle curve of Carmel Beach, the soft white sand, and the silhouettes of iconic cypress trees create the perfect foreground for a jaw-dropping sunset. Bring a blanket, a bottle of wine (permitted on the beach), and watch as the sun sinks into the horizon, lighting up the waves and painting the sky.

• Best Time: Arrive 30-45 minutes before sunset to find a good spot and watch the color show unfold.
• Photo Tip: Frame your shot with the cypress trees or catch reflections on wet sand for extra drama.

Scenic Road Walkway

This pathway hugs the coastline just above Carmel Beach and offers a slightly elevated view—ideal if you want to stroll and catch the sunset from multiple angles. Benches along the walkway make it easy to pause and take it all in.

• Best Time: Just before golden hour, when the sun is still high enough to light up the water and town.
• Photo Tip: Use the curves of the walkway or nearby wildflowers as a leading line in your photos.

Carmel River State Beach

Quieter than the main Carmel Beach, this spot is perfect for a peaceful end to the day. You’ll often see flocks of birds silhouetted against the sunset, and the river mouth creates beautiful, mirror-like reflections on calm evenings.

• Best Time: Around sunset; weekdays are less crowded.
• Photo Tip: Look for reflection shots in the lagoon or catch birds in flight as the sky glows.

Inspiration Point at Point Lobos

If you want a truly spectacular coastal vista, make the short drive to Point Lobos. Inspiration Point is aptly named for its panoramic views of rocky cliffs, deep blue coves, and the setting sun.

• Best Time: Point Lobos closes at sunset, so plan to arrive early, enjoy a walk, and catch the show before the gates close.
• Photo Tip: Bring a zoom lens for dramatic landscapes, or capture wide shots of the coastline.

Mission Ranch Meadow

For a unique Carmel sunset, try the grassy meadow at Mission Ranch. Here you can watch sheep graze while the sun sets over the ocean in the distance—a scene that feels straight out of a postcard.

• Best Time: Early evening, especially on clear days.
• Photo Tip: The combination of meadow, grazing animals, and distant sea is perfect for a layered sunset shot.

Pebble Beach: Spanish Bay Boardwalk

A little outside Carmel, but well worth the short drive. The boardwalk at Spanish Bay takes you through dunes and offers sweeping ocean views, often accompanied by bagpipers playing at sunset (check schedule).

• Best Time: Golden hour through sunset; weekends can be busier.
• Photo Tip: Capture the silhouette of the boardwalk or the bagpiper with the glowing sky behind.

Tips for Capturing the Perfect Carmel Sunset

• Arrive early to claim your spot, especially in summer.
• Check the weather: Coastal fog sometimes rolls in—some evenings are magical and misty, others are clear and vibrant.
• Bring layers: Even in summer, it gets cool by the water as the sun sets.
• Use your phone’s HDR mode or bracket exposures with your camera for balanced lighting.
• Stay for the afterglow: Some of the best colors appear just after the sun dips below the horizon.

Wherever you choose to watch, a Carmel sunset is a summer memory you’ll treasure. Don’t forget to tag your photos with #SeeCarmel for a chance to be featured!