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Overview
Mara Beach is a stunning beach located in Carmel-by-the-Sea in California. It stretches approximately 500 yards and is known for its soft, white sand and crystal clear blue waters. The beach provides spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, beachcombing and surfing. One of the highlights of Mara Beach is that it is dog-friendly, allowing dogs on leashes unlike most other beaches in the area. It is equipped with basic amenities like restrooms, showers and picnic tables. The beach has limited parking with only street parking available, so visitors are advised to arrive early to secure a spot. Mara Beach is best known for its magnificent sunsets, especially striking during the winter months.
Amenities
The beach is equipped with restrooms, showers, and picnic tables, and dogs are allowed on a leash. The charming seaside town of Carmel-by-the-Sea is highly dog-friendly. In fact, dogs outnumber humans in Carmel! The town has numerous pet-friendly hotels, restaurants with outdoor patios perfect for dining with dogs, and a wide variety of shops that welcome dogs. Carmel by the Sea dog friendly beaches are very common – Carmel Beach is the main dog beach in town, permitting dogs to play off-leash. Another dog-friendly beach is Del Monte Beach, which allows leashed dogs. The area has many hiking trails and parks ideal for exploring with your four-legged friend. Some highlights include the Carmel Beach Boardwalk, Point Lobos State Reserve and the Hatton Canyon Trail.
Activities
Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and beachcombing. Also, nearby to this beach is Point Lobos State Natural Reserve – a must-see for any traveler!
Disability
Mara Beach Carmel does not have disability access.
Parking
There is limited parking available at Mara Beach Carmel, with only street parking available. Visitors are advised to arrive early to secure a parking spot.
Fun Fact
Fun fact: Mara Beach Carmel is known for its beautiful sunset views, which are particularly stunning during the winter months.
Attractions
In addition to the beautiful beach, there are plenty of attractions to see and explore near Mara Beach Carmel. Here, visitors can enjoy hiking trails, scenic views, and wildlife watching. Other nearby attractions include the Carmel Mission Basilica Museum, the Scenic Road Walkway, and the Carmel Beach Boardwalk. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is a jewel on the coast of Carmel-by-the-Sea. This reserve protects over 5 miles of majestic shoreline featuring rugged cliffs, coves, headlands and fertile marine life – it is also home to Moss Cove Beach. Point Lobos has a network of scenic trails winding through meadows, stands of trees and along the bluffs - perfect for hiking while admiring dramatic ocean views. The reserve is known as one of the best places in California for spotting wildlife like seals, sea otters, cormorants and pelicans. Whalers Cove is a protected cove with kelp beds teeming with sea creatures like abalone, sea stars and garibaldi fish. Point Lobos also offers scuba diving, painting, photography and guided walks. It's an unmissable nature escape just minutes from Carmel.
Restaurants
For those looking to grab a bite to eat after a day at the beach, there are several nearby restaurants serving a variety of cuisines. These include La Bicyclette (French), Brophy's Tavern (American), and Grasing's Coastal Cuisine (Californian).
Hotels
There are several hotels located near Mara Beach Carmel, including the Carmel Valley Ranch, which is a luxurious resort located in the heart of Carmel Valley. The hotel features beautiful rooms and suites, as well as a spa, golf course, and a variety of dining options. Other nearby hotels include the Carmel Mission Inn and the Coachman's Inn, both of which offer comfortable accommodations at affordable prices.
Basic Details
All Amenities at Mara Beach Carmel
Amenities
Dogs
Activities
Hiking
Surfing
Rentals
Food
Access
Parking - Free
Parking - Street
Features
Mara Beach Carmel - Beach Map
Top Traveler Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Surf through our FAQs to help you find your perfect beach!
Does Mara Beach Carmel have parking? If so, is it free or paid?
Mara Beach Carmel provides free parking at the entrance, although spaces are limited. Visitors can also find street parking nearby for easy access to the beach.
Does Mara Beach Carmel have lifeguards?
No, Mara Beach Carmel does not have lifeguards monitoring the beach – please be careful when swimming on this beach.
Is Mara Beach Carmel a family-friendly beach?
Mara Beach Carmel is not family-friendly and does not have restrooms, lifeguards, and nearby food.
Is Mara Beach Carmel good for swimming?
Mara Beach Carmel boasts excellent swimming conditions, attracting swimmers of all skill levels with its gentle waves and clear waters.
Does Mara Beach Carmel have restrooms?
Mara Beach Carmel does not have restrooms on or near the beach.
Is Mara Beach Carmel a nude beach?
No, Mara Beach Carmel maintains a family-friendly atmosphere and does not allow nude bathing.
Is there food near Mara Beach Carmel?
Mara Beach Carmel does not have nearby food options – please plan your beach day accordingly.
What are the activities at Mara Beach Carmel?
Mara Beach Carmel is renowned for its vibrant beach scene, offering various activities for everyone to enjoy Hiking, Surfing.
Does Mara Beach Carmel have accommodations for people with disabilities?
Mara Beach Carmel does not have accommodations for people with disabilities.
Is Mara Beach Carmel a dog-friendly beach?
Yes, bring your dog with you to Mara Beach Carmel!
Is Mara Beach Carmel good for surfing?
Yes, surfing is an activity that is frequently enjoyed at Mara Beach Carmel.
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