Carmel Beach

White sand at the foot of Ocean Avenue, backed by Monterey cypress, with Point Lobos visible down the coast. Carmel's city plan has long prohibited commercial development on the beach, keeping it uncommonly unbuilt for a place this well-known. Dogs run here off-leash. Surfers use it — beginners and experienced alike. The beach is free, the access is direct, and the views are exactly what they are without any help from the brochure.