There are so many fun and active things to do in Carmel Valley, California, that anyone seeking the thrill of the great outdoors is bound to find something around every corner. This is the ultimate itinerary for active people in Carmel Valley, California!
1. Golfing
There are over 30 golf courses along the Monterey Peninsula, many of which are nationally renowned. In fact, four of them were rated the “Best Public Courses You Can Play In California” by Golf Magazine. It’s truly a golf lover’s paradise.
Carmel Valley has several highly rated golf courses nearby. Pebble Beach Golf Links, Carmel Valley Ranch – Golf Clubhouse, and The Preserve Golf Course are some of our favorites.
2. Hiking
With average highs between 60° and 70° throughout the entire year, Carmel Valley is a mecca for spectacular hiking and biking trails. Strap on your boots and helmet and explore Carmel Valley by trail! These are some of the best nearby trails that range from easy to moderate:
- Lupine Loop Trail (1.4 miles)
- Garland Ranch Waterfall Loop Trail (2 miles)
- Redwood Canyon Trail (3.4 miles)
- Chews Ridge Road Mountain Biking (1.6 miles)
- South Bank Trail (1.5 miles)
Learn what each of these great hiking & biking trails have to offer.
3. Biking Around Town
Both downtown Carmel Valley and Carmel-by-the-Sea are filled with adorable shops, wineries, and cafés. They’re accessible towns to explore by walking, but biking offers an even more incredible opportunity to see more while getting good exercise.
You can rent an ebike with Pedego Electric Bike Rentals or a regular ol’ bike with Mad Dogs & Englishman Bike Shop — both options provide a fun adventure. Or take an ebike tour around the Monterey Coast.
When exploring Carmel Valley by bike, you can start your day by grabbing a fresh cup of coffee at Sunny Bakery Café, then munch on some European-style tapas at Roux, and end your day by sipping on a glass of locally-made wine (just 1!) at Bernardus Winery.
4. Swimming
Since Carmel Valley is blessed with such fantastic weather year-round, it’s easy to want to take a dip and go for a swim.
Beautiful little swimming holes are all along Carmel River inside Garland Ranch Regional Park. Over by Carmel-by-the-Sea, the Carmel River State Beach is stunning. When you stay as a guest at Carmel Valley Lodge, you’ll get access to our heated pool (open until mid-November).
5. Kayaking, Paddleboarding, & Tubing
Kayaking and paddleboarding are some of Carmel Valley’s best active activities. Spend a leisurely afternoon tubing down Carmel River in Garland Ranch Regional Park. In nearby Carmel-by-the-Sea, you can enjoy the beautiful, peaceful waters of Stillwater Cove on a kayak or paddleboard with Adventures by the Sea. Their expert local guides ensure you experience all the hidden treasures that Stillwater Cove offers.
Carmel Valley Lodge: Your Outdoor Activity Getaway
Carmel Valley Lodge is your central hub for all active things to do in Carmel Valley, California. Sitting right in the heart of downtown Carmel Valley, we’re centrally located for all things golfing, hiking, biking, swimming, kayaking, and more.
Our 3-acre dog-friendly lodge (with pool, spa, yoga classes, hiking excursions, and delicious breakfasts) is the perfect place to relax between all your outdoor adventures.
Book your stay at Carmel Valley Lodge! We can’t wait to host you.
