Scenic Pathway, Carmel River Lagoon & Beaches
Stunning Ocean and Carmel River Beauty
The stunning Scenic Road Pathway stretches from Pebble Beach on the northern end and winds through Carmel-by-the-Sea, along Carmel Beach, around Carmel Point, and south, connecting Carmel River State Beach and the walking path adjacent to Carmel Meadows Beach.
Tucked in from the Carmel River State beach is a vast expanse of extraordinary wetlands and the Carmel River Lagoon—the area just before the Carmel River empties into the sea—which hosts a thriving bird sanctuary featuring a wide variety of ducks, geese, songbirds, and shorebirds. It offers walkers, birdwatchers, and hikers some breathtaking panoramic views.
Nearby Address: Mission Fields, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93921
View North from Carmel River State Beach
Carmel-by-the-Sea's beautiful white sand beach
Aerial view of Carmel-by-the-Sea's oceanfront and pathway
Carmel Beach is the most dog friendly beach in California
View from the walking path at Carmel River State Beach
View of the Carmel River Lagoon looking east towards Palo Corona
Southern view from the walking path from Carmel River State Beach to Carmel Meadows
The Carmel River breeches through to the ocean following winter storms
View of stunning rock formations along the walking path in Carmel Meadows
Dogs are permitted on leash along the Carmel River State Beach walking trail
Steps down to the beach from Carmel Meadows walking trail
Eastern view of the Carmel River Lagoon and a view of Palo Corona
A view from the Carmel River State Beach walking trail includes the historic landmark, the Portola-Crespi Cross, which was erected on December 10, 1769.
Stone marker left in 1769 by the Portola Crespi Expedition from Mexico for its long-overdue supply ship San Jose. The message states that they were suffering great privation and were returning to San Diego. The San Jose had been lost at sea.
View of coastal sand dunes and the Carmel River flowing to its Pacific mouth
View of the Portola-Crespi Cross and a Rainbow from Carmel River State Beach Walking Path
Shorebirds at Carmel River State Beach
View looking north of the Carmel River and Mission Ranch from the walking trail adjacent to Carmel River State Beach