Parks
8 parks, playgrounds and dog parks in the city.
- Forest Hill Park0.4 mi from downtown
- The Hidden Garden0.1 mi from downtown
- Piccadilly Park0.1 mi from downtown
On a budget
Free things to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea
4 kinds of free outings in and around Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Good days out in Carmel-by-the-Sea don’t have to cost anything. These ideas come from the city’s parks, libraries, historic landmarks and nearby public lands. For free concerts, markets and festivals this week, see the free events calendar.
Libraries
Borrow books, movies and museum passes, and join free programs.
- Harrison Memorial LibraryOcean Ave. & Lincoln Blvd.
- Park Branch Library - Harrison MemorialMission & Sixth St.
Hiking
Trails on public land; some areas charge a parking or day-use fee.
- Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary4 mi northeast
- Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve21 mi northeast
- White Oaks Campground25 mi southeast
Wildlife viewing
Birding and nature watching on public land.
- Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary4 mi northeast
- Salinas River National Wildlife Refuge14 mi northeast
- Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve21 mi northeast
Around town
Get a feel for the city
THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
A Day in Carmel By The Sea 🌊
A local activity Short shared by Renu Cherry.
Watch on YouTube ↗
THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
Top things to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea. ✨
A local activity Short shared by Visit Carmel.
Watch on YouTube ↗Questions
What are free things to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
Parks, Libraries, Hiking, Wildlife viewing. City parks and libraries are free; some outdoor areas on federal land charge a parking or day-use fee, noted on each listing.
Are there free events in Carmel-by-the-Sea this weekend?
Check the free events calendar, updated daily from local organizations, libraries and the city.
Do I need a library card to use the library?
No card is needed to visit or attend most programs; a free card from the local library lets you borrow books, movies and often museum passes.