Carmel

Located on the picturesque Monterey Peninsula in Monterey County, CA, the coastal village of Carmel-by-the-Sea is the stuff dreams are made of. Simply known as “Carmel,” this one square mile patch of paradise offers one of the most distinctive living experiences you can find anywhere in the country.

Carmel is home to many fascinating qualities and stories. For one, this place once had Hollywood star Clint Eastwood as its mayor during the 1980s. On the quirkier side, you need a permit to wear high heels in this village.

Perhaps most interesting for you as a potential homebuyer is that houses in Carmel do not use street addresses. Most homes are just hinted at by their placement along the street, such as “the third cottage along Torres Street,” while some are given whimsical names like “Hansel” or “Sea Urchin.”

While the last fact is undeniably unconventional, it also speaks volumes about Carmel’s unique charm as a residential location. Homes here are so beloved that their owners give them names.

This beachside community is an enclave of luxurious homes, with styles that range from timeless to fantastical. While you can find a fair share of traditional Mission Revival style houses reflecting the influence of Spanish culture in the area, the more fanciful side of the village presents various cottages reminiscent of classic fairytales.

The latter is a unique and highly sought-after feature of the Carmel real estate market and a legacy that is owed to 1920s architect Hugh Cornstock. By the request of his dollmaker wife, Cornstock designed storybook-inspired cottages fitted with rounded doors, rolled eaves, and oddly shaped chimneys. More or less 20 of his original creations still stand today, including some used by local businesses.

In addition to Cornstock, other legendary architects like Frank Lloyd Wright and Charles Sumner Greene have left their mark here. Ask your agent to point you in the right direction if you aspire to own one of their creations.

The Carmel lifestyle is rich with distinct and unforgettable experiences. Here’s a quick preview of what to expect:

• Carmel Unified School District – The CUSD has nine schools, including four for elementary level students, two middle schools, and three high schools.
• Carmel Mission Basilica – Carmel’s seaside location attracts a lot of attention from hopeless romantics. Little wonder why this historic church is a favorite venue for couples looking to tie the knot or celebrate their anniversary.
• Carmel Beach – One of California’s most iconic beaches, this mile-long crescent of sparkling white sand spoils its visitors with breathtaking views and diverse recreational opportunities.
• Carmel Plaza – Head here if you are feeling the itch to splurge on some shopping. Located on Carmel’s famed Ocean Avenue, it features a collection of designer brand outlets, specialty boutique stores, gourmet restaurants, and even wine tasting rooms.
• Tor House and Hawk Tower – This local historic landmark was formerly the property of poet Robinson Jeffers. Built with granite slabs sourced from the nearby Carmel Bay shores, the structures on this site offer a unique glimpse into Carmel’s unique artistic and cultural legacy.

If this page caught your attention, then finding a home in Carmel may be the best decision you’ll ever make. Want to see the finest homes available here today? Call 831.661.5591 or send me a message here.

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