After driving through the 17 Mile Drive in Pebble Beach then taking the Scenic Road parallel to Carmel Beach, you can end your scenic drive at Carmel River State Beach to sit down on the sand, take in the breeze, watch the wave, and go birdwatching.
Carmel River State Beach, located in Carmel, California, is a mile-long protected beach with a lagoon formed by the Carmel River. It’s dangerous to swim here due to the strong currents and the steep drop off from shore but it is a popular spot for kayakers and divers.
We did dip our feet into the incoming water from the ocean and it was freezing even on a summer day while the water at the lagoon on your back from the Carmel River is warm. The lagoon attracts a large number of migratory birds during fall and winter. Besides bird watching though, it would be a great place to do some painting, so bring your easel and find a spot.
We found a spot fronting the ocean where there were some woods shored together to look like a teepee so the kids continued on to put more while the hubby and I sat and enjoyed the view and the sound of the waves. The kids didn’t want to leave but we’re off to our next adventure. Do a quick visit when you’re in Monterey County.
