Carmel River Beach

I had a great time walking and enjoying the waves and beach at this park during my visit in October 2022. However, it's worth noting that it may not be the best option for families with young children due to the larger waves. Additionally, dogs must be leashed at all times. It can get quite breezy here, so make sure to come prepared. On the bright side, the facilities are clean and well-maintained. Just be aware that there are a lot of seagulls and pelicans around.

Although finding parking can be difficult with only around 20 spots available, this location is definitely worth the visit. I would advise avoiding weekends if possible. This beach offers both access to the Carmel river and the ocean. The river side is shallow and perfect for children and inexperienced swimmers to enjoy the water. However, the beach may not be the best option for younger children due to the drop off close to the shore, as indicated by warning signs. Although there is a lifeguard tower, it was unmanned on the Monday I visited. There is no shade available, so it's a good idea to bring a beach tent or umbrella. The area can get quite windy, so make sure to secure your belongings well. During my visit, I saw people enjoying various activities such as flying kites, canoeing, boogie boarding, and paddle boarding to explore the river. The water depth varies depending on the season, and when the river flows into the ocean, the currents can be too strong. As of early August, a large sand dune separates the river and ocean. My family and I love coming here to bask in the sun and allow the kids to safely play in the shallow waters of the river.

The beach is truly stunning and an ideal destination for families visiting. Although there aren't many shells, there are plenty of interesting rocks for children to explore. The area is teeming with wildlife, there are ample rocks to climb, and the weather is just right, making it a wonderful spot to spend time.

The beach was fantastic, although it's relatively small compared to other beaches. Fortunately, it's not as crowded as some of the other ones. Finding a parking spot isn't too difficult, despite the limited space. However, there are only two bathrooms available, so expect a bit of a wait. On the bright side, they do have a lifeguard on duty, which is pretty cool.

We spent two fantastic days at this beach with our little ones. The descent is a breeze thanks to the stairs, and the beach is conveniently close to the parking area. The tide pools are teeming with fascinating marine creatures, making for hours of exploration. There was an artist painting on both days, and I managed to snap some truly stunning photos. All in all, it's a wonderful spot.