“We have acquired a whole mile of beach and all the land fronting on it. California is growing so rapidly, that the time has come when the promoters of new towns can determine the general character of the residents. We want brain-workers, because they enjoy picturesque scenery and need a climate for a vacation place so equable that they can be outdoors the whole day long.” — The Carmel Development Company, 1903

And with that targeted pitch they came. Professors from Stanford and the University of California, artists and writers from San Francisco, actors from Los Angeles. A number of the more free-spirited creatives would become known as The Bohemians, Jack London, Mary Austin, and Sinclair Lewis among them. At one time, over sixty-percent of the residents worked in the arts.

From its earliest days, Carmel has fought to protect its beauty and charm. Now, on the 100th anniversary of its incorporation, many of the town’s quirky features remain. There are no streetlights, no house numbers, no chain restaurants. We’re still trying to confirm if a permit really is required to wear high heels on the sidewalks. Dogs run free on Carmel Beach’s pristine white sand and water bowls can be found in the front of many shops thanks to lobbying by Doris Day (93 and still a force). Trees are fiercely protected. Cars can just drive around them, thank you.

We took a Carmel Walks tour on a drizzly afternoon. It was a fun way to learn what makes this place special and how Clint Eastwood got away with erecting an office building that looks totally out of place.

Share this Story

Who says you can't grow apples here?

September 9th, 2017

creative collaboration in the Mission

discovery in the San Francisco hills

An artist community thrives amidst decay

Car-free equals carefree in the Mission

September 9^th, 2017