Carmel-by-the Sea weekend: Exploring Northern California’s most idyllic coastal retreat

The crown jewel of the Monterey peninsula, Carmel-by-the-Sea has been long known for its natural beauty, fairytale cottages, art-filled boutiques, gourmet dining and pristine white sand beach.

This tiny town and the immediate surroundings — Carmel Highlands, Carmel Valley, Pebble Beach, Pacific Grove and Monterey — became a magnet for creative types after the 1906 San Francisco earthquake and well into the mid-20th century.

Residents have included an A-list of West Coast writers...