California, United States of America

Carmel Meadows Beach

Carmel Meadows Beach is a beach that faces west and is situated in Carmel River State Beach, adjacent to the Carmel Meadows housing community. The beach is wide and sandy, with rocky areas at each end. It is less populated than the nearby Monastery Beach and the main Carmel River Beach.

A wide trail runs along the base of the bluff in both directions, leading north to the state beach at the mouth of the river and south to Monastery Beach. The bluff is densely vegetated and has huge, rounded, lichen-covered rocks that offer breathtaking views.

Street parking is available along Cuesta Way and Ribera Road, with a few public spots at the trailhead where Ribera Road ends at Cuesta. A trail leads across the bluff to several viewpoints and then gradually descends to the beach.

Uncover great places to stay near Carmel Meadows Beach and enjoy the serene, picturesque vistas this tranquil beach offers.

Although swimming is perilous due to undertow and rip currents, dogs are permitted on the beach. Carmel Meadows Beach is a must-visit for those who appreciate picturesque vistas and wish to relax on a tranquil beach.

Visitor Reviews

Visitor reviews highlight the stunning beauty of the beach and its ocean views, with cool weather all year long. Visitors also enjoy the quiet and peaceful atmosphere, as well as the opportunity to walk the trail. However, some visitors complain about the beach being too crowded on weekends and the sand being a bit coarse.

Where to Stay near Carmel Meadows Beach?

Visitors to Carmel Meadows Beach often stay in the nearby town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, known for its charming inns and boutique hotels. Many also choose accommodations in Monterey, which offers a wider range of lodging options and is a short drive from the beach.

The following map shows available accommodations and their prices. See the full list of accommodation options here.

Where is Carmel Meadows Beach?

Latitude: 36.5293396 / Longitude: -121.9249168

Carmel Meadows Beach is located in California. The following map of Carmel Meadows Beach shows the exact location.

Carmel Meadows Beach: Weather Today

📅 Sunday, July 5, 2026
Today is a disappointing day for a visit to Carmel Meadows Beach, as thick fog and low clouds will dominate the sky throughout your time by the water. With a maximum air temperature of 16 °C, it will feel quite chilly, especially since the sea temperature sits at a cold 15.6 °C, making the water entirely unsuitable for swimming. You should also be cautious near the shoreline, as the waves are running fairly high today. While the sun remains hidden behind the dense fog, please be aware that the UV index still reaches 8.45, so skin protection remains important if the clouds happen to break. Between the lack of warmth, persistent mist, and choppy water conditions, it is best to plan your beach trip for another day.
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Air

Low / High12.5°C/16°C
Feels Like (High)15.8°C
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Sea

Sea Temperature15.6 °C
Wave Height1.4 m
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Rain

Rain Chance1%
Rainfall0 mm
Rain Duration0 h
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Sun

Sunrise / Sunset05:55/20:29
Sunshine Hours0.0 hrs
UV Index8.45
Cloud Cover100%
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Wind

Speed17.4 km/h
Gusts21.6 km/h
DirectionW

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