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Photo: Northwest Carmel, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93923, USA - panoramio by Arnab Majumdar (CC BY-SA 3.0) License

Carmel Sunset Beach

Public beach · Carmel-By-The-Sea, California

Cool todayPublic restroomPublic showerVolleyball courtWheelchair accessible parking lot
Editor's Notes
At the foot of Carmel-by-the-Sea's Ocean Avenue, this crescent of soft white sand is framed by wind-sculpted Monterey cypress and turquoise water — one of the most photographed and famously dog-friendly beaches on the California coast.

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Current water conditions

Water temp
63°F
17°C
Cool water — ease in carefully. Cool enough to cause cold-water shock on a sudden entry. Get in gradually, let your breathing settle, and keep an eye on weaker swimmers.

Live data from NOAA buoy MEYC1 (4.2 mi away), as of Aug 21, 11:36 AM UTC. Conditions are for general information only and can change quickly — always judge the water in person and follow posted advisories before swimming.

Weather at Carmel Sunset Beach

H: 66° L: 57°
Fog
Fog
57°
|
Feels like 52°
Precipitation
26%
Humidity
100%
Wind
14 mph
UV Index
0
Water Conditions:
🥶Too cold for most swimmers
12 AM
Fog
57°
3 AM
Fog
57°
6 AM
Fog
57°
9 AM
Mist
60°
12 PM
Cloudy
59°
3 PM
Overcast
60°
6 PM
Cloudy
60°
9 PM
Clear
60°

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Frequently asked questions

Where is Carmel Sunset Beach?
Carmel Sunset Beach is a public beach in Carmel-By-The-Sea, California.
What is the water temperature at Carmel Sunset Beach?
As of August 21, 2026, the water temperature at Carmel Sunset Beach in Carmel-By-The-Sea, California is 63°F (17°C), measured by NOAA buoy MEYC1, 4.2 miles away.
Can you swim at Carmel Sunset Beach?
There is no fixed answer for Carmel Sunset Beach: whether it is safe to swim there on a given day depends on the water temperature, recent rainfall, and any advisories posted at Carmel Sunset Beach in Carmel-By-The-Sea, California. Check current water conditions before you go, and follow posted signs and local guidance.
How is Carmel Sunset Beach rated?
Carmel Sunset Beach in Carmel-By-The-Sea, California has an average visitor rating of 4.8 out of 5, based on 1280 reviews.

Visitor Reviews

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Been here? A quick note helps the next visitor plan their day. Handy things to mention:

Water temperatureCrowds & parkingBest time to goSafety & access

Best Times to Visit

🧥
Right Now
Cool weather - dress warmly
🏖️ Swimming Beaches Tips:
  • Arrive early for best parking and beach spot selection
  • Check for lifeguard schedules and swim only in designated areas
  • Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life
  • Watch for beach flags indicating water conditions
Best Seasons:
☀️ Summer (Jun-Aug)🍂 Fall (Sep-Nov)🌸 Spring (Mar-May)

Location & Contact

Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93921

Carmel-By-The-Sea, California 93921

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Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible parking lot

Amenities

🚻 Public restroom🚿 Public shower🏐 Volleyball court

Family & Children

👶 Good for kids