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Photo: Carmel River State Beach facing west by Gregory Ford Henderson (CC BY-SA 4.0) License

Carmel River State Beach

River · Carmel, California

Live flow only — judge the water in person

Use caution

Live flow only — judge the water in person: live streamflow is available but no water-temperature sensor is nearby.

  • Streamflow 0 ft³/s
  • Gage height 1.04 ft

Live, provisional data from USGS gauge CARMEL R NR CARMEL CA (2.6 mi away), as of Oct 19, 11:00 PM gauge-local time.

Why, sources & official advisories
  • Live streamflow is available but no water-temperature sensor is nearby. — USGS gauge 11143250, as of Oct 19, 11:00 PM gauge-local time
  • Flow is within the normal range (25th–75th percentile) for Oct 20 (median 0 ft³/s over 64 years). — USGS daily streamflow statistics, as of Oct 19, 11:00 PM gauge-local time
  • No official beach advisory posted (California Water Boards — FHAB Reports checked).

Official advisories

Checked against California Water Boards — FHAB Reports — no advisory posted.

Cool todayPublic restroomWheelchair accessible parking lot
Editor's Notes
Where the Carmel River meets the sea, this quiet beach holds a lagoon and wetland that draw herons, pelicans, and migrating birds — a calmer, less-crowded alternative to Carmel's busy main beach just to the north.

This mile-long beach offers bird watching opportunities & a popular scuba diving entry point.

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Weather at Carmel River State Beach

60°F, Overcast · H 61° / L 57° · 25% chance of rain
H: 61° L: 57°
Overcast
Overcast
60°
|
Feels like 58°
Precipitation
25%
Humidity
67%
Wind
4 mph
UV Index
0
12 AM
Overcast
60°
3 AM
Overcast
60°
6 AM
Overcast
59°
9 AM
Overcast
59°
12 PM
Overcast
58°
3 PM
Overcast
58°
6 PM
Overcast
60°
9 PM
Patchy rain nearby
61°

Frequently asked questions

Where is Carmel River State Beach?
Carmel River State Beach is a river in Carmel, California.
Can you swim at Carmel River State Beach?
Live flow only — judge the water in person: live streamflow is available but no water-temperature sensor is nearby. Checked October 19, 2026.
How is Carmel River State Beach rated?
Carmel River State Beach in Carmel, California has an average visitor rating of 4.8 out of 5, based on 2910 reviews.

Location & Contact

26478 Carmelo St, Carmel, CA 93923

Carmel, California 93923

🌊 Best times & visiting tips
  • ›Check water levels and current conditions before visiting
  • ›Wear life jackets when on the water
  • ›Be aware of rapids and potential hazards
  • ›Respect private property along riverbanks

Features & amenities

Highlights

⭐ Picnics

Accessibility

♿ Wheelchair accessible parking lot

Amenities

🚻 Public restroom

Family & Children

👶 Good for kids👶 Playground
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