Carmel-by-the-Sea is not always cold, but it is known for its mild, temperate, and often chilly, foggy, or breezy weather year-round, requiring layers. Temperatures are generally moderate, with highs ranging from the mid-50s°F (winter) to low 60s°F (summer), rarely exceeding 70°F, making "cool" a more accurate description than "cold".
Carmel-by-the-Sea delivers a Mediterranean climate and experiences moderate weather all year long, with temperatures ranging from 57 - 65 degrees. Known as the secret season, fall's sunny mornings and warm afternoons are cooled by ocean breezes in the evening, giving way to cool clear nights.
Living in Carmel-by-the-Sea feels comfortable year-round, thanks to moderate temperatures and low humidity levels that stay mostly in the comfortable range. Winters are cool and damp but not harsh, with January as the wettest month receiving around 3.8 inches of precipitation.
Average temperature year-round hovers near 50 degrees. As is the case all along the California coast, the prevailing winds are from the west/northwest, meaning chilly, moisture-laden maritime air is funneled inland from the sea.
Carmel Beach water temperatures peak in the range 14 to 18°C (57 to 64°F) on around the 24th of September and are at their coldest on about the 7th of April, in the range 11 to 14°C (52 to 57°F).
There can be a decent amount of cloud cover most of the year thanks to a persistent marine layer, so for the highest likelihood of clear days, visit July through September. In winter, expect to see higher rainfalls, with the highest precipitation levels between November and April.
Is it healthier to live in a warm or cold climate?
In addition to the direct benefits of sunshine, warm climates also encourage outdoor activities, which promote a more active, healthy lifestyle. The abundance of sunshine provides an opportunity to engage in regular exercise, which has been known to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Monterey offers a more lively, city-like atmosphere, whereas Carmel exudes a quaint, small-town feel. Regardless, you won't regret visiting both. Each promises yummy dining experiences, plenty of outdoor activities, and wonderful sunsets over the Pacific Ocean.
The D.L. James home, also known as “Seaward,” is equally historic, and its current owner, A-lister Brad Pitt, made news in 2022 when he purchased the property for a record-breaking $40 million. “The D.L. James House and Stonewater are only a couple hundred yards apart,” Staples confirmed. 151 Highlands Drive in Carmel.
Be warned that even on sunny summer days, it can get chilly in the evening if the fog rolls in. I recommend packing a light jacket or a sweater. If you do get cold and don't have enough layers, there are plenty of boutiques in Carmel to buy a sweater, or you can get a souvenir sweatshirt at one of the tourist traps.
The Cost of Living Index is based on a national average of 100. From the figures provided above, you can see that the overall cost of living in Carmel-by-the-Sea is 51.9% higher than the national average. Carmel by the Sea Housing is the highest expense, 551.7% higher than the rest of the nation.
1. San Diego, California. San Diego is the poster child for pleasant weather year-round. This Southern California city enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate with average high temperatures of 65 to 77 F (18 to 25 C) throughout the year.
After the turn of the century, Bodie began to decline. The mines weren't producing as well as they had, stores began to close and people began to leave. Many mines closed and the railroad was eventually abandoned in 1917. And on June 23rd, 1932, another fire raged through town, destroying most of the buildings.
Northern California coastal area has possibly the world's most comfortable climate for humans. Never hot or freezing cold. Right now, the temperatures are 70.
When is the best time to see whales in Monterey? Visit us in the winter and spring (December-April) to view gray whales as they migrate from the icy waters of the Bering and Chuckchi seas, to the majestic lagoons of Baja California, Mexico.
Carmel-by-the-Sea shines brighter than ever this holiday season; with twinkling lights and plenty of festive plans, this picture-perfect village is the ultimate Christmas escape. Carmel-by-the-Sea is one of California's best-kept secrets.
Is the Water in Carmel Valley, CA Safe to Drink? The short answer is that while the municipal water supply in Carmel Valley, CA generally meets federal and state safety standards, various factors can still influence the overall quality of the water that comes out of your tap.
What's the difference between Carmel and Carmel-by-the-Sea?
Some call us "Carmel-by-the-Sea" and some simply "Carmel." Did you know there actually is a distinction? Carmel-by-the-Sea is the incorporated, one-square-mile city consisting of our downtown commercial district and the surrounding residential area.