Carmel River State Beach

The sand is beautiful and clean at mile-long Carmel River State beach. It almost reminds me of Australian beaches with its coarse sand like ground-up granite. The ocean is the deepest inky blue. It's wonderful! Swimming is hazardous because of the shorebreak, but to the north of the beach, divers like to explore the diverse marine life. You may see otters or seals from the beach. Behind you, see majestic Carmel Mission atop a hill. Carmel River State Beach is a lovely place to lay out in the sun or go for a long walk.

From Carmel River State Beach walk north on Scenic Rd for 25 minutes (1.2 miles). The views of the ocean on your left and mansions on your right are just incredible.
If you're hungry, there's a new Safeway store near here that you'll see along the road as you approach from the north. Grab yourself a yummy deli sandwich and have a seaside picnic.
One of the most enchanting beaches on earth is just south of here- China Cove. Also lovely is Carmel-By-The-Sea Beach with its snow white sand. 

Directions

Take Highway 1 south from Monterey. Very soon you will see Carmel River State Beach from the road. Pull over along the road to park.
Or, you can park in the parking lot at the north part of the beach, north of the lagoon, off Carmelo St. From Highway 1, turn right on Rio Rd, left on Santa Lucia Ave, and left on Carmelo St. The parking lot is free, and is open until sunset. There are restrooms.

Click on map for interactive view