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. Winter, though mild, offers an occasional shower. Spring provides cool, sunny weather before the summer fog rolls in. Summer mornings deliver a foggy marine layer blanketing the coastline, which usually clears by the afternoon.
Fall (September - November)
Known to locals as the secret season, fall is the sunniest time of the year in Carmel. This time of year brings warm, clear days and cool nights, and is one of the best times to visit. Packing layers is always essential on a California Coastal vacation. During the fall, lighter pieces to wear when the weather's warm, plus heavier items to layer on when the temperature turns cool. Fall brings the shorter days and longer nights, offering opportunities for beach bonfires and early misty morning strolls through town.
Winter (December - February)
While the weather is consistently mild year-round, the winter months are cooler and bring the occasional shower. If visitors are willing to brave the mist and occasional rain then it is an opportune time for off-season shopping, wining and dining. A morning walk along the deserted beach, if visitors are prepared for the cooler temperature, is invigorating. This time also offers visitors the opportunity to curl up by the fire of one of the many cozy bed and breakfasts, hotels or inns in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Also worth mentioning are the huge waves that begin in November and run through the winter as well as the migrating humpback whales.
Spring (March - May)
Spring in Carmel-by-the-Sea offers visitors a little bit of everything. While April showers bring May flowers, May temperatures can be some of the highest of the year. These temperatures provide guests with sunny weather before the summer fog rolls in. It's always best to be prepared with layers and a light rain jacket. In springtime hanging baskets overflow and flowers bloom everywhere mingling with the salty scent from the beach combining their fragrance.
Summer (June - August)
Summer may be the time when most people visit Carmel-by-the-Sea with vacation time and school holidays, even though the coastal fog generally hovers over the coastline most of the day with occasional clearing. Mornings are generally cool with a misty layer that burns off in the afternoon. The need to pack layers of clothing is especially important during the summer.
