Carmel Highlands

Perched along California's rugged Big Sur coastline, just south of Carmel-by-the-Sea, Carmel Highlands is a secluded coastal community known for its awe-inspiring ocean views and luxurious homes. This exclusive enclave offers a unique blend of natural beauty, tranquility, and a deep sense of privacy, making it one of the most desirable residential areas on the Monterey Peninsula.

Carmel Highlands has a rich history, attracting artists, writers, and nature lovers since the early 20th century, who were drawn to its rugged cliffs, dramatic ocean views, and the area’s peaceful isolation. With its proximity to Carmel-by-the-Sea and Big Sur, Carmel Highlands enjoys the best of both worlds: an intimate, secluded lifestyle with access to world-class dining, art galleries, and outdoor activities.

Known for its breathtaking scenery, winding roads, and architecturally stunning homes nestled in the cliffs, Carmel Highlands is perfect for those who crave a serene, nature-infused lifestyle while still remaining close to modern conveniences. Living here means waking up to panoramic ocean views and the sound of crashing waves, all in a community that cherishes its quiet, laid-back charm.

Things to Do in Carmel Highlands

Despite its small size and secluded atmosphere, Carmel Highlands offers plenty of activities for nature lovers, art enthusiasts, and those seeking adventure.

Outdoor Recreation and Scenic Attractions:

• Point Lobos State Natural Reserve: Just minutes away from Carmel Highlands, Point Lobos is considered one of the most beautiful nature reserves in the world. It’s a must-visit for hiking, photography, and wildlife viewing, with miles of trails that offer stunning coastal views, whale-watching opportunities, and glimpses of sea otters, harbor seals, and seabirds.
• Garrapata State Park: A hidden gem for hiking and exploring, Garrapata offers miles of trails through wildflower fields, redwood groves, and dramatic cliffside paths. It's a great place for hiking with ocean views, and you can even dip into secluded beaches along the way.
• Monastery Beach: Known for its scenic beauty and crystal-clear waters, Monastery Beach is a great spot for beachcombing, picnicking, and taking in the ocean views. It's also a popular diving destination for those who are experienced.
• Bixby Creek Bridge: One of the most iconic landmarks along the Pacific Coast Highway, Bixby Creek Bridge is a short drive from Carmel Highlands. It offers unparalleled views of the coastline and is a favorite spot for photographers and road-trippers.

Cultural and Historical Attractions:

• Tor House and Hawk Tower: Built by poet Robinson Jeffers in the early 1900s, Tor House and Hawk Tower are unique stone structures offering guided tours. The property showcases Jeffers’ vision of architecture harmonizing with the natural landscape, and it offers visitors a look into his life and work.
• Big Sur Coastline: Carmel Highlands is the gateway to the famous Big Sur coast, where you can enjoy scenic drives, visit artist galleries, or explore charming retreats. Big Sur’s dramatic cliffs and lush redwood forests are a world-renowned destination for those seeking solitude and inspiration.

Hidden Gems and Unique Activities:

• Carmel Highlands Scenic Drive: Enjoy a leisurely drive along the coastal cliffs for stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding landscape. Each turn offers a new, breathtaking vista, making it perfect for a sunset cruise.
• Whale Watching: The waters off Carmel Highlands are part of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, making it a prime location for spotting migrating gray whales, humpbacks, and blue whales. Whale-watching tours are available year-round from nearby Monterey.
• Luxury Spa Experiences: Just a short drive to Carmel-by-the-Sea, you’ll find luxurious spas that offer a full range of treatments designed to relax and rejuvenate, often with views of the surrounding hills or ocean.

Places to Eat in Carmel Highlands

While Carmel Highlands itself is a quiet, residential area, its proximity to both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Big Sur means residents have access to a variety of dining experiences. From casual eateries to fine dining establishments, there are plenty of options to suit every occasion.

Casual Dining:

• Rocky Point Restaurant: Located just south of Carmel Highlands, Rocky Point offers some of the most dramatic oceanfront dining on the coast. With panoramic views from every table, guests can enjoy a casual menu featuring fresh seafood, salads, and classic American dishes. It’s the perfect spot for a laid-back meal with an unforgettable view.
• Café Kevah: Perched high above the cliffs in Big Sur, Café Kevah offers a casual, open-air dining experience with stunning coastal views. The menu focuses on fresh, local ingredients, with options like hearty breakfast burritos, avocado toast, and salads. It’s a great stop for brunch or a light lunch.

Fine Dining:

• Sierra Mar at Post Ranch Inn: For a true fine dining experience, Sierra Mar at Post Ranch Inn in Big Sur offers world-class cuisine in a breathtaking setting. The restaurant features a seasonal, four-course prix-fixe menu with a focus on locally sourced, organic ingredients. Diners enjoy sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean from the restaurant’s floor-to-ceiling windows.
• Pacific’s Edge: Located within the Hyatt Carmel Highlands, this renowned restaurant offers upscale California cuisine with a focus on local seafood and farm-to-table ingredients. Pacific’s Edge is known for its elegant atmosphere and spectacular ocean views, making it a top choice for a romantic dinner or special occasion.

Local Favorites:

• The Sur House: Situated in Big Sur, The Sur House at Ventana Big Sur offers both casual and upscale dining options with stunning views of the surrounding redwood forests and the Pacific Ocean. The menu celebrates local ingredients with dishes like grilled octopus, seared scallops, and wood-fired meats.

Real Estate in Carmel Highlands

Carmel Highlands offers some of the most exclusive and breathtaking real estate along the Monterey Peninsula, with homes that are both architectural masterpieces and private sanctuaries. The area is known for its secluded, cliffside estates that offer expansive views of the Pacific Ocean, as well as its luxury modern homes designed to blend into the rugged landscape.

Architectural Styles:

• Contemporary Cliffside Homes: Many homes in Carmel Highlands are designed to take full advantage of the area's dramatic geography. With floor-to-ceiling windows, expansive decks, and open floor plans, these modern homes maximize the stunning ocean views and create seamless indoor-outdoor living experiences.
• Craftsman and Custom-Built Estates: In addition to modern designs, you’ll find beautiful Craftsman-style homes and custom-built estates that showcase unique architectural details. These homes are often nestled within the hills, offering privacy and a direct connection to nature.
• Mid-Century Modern Homes: Some of the original homes in Carmel Highlands feature iconic mid-century modern designs, known for their clean lines, large windows, and integration with the natural landscape.

Home Sizes and Prices:

Homes in Carmel Highlands range from 2,000-square-foot cliffside retreats to sprawling multi-million-dollar estates that cover several acres. The real estate market here is geared towards luxury buyers, with prices starting in the low $2 million range and reaching upwards of $20 million for the most prestigious properties with unparalleled ocean views.

Unique Features:

Many homes in Carmel Highlands come with luxurious features such as infinity pools, private hiking trails, wine cellars, and guesthouses. Due to the area's natural beauty and exclusivity, homes often feature expansive outdoor living spaces that are perfect for entertaining or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

Schools and Transportation:

Carmel Highlands is part of the Carmel Unified School District, which is known for its high-quality education. The area is served by top-rated schools, including Carmel High School and Carmel River School. Although Carmel Highlands is a more secluded area, it’s conveniently located just a short drive from the amenities of Carmel-by-the-Sea, and Monterey Regional Airport is about 30 minutes away.

Local Amenities:

Carmel Highlands offers residents proximity to high-end amenities without sacrificing privacy. The nearby town of Carmel-by-the-Sea is known for its boutique shops, art galleries, and gourmet dining. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the easy access to hiking trails, beaches, and nature reserves.

Call Carmel Highlands Home

Carmel Highlands is more than just a place to live—it’s a lifestyle defined by natural beauty, privacy, and exclusivity. With its panoramic ocean views, luxury homes, and peaceful surroundings, Carmel Highlands offers an unparalleled living experience on California’s central coast. Whether you're seeking a cliffside retreat, a custom estate nestled in the hills, or a modern architectural masterpiece, Carmel Highlands has a range of real estate options to suit your needs.

If you’re interested in exploring the real estate opportunities in Carmel Highlands, Scherling Properties is here to help. With our local expertise and personalized service, we can assist you in finding the perfect home in this breathtaking coastal community. Contact us today to schedule a neighborhood tour or to learn more about available properties in Carmel Highlands.