Plan Your Trip

Getting Here

Nestled along California’s breathtaking central coast, Carmel-by-the-Sea is easily accessible by air and car. Whether you’re arriving from across the country or just up the coast, getting here is part of the experience.

Several airports serve the Monterey Peninsula, offering options for convenience, flight availability, and scenic drive time.

Closest Airport

  • Monterey Regional Airport (MRY)
    • Distance: ~7 miles
    • Drive Time: ~15 minutes
    • The most convenient option, with quick access to Carmel and a relaxed travel experience.

Additional Airport Options

  • San Jose International Airport (SJC)
    • Distance: ~85 miles
    • Drive Time: ~1.5 hours
  • San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
    • Distance: ~115 miles
    • Drive Time: ~2 hours (longer with traffic)
  • Oakland International Airport (OAK)
    • Distance: ~120 miles
    • Drive Time: ~2 hours

Driving to Carmel-by-the-Sea offers one of California’s most memorable journeys.

  • From San Francisco: ~2 hours via US-101 or the scenic Highway 1
  • From San Jose: ~1.5 hours via US-101 or CA-17
  • From Los Angeles: ~5–6 hours via US-101 or Highway 1

Highway 1, in particular, offers iconic coastal views—plan extra time if you choose this route.

A Festival Stay Worth Applause

As the preferred hotel of the Carmel Bach Festival, The Quail welcomes patrons with a special offer crafted for discerning music lovers. Enjoy carefully selected Santa Lucia Highlands wine amenity paired with a gourmet charcuterie board upon arrival, along with a $50 resort credit to savor dining, drinks, or golf during your stay. Experience the preferred hotel of the festival, an elegant retreat on and off the stage. Booking Code: BACH26

Learn More & Buy Passes Explore our 3 Day Pass Planning a short stay?

Explore More

Where to Eat

Explore more than 60 restaurants within walking distance from the festival. Explore More

Wine Tasting

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a top-rated wine destination with 17 tasting rooms downtown. Explore More

Explore Local Beaches

With over 100 miles of stunning coastline and countless spots to explore, Monterey County is home to some of California's most beautiful beaches.