The Golden State Series, Episode Two: Carmel By The Sea
“Carmel-by-the-Sea: where the houses have names, the dogs have better social lives, and nobody seems particularly concerned about Monday.”
Carmel-by-the-Sea / Carmel Highlands coastline on California’s Monterey Peninsula
California Dreaming — A Family Adventure
Our California adventure took us from towering redwoods and the rugged Pacific coast to charming Carmel-by-the-Sea—and even a night at the ballpark. It was a trip filled with family, friends, spectacular scenery, and a little California history along the way.
Even the name California has a wonderfully imaginative beginning. It comes from a mythical island ruled by Queen Califia, described in the 1510 Spanish romance Las Sergas de Esplandián by García Ordóñez de Montalvo. Early Spanish explorers believed the newly encountered land might actually be an island—and the name stuck. In some ways, California has been associated with fantasy and adventure ever since.
We found some of that magic in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Although nearby Carmel Mission was founded in 1771, the seaside village we know today began taking shape in the early 20th century. Its founders recognized that the real treasure was already there: the dramatic coastline, cypress trees, sandy beaches and natural beauty of the land. Their determination to preserve that character helped create the wonderfully quirky and picturesque Carmel we enjoyed—a place where wandering around without much of a plan is really the plan.
From Carmel we headed south along Highway 1 into Big Sur, where the landscape became even more dramatic. One memorable day was spent with classmates among the magnificent coast redwoods of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Walking beneath those enormous reddish trunks along the Big Sur River gave us an entirely different perspective on California. Some of these trees tower hundreds of feet overhead, making even a large group of us look very small indeed!
And then, from ancient forests to a thoroughly Californian pastime: baseball. We traded redwoods and hiking shoes for hot dogs, cheering crowds and a game at the Los Angeles Angels’ ballpark in Anaheim—a fitting change of pace and another side of California life.
Carmel, Big Sur, redwoods, Highway 1, baseball—and, best of all, family and friends to share it with. California gave us a little bit of everything…and plenty of reasons to come back. 🌲⚾🌊☀️