Carmel-by-the-Sea Local Guide
74th Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance

Prepared by Wheels Down Concierge

 

The Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance is the pinnacle of automotive elegance, attracting collectors, enthusiasts, and tastemakers from around the world. During this week-long celebration of motoring excellence, Carmel-by-the-Sea offers a picturesque, upscale base from which to enjoy not only the events, but also the region’s natural beauty, culinary excellence, and boutique charm.

Carmel-by-the-Sea has this idyllic charm and delightfully weather, making it an ideal please to visit regardless of the opportunity to take part in this annual event. The beach, the cottages, the pace—sets Carmel apart from the rest. But new players make Carmel even more appealing, reviving what made this town an artists’ enclave in the first place.

EXPLORE

Availability will be tight, so book early. Please submit a request to the Wheels Down Concierge Team for assistance with accommodations.

  • L’Auberge Carmel – A Relais & Châteaux property in the heart of the village. Intimate, elegant, and walking distance to shops and galleries.

  • Hotel Carmel – A chic boutique stay with a coastal-boho vibe and cozy courtyard.

  • Carmel Valley Ranch – Just outside town, ideal if you’re looking for a luxury resort feel with space, golf, and vineyard views.

  • Bernardus Lodge & Spa – In nearby Carmel Valley, serene and upscale with a great wine program and beautiful spa.

  • Tradewinds Carmel – Zen-inspired decor and peaceful gardens; an understated boutique option.

  • Pine Inn – Carmel’s first hotel, combining historic character with a central Ocean Avenue location.

InDULGE

The restaurant scene in Carmel-by-the-Sea is quietly world-class. It’s refined, intimate, and deeply rooted in California’s seasonal bounty. It skews toward European influence, with a heavy emphasis on locally sourced ingredients, small-scale producers, and impeccable wine lists. Think rustic French bistros, coastal California cuisine, and cozy candlelit trattorias, all tucked along cobblestone streets and courtyards.

We love the L’Auberge properly, especially since it’s recent major renovation. The restaurant, chef Justin Cogley’s Michelin-starred Aubergine, has had a facelift as well. The food and service are great, the plates are gorgeously prepared, looking like they could have been lifted straight out of the sea.

Here’s a curated breakdown of our favorites:

Make reservations well in advance, as Concours Week draws a sophisticated, global crowd.

Fine Dining:

  • Aubergine – Michelin-starred, creative tasting menus with impeccable service.

  • Lucia at Bernardus Lodge – Upscale dining in a vineyard setting.

  • Casanova – French-Italian cuisine in a romantic setting with a notable wine cellar.

Upscale Casual:

  • La Bicyclette – European bistro with wood-fired dishes and local ingredients.

  • Grasing’s – California coastal cuisine, great for lunch or dinner with an elegant but relaxed atmosphere.

  • Stationæry – Elevated breakfast and brunch in a minimalist-chic space.

Concours Week Musts

  • The Tour d’Elegance (Thursday) – Cars drive through the scenic coastline and into Carmel-by-the-Sea; catch them parked on Ocean Avenue midday.

  • The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering (Friday) – Ultra-exclusive and beautifully curated. If you have access, it’s a highlight.

  • Pebble Beach RetroAuto & Auctions – Browse rare collectibles, automobilia, and watch high-profile auctions from RM Sotheby’s and Gooding & Co.

  • The Main Event (Sunday) – The Concours itself on the 18th fairway at Pebble Beach. Dress accordingly (think elegant garden party), and don’t miss the Best of Show presentation.

Experiences & Shopping

  • Ocean Avenue – Boutique shopping, fine art galleries, and independent jewelers. Look for unique finds, including vintage watches and rare books.

  • Wine Tasting – Visit Dawn’s Dream or Wrath Wines tasting rooms in town for local Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

  • Point Lobos State Reserve – For a scenic hike or peaceful ocean vistas just a short drive away.

  • Spa Day – Book a post-event treatment at Bernardus Lodge or Refuge Spa in Carmel Valley for a tranquil reset.

Tips for a Seamless Experience

  • Transportation: Book private car service well ahead of time. Parking is limited, and traffic during Concours Week can be intense. Consider rideshare for local trips.

  • Dress Code: Pebble Beach events lean toward smart, elegant attire. Think linen, summer suiting, and upscale resortwear. Hats and comfortable (but stylish) shoes are a must for the lawn.

  • Weather: Mornings can be foggy and cool, with sunny afternoons. Dress in layers.

Carmel-by-the-Sea during Concours Week is a rare blend of coastal charm, luxury living, and international flair. Whether you’re here for the automobiles, the social scene, or just the spectacular setting, take time to explore beyond the events; you’ll fall in love with this storybook town.

Please reach out to the Wheels Down Concierge Team to tailor a few multi-day dining itineraries or for any needed suggestions including hotels, restaurants, ground transporation providers, private dining/chef experiences for groups or VIPs, etc.