The Ultimate Day Trip to Carmel-by-the-Sea: Things to Do, Where to Sip, and What Makes Cypress Grove a Must-Stop Winery

Carmel-by-the-Sea is one of California’s most enchanting coastal towns—a storybook village filled with art galleries, white sand beaches, cozy cafes, and, yes, exceptional wine tasting. Whether you're planning a weekend escape or a full-on wine country getaway, Carmel is packed with things to do—and one of the best wineries in Carmel-by-the-Sea is right in the heart of town.

Things to Do in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Start your day with a stroll along Ocean Avenue, where the scent of sea air mixes with freshly brewed espresso from charming sidewalk cafes. Browse locally owned boutiques, explore the town’s fairytale cottages, or pop into a few art galleries. For a peaceful moment in nature, don’t miss the nearby Scenic Bluff Path, which offers stunning views of Carmel Beach and the Pacific.

If you're visiting with your pup, you'll love that Carmel is famously dog-friendly, with off-leash beaches and plenty of patios for a four-legged lunch companion.

The Must-Stop Winery in Carmel: Cypress Grove Winery™

No trip to Carmel is complete without experiencing the local wine scene. Cypress Grove Winery™ is a must-stop tasting room, offering a curated selection of small-lot wines crafted from 100% Monterey County grapes.

Located just steps from downtown shops and the beach, our tasting room is a cozy, welcoming spot to unwind. We specialize in cool-climate varietals like Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Rosé—all grown just miles away in the world-renowned Santa Lucia Highlands.

Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just discovering what you like, our team is here to guide you through a tasting flight that captures the spirit of Monterey in every sip.

Why We’re One of the Best Wineries in Carmel-by-the-Sea

• 🍷 100% Local Wines: Made from sustainably grown Monterey County grapes

• 🌊 Coastal Vibes: Taste wines just minutes from where they’re grown

• 🎨 Carmel Charm: Our tasting room fits perfectly into the artistic, laid-back feel of the town

• 🐾 Pet-Friendly: Bring your pup—we’ll treat them like a guest, too

Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, a girls’ trip, or a solo adventure, Cypress Grove is the perfect stop to sip, relax, and soak in Carmel’s magic.

Visit Us

If you're looking for things to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea, don’t miss the chance to visit one of the best wineries in town. We’d love to pour you a glass and share the story behind each bottle.

Stop by Cypress Grove Winery™ in Carmel-by-the-Sea—your must-stop winery on the Monterey Coast.

Sip and Stroll: Wine History in Carmel-by-the-Sea & Why You Should Visit Our Tasting Room

Carmel-by-the-Sea is known for its fairytale charm—but did you know it’s also a hidden gem for wine lovers?

This coastal village has long attracted artists, writers, and dreamers—and more recently, winemakers. With its proximity to the Santa Lucia Highlands and Carmel Valley, Carmel is the perfect home base for wine tasting. Over the years, a boutique wine scene has blossomed here, offering a relaxed yet elevated experience.

At Cypress Grove Winery’s™ Carmel-by-the-Sea tasting room, you can sample the best of Monterey County without leaving the village. Enjoy coastal-inspired wines, warm hospitality, and the laid-back luxury Carmel is famous for.

Come for the views. Stay for the wine.

Visit our tasting room and discover why Carmel-by-the-Sea is the perfect place to uncork Monterey County’s finest.

Why Chardonnay and Pinot Noir Thrive in Monterey County

Some places were simply made for certain grapes-and Monterey County is a match made in heaven for Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

The cool climate, ocean breezes, and well-drained soils create the perfect conditions for these finicky varietals. Chardonnay grown here shows vibrant citrus, tropical fruit, and balanced minerality, while Pinot Noir delivers elegant red fruit, spice, and silky texture—all thanks to the extended growing season and marine influence.

In the Santa Lucia Highlands, elevated vineyard sites add another layer of complexity. The difference in sun exposure and temperature from valley floor to hillside allows for incredible nuance in every bottle.

At Cypress Grove Winery™, we take pride in showcasing the purity and personality of these varietals, grown just miles from the Pacific coast.

Looking for your next favorite Chardonnay or Pinot? Join us for a tasting and experience what makes Monterey County magic for these classic grapes.

Why Monterey County's Climate Makes It a Dream for Winemaking

Monterey County's secret to exceptional wine? It's in the air. Literally.

With cool Pacific breezes flowing through the Salinas Valley, moderated temperatures, and daily fog cover, this region creates an ideal climate for growing grapes. The long growing season—thanks to the consistent, cool conditions—lets grapes ripen slowly, developing more complexity and balance.

Unlike other regions where heat spikes stress the vines, Monterey's marine layer offers a gentle touch, preserving acidity and aromatics, especially in Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The diversity of microclimates across Monterey County also means a wider range of varietals can thrive here—from crisp whites to earthy reds.

Cypress Grove Winery™ is proud to be rooted in a region where nature does half the work. All we have to do is let the grapes shine.

Plan your visit and see (and taste) why Monterey County is California wine's best-kept climate secret.