Picturesque Carmel-by-the-Sea beckons with charming shops, cafes, art galleries, and a breathtaking beach.

It's no wonder that Carmel ranks as one of the most romantic destinations along the California coast. Here, you can stroll hand in hand along shaded sidewalks, past galleries filled with paintings depicting the spectacular ocean vistas seen from this coastal hamlet. Visit some of the beautiful homes and buildings in and around town, like Tor House , the impressive stone home of noted author Robinson Jeffers. Wander the gardens of lovely and peaceful Mission San Carlos Borromeo de Carmelo , one of the state's prettiest Spanish missions. Nearby, visit legendary golf courses such as Pebble Beach , or head south of town to walk through unspoiled coastal bluffs at Point Lobos State Reserve . Dig you toes into the sand along a mile-long strand of pale sand at Carmel Beach, then curl up together on your beach blanket to watch the sunset. End your visit at a homey cafe or elegant restaurant, where you can toast your good fortune at finding the perfect getaway in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

The Monterey Museum of Art presents Monterey Modernism, featuring paintings and works on paper by California artists illuminating a revolutionary movement away from the popularity of Impressionism to an exploration of intense color and simplified form that emerged in art between World War I and World War II. Modernism took root in the United States when, in 1913, the International Exposition of Modern Art in New York, (commonly known as the Armory Show) offered the first wide exposure to avant-garde European art. Under its influence, American artists turned away from the light-dominated feathery brushstrokes of Impressionism to adopt the use of vibrant, even violent color and simplified form.