Answer: Carmel and the nearby Monterey coastline offer some stunning spots for dinner and drinks with sunset views. Since the coastline faces west, you’ll want a location with an ocean view to catch the sun dipping into the Pacific.

Answer: Carmel-by-the-Sea is known for its charming, romantic dining experiences, perfect for celebrating a milestone wedding anniversary. Many restaurants in town emphasize local, fresh ingredients and have an intimate, upscale vibe, making them ideal for a special occasion.

Answer: Carmel-by-the-Sea is known for its charming atmosphere and excellent local seafood. There are several standout restaurants where you can enjoy fresh seafood in a memorable setting, perfect for a special dinner.

Answer: Carmel-by-the-Sea is a charming town that’s perfect for a walking tour with kids. The fairytale cottages, art galleries, and quaint streets make it a delightful exploration for both adults and children. With a 40-minute walking window in mind, you can plan a short loop that balances sightseeing with fun stops for treats.

Answer: Good question! Sounds like you’re talking about Roy’s at Pebble Beach / The Inn at Spanish Bay (not the Maui Roy’s), since you're in Carmel / Monterey County. The nightly bagpiper is a beautiful and very special tradition — here’s a detailed breakdown of when to go, what to expect, and some tips — especially for a May visit.

Answer: Driving from San Jose (SJC) to Carmel via Santa Cruz can be a scenic and enjoyable route, and choosing between Hwy 17 and Hwy 9 depends on what kind of experience you want.

Answer: If you are looking for a private driver with a van for a large group in the Carmel/Monterey area, there are several options to consider. These services are ideal for sightseeing, winery tours, or just traveling comfortably with your group without worrying about parking or navigation.

Answer: Point Lobos is one of the most popular state parks along the California coast, and even after Labor Day it can attract a significant number of visitors. Timing your visit is key to finding parking and enjoying the trails without heavy crowds.

Answer: For a trip to Carmel and the surrounding Monterey Coast, both staying in town and choosing a VRBO slightly outside have pros and cons, especially considering your interests in hiking, biking, and cooking.

Answer: Both the Cypress Inn and Hotel Carmel are excellent choices in Carmel, but they offer slightly different experiences depending on what kind of birthday trip atmosphere you’re looking for.

Answer: Finding restaurants in Carmel and the surrounding Monterey Peninsula area with convenient parking can be a bit challenging, especially downtown where streets are narrow. Since your dad has a handicap placard, prioritizing accessible parking spots or restaurants with their own parking lots is ideal. Below are some options that should suit your preferences for Italian, seafood, Chinese, or classic American fare, while avoiding the areas you mentioned.

Answer: Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small, walkable town, but parking can be a challenge, especially with a large SUV. There are several paid options that allow you to spend a full day exploring the shops, galleries, and restaurants without constantly moving your vehicle.

Answer: Your plan to break up the Thousand Oaks → Carmel-by-the-Sea drive is not only reasonable — it’s a very smart idea, especially if you’re not a fan of long stretches in the car. The drive straight through is indeed about 5 hours with no major stops, and that can feel long even for people who don’t mind driving. Spreading it over two days makes the trip more pleasant, gives you time to enjoy the coast, and turns the travel into part of the vacation rather than just the time spent getting from point A to point B.