Carmel-by-the-Sea, a picturesque coastal city in California, has been recognized as the prettiest town in the state by Architectural Digest. The publication selected one standout town from each state, focusing on those that are both visually stunning and rich in culture.
Known for its sugar-white sand beaches, the restored Carmel Mission, and a charming downtown featuring fairy-tale-like cottages and cobblestone alleys, the town has long been a draw for its aesthetic appeal. Its unique characteristics have also made it a magnet for notable figures and celebrity couples. Past residents include Brad Pitt and Betty White, and actor and director Clint Eastwood, who served as mayor from 1986 to 1988, continues to call Carmel home.
Carmel-by-the-Sea, with a permanent population of approximately 3,000 residents, has received other accolades. Earlier this year, it was named the top spot to propose marriage. WorldAtlas also listed it as a premier weekend escape on the West Coast, citing its numerous art galleries, fine dining, and the natural beauty of Point Lobos State Natural Reserve and Carmel Beach. Last year, HGTV included Carmel on its list of the 50 Best Small Towns in America.
This summer, the town implemented a standardized address system, a change that ended a long-standing tradition of using cross-street intersections to identify locations. For instance, the Sea View Inn was previously listed as “Between 11th & 12th on Camino Real.” The shift aims to improve emergency response times and ease navigation for residents and visitors. The decision followed extensive research and public discussion regarding the town's unique address system. The median age in Carmel is 68.5, significantly higher than the California average, which may have influenced the community's focus on safety and convenience.