Step Inside Carmel's Most Beautiful Homes at the 32nd Annual Carmel House Tour

One of Carmel-by-the-Sea's most anticipated summer traditions is just around the corner. On Saturday, July 18, 2026, the 32nd Annual Carmel House Tour invites locals and visitors to explore a handpicked collection of extraordinary private residences that are rarely open to the public. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, interior design lover, or simply appreciate the unique charm of Carmel, this is an event you won't want to miss.

Event Details

• Date: Saturday, July 18, 2026
• Time: 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
• Format: Self-guided walking and driving tour of private homes throughout Carmel-by-the-Sea
• Presented by: Carmel Heritage Society

This Year's Theme: "Designing Women"

The 2026 tour celebrates the remarkable women who have shaped Carmel's architectural identity. Titled "Designing Women," this year's event highlights both historic and contemporary homes, as well as commercial spaces influenced by talented women architects and interior designers. Their creative vision has helped define the timeless character and unmistakable charm that make Carmel-by-the-Sea one of California's most beloved coastal communities.

Many of the featured residences are privately owned and only open for this special event. For one afternoon each year, guests are given an exclusive opportunity to experience exceptional architecture and thoughtfully designed interiors that would otherwise remain behind closed doors. As you may have noticed, no two Carmel homes are alike, and neither are the House Tours. Each year showcases a new collection of homes, offering fresh perspectives on architectural styles ranging from classic Carmel cottages to contemporary coastal masterpieces.

The event celebrates the rich architectural history of Carmel-by-the-Sea while supporting the preservation of its unique heritage. Proceeds benefit the Carmel Heritage Society's ongoing efforts to protect and share the community's historic character. Beyond the homes themselves, the tour offers a chance to wander through some of Carmel's most picturesque neighborhoods. Visitors often leave inspired not only by the architecture, but by the gardens, winding pathways, mature cypress trees, and storybook streets that make the village so distinctive.

Volunteer docents are stationed throughout each home to share fascinating details about the architecture, design elements, history, and restoration of each property, providing insights you wouldn't discover on your own.

A Dream Event for Design Lovers

Whether you're planning a remodel, searching for design inspiration, or simply enjoy touring remarkable homes, the Carmel House Tour offers ideas at every turn. From handcrafted details and innovative layouts to stunning gardens and breathtaking coastal settings, every stop showcases the creativity and craftsmanship that have made Carmel internationally recognized for its architecture.

Make a Day of It

After the tour, continue exploring everything Carmel has to offer. Enjoy lunch or dinner at one of the village's acclaimed restaurants, browse local art galleries and boutiques, or take an evening stroll along Carmel Beach and watch the sunset to round out a perfect summer day on the Monterey Peninsula.

If you've never attended the Carmel House Tour before, this is the perfect year to experience one of the Central Coast's most cherished traditions. Between the exclusive access, remarkable homes, and celebration of architectural history, it's an unforgettable way to experience the beauty and character that define Carmel-by-the-Sea.