Ring in the New Year in Carmel-by-the-Sea: What to Do on New Year’s Day

If you’re planning a New Year’s getaway to Carmel-by-the-Sea, you’re already off to a magical start. This charming coastal village is one of California’s most beautiful winter destinations, offering stunning ocean views, boutique shops, and a warm, festive atmosphere throughout the holiday season. But while many travelers know how special Carmel is on New Year’s Eve, fewer realize how much there is to enjoy on New Year’s Day - especially when some businesses are closed and visitors aren’t sure what’s available.

The good news? Carmel Wine and Wandering IS open on New Year’s Day, and our wine tasting and walking tours are one of the best ways to start your year with relaxation, exploration, and a delicious glass of Monterey County wine in hand.

Here’s your guide to the best New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day plans in Carmel.

Start Your New Year with a Wine Tasting And Walking Tour

While many activities pause for the holiday, our Carmel Wine and Wandering tours continue, offering visitors a festive and fun way to welcome the new year. Our guided tour takes you through Carmel’s storybook streets, hidden courtyards, and boutique tasting rooms, where you’ll sip incredible local wines and learn about the village’s history and culture.

It’s the perfect activity if you're looking for something relaxed, social, and memorable on a day when options can be limited. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or with a group, starting the year with great wine and beautiful scenery sets the tone for a wonderful year ahead.

Enjoy a Peaceful New Year’s Morning on Carmel Beach

If you want to ease into January 1st, head to Carmel Beach for a refreshing morning walk. The winter ocean views are breathtaking, and the crowds are lighter than usual. Bring coffee, bundle up, and enjoy the calm before your afternoon wine tour.

Explore Carmel’s Shops and Cafés

While some businesses are closed on New Year’s Day, plenty remain open, especially along Ocean Avenue and in the village’s charming alleyways. Visitors can often find cafés serving breakfast, bakeries offering treats, and plenty of boutiques welcoming shoppers.

Not sure what’s open? During your Carmel Wine and Wandering tour, your guide can point out local favorites operating on the holiday.

Treat Yourself to a New Year’s Dinner

Many restaurants in Carmel are open for New Year’s Eve and a select few reopen on New Year’s Day. From iconic spots like La Bicyclette to cozy wine bars and fresh seafood restaurants, Carmel’s dining scene is an excellent way to continue the celebration. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially during holiday weekends.

Why Carmel Is Perfect for a New Year’s Getaway

Carmel-by-the-Sea offers the ideal blend of relaxation and winter charm. With its European-style architecture, ocean vistas, award-winning wineries, and peaceful atmosphere, it’s a wonderful place to reflect on the past year and welcome the new one.

And because Carmel Wine and Wandering is open on New Year’s Day, you can enjoy one of the town’s most popular activities even when many others pause for the holiday.

Make Your New Year in Carmel Unforgettable

If you’re visiting Carmel this New Year, don’t miss the chance to discover the village through Carmel Wine and Wandering’s signature wine and walking tour. It’s relaxing, festive, and the perfect way to kick off 2026.

Ready to start the year with great wine and great company? Book your New Year’s tour now - we can’t wait to wander with you!