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Carmel-by-the-Sea

Usually referred to as just Carmel, this European-style village once called Clint Eastwood its mayor. Quaint shops, local art galleries, wine tasting rooms and charming restaurants, it’s the perfect pit-stop to take in some refined culture.

Must do: Drive right into the downtown, park your car and wander around. Once you’ve popped in and out of some shops and tasted a few wines, head just outside of the village and drop into Mission Ranch Hotel and Restaurant for a bite, owned by Mr. Eastwood himself, who has been spotted on more than one occasion having dinner on the property. At the very least you can sip on a cocktail and gaze at the green meadows and crashing waves.

—Stephanie Gray