Location
United States
Status
Informal / Traditional
Suitable for
Adults only
Terrain
Sand
Best season
August to October
About Carmel Meadows Beach
Carmel Meadows Beach is the local name for the southern end of Carmel River State Beach, below the Carmel Meadows neighbourhood and facing Point Lobos. It is a coarse-sand cove backed by bluffs, and a handful of regulars sunbathe nude here on warm days. Most suited visitors stay at the main Carmel River beach to the north. The surf is powerful and drops off steeply, with dangerous undertow, so swimming is not advisable. Fog and wind often roll in, even in summer.
Getting there
Street parking is limited, along Ribera Road and Cuesta Way in Carmel Meadows off Highway 1. A short trail and steps lead down the bluff to the sand.
Amenities
Legal context
The beach is part of Carmel River State Beach. California State Parks regulation 14 CCR 4322 prohibits nudity in public view, and no section here is designated. Use is discreet and tolerated, and enforcement is complaint-driven.
Naturism at Carmel Meadows Beach sits under United States's rules for traditional tolerance — custom more than statute.
Full country law: United States public nudity guide.
Researched 24 October 2026. No official source confirms naturist status, so treat it as unverified.
Location
View on interactive map
Approx. 36.5305, -121.9253
Visitor tips
- 1 Informal / tolerated site — be discreet and leave no drama.
- 2 Towel, water, sunscreen. Sit on your own towel.
- 3 No photos without clear consent.
- 4 Check access, tides, and parking before you go.
- 5 House rules and local custom can be stricter than the law.
More in United States
Sources
Important
Beach status changes. Verify current conditions before you go. This is guidance, not legal advice.
Members’ reviews
Write a review →Loading member reviews…