Actor-director Clint Eastwood once was the mayor of Carmel. Edward Weston and Ansel Adams, two of the most innovative and influential 20th century American photographers lived here. Each of these men are considered true masters in their own right and faithfully represent the rich artistic history that is at the core of Carmel-by the Sea, the center point of California’s North Central Coast.
Over the years, the natural beauty of the area has inspired poets, writers, painters, and architects alike. Mike Canning, who represents Carmel's legendary Butterfly House, says, “It is one of only 5 true oceanfront properties in Carmel. The home, designed by Frank Wynkoop, is anchored directly into the rocky shoreline and has panoramic views from Point Lobos to Pebble Beach. Captivating Carmel residents and tourists for decades, this oceanfront architectural landmark exceeds unique”.
According to Peter Butler, “Some of California’s finest architect-designed homes can be found in the Carmel-Pebble Beach area. The homes are beautiful here and the lifestyle is casual, yet cosmopolitan. You can get just about anywhere in the area in 15 minutes. People live here because they choose to, not because they have to. As a second home market, properties tend to hold their values because there is a finite supply and a strong demand”.
Judie Profeta says, “One of the most enchanting aspects of the area is the diversity of people, topography and the compactness of the area. Highly accomplished people live here; they have come to Carmel, to Monterey or Pebble beach to relax and live the life they have worked very hard for. The natural beauty is stunning. Cultural events are also plentiful, such as theatre, the famous Monterey Jazz Festival, the Bach Festival, and Concours d'Elegance, the world renowned auto show that features classic cars”.
For those who seek the seclusion of a rural retreat, there are two magnificent master planned communities just a few miles outside of town: Tehama (above Carmel) and Monterra (above Monterey). According to Mike Jashinski, who specializes in selling property in these exclusive enclaves, "Tehama is a Native American word that means ‘abundance of nature’. Guided by Clint Eastwood's vision of sustainable development, Tehama has preserved more than 85% of its land as pristine open space. With gated private access to its 2000 acres of rolling hill country, residents of just 90 estate lots, ranging from 4 to 17 acres can enjoy a social-fitness membership (fitness center, tennis, swimming and dining, included with purchase) and private membership (by invitation only) at the Tehama Golf Club, featuring an 18 hole championship course designed by Jay Moorish”.
Tim Allen, who specializes in oceanfront and ocean view homes, explains that “Carmel and Pebble Beach are natural second home or retirement home markets for nearby Silicon Valley residents as well as for San Franciscans who are only 120 miles away. Our world class golf is a major draw”. Pebble Beach Golf Links is the most famous course in the Western United States, and the only course which has ever beaten Pine Valley Golf Club for the top spot in Golf Digest's biennial list of America's 100 greatest.
Judy Midgely adds, “The Links at Spanish Bay evokes the original Scottish concept for the game of golf that was established over 500 years ago. The Monterey coastline is very rugged like the natural beauty of Scotland. Every evening the bagpiper closes the course in true Scottish tradition. It is pleasant to sit on your front porch and just listen even if you are not playing golf”.
Molly McGee says, “The town of Carmel has a very special charm. Every day seems like a vacation. The shopping, art galleries, and the food and wine scene here is terrific. Carmel is an amazing place to meet people from all over the world.”
Photos Courtesy of the Agents and Brokers Interviewed