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    Carmel Mission Basilica

    4.2 (214 reviews)
    Closed 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
    Updated 2 months ago

    Carmel Mission Basilica Photos

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    Gerald L.

    Beautiful grounds and a nice place to visit when in Carmel by the Sea. Something other than the beach and Ocean Ave. Not overly busy and plenty of parking. Pleasant neighborhood. Walked by it on the way to Mission Ranch Hotel and Restaurant.

    Lam B.

    A serene mission that serves as an active church and museum. There were a few free parking spots at the entrance. There was a small stand where we bought tickets for $15 per person. We were given a brochure and everything was self guided. The single staff member made sure to point out the museum in the back of the mission as many visitors miss it. The mission courtyard was spacious and clean. The fountain offered soothing quality, contributing to the sense of tranquility. The mission forecourt had a similar ambiance except with more greenery. The Convento museum had information and artifacts of Saint Junipero Serra. This area also celebrates the fact that this mission housed the first Californian library. The Jo Mora Chapel Gallery housed a massive Memoral Cenotaph. The sculpture was polished and giant so it stood out against the older artifacts. Especially with the fact that Junipero Serra was smaller in stature, the Cenotaph loomed over everything. There was a screen of a parish member giving historical context to the room but it was playing automatically. It would be nice to have a button for visitors to press and restart. The cemetery was well kept and included members of the Parish community. Although some graves were unnamed, I liked how they still gave their respects. The Carmel Mission Basilica was my favorite landmark. The walls were lined with impressive sculptures and paintings. The final resting place of Junipero Serra was placed near the front of the church. The church was enveloped in a warm yellow light and there were multiple candles lit inside. Our Lady of Bethlehem had impressive displays of Jesus' birth and Mary but I wished there were more descriptions explaining the background and inspiration. The Munras Family Heritage Museum had different collections from the prominent family. There was also a video playing in the room regarding the family history and history of the mission. This was similarly playing on its own without influence from visitors. The store was filled with jewelry and religious memorabilia. I was surprised by how expensive some objects were but there was everything from rosaries to crystal sculptures for sale. This mission was well kept and the overall experience left us feeling renewed. However the $15 entrance and $5 candle lighting fee were a bit high compared to other experiences I've had. I would still visit this as a visitor but those living near by should visit for free during service.

    Alejandra D.

    I've been here a few times with the last time being before the pandemic. It's always been a lovely place, the history, I feel like everyone should come here at least once. We were pretty surprised to see they charge now for admission, $15/adult, $12/senior. It used to be by donation only back in the day. So for 2 adults, and 2 seniors, we paid $54 which felt a bit steep. For the price, seems the grounds and greenery could be better taken care of. A lot of plants and flowers looked like they could use some TLC. Inside the basilica, they also charge $5 to light a candle that stays there. You don't even take it home w/you. Seems kind of an overreach for money, in my opinion. There was an area in the courtyard that was on the map was a spot to check out but it was closed off, but it didn't say it was closed for renovation or anything like that. It was just closed off, so we couldn't enter. The gift shop was cute. Friendly staff inside the shop and happy to answer our questions. I did ask about the admission fee and I was told that due to the pandemic, they were going to close. The example used was religious places like the Vatican and other religious Catholic sites around the world are funded by their gov't so they have help. But not here, and they were going to close, so they had to start charging folks. The ticket guy let me know that on Sundays during service, admission is free. There was a wedding rehearsal about to start while we were there, so that was exciting. We asked the shop staff about how much a wedding ceremony costs here. They said to go online. lol. Went online, and they want you to fill out an inquiry form. LOL. we not about to do all of that. I wish they would just list what the base price is on their website.

    Justin M.

    Visited during the week. They do hold mass at a church on the same site. There was soo much to see and the scenery is beautiful. The traffic getting in was pretty congested, but once we were there it was fine. There is a charge to enter, they also have self guided tours.

    Small alter

    Drop dead gorgeous mission. Self paced tour was enjoyable through the church grounds.

    Mission Carmel
    Rachel H.

    I grew up close to the Mission in San Juan Capistrano, and had a childhood affinity for visiting old California Missions and gardens, especially those near to the Coast and shrouded in mysterious summer fog. I now know, as an adult, that our California Missions are part of a complex history, that we have a responsibility to understand as Californians. This beautiful, aesthetically pleasing setting, with ample free parking, is probably one of the largest and best preserved of the California Mission sites. It also feels more alive somehow: with an on-site children's school and an active and engaged church congregation. At the same time, a walk through the museum ($12 for adults) is interesting for what it doesn't show. It side steps a tricky history, in favor of glamorizing "Old California." It seems so idealized, now that most people have a greater understanding that these Missions exist, like a good deal of early American infrastructure, due to a brutal and exploitative historical context.

    Montage of images from Carmel Mission Basilica
    Ed U.

    I'm not on a mission to visit all 21 California missions. Not even close. I've heard of the swallows of San Juan Capistrano. And I've been to Mission Dolores and more recently, the nicely restored La Purisima Mission down in Lompoc (review: https://bit.ly/403Zapd). But that represents the depth of my mission knowledge. I know the missionary position, but that isn't likely relevant to this review, is it? Anyway, Jamie W. and I were walking the tony residential neighborhood of Carmel-by-the-Sea when we came upon the expansive grounds. It's the second oldest of the missions, but it struck us as very well restored. Even though there was a service in progress, we thought it would be worthwhile to go through the museum galleries and hang out in the courtyard. Admission was $10, but hey, if you want to know anything about Father Junipero Serra, this is the place to find out. He founded the mission and even died here. There are a lot of statues here, and the chapel looked glorious from a distance. We heathens weren't allowed to enter the chapel during the endless service, so my harp-playing days in the hereafter are likely limited. RELATED - Exploring the Monterey Peninsula? Here's a collection of places I've visited and reviewed: http://bit.ly/2NYr6be

    Louise E.

    The church was lovely and very historic. There's a garden and fountain when you enter and there's a back garden which was bigger. Around the other back portion was a small cemetery near the restroom. We attended the Saturday night vigil and it lasted an hour. The priest gave a nice homily and the mass was full of people.

    05.28.22 Visitor Entrance and Museum Store
    May A.

    Shrine of Saint Junipero Serra, the Founding Father of California! We're glad we did some searching on Google and came across this historic mission -- Carmel Mission Basilica. Our visit was on a Saturday late afternoon after a revisit to the 17-Mile Drive. Our self-guided tour took a little over an hour as we learned the history of the Mission by exploring and experience. Such a prayerful environment. The Basilica was founded in 1771 by Saint Junipero Serra and when he died he was interred in Church of the Mission. At the Courtyard we saw the very spot Father Junipero Serra erected the mission cross on August 24, 1771. Carmel Mission is an active parish to the community. There were no services or events or even restoration activities that happened during our visit so we were able to explore the entire property without limitations. Inside the main church is huge and beautiful. The Basilica houses many Mission era art and artifacts including an old Confessional Box and Father Junipero's earliest liturgical artifacts of colonial California. Our Lady of Bethlehem Chapel was another part of the Church. Saint John Paul II prayed in this Chapel during his visit in 1987. Other dignitaries who visited Carmel Mission Basilica were President Dwight D. Eisenhower and the First Lady in 1956. In 1960 (then Senator and future President) John F. Kennedy visited the Carmel Mission with his wife (and future First Lady), Jacqueline Kennedy. My favorite part was the garden located towards the entrance. I love flowers. They called it Mission Forecourt. TRIVIA: When I lived in the Bay Area I first learned of Junipero Serra's name from the main north-south roadway in Central California and beyond... Highway 101. It is the same route that Junipero Serra and his companions blazed, The El Camino Real. Review #2590

    Diane A.

    I've been to this church several times already. My family and I usually go here during special occasions and whenever we take people to visit Monterey. It's a beautiful church and has so much history. The architecture is amazing, and there are so many things to see, such as the church, museum and gift shop. There are also flowers and greenery everywhere. Extra things to take note of: 1) There are three different areas where you can use the restroom, which I find really nice. 2) If you decide to go for mass, I suggest you go early due to limited parking. 3) Entrance fees have spiked since the last time I visited. Adults are $13 and seniors are $10 each. I can't recall how much it was for kids. If you're ever in the area, I would recommend stopping by and taking a look for yourself. :)

    View from the courtyard
    Tina K.

    Such a cool stop in Carmel. Came here to visit since my son's class is learning about missions. It's been years since I visited so it felt like the first time. They have a ton of free parking. Admission is $10/adult + $7/child. Great areas to walk around and the basilica is beautiful! They have a small museum with artifacts and great information. Really educational but in a digestible way. There are many statues and paintings and most feature an informative blurb. Once you are done inside, you can walk out to the graveyard and the inner courtyard. There is a fountain, beautiful landscaping, and some additional historical information.

    Roz E.

    Since we were in the area, we wanted to check out of the 21 California Missions. Love the architecture! There was construction going on, so some areas were closed off, but we still enjoyed going through the church and checking out the exhibits. Definite must stop!

    Brena E.

    We didn't take a tour so admittedly didn't get the full experience or history of the place. However, found the Basilica and the gardens to be beautiful and enjoyed walking around.

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    5 months ago

    Beautiful grounds. Contemplative church and interesting museum displays. Well preserved and with every penny to visit.

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    7 months ago

    one of the best missions i have seen in California. knights of columbus has great fund raisers. good people, good preaching

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    As we entered the Church structure, it was close to the beginning of Mass, and this was when it happened.

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    Sand Guys International - Guinness book world record set in Brazil!

    Sand Guys International

    5.0(1 review)
    0.9 mi

    This is my second time using the Sand Guys for a team building event and all I can say is Wow!! I…read morehave referred them many times, and will many more!! This is an amazing team building event for any type of business unit, they are organized, incredibly friendly, and helpful .. in a word .. MAGICAL!! When you arrive, they have an example of what you can build .. folks arrive thinking .."This is so cool" .. "What the heck is Kim making us do??" "Really"?? Rusty the Sand Guy (as I like to call him) began by giving very clear, easy instructions on how to build your base. He got everyone started within their team then he and his partner went to each team individually to provide instruction on how to make a solid foundation, ways to build upon your base. and how to add details! teams began first by compiling a very large pile of sand .. and staring into space .. "what will we do". Within minutes your team is not only collaborating on the best way to execute, but WORKING together to create something really special. I participated the first time, I got to observe and help the second time. I learned so much about my team, who are the leaders, who is the most creative. who can advise and execute. We put this group into teams of people they did not know well, they all created and collaborated to create something very cool. You have about two hours to devise your plan and create. The entire group was fully engaged, everyone designated their own unique way of participating, and no one was left out or let their team down. Did I mention how competitive this became?? such a great day at the beach, and a new skill to show off to your kids and friends. Not only did I get amazing feedback form everyone on the team, I was told by those that laughed and thought it was silly; that it was one for the best team buildings they ever have had. I highly recommend the San Guys, the creativity and camaraderie it inspires is invaluable for all aspects of relationship building!

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    Monterey Bay Aquarium - anglerfish ornament

    Monterey Bay Aquarium

    4.3(5.6k reviews)
    5.3 mi

    I have been a long time fan of the aquarium. Only get to visit every couple of years but it's…read morealways been one of my favorite places to be. The weather is amazing, the views are immaculate, and the sea creatures are just breathtaking. Prices have definitely increased in the past few years but it is worth it to check out and go at least once. Take your time at each exhibit and really immerse yourself and relax. There's timed feedings for a few exhibits but my favorite is always the kelp forest feeding and learning about all the sea life that is around us. So amazed by everything here. Parking is either metered on the street or various lots around.

    Phenomenal experience. The ticket is a bit pricey, but it's worth what you'll see and do at the…read moreMonterey Bay Aquarium. This place truly is magical, and you can see their amazing work in animal care and preservation, while trying to teach the next generation and be environmentally friendly. Very kid-friendly- accessible door for strollers are easy to maneuver and park, and they have a nursing room, very good rest room which is a nice touch! Lots of accessible ramps doors and elevators- easy to maneuver wheelchairs if needed. It is Very crowded even on weekdays many weekends getting more busy but definitely still enjoyable! They have lots of room to be able to see the feedings they offer. I highly recommend! We Spent 2 hours to complete the tours. It Great family place to have time and create memories, friendly activity, and their animals are amazing. We enjoy our time and visiting Monterey Bay aquarium.

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    Cathedral of San Carlos Borromeo

    Cathedral of San Carlos Borromeo

    4.7(24 reviews)
    4.0 mi

    My review is not for the active San Carlos Cathedral church services. Instead it's for the Royal…read morePresidio Chapel historic federal landmark. They are both the same building. Currently the San Carlos Cathedral Catholic Church uses the Presidio Chapel. When services are not occurring, visitors can explore the interior and outside facade. There is no charge to walk about, it's free. The present sandstone chapel construction was completed in 1795. The native Americans labors built the chapel. The Monterey Presidio was founded in 1770 as the second of four Spanish Presidios. At that time, the presidio's chapel served for the Spanish soldiers and dignitaries. It's the oldest stone building in California. When walking about the exterior of the chapel take note of the marked lines to the right of the building. Those lines indicate chapel construction (where, what, and when). The current building is shaped as a cross. Directly in the back there is a plaque memorializing where the Oak tree stood in 1770 where Father Junipero Serra broke ground for the chapel construction. The tree was removed in 1905 when it was damaged. But the tree holds important place in Monterey history. In 1602, it is said that Spanish explorer Vizcaíno followed the creek from the Bay and noticed this majestic oak tree. Under that tree he and with the friars, traveling in his expedition, held Mass under the tree and claimed the area for Spain. Father Serra followed Vizcaino's directions to the site in 1770 to establish a mission and presidio. But a year or two later he decided to build the mission in Carmel instead. But the presidio continued with building the chapel. Pieces of the grand tree have been preserved and are located in various local museums. Now let's talk about out the interior. The church doors are left open during the day welcoming all inside. Inside there are paintings and statues including are originals such as the Stations of the Cross, St John, Sorrowful Mother, and Spanish Madonna. As you enter the church, look up and the exterior and take notice of the Our Lady of Guadalupe statue; it's still the original making it the oldest non-indigenous statue in California. Also throwing it out there that there are cameras all over and everything is monitored. So don't be a doofus. Just enjoy and soak in the history.

    Amazing service. Recommend this church when visiting or making it your own parish. Very friendly…read moreand inviting.

    Photos
    Cathedral of San Carlos Borromeo - Inside

    Inside

    Cathedral of San Carlos Borromeo
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