Published November 3, 2025
BY DANIELA FOLEY
Whether it be in Big Sur or along the coastline of Monterey, fall has reached every corner of the peninsula, so taking advantage of the beautiful landscape and enjoying seasonal activities is a must. Grab your keys, a cozy sweater and a copy of The Sandpiper to keep your month filled with what autumn has to offer.
Earthbound Farms is a must-go stop in Carmel Valley during the fall season. photo by DANIELA FOLEY
Earthbound Farm
Earthbound Farm in Carmel Valley is ideal for finding the perfectly carvable pumpkin, an absolute season staple. Grab a group of friends, and do not forget to take a gander at their delicious all-organic menu. Whether it be theirwarm apple cider or any of their crispy sandwiches, you will be sure to leave with a full belly and an assortment of pumpkins.
Hacienda line dancing
Dance your way through the fall season by spending your Saturday nights touching up your line dancing skills at Hacienda in Carmel Valley. Be sure to catch the 6-9 p.m. class this Saturday! Between an afternoon of pumpkin hunting, grabbing a bite to eat and a night of line dancing, Hacienda is a perfect place to spend a fall day!
Lighthouse Cinema
With an assortment of fall-themed movie nights, Lighthouse Cinema offers more than just the average movie theater experience. Whether you want to head to Bingo Night, available every Thursday night, or want to pair dinner with a movie, Lighthouse Cinema is your go-to place.
Bixby Bridge, an iconic staple of the Central Coast landscape, can be seen on the drive to a weekend of camping in Big Sur. Courtesy of WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
Big Sur camping
Feeling more outdoorsy this fall? Head over toward Big Sur, stop to take in the views and Bixby Bridge and settle into the campgrounds for a weekend. What better way is there to enjoy the autumn weather and landscape than to spend your days hiking through Big Sur’s Pfeiffer Falls Trail and spending your nights cooking hamburgers and s’mores by the campfire.
Garland Park
Garland Ranch Regional Park, home to many scenic views, is a perfect opportunity to enjoy the autumn weather. photo by DANIELA FOLEY
Fall wouldn’t be the same without the opportunity to see the leaves change color. At Garland park, especially along Carmel Valley River which can be seen along the Lupine Loop, the scenery atop the Santa Lucia Mountains during the fall time is especially breathtaking. No one can say no to a quick hike on a crisp fall morning!
Carmel’s very own farmers market often is home to local artists. photo by AVERIL MABRY
Farmers markets
In Carmel-by-the-sea, on Sixth Avenue between Junipero and Mission Streets, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Thursday, awaits the local Farmers Market. From an assortment of pastries to my personal favorite, our local hummus vendor, you will be sure to find hidden gems of all sorts. If you live closer to the valley, consider stopping by the Sunday morning market from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. outside the Mid Valley Safeway.
