Looking for a little romance with a dose of sunshine? In lovely Carmel-by-the-Sea in coastal California, visitors immerse themselves in charm at a collection of beautiful, memorable inns that include Candle Light Inn, Ocean View Lodge, Svendsgaard’s Inn, Wayside Inn and Carriage House Inn. While you’re there, stroll the winding streets and walk the Secret Garden Passageway, then enjoy a leisurely afternoon tea break at Tuck Box. For a cozy dinner, book a fireside table at Christopher’s Restaurant, or reserve a space in the dining room at Clint Eastwood’s Mission Ranch.

Enjoy a wine experience at one of the town’s 15 tasting room, such as Wrath in the Carmel Plaza, Galante Vineyards Tasting Room, De Tierra Vineyards or Caraccioli Cellars, where sparkling wines are the specialty. At Trio Carmel, tastings also include a staggering selection of olive oils and vinegars, many finished with fruits and herbs. Pick up a wine tasting map at the Visitor Center on Ocean Avenue, and plan your own route. To make your self-guided tour more special, pick up a Wine Walk by-the-Sea Passport ($65 per person) at the Visitor Center that allows the holder to one $10 flight at each of nine tasting rooms, and can be used in a single day, over a weekend or over several weeks or months.