The male elephant seals at Point Lobos may seem cumbersome at up to 16 ft/5 m long, but they can move with frightening speed if you get too close, and their bite can be fatal.
Carmel protects its unique atmosphere and exclusivity through strict zoning laws that restrict access for the hoi polloi and to ensure it retains its character of a "village in a forest."
Clint Eastwood was paid only US$200 a month when he served as mayor of Carmel. Inspired to run on a campaign against city bureaucracy, he was elected with 72.5% of the vote.
Carmel has gone to the dogs. In fact, so pooch-friendly is this liberal town that many restaurants cater to dogs. The Cypress Inn provides a welcoming jar of dog biscuits for guests checking in with Fido, and the Cottage of Sweets candy store sells candies for hounds.
Town ordinances ban high heels on public streets as well as live music, neon signs, fast-food joints and parking meters.
