Designer Natalie Borton Shares Her Perfect Day in Carmel and Big Sur
Natalie Borton is the founder of Natalie Borton Designs, a minimalist jewelry and accessories brand that ethically produces effortless, everyday essentials. Based in San Diego with her husband and two children, Natalie says Carmel “very much feels like home,” since she first began visiting the area as a kid. (“One year we even crossed paths with JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette Kennedy!”) Now, she returns at least once a year and chronicles her favorite local spots for her more than 305,000 followers on Instagram, @natalieborton. She recently partnered with Carmel’s Tejido for an exclusive pop-up shop featuring Natalie Borton Designs, including her gift-worthy fine jewelry assortment and accessories, which you can continue to shop at Tejido all season long. “I love how cozy and quaint Carmel and Big Sur are all year, but especially during the holiday season,” Natalie says. “It feels welcoming, warm, inviting and intimate, and I’m endlessly inspired by the architecture and the coastline.”
Read on for all of Natalie’s must-stop spots when she’s in town—perfect for your next day trip or staycation.
AM
Go-to outfit for exploring Carmel in the fall or winter:
Jeans, belt, tee or sweater, trench coat and comfortable shoes. I recently got the softest knit from Tejido, which I'll be wearing all season long. It pairs perfectly with The Natalie Belt that we are coming out with this year, and also looks great over the shoulders with a tank or tee in case the weather happens to be warmer than expected.
Start the day with:
A cortado and a pastry from Rise & Roam Bakery, then a walk down to Carmel Beach.
Go gift shopping at:
All of the adorable shops around Carmel! My favorites are: Tejido (from sustainably-made Peruvian knits to their collective of home goods and accessories, you’ll find a top-notch curation of beautiful items there). Somewhere in Carmel to get gifts for my kids when I’m traveling without them. Paloosh and Girl Boy Girl (sister stores whose handbags and jewelry make great gifts for anyone in your life with a great sense of style); Carmel Bay Company has a cute kids assortment with very giftable books and notepads; and Host House’s glassware is especially wonderful and makes a great gift for anyone who loves to entertain.
PM
For the best lunch with the most charming European vibe, head to:
La Bicyclette, always. If I can only go to one restaurant when I’m in Carmel, it’s this one! I order a seasonal salad along with a wood-fired pizza on their gluten-free crust (which is the best GF crust I've had).
Fall fun:
Scenic drives on Hwy 1 are always a must! Pfeiffer Beach in Big Sur is one of my favorite places to be. The Sur House at Ventana is incredible (both food and views). For a more casual spot, with equally epic views, be sure to visit Nepenthe. And, if you stay in Big Sur, nothing beats an evening in a hot tub looking up at the stars.
Where to stay:
Le Petit Pali is my go-to spot in Carmel. It’s both kid-friendly and dog-friendly if you’re visiting with the whole family. The location on 8th Ave is my personal favorite (I never miss their complimentary breakfast). And Post Ranch Inn is my all-time favorite for a getaway without the kids in tow. It’s luxe and secluded, the food and views are out of this world (don’t miss their Sierra Mar restaurant), and they have the kindest, most incredible staff. We look forward to every stay at Post Ranch Inn!
Cover photo courtesy of Natalie Borton
PLAN YOUR DAY
on the Peninsula
- Rise & Roam Bakery
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA - Tejido
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA - Somewhere in Carmel
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA - Girl Boy Girl
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA - Carmel Bay Company
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA - Host House
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA - La Bicyclette
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA - Le Petit Pali
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA - Pfeiffer Beach
Big Sur, CA - Ventana
Big Sur, CA - Nepenthe
Big Sur, CA - Post Ranch Inn
Big Sur, CA
