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Sunset Cultural Center
Cultural Center

Sunset Cultural Center

Monterey & Carmel
4.6
(850 reviews)
1
Tours Available
$15
Adult Entry
2-3 hours
Recommended Duration
March-May, October-November
Best Time

Overview

The Sunset Cultural Center is a vibrant arts venue in the heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea, offering a diverse range of cultural experiences including performances, exhibitions, and workshops. Nestled in a historic building, it's a hub for local artists and a must-visit for art enthusiasts.

It plays a crucial role in promoting local art and culture, providing a platform for artists to showcase their work and engage with the community.

Art Gallery Performance Venue Workshop Space

Location

Address

San Carlos Street, Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

Neighborhood: Downtown Carmel

Coordinates

36.553400, -121.921500

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
tuesday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
wednesday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
thursday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
friday 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
saturday 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
sunday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Admission

Adults
$15
Children
$8

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May, October-November

Best Time of Day

Late afternoon

Evening performances and sunset views

Duration Recommendations

Minimum
1 hour
Recommended
2-3 hours
Full Experience
Half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Mild and pleasant

  • • Spring Art Exhibition
  • • Outdoor sculpture garden

summer

Warm and sunny

  • • Extended evening hours
  • • Summer theater performances

autumn

Cool and comfortable

  • • Fall Art Exhibition
  • • Harvest-themed workshops

winter

Cool and occasionally rainy

  • • Holiday-themed exhibitions
  • • Winter art workshops

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

  • Check the events calendar before visiting
  • Book tickets in advance for popular events
  • Comfortable walking shoes recommended

What to Bring

essential

Event tickets ID Comfortable shoes

recommended

Camera Light jacket Art supplies if attending workshops

seasonal

Sunscreen and hat in summer Umbrella in winter

not allowed

Large bags or backpacks Food and drinks in performance areas

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Low to moderate

  • • Some areas may have uneven surfaces

Medical facilities: First aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

Credit/debit cards, Cash

Currency

USD

Typical Costs

entry $10-$20
parking $5-$10
food $10-$20
souvenirs $10-$50

Dress Code

Casual and comfortable, Layers for changing weather, comfortable shoes, Walking shoes or sneakers, Inappropriate or revealing clothing

Booking Tips

  • • At least a week in advance for popular events
  • • Official website or local ticket providers
  • • Varies by event, typically 24-48 hours notice
  • • Available for some events

Amenities

Restrooms
Gift shop
Atm
Wifi
Lockers
Wheelchair rental
Stroller rental
On site restaurant
Cafe
Picnic areas
Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Sunset Cultural Center App

Size: 30 MB

Features: Event calendar, Ticket booking, Membership management, Map and directions

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe, Public areas

Charging Stations: Cafe and public areas

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Salinas Municipal Airport

Distance: 20 km

Travel Time: 25 minutes

taxi
$40-$50 25 min
public_transport
$5 40 min

From City Center

Distance: 2 km

walking
25 min
bus
$2 10 min
taxi
$10-$15 5 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: It's a vibrant hub for local artists and a great place to experience the local art scene

Historical Significance: The building has a rich history and has been a cultural landmark since the late 1970s

Insider Tips

  • Visit on weekdays for a quieter experience
  • Check for free entry days or discounts
  • The local café has great pastries and coffee

Local Recommendations

  • • Try the local coffee at the nearby Carmel Coffee Company
  • • Ask staff for recommendations on local artists and exhibitions
  • • Visit the nearby Carmel Beach for stunning sunset views

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hello
thank_you Thank you
where_is Where is
how_much How much
beautiful Beautiful
ticket Ticket

Guide Languages: English, Spanish

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main entrance

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Capture the Spanish Colonial Revival architecture

Result: Great shot of the entrance with warm sunlight

#SunsetCulturalCenter #CarmelByTheSea #ArtLovers

Photography Rules

allowed areas Outdoor areas and public spaces
prohibited areas Inside performances and private events
flash photography Not allowed during performances
commercial photography Permit required
drone policy Prohibited without special permission
tripod policy Allowed in outdoor areas, restricted during events
selfie sticks Allowed in outdoor areas

Nearby Attractions

Carmel Beach

Distance: 500m

Walking: 7 min

Type: Beach

Mission Ranch

Distance: 800m

Walking: 10 min

Type: Historic Site

Carmel Mission Basilica

Distance: 1km

Walking: 12 min

Type: Historic Site

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Distance: 3km

Walking: 35 min

Type: Nature Reserve

Reviews

4.6

Based on 850 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

  • "Check the events calendar before visiting"
  • "Arrive early to avoid crowds"
  • "Great place for art lovers"

Contact Information

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Quick Info

Available Tours

1

Rating

4.6 / 5.0

Reviews

850

Adult Entry

$15

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