Carmel has what climate scientists call a cool summer Mediterranean climate. Summers are mild, with overcast mornings from the marine layer that clear in the afternoon. Winters are only about five degrees cooler than summers.
The wet season runs from October to May. Average annual rainfall is about 20 inches and the average temperature about 57 °F. Temperatures below 37 °F or above 84 °F are quite uncommon.
September and October are the most summer-like months, with average highs of 71 to 72 °F. The Köppen climate code is Csb, a type described as typical of coastal California. Pack layers whenever you visit.