CARMEL is a wealthy little resort known for its art galleries and shops and has one of the area's most spectacular beaches which is a tranquil cove of water bordered by soft white sand. A small distance from town, is the Carmel Mission Basilica, founded in 1770 which served as the administrative center for the state's northern missions. The mission was abandoned in 1834 and restored in 1924. It now functions as a Catholic church. Its beautiful altar and Gothic arch is the only one of its kind in California. Much of the historical living quarters remain, including the kitchen and its original oven.