Where to Stay in Carmel-by-the-Sea: 17 Unmissable Hotels

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Aerial view of a coastal town with densely packed houses, surrounded by rugged shoreline and waves crashing against the rocks.

Let’s get started on this guide to where to stay in Carmel-by-the-Sea, a picturesque beach town you’re sure to adore!

I’ve gathered the best hotels, sorted them by price, and included a quick rundown of Carmel’s top areas to help you find the perfect fit.

Since Carmel is a favorite destination, booking early is highly recommended to secure your spot.

Let’s explore the options!

Quick Picks for Your Stay

Ready to book your accommodation right now? Then have a look at this list of the best Carmel hotels:

Overview of the areas

Map highlighting best areas to stay in Carmel-by-the-Sea, USA. Regions are marked as Carmel Beach, Northwest Carmel, Central Carmel, Northeast Carmel, with nearby landmarks shown.

Before we check out all the amazing hotels let’s have a look at Carmel’s top areas where you’ll probably spend most of your time.

If you’re visiting for the first time then Central Carmel may be the right fit for you. That’s where you’ll find lots of shops, restaurants, some attractions and hotels.

For those who want to be as close to the ocean as possible then the area around Carmel Beach might be the right one.

Another great area close to the sandy shores is Northwest Carmel, which has a super nice hiking trail that leads to the beach (map).

If you’re traveling on a budget then check out the Northeast Carmel area, which is home to some cute cottages that Carmel is famous for. You’ll also find some fab art galleries and a park.

Luxury (US$400 and up)

A large house with a brick patio, lush garden, American flag, and umbrellas; an indoor bathroom with a tub and double sinks; a bedroom with a large bed and natural lighting.

L’Auberge Carmel, Relais & Chateaux – gotta love a hotel that’s set in an old historic building! This hotel is a short walk from the beach and it has charming rooms where you can even enjoy a relaxing massage. After a day of exploring the Carmel Plaza, head to the on-site gourmet restaurant for a yummy dinner and some champagne.
Stilwell Hotel – such an amazing hotel that has rooms with balconies that overlook the trees which surround the property. The accommodation also features free parking and an outdoor terrace with fire pits.
Villa Mara Carmel – feel at home in this gorgeous hotel set near the beach that has a great design and rooms with a bathtub. The accommodation also offers a lounge area with a fireplace and a garden.
La Playa Carmel – I love the fusion of and architecture style of this Carmel-by-the-Sea hotel which reminds me of a vintage manor). Their rooms offer stunning ocean views and their lush garden and swimming pool look like the perfect place to escape the heat.

Collage of a scenic ocean sunset, a cozy bedroom, and a charming house with lush greenery.

Tally Ho Inn – the views at this hotel are breathtaking! Grab a glass of wine and admire a scenic sunset after a long day of exploring around. The inn is set just a block away from the high-end shops on Ocean Avenue, and it has spacious rooms with a balcony so get ready to start your day with some room service while enjoying the ocean breeze!
Carriage House Inn – you’ll love the atmosphere at this cozy inn set in downtown Carmel! The elegant rooms come with fireplaces, a tub and a lounge area where you can relax after a day out! Each morning you can enjoy a complimentary breakfast in your room and as the day ends you’ll get to enjoy some free wine and snacks.
Carmel Country Inn – relaxation, comfort, and many luxurious amenities! This accommodation that’s not too far from Carmel Beach has it all! Each room is beautifully decorated and it has large windows from where you can admire the garden.

Mid-range (US$260 – US$400)

Collage of a hotel room, a living room with fireplace, and an outdoor pool area with patio seating.

Le Petit Pali at Ocean Ave – enjoy a glass of wine with your travel buddies by the fire pits at this amazing Carmel-by-the-Sea accommodation. Each morning you’ll receive a delicious breakfast basket filled with all kinds of goodies that you can eat in the comfort of your room, which looks so cool and has a fireplace. The accommodation also offers different activities like walking tours and bike tours.
Tradewinds – the rooms at this pet-friendly accommodation have a simple yet super chic decor and they’re equipped with all the facilities you need including and partial ocean views. While staying here you can relax in front of the outdoor fireplace or take a walk in their beautiful garden at night.
Normandy Inn – cool off with a swim in the outdoor pool during the hot days and take a walk in the colorful garden while staying at this hotel. The rooms are all equipped with private bathrooms, flat-screen TVs and some also come with a fireplace.
Forest Lodge – this comfortable accommodation in the heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea has that holiday vibe that we all love! They offer different cottages that are set in a garden tucked away between the trees, and which are equipped with gas fireplaces and comfortable beds!
Wayside Inn – with a central location in Carmel, this fabulous place will be your home away from home this holiday! Just wait until you try their comfy beds, and relax in the privacy of your room, which by the way, has unique furnishings. If you want to explore around, Ocean Avenue is only a 2-minute’s walk away, while Carmel Playa is also nearby!

Budget (up to US$260)

Collage of a cozy inn featuring a room with a fireplace, a stone hot tub, and an exterior view with a staircase and green entrance sign.

Coachman’s Inn – affordable and oh-so-amazing! This charming inn is set a short drive away from Point Lobos State Reserve! Each room is beautifully designed, and it has fireplaces. During the day, take some time off to relax in the dry sauna. They also serve a delicious breakfast buffet in the morning that you can enjoy either in your room or on the terrace.
Horizon Inn & Ocean View Lodge – get one of the rooms here that features views of the Pacific Ocean so that you can drink your morning coffee with the best sights. The suites have comfy beds and a gas fireplace, which is the perfect place to sit by and tell late-night stories while enjoying a glass of wine.
Carmel Garden Inn – this gorgeous pet-friendly hotel in Carmel is decorated with plants and has amazing rooms with wood-burning fireplaces and garden views. The accommodation provides walking and hiking tours and they even have some cool board games if you prefer remaining on-site for the day.
Carmel Bay View Inn – get ready to shop until you drop in the stores on Ocean Ave which are only a 2-minute walk away from this Carmel hotel. The accommodation offers an indoor pool and a seasonal outdoor pool, free parking and a breakfast.
Hofsas House Hotel – you’re going to love this hotel that has such a unique design, charming rooms with a fireplace, and some even offer views of the Pacific Ocean. Start your day with some pastries and coffee on the patio while taking in those sights! The pet-friendly accommodation also has a dry sauna.