Carmel-By-The-Sea is a gorgeous beach city in California boasting tree-lined streets and cute cottages. It offers a myriad of captivating attractions including Carmel Beach. This idyllic oasis offers a breathtaking backdrop of rugged cliffs and crashing waves and is perfect for walks, sunbathing and playing volleyball. Then, go for a drive on 17-Mile Drive, a coastal route that winds through captivating landscapes that are sure to mesmerise you. You can also hit the streets of Ocean Avenue for some retail and food therapy.
Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike. Then, prepare to be transported into a storybook realm as you wander through the enchanting streets of Carmel-By-The-Sea and admire its fairytale cottages. Imagine enjoying a luxurious stay in this gorgeous city! Read on to know about the best luxury resorts near Carmel-By-The-Sea, California.
What to look forward to:
- Shop for organic, gourmet, and local products at Nielsen Brothers Market, famous for its award-winning selection of wine and spirits, deli sandwiches, and more.
- If you're a night owl, check out Visit Carmel-By-The-Sea's guide to nightlife in the city, which mentions spots such as Sade's, the most popular dive bar in the city.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and access to luxury services and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on February 03, 2025.
Why Trust Trip101?
✅ Over 50,000 articles reviewed and published by our experienced team
✅ Over 50 years of combined experience researching, writing and reviewing travel articles
✅ Over 40,000 hours spent on research and fact-checking from credible sources (last year’s data)
✅ Optimizing content from data-driven insights collected directly from users on our platform
✅ Focus on authentic and up-to-date information by collaborating with local guides, global travelers and other industry experts
✅ Long-standing partnerships with credible brands like Airbnb, Booking.com, Agoda, Expedia, GetYourGuide, Viator, RVShare and more
✅ Full disclosure on any partnerships or sponsored content
Trip101’s team of writers, editors, and content managers oversees the publication of all travel content, including destination guides, accommodation recommendations, and travel tips. They have extensive experience in the travel industry and no content, written or visual, gets published without a review. Many of our team’s work has also been featured in Travel+Leisure, National Today, The Indian Express, The Telegraph (India), Robb Report, The Adventure Handbook, Tripoto, Korea Tourism Organization, and Korean Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. Some of them are also members of professional organizations like the Society of American Travel Writers and the International Travel Writers and Photographers Alliance.
Each member of the team follows Trip101's methodology and strict editorial guidelines to ensure accuracy, authenticity, and relevance.
1. InterContinental the Clement Monterey, an IHG Hotel (from USD 246)
Enjoy a luxurious stay at this modern hotel overlooking the tranquil waters of Monterey Bay. The chic rooms with elegant decor and comfy furniture would also ensure you enjoy a cosy stay at this resort. To rejuvenate, visit the on-site spa to treat yourself with calming aromatherapy or an Ayurvedic massage.
After a long day out, unwind in the outdoor pool or spa tub to destress your tired muscles. If you are travelling with a child, avail yourself of childcare services and then enjoy on-site shopping with your partner. Pack light, as the hotel also provides laundry facilities for your convenience.
InterContinental The Clement Monterey, an IHG Hotel
195 meters (0.2 ft) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
2. Bernardus Lodge & Spa (from USD 521)
Revel in the grandeur of a luxury mountain getaway in Carmel-By-The-Sea. Stay at this contemporary property featuring stylish rooms and villas that offer stunning mountain or vineyard views.
Furthermore, take your partner on a romantic date at the in-house cafe. Then, opt for a rejuvenating couples massage at the spa. You can also visit the pool area to take a dip in the outdoor pool or relish a cocktail at the poolside bar. For your utmost relaxation, you can even sign up for a yoga class at the gym. Additionally, you can engage in an exciting tennis game at the property on either of the two courts.
Bernardus Lodge & Spa
18.43 km (11.5 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
3. Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa (from USD 219)
Indulge in a lavish getaway to Carmel-By-The-Sea and stay at this upscale Hyatt hotel located near Monterey Bay Aquarium. Golf enthusiasts would be delighted to find the 18-hole golf course on-site. Besides that, guests staying at the property also get a free roundtrip airport shuttle.
Furthermore, pamper yourself by opting for a soothing massage at the on-site spa. To continue relaxing, visit one of the hot tubs and let your worries wash away. Moreover, both adults and kids would love to enjoy some fun time together at the outdoor pool. To unwind in your private space, you can even book a room with a patio.
Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa
3.68 km (2.3 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
4. Quail Lodge & Golf Club (from USD 404)
Embrace a pampered retreat with your nearest and dearest at this classy property surrounded by lush greenery. All its rooms boast charming decor with plush furniture. Some of them also feature a fireplace for guests to enjoy a cosy stay.
After playing golf with your loved ones, savour delicious Californian cuisine at one of the two on-site restaurants. In the evening, dive right into the outdoor pool and relax for as long as you want. As a nightcap, visit the in-house bar to relish your favourite drinks and interact with fellow travellers.
The Quail Lodge
10.56 km (6.6 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
5. Hyatt Carmel Highlands, Overlooking Big Sur Coast (from USD 335)
This oceanfront paradise overlooking Big Sur invites you for a refreshing holiday with your loved ones. The tastefully decorated rooms and suites with huge windows guarantee gorgeous views of the surroundings even without stepping a foot out of your accommodation.
After relishing a tasty cooked-to-order breakfast, luxuriate in the soothing hot stone massage or deep tissue massage at the on-site spa. You can also ease your weary muscles with a dip in the pool or the spa tub. If you are travelling with infants, you can request free cribs for your children’s comfort. Also, ask for barbecue grills to enjoy a fun-filled cookout with your dearest family.
Hyatt Vacation Club At Highlands Inn
Address: 120 Highlands Drive, Suite B, Carmel Highlands, Carmel By The Sea (CA), United States, 93923
13.32 km (8.3 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
6. Sanctuary Beach Resort (from USD 412)
Enjoy your vacation in this luxurious beachfront retreat, cherishing quality time with your loved ones amid picturesque surroundings. This pretty resort is located on a private beach and you can even play beach volleyball with your loved ones here.
Sample tasty farm-to-table cuisine at the on-site seafood restaurant, Salt Wood. Water babies would love to swim in the outdoor pool. For your little ones, there is also a kids’ pool. After experiencing blissful relaxation in the hot tub, relish some wine at the on-site bar. To explore the town on your own, request bicycles at the property. Then, come back and treat your body and mind to a well-deserved in-room massage.
Sanctuary Beach Resort
12.48 km (7.8 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
Other luxury accommodations in Carmel-By-The-Sea
Though these options aren’t resorts, the accommodations are equipped with luxurious amenities and classy decor, so check them out!
7. L'Auberge Carmel, Relais & Chateaux (from USD 543)
Dating back to 1929, this luxury hotel is the epitome of comfort and charm. The property is famous for its personalized guest services, including in-room spa services and a gourmet restaurant.
The best part is the 20 guestrooms, individually decorated by the renowned San Francisco designer, Helga Horner. Each room highlights radiant floor heating, custom fabrics, original antiques, a fireplace, and much more for guests’ convenience. What’s more? The hotel is within walking distance from Carmel Beach.
L'Auberge Carmel, Relais & Chateaux
7.41 km (4.7 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
8. The Gardens at Plaza Carlos (from USD 1039)
This uniquely designed penthouse scores high when it comes to modern comfort facilities, decorations, and location. It sits in the heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea close to nightlife, shops, dining options, and much more. After a beautiful day, return to the home’s 800-square-foot (74.3-square meter) outdoor space. Here, you’ll find a relaxation patio with a herb garden, a wine fridge, and a barbecue grill.
Additionally, the rental has an elevator for your convenience. Inside, you’ll find an eye-catching living room with a fireplace and a chef’s kitchen. There are laundry amenities at your disposal too.
Top guest reviews
Host:
We hope to return next yearAlex was very helpful and attentiveThe manager took great care of usthe outdoor deck/kitchen all were fabulous and truly unmatchedThis property is the best of the many places we've started in Carmel Even with all the amazing things to do in CarmelLocation:
It really is just steps to all of the great restaurants and shopsTerrific location if you want to be in the heart of downtown CarmelWonderful condo located steps from all of the top attractions and restaurantsLoved everything about this place - rooftop patio isshopping and restaurants Became friends with the market right across the streetRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
It was great cooking in this amazing kitchen and loved that each bedroom had their own bathroomIt had everything you could need in the kitchen & all top of the lineThe elevator opening directly into the penthouse is amazingly convenientIt's the perfect spot for a few couples to stay because each room has its own private bath and the kitchen / great room area is perfect for entertainingThe kitchen setup is fantastic
9. The Vagabond's House Boutique Inn & Spa Studio (from USD 619)
The Vagabond’s House Boutique Inn & Spa Studio nestles on the serene side of downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea. Until 1946, it functioned as regal studio apartments. Today, the accommodation still maintains its vintage vibes combined with modern amenities, including Smart TVs. Some units even include free-standing bathtubs.
On-site, a spa offering facials, and massages await. At the same time, the bed and breakfast has a garden stone courtyard with a waterfall for you to relax while enjoying your complimentary wine and cheese.
The Vagabond's House Boutique Inn
6.94 km (4.4 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
10. Splendid home with award-winning gardens (from USD 625)
A grand stay awaits you in this 100-year-old cottage situated on a large property with award-winning private gardens. The interior of this place is well-lit and beautifully decorated with fine art, antiques, and more. You will love relaxing in the plush living room with a fireplace and Smart TV.
The rental’s French doors open to the beautiful gardens with boxwood-edged pathways to stroll around and admire the various flowers. There are two outdoor dining areas, too. Other perks in this place include a gourmet kitchen and barbecue grill.
Top guest reviews
Host:
hillary was a perfect hosthillary is the most thoughtful hosthilary was a great host: proactive attentive and kindshe was always incredibly responsive and went above and beyond to make sure we were comfortablehillary was also helpful and readily available for any questionsLocation:
location wise it is walkable to the downtownlocation- wise this house has been the most ideal locationlocation is great easy access to highway 1 and a scenic walk to downtown and the beachthe location is just as perfect just blocks from downtown and the beacha beautiful walk through the neighborhood takes you to downtown in about 10 minutesCleanliness:
extremely clean and very comfortablegreat place super clean exactly as advertisedeverything is so clean comfy and absolutely gorgeousit’s a quiet clean beautiful housethis cottage was so beautiful everything was clean and well-maintainedRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
the furnishings are all thoughtful and extremely comfortableevery room in the cottage looks out to the amazing garden viewsthe garden the courtyard the living room with bay window the elegant dining room the kitchenthe beds and linens were plush and comfortable; we slept greatthe fountain out back next to a large teak dining table creates the perfect outdoor dining room
11. Historic penthouse with upscale features (from USD 833)
This enormous penthouse dates back to the 1930s. You’ll remember every moment you spend within its walls long after you’ve left. The place still has some of its old-world features, including original mosaics for you to admire. Furthermore, it includes an elevator for your convenience, laundry amenities, a well-equipped kitchen, and a living room with a fireplace.
When you want to relax outdoors, make the most of the spacious terrace with a seating area and a barbecue grill at your disposal.
Top guest reviews
Host:
a great spot with excellent hoststhe owners are easy to communicate with and very responsivean absolute dream of a spot with responsive respectful and helpful hostshosts were very responsive when i got turned around trying to find the place- our favorite places robert is quick with responses and very accommodatingLocation:
the location is greatexcellent location and beautifully decoratedgreat location in downtown carmela great location in a beautiful towngreat condo in a perfect locationCleanliness:
clean comfortable accommodations and easy communication with the hosteverything is very clean comfortable and attractive with pleasant outdoor spaces as welleverything was very clean and the finishes in the home were truly top-notchsuper clean and comfortable stay overall thank you bobbeautiful clean comfortable and best locationRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
very comfortable furnishingslighted closets full size shower amenities fluffy towels filtered water and amazing artwe loved the central location large rooms well equipped kitchen and balcony overlooking dolores ave" truly the most beautiful well appointed and comfortable airbnb i have enjoyed
12. Sleek abode close to Carmel-by-the-Sea attractions (from USD 999)
Planning to stay close to some of the most exciting places in Carmel-by-the-Sea? Look no further than this three-bedroom accommodation, located south of the famous Ocean Avenue near world-class eateries, wine-tasting venues, and art galleries. Even the beach is only a 10-minute walk from the luxurious rental.
The accommodation is sleek and highlights a refurbished kitchen, hardwood floors, and a comfy living room with a large Smart TV and fireplace. Guests have access to a spacious recreational patio outside as well.
Top guest reviews
Host:
amazing place & location great host brenda was an amazing host who was very responsive helpful & accomodatingbrenda was always quick to respond and made check-in/out super simple a very hospitable hostbrenda was very communicative and made the stay very pleasantLocation:
the perfect location an easy walk to downtown carmel and carmel beach made our trip so enjoyablethere are endless things to do close by and many great restaurantsgreat place for a family getawayRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
a great kitchen and back patio are some highlights
13. Villa Maré (from USD 950)
You would be glad you chose this new Italian-style accommodation for your next family trip. It’s situated in a tranquil area only a 20-minute walk from Carmel-by-the-Sea. The luxury home is deluxe and features a fine living room with a fireplace and a Smart TV with Roku, Netflix, and standard cable for your entertainment.
What we love the most about this place is the spacious decks, where you can kick back with a cup of coffee and enjoy Santa Lucia Range, Carmel Bay, and Carmel MissionBasilica Museum panoramas. Villa Maré also boasts free parking, a barbecue grill, and an elevator.
Top guest reviews
Host:
the owners preparation/ thoughtfulness is off the chartsthe elevator proved quite helpfulhosts are very responsive and helpfulthey were very responsive to all of our questions ahead of our arrivalexpect the best care and attention form these hostsLocation:
the location is perfectwonderfully located near the beach and downtown but not too closegreat location near trails and downtown carmelthe location affords super easy access to 'downtown' carmelthe location is great and convenient to the area attractionRead more reviewsCleanliness:
clean quiet and safethe house was under meticulous condition - spotless clean and and absolutely gorgeousthe house was also immaculately cleanthe house was very clean and well-stocked with everything we neededthe house is brand new enormous and exceptionally clean
Delight in a joyful vacation in Carmel-By-The-Sea
If you’re seeking a serene escape, Carmel-By-The-Sea is sure to leave an indelible mark on your heart. For an upscale stay in this superb city, check out the above list of the best luxury resorts in Carmel-By-The-Sea, California.
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data
