Set amid the famous beaches and surfing hot spots of the Monterey Peninsula, Carmel is sure to delight fans of the great outdoors. From the scuba diving waters and wildlife-spotting opportunities to the architectural delights of the 18th-century Carmel Mission Basilica Museum, there is plenty to see and things to do in Carmel. And, the natural charms are not the only reason for paying a visit. There are plenty of cultural attractions too - be they the food and wine delights of the Taste of Carmel festival, the annual Carmel International Film Festival in October, or the Carmel Art Festival every May. Read on for some of the top vacation rentals in Carmel, CA, USA.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 07, 2024.
1. Quiet wooded guest cottage in north Carmel (from USD 260)
Another contender for couples seeking a retreat within Carmel, this guest cottage for rent in Carmel, CA is located in the north of the town - just 1 mile (1.6 km) from the heart of it and still within easy reach of the local beaches and golf course options. Indeed, it is within walking and short driving distance of a host of popular eateries and shops as well. And this studio cottage boasts its own private entrance, so you’ll be able to come and go as you please - whether you’re looking for an early morning dip at the local beaches, or eager to go for an evening stroll around the parks of the Monterey Peninsula. This vacation rental home also comes with TV and internet access, should you wish to upload those cherished holiday snaps. And there is on-site parking, for those looking to explore the wider area by road.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
making drinking and eating guilt free Plenty of amenities and full equipped kitchenI'm sorry I chipped one of your platesThe private entrance made you feel like you had your own private spaceand it was always nice to come home to that shower after a long day of activityThis is an outstanding property in an outstanding location Comfortable quiet minutes from all the activities we wanted to do: hiking golfing shopping diningCleanliness:
The bathroom and shower were clean and in great conditionI can't say enough about this cottageThe king size bed and soft sheets were heavenly and we never wanted to get out of bedThe cottage was very clean and cozy Barb was very helpful and friendlyHost:
so she had arranged for a new mattress to be delivered during our stayHosts Barb and Terry are gracious and helpfulShe explained to us that a few previous guests had left a couple of negative comments about the bedBarb is a wonderful hostBarb is a wonderful hostessRead more reviewsLocation:
Great neighborhood just about 1 mile from center of townbut I think this a good example of Barb's attention to detail and willingness to pleaseJust right for two Healthy walk to downtownIt was easy to get to downtown to Carmel Beach to Highway 1 and 17-mile drive from the cottageMy wife and I really enjoyed this little cottage hide away
2. Guest house in woodland setting with hot tub and beautiful deck terrace (from USD 242)
Enjoying wonderful word of mouth among past guests, this vacation rental in Carmel would likely make a good option for those seeking a romantic getaway. Despite being just minutes from the downtown area by road, its woodland setting on the outskirts of Carmel, charming wooden deck terrace, and private hot tub won over many a past guest. It is also within easy reach of Carmel’s beautiful sands, popular shops, and eateries, and the host also offers equipment for a range of outdoor activities which will likely appeal to those who fancy tackling the local hikes, cycling options, or sports. The property also comes with a kitchenette, TV, and internet access, as well as a fireplace for cozying up.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
The owners have thought of everythingthe antique iron bed was awesome and great to sleep on as well Kim & Al Grospiron Lander WY andThe little cottage has a kitchen available for those who would like to cook or enjoy one of the restaurants mentioned in the "idea" binder the owner has made for youVery easy checking in and checking out - like we were entering and leaving our home Complimentary aquarium tickets beach chairs bicycles etc for our use bottle of wine were impressive and welc...Lovely little cottage feel and beautiful landscaping Very relaxing and healingHost:
sweet and friendly They were our morning quests early on Tuesdayand they will respond with a friendly suggestionWonderful owners very nice to talk to andWe enjoyed the deck hot tub and meals on the deckand you have a question give them a callRead more reviewsLocation:
Very cheery little property just a short walk from central Carmel minutes from Hwy 1It was a perfect get-a-way from our busy lives Cute little cottage and minutes to everythingMoonglow was the perfect location for access to Monterey Carmel and Big Sur Very convenient yet quiet and privateEverything about Moonglow is perfectBeautiful quiet setting just outside of town/Carmel Easy access to everything in the area
3. Long-stay home for up to six people within Carmel (from USD 185)
A property that is likely to appeal to families or larger groups, this two-bedroom house rental in Carmel can sleep up to six people thanks to the addition of some convertible beds. This means that even reasonably large families should be able to be accommodated. It is also reasonably well placed within Carmel for local eateries and shops, many of which are just six blocks away. And those who simply cannot wait to hit the Californian beaches will find the nearest one just four blocks distant. The house, which has recently been refurbished, comes with a range of amenities including a full kitchen, TV, fireplace, and internet access - for those looking to work on their travels. Speaking of which, the minimum stay starts at close to a month, so this will be one for groups planning on longer visits.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
good wifi connection as wellCleanliness:
the cottage was very clean and the kitchen is well appointed for cookingRead more reviewsHost:
owner super easy to deal with
4. One-bed studio with excellent reviews (from USD 249)
This superbly-rated one-bedroom studio flat has won hundreds of fans among past guests - who loved its location and cleanliness and praised the “wonderful” property and the “unmatched” welcome from the host. This studio has its own entrance - enabling you to come and go as you please - and a private courtyard in which to enjoy the sun. There’s also a range of amenities amid the light decor - including a kitchenette with microwave and fridge, a TV, and Wi-fi internet. There’s also free on-site parking should you prefer to drive rather than walk to the beach and nearby restaurants.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
wifi and tv were greatall the small touches(like biscotti with coffee and an iron in the closet) made it a great experiencethe cottage itself is cozy and cool with lots of beautiful natural lightit had all the amenities we needed and the bed was super comfortablethe space is light and comfortableCleanliness:
clean and well appointedit's very clean and cozythe space was clean and freshsparkling clean great communication and cozy space we will be backthis a adorable cozy space is clean and comfortableHost:
kind welcoming responsive hostswe loved the recommendations and jeff is a superior host for surethe hosts are very kind and welcomingthe restaurant recommendations were also helpfulhe was friendly and offered advice on places to visitRead more reviewsLocation:
great location very close to monterrey and big surperfect distance into carmel - close enough for a nice walk but also outside of the main hubbubthe location was great just a short walk to town and the beachjeffreys place was awesome and a wonderful location just a short walk to the village / beach in carmelwonderful stay in a beautiful place close to everything
5. Peaceful getaway with private entrance
Highly-rated, this cabin in Carmel, CA would make a good contender for couples or solo travelers seeking a Carmel getaway. Located in the east of the town, the property is just a few minutes’ drive from the downtown area by road, and within equally easy reach of the beach. It comes equipped with plenty of mod-cons, including a kitchen, dining area, TV, and even laundry facilities. Unsurprisingly, it won high praise from guests, who gave it top marks across the board.
Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, United StatesSuperhost
Accommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
fantastic amenities great comfy couch and wonderful bed and beddingreally sweet space lovely light and sky-filled upper windows lush greenscape out the kitchen windowfrom the thoughtful amenities to the comfortable decor it was truly a heavenly staythe bed is extremely comfortable and the sofa and tv set up makes it feel like homethe cottage is very quiet and the bed is extremely comfortableCleanliness:
also very cleanit was so clean and stylishnice and cleanit was clean bright & comfortablewell decorated clean and tidyHost:
the host also provided wonderfully organized notes and area recommendationsexcellent place with wonderful hostsgrant was super nice & a great host) he is the best host imaginable he was attentive but never intrusively soalthough we didn't meet the hosts grant checked in with us during our stayRead more reviewsLocation:
the location was greatgreat location and very comfortablelocation is great as well close to montereysuper quiet but close to everythingexcellent airbnb in great location
6. Ground-floor condo close to Ocean Avenue (from USD 264)
This popular ground-floor condo, which can sleep up to three people - making it an option for couples or small families - is located just a short distance from the many restaurants and shops of Ocean Avenue - as well as Carmel’s popular sands. It comes with plenty of modern conveniences, including a kitchen, laundry access, TV and Wi-fi internet - the latter of which will appeal to those who simply cannot wait to upload their beach snaps to social media. There’s also free on-site parking, making it easy for those with their own cars to explore the wider area. Previous guests were suitably impressed, giving it full marks for value, location, and cleanliness.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
great views out the kitchen and dining room windowsdrank our morning coffee at the table and looked out the big beautiful windowsgreat comfortable space in carmel-by-the-seathe kitchen is nice with a small dining tablewe had everything we needed and so enjoyed making breakfast in the sweet kitchenCleanliness:
very nice and clean spaceit was a nice and clean placethe space is beautiful clean and well appointedcondo was well maintained and very cleanclean and comfortable thanks maryHost:
thankfully for us mary was very responsivegreat location clean well appointed great hosts who communicateRead more reviewsLocation:
fantastic location just a few blocks from heart of downtown carmelgreat central location put everything in walking distancecute apartment within easy walking distance of downtowngreat location comfortable spaceexcellent location very cute place that is close to all the wonderful restaurants in carmel
7. Serene escape near the beach (from USD 697)
Located just an idyllic stroll to Carmel beach this fully refurbished home is known to be one of Carmel’s first beach vacation homes. Situated centrally, downtown Carmel is right at its doorstep with some of the best restaurants, shops, and top attractions within walking distance. This beautiful cottage is a two-bedroom, two-bath modern home, with superb amenities like a fully-stocked kitchen, a washer & dryers, and a Carmel stone fireplace. Best suited for a group of four, and guests with vehicles can also park on-site.
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
property was clean and cozy perfect for two couples or a familyeverything in the cottage was clean comfortable and easy to useHost:
great property with an incredible hostRead more reviewsLocation:
the location was ideal for useasy walk to the beautiful beachbeautiful town and you can walk everywherefabulous bakeries and restaurants a short walk awaywonderful property and is an excellent location
8. Inviting studio by the sea (from USD 65)
This gorgeous studio in Carmel, California is brilliantly designed and conveniently located. The space is warm and inviting, with a comfortable wooden bed, a full kitchen, a fireplace, and a relatively spacious bathroom. The patio outside allows for relaxation, while Carmel Beach is a fantastic nearby destination for beachgoers. The main town, and all of its commercial attractions, is only a 10-minute walk away, while Garrapata State Park is a serene 15-minute drive. With free parking, WiFi, TV, and laundry facilities, this humble abode provides everything you need as a home base – allowing you to easily explore the bountiful nature and attractions surrounding you.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
she warns that there's no cell coverage in that spot but the wifi is goodthe space is perfect for 2 people with a useful kitchenette and generous size bathroommost quiet airbnb space ever heating unit was well regulated i was warm and cozyi don't mind the cool ocean weather but wife did; luckily a space heater was available which helpedloved the thoughtful touches-a few snacks half and half in the fridge amenities in the bathroomCleanliness:
everything was clean and the bed was very comfyeasy communication and a clean and welcoming homecomfy bed super clean spacious bathroomthe quaint studio was very nice and cleanthe place is small but nice cozy and cleanHost:
our host was friendly and welcominghost was very responsive and friendlymelanie the host is friendly and communicativethe perfect stay great communicative hostpluses include- good location to downtown carmel private parking nice host and private laundry to useRead more reviewsLocation:
great location in a cozy studiothe location was perfect 10-15 minute walk from downtown about 20 minutes to the beachlocation is ideal from highway 1 with an easy 15-min walk to downtown carmelwonderful location quiet and privategreat place cute side house in a nice neighborhood a medium walk or short drive from dowtown
9. Lovely oceanside beach house (from USD 372)
Located in Carmel, California, this charming cottage is simply stunning. From the outside, its quaint gate and wooden siding beckon guests in, while inside a spacious interior awaits. Exposed wooden rafters and several stone fireplaces give the space a sense of warmth, both literally and in terms of atmosphere. Tasteful furnishings and decorations are found in its den, dining room, kitchen, and three bedrooms. Stylish French doors open to a garden and wooden deck, while two luxurious bathrooms and a half-bath mean this house can easily accommodate six guests. The magnificent Carmel beach is a quick walk away, with downtown being just as close.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the rooms on the main floor have great proportions and fit couples or twenty somethings easilyfresh flowers and a bottle of wine on the dining table when we arrivedCleanliness:
it we clean and comfortableHost:
the house is very well equipped and the owner was very responsive to any requests or questionsRead more reviewsLocation:
this home is beautiful it's tucked away on a quiet street away from the bustle of towna cozy well appointed home with a wonderful location
10. Charming cottage in the heart of downtown (from USD 295)
This tastefully decorated and plush cottage is the ideal getaway home for two guests. Conveniently located in the heart of downtown many of Carmel’s must-visit places like shops and restaurants are within walking distance. If you’d like to spend time on the beach, you’d be glad to know that Carme beach is within a 10-minute walk away from this charming home. This accommodation also has a separate entry-way, hence guests will have their privacy. For those who would like to whip up their own meals, this cozy abode also has its own well-stocked kitchen with brand new appliances. Guests can also make use of the washer and dryer, as well as the provided parking space for those with vehicles.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
great bedding appliances linens etcwonderful cozy cottage with comfortable and stylish furnishingsi especially liked that although the kitchen was small it was incredibly well-equipped and had everything i neededbarry did an amazing job with the space and nothing was forgotten to make the stay comfortableCleanliness:
incredibly well-maintained and super cleanthe bed was comfortable the bathroom was sparkling clean and the room had a great vibevery clean and comfortable right down to the light and bright laundry roomstarfish cottage is clean nicely decorated perfectly located and very well set upproperty was very clean and close to townHost:
owner very attentive and responsivethe host was extremely accommodating and helpful throughout my stay and i plan on returningbarry was a wonderful host anticipating all of my questions and making sure everything was perfectbarry was a gracious host and always made sure we had everything we neededand barry couldn’t be a better host we loved itRead more reviewsLocation:
the location is ideal - very quiet neighborhood yet easy walk to the beach and towna charming little place perfectly situated in carmeleasy to park anytimeit is within easy walking distance of downtown carmel and all the great restaurants galleries and shopping therehas a great location and quite setting in a little town of carmel by the sea
11. Two-bedroom house with spectacular views (from USD 425)
Boasting spectacular views - even while lying in bed - this remodeled two-bedroom guesthouse would appeal not just to couples on a romantic break but also to families or groups of up to four people. It is located on the eastern fringes of the town - just 2 miles (3.2 km) from the downtown area - and not far from the Carmel Valley Road. It is also within easy reach of Highway 1 for onward travel to the likes of Monterey by car. Despite being attached to the host’s home, it comes with its own private entrance and parking, for ease of access, and boasts a range of amenities to make you feel at home - including kitchenette, large screen TV and internet. It is also conveniently placed for local restaurants and shops - and the host is happy to help with bookings at local eateries.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
The bed was so comfortable that I asked for the mattress typeExactly as described did not disappoint at allThe two bedrooms each had a private bathroom with super comfortable beds and the softest sheets ever Perfectly clean open kitchen dining and living areahalf and half toiletries very comfy bedswe want to buy one for homeCleanliness:
The guesthome was exactly as described very clean and comfortable The perfect place for 2 couplesThe unit surpassed our expectations It is bright spacious and tastefully decoratedHost:
Denise and Mike are great hosts very gracious and accommodatingThere were many small extra touches that made us feel welcomeDenise left us some snacks and drinks basic cooking items laundry detergent maps with advice for the area and moreDenise made everything so easyDenise and Mike are extremely friendly and accommodatingRead more reviewsLocation:
This is the best of locationsClose by restaurants were superGreat location for exploring Carmel and Big SurFive minutes to the shops at Carmel -by-the-SeaTen minutes to Pebble Beach just over 2 hours to Hearst Castle
12. Quaint home by the bay
This charming home by Carmel bay is ideal for six guests. With glorious views of the pristine blue waters right from your windows, and just steps to the beach guests will truly experience the natural beauty of Carmel, CA. This charming home has a cozy living space with a fireplace, a well-equipped, fully stocked, kitchen, and two bedrooms. It has one king-sized bed, one with two twin beds, and a sofa that pulls out into a queen-size sleeper. Guests also have access to a private driveway, a laundry room, as well as a fire pit overlooking the beach and ocean. Parking on-premises is free.
Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, United StatesTop guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the tv in living room is large and easy to view dinner in front of the fireplace was fabulousthe fireplaces (both indoor and out) were gas which made the whole thing super easy and cozythe cottage was comfortable and perfect for a small family + dogCleanliness:
the place was clean and comfortablevery clean beds are extremely comfortable and great to relaxmeg's place was really clean and the beds were notably very comfortablegreat house really cleanthe space is wonderfully clean and appointedHost:
she was very friendly and soooo responsivemeg is a wonderful hostyou were a wonderful hostand meg is a perfect hostmeg is a great hostRead more reviewsLocation:
great location and great houseperfect location within walking distance to downtown restaurants and shopping tooanother amazing trip perfect locationeasy walk to restaurants and shoppinggreat place close to the beach
Plenty of accommodation options
With so many highly-rated properties in this corner of California, you’ll have little difficulty deciding where to stay in Carmel. It would be easy to find the best property that suits your needs. Whether it’s the sands of the beaches, popular shops, or outdoor activities, Carmel has it all.
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