Top 15 Cool and Unique Hotels in Carmel 2023

Nestled atop the bluffs, this hotel stole my heart with its Al Fresco charm. Overlooking the breathtaking Big Sur shoreline,, it’s truly a slice of paradise.

The rooms here? Comfort, views, and amenities blend seamlessly. A gem within Point Lobos State Reserve since 1917, it’s a destination on its own. But let’s talk about the Pacific Edge Restaurant.

The outdoor terrace is something else—serving up local delicacies from land and sea alongside craft cocktails. Picture this: kicking back, savoring every bite, and soaking in the romance of a Big Sur sunset.

One of my favourite places was the outdoor terrace at Pacific Edge Restaurant—savouring local delicacies while soaking in a Big Sur sunset was pure bliss.

Tucked away on a serene side street off the lively Ocean Avenue, I found the Carriage House Inn. With only 13 rooms, it’s an intimate haven featuring crackling open fires, indulgent jacuzzi tubs, complimentary wine, and a delightful continental breakfast. The staff’s attention to detail made it feel like a personal getaway.

Nestled in the heart of the village, the inn offered easy access to fantastic restaurants, charming shops, and all the conveniences one could desire. Plus, being close to stunning coastal hikes made it an ideal base for a retreat.

For those seeking a romantic escape, the Romantic Getaway package was a treasure trove waiting to be discovered. It seemed like just the right touch for a perfect romantic interlude.

My personal favourite? The Romantic Getaway package—it’s a treasure trove for the perfect romantic interlude in a serene village setting.

This adorable inn boasts a charming Mediterranean vibe with its small pool and central courtyard. My room was bright and lovely, with a balcony offering stunning views of the pool or the mountains. It’s not exactly budget-friendly, but it’s quite reasonably priced for Carmel.

Despite leaning towards affordability, the rooms were beautifully furnished, and the outdoor areas were perfect for relaxing with a good book.

The staff was incredibly friendly, and I was drawn to the on-site restaurant, Shearwater Tavern. Their simple yet delicious dishes made with fresh local ingredients created a cozy atmosphere, perfect for enjoying drinks and conversations with friends.

My favourite aspect was the adorable central courtyard—a bright room, cozy furnishings, and a charming Mediterranean vibe made for a relaxing stay.

I was utterly taken by the pure European-inspired luxury of this stylish historic hotel. Everywhere I looked, tasteful opulence greeted me. The canopied beds, spacious tubs, and bathroom underfloor heating were divine. The gorgeous antique furnishings added such a timeless charm to the place.

The highlight for me was the fine dining experience at the on-site Forbes 5-star restaurant, Aubergine. The seasonal recipes made with local produce were mind-blowing, and the extensive wine cellar made for the perfect wine pairings, enhancing every dish.

What stood out was the option for cooking courses—perfect for a foodie like me. Carmel exudes class, and this hotel truly reflects that sophistication. Treating myself here was an absolute delight!

While visiting, the fine dining experience at Aubergine stole the show—mind-blowing seasonal dishes paired with an extensive wine cellar.

I’ve cherished this Asian/Californian fusion retreat as one of my favorite places for a serene escape. The breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean and Point Lobos Natural Reserve makes for an incredible backdrop to this award-winning hotel’s tranquil luxury.

Immersing in the serene ambiance, I adored the carefully designed furnishings in the peaceful spaces. The luxury spa treatments added an extra layer of relaxation to my stay, perfectly complementing Carmel’s bustling shopping and dining scene, just a stone’s throw away.

For an outdoor enthusiast like me, the proximity to fantastic hiking trails, biking routes, and golf courses was a dream come true during my visit. It’s truly an experience I won’t forget anytime soon.

One of my favourite aspects was the serene luxury and proximity to Point Lobos Reserve—a perfect escape for outdoor enthusiasts like me.

This enchanting boutique B&B, steeped in 1920’s charm, captivated me instantly. It’s a cozy hillside haven, much like the poem named after, exuding a blend of comfort and luxurious homeliness.

The rooms encircle a stunning courtyard with vibrant flora, serene water features, and enchanting Mediterranean tiles.

Each room brims with vintage charms, boasting expansive freestanding tubs and beds so inviting that leaving becomes a challenge! It’s an ideal spot for creatives—I recommend bringing a notepad, sketch pad, and pencil to let inspiration flow. This place truly shines, whether for a writer’s retreat or simply seeking peace and comfort.

Throughout my stay, the enchanting courtyard filled with vibrant flora was a haven of peace—perfect for writers or anyone seeking comfort.

I adore this newly renovated villa, nestled atop the serene bluffs overlooking Carmel Beach. My room boasted breathtaking Pacific views, and was adorned with exquisite custom-made and vintage furnishings, mirroring the village’s artistic essence.

Having just reopened post-extensive renovations, staying here allowed me to immerse myself in its serene elegance and unparalleled location. Being among the first to experience this beauty was truly special.

My personal favourite? The breathtaking Pacific views from my room—I felt immersed in artistic elegance overlooking Carmel Beach.

I adore this charming Motel-style boutique Hotel; it perfectly blends breezy Californian vibes and luxurious comfort. The convenience of parking by my room in this centrally located yet tucked-away gem is one of my favorite aspects.

They’ve taken care of every detail, enhancing the experience with delightful touches. I loved waking up to breakfast baskets, indulging in the five o’clock Wine Hour, and relishing the curated room amenities—especially the snug robes and those heavenly Denver Mattresses.

What’s more, this modern gem warmly welcomes pets! My furry friend had a blast with their special beds and treats. And the best part? It was pure joy to take my precious poodle along for a ride on the vintage-style cruiser bikes included with the room!

One of my favourite aspects was the vintage-style cruiser bikes—the perfect way to explore the breezy Californian vibes of this boutique gem.

For a romantic escape, this place is a gem! The enchanting mansion, crafted in 1905 by artist Christian Jorgensen for his beloved Angela, boasts the village’s inaugural swimming pool.

Through numerous refurbishments, its essence remains intact. Nestled near the shoreline, numerous rooms offer breathtaking ocean vistas. Guests relish swimming in the iconic pool, leisurely walks in landscaped gardens, and evenings by the beachside fire pit, catching the stunning sunset.

Food enthusiasts will adore the lavish champagne breakfast and contemporary comfort cuisine at the cherished Bud’s Lounge. This spot quickly became one of my favorite places for a dreamy retreat.

Throughout my stay, the lavish champagne breakfast and sunset views stole my heart—a gem for a dreamy romantic retreat.

At Hotel Carmel, I found a charming blend of old-school vibes and modern twists—a true gem for those who savor the unconventional. The vintage décor and quirky touches, like the board games and tape collection in the communal lounge,, made it a delightful stay.

I loved mingling with the locals at Brophy’s Tavern, where the sports-themed atmosphere was so relaxed. And the morning after, their continental breakfast was a lifesaver—fresh fruits, creamy yoghurt, and house-made granola set the perfect tone for the day.

Being just steps away from the beach and the adorable shops in Carmel-by-the-Sea added to the allure of this unique getaway.

My favourite aspect was the quirky blend of vintage décor and modern twists—a unique gem steps away from the beach.

During my stay at Candle Light Inn in the heart of Carmel, I fell in love with this luxurious getaway. The friendly service was unparalleled, and the location was just perfect. The rooms were not just big and spacious, but also beautifully furnished. What I adored the most were the jetted tubs and fireplaces in many rooms.

One of my favorite things about the stay was the little extras that made it memorable. The fresh-baked cookies were a delightful touch, and having complimentary bottled water, wireless internet, and tea and coffee-making facilities added such convenience.

Moreover, the staff was accommodating; they assisted me with restaurant reservations, golf arrangements, wine-tasting tours, and even spa and massage bookings. Their local expertise made my adventures in Carmel genuinely unforgettable.

While staying here, I adored the personalized service and the little extras like fresh-baked cookies—it felt like a luxurious yet homely experience.

Staying at this charming boutique hotel was a delight. With just 24 rooms, it exuded a cozy elegance, each space adorned with craftsman-style furnishings.

The continental breakfast, delivered straight to my room, was a delightful start to my mornings. I particularly loved the abundance of outdoor spaces, perfect for settling down with a book steps from Carmel’s Main Street.

The vintage cruiser bikes offered to guests were a fun addition to my stay. I cherished the 5 o’clock wine reception accompanied by snacks—an excellent way to mingle and make new friends. Moreover, the pet-friendly policy made my furry companion feel right at home.

Throughout my stay, the cozy elegance and craftsman-style decor made this boutique hotel a charming retreat.

I stepped into Carmel’s oldest hotel, a favorite spot that retains its charm. Built-in 1889, the décor and furnishings paid homage to its rich history, which added a unique touch to my stay.

I couldn’t resist dining at Il Fornaio, the on-site restaurant that offered delectable authentic Italian dishes. And as a bonus, I indulged in some shopping at the boutique within the hotel premises.

The location was perfect, close to Carmel’s upscale boutiques and conveniently accessible to both the stunning Big Sur coastline and Monterey Airport. It was a comfortable and convenient stay, allowing me to explore luxury and natural beauty effortlessly.

Throughout my stay, the cozy elegance and craftsman-style decor made this boutique hotel a charming retreat.

Staying at this cozy family-run boutique hotel was a treat. With 37 snug rooms, it catered perfectly to all kinds of travelers. I loved its proximity to Carmel Beach and its convenience to explore the charming sights.

The rooms were a delight, each equipped with Dutch doors allowing the refreshing sea breeze. And those sunsets from the balcony were breathtaking, especially after a refreshing swimming in the stunning pool.

The genuine family ambience of this warm and welcoming boutique-style hotel added so much to the experience. It truly felt like a home away from home.

One of my favourite aspects was the cosy family ambience and proximity to Carmel Beach—it felt like a warm home away from home.

The boutique inn charms with its fresh, bright, modern rooms, offering a luxurious yet relaxed atmosphere. With parking on-site and a host of curated amenities, this place feels like one of my favorite spots for a serene getaway.

Being just a 5-minute walk from Carmel Beach and conveniently close to The Sunset Centre, as well as Carmel’s bustling array of shops and restaurants, made my stay extra memorable. It was the ideal location to immerse myself in everything this vibrant area offered.