Hotels in Carmel With an Ocean View – 14 Best Choices
Are you looking for hotels in Carmel with an ocean view?
Then I’ve got you covered! As a Northern California local, I can honestly say that Carmel, AKA Carmel-By-The-Sea, is one of the most beautiful spots in all of California, and by far one of my most favorite places for a relaxing vacay.
Carmel is a coastal town just 2 hours south of San Francisco and a 6 hour drive north from Los Angeles.
The area known as Carmel-By-The-Sea is a charming town, just one square mile, known for its fairytale architecture, soft white sand, accesss to Pebble Beach golf course, and great shopping and dining.
The key feature of Carmel, of course, is its fabulous beach, signature cypress trees, and sweeping views.
I always feel that entering Carmel is like slipping into the magic of Brigadoon. It’s got a relaxed beach vibe with an upscale flavor that can’t be beat.
This is the spot for a family trip, a couple’s romantic getaway, or a girls’ weekend!
Of course you want to stay at one of the hotels in Carmel with an ocean view so you can see the ocean, hear the waves, and smell the salt air.
We’ve stayed at a number of places over the years, so I speak from experience! Here are top choices for hotels in Carmel with ocean views.
14 Hotels in Carmel with an Ocean View
Carmel is very particular about its architecture and protection of its most beautiful asset, the beach.
So, this is not a town of hotels lining the beach with umbrellas and chairs for their guests. Rather, you’ll be visiting a town that encourages walking to the beach, has no addresses, and feels like a quaint European village.
There are many exquisite properties lining the bluffs above the beach but they are mostly private homes and not hotels.
Not to worry, here’s a list of the best hotels in Carmel with ocean views and easy access to the beach and to all the great things to do in Carmel.
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Camino Real & 8th Avenue
Prices Start at $374
We discovered the La Playa in recent years and it’s now a favorite for a lot of reasons – including the fact that it’s one of the hotels in Carmel with ocean views in many rooms.
If you choose your timing right, it can be very reasonable. Especially considering all they offer.
The property is beautifully restored and overlooks the ocean. Sangria is served in the afternoon and cookies in the evening, by the fireplace.
And when I say that the champagne brunch included in your stay is amazing, I mean it’s amazing – served on the patio, overlooking the beach.
There’s a beautiful pool, gorgeous gardens, and you are one block from the sand in your toes. And it’s pet friendly!
155 Highland Drive Carmel Highlands
Prices start at $349
While the Tickle Pink Inn at Carmel Highlands along the Big Sur coast is a 5.5 mile drive south of Carmel-By-The-Sea, it is known as the most famous hotel in Carmel with an ocean view.
Expect “spectacular ocean views from private balconies.” This iconic spot is known for its excellent service, amenities, and great prices.
Originally, it was the home of state senator Edward Tickle and his wife Bess. She loved pink flowers and named the inn after her favorite color.
The stay includes complimentary wines, breakfast, balconies, fireplaces, in room spa, and an outdoor hot tub. Not pet friendly.
120 Highlands Drive
Prices Start at $512
The Hyatt Vacation Club at Highlands Inn and Hyatt Carmel Highlands is a stunning full service property up on the hillside above the ocean in Carmel Highlands.
Yes, a 5.5 mile drive south from Carmel By The Sea, but its one of the top rated hotels in Carmel with ocean views. The Hyatt is a beautiful, luxury hotel with a relaxed spirit with amazing vistas.
There are 94 villas and 48 rooms. Most suites and rooms have fireplaces and guests have access to the pool and three hot tubs.
There’s an award winning restaurant, The Pacific’s Edge, on the property. Complimentary parking is available as well as shuttle service from nearby airports for a fee. Not pet friendly.
2408 Bayview Ave
Prices start at $439
The Villa Mara is an adult only (21 and older) hotel that is in the Carmel Point neighborhood just 100 yards from the beach with gorgeous views of the ocean and Pebble Beach Golf Course.
This property is alongside the famous Frank Lloyd Wright House and the Robinson Jeffers Tor House.
Just a mile from the Carmel By The Sea downtown, this hotel offers a luxury, European boutique hotel experience. Each room is different and most have private balconies with ocean views.
A lovely breakfast is served and cocktails are available in the evenings. The grounds have pristine gardens, and firepits for relaxing. There’s parking available and use of bikes for exploring. Not pet friendly.
Mission & 3rd Ave.
Prices start at $283
I have stayed at Tradewinds Carmel a number of times. I like its unique location because it is a smidge further from the beach, so it’s a little quieter, but it still offers ocean view rooms, and of course you can still see the sunsets and smell the ocean.
This is an Asian influenced property with a sanctuary feel perfect for a meditative and relaxed stay.
The in-room breakfast is phenomenal and the gorgeous bathrooms and robes are a big plus.
Some rooms have jet tubs, fireplaces, and balconies. Still within walking distance to everything and free onsite parking. Pet friendly.
Junipero St. & 3rd Ave.
Prices start at $235
The Horizon Ocean View Inn has three properties in downtown Carmel. All are blocks away from the beach, shops and restaurants.
You’ll find ocean views, fireplaces, jacuzzi tubs, and private patios.
Some rooms have fully equipped kitchens and there is often a complimentary happy hour. There’s free off street parking. And it’s pet friendly.
Pebble Beach Resorts
Prices start at $1100
Tucked into the Monterey Pines and the Cypress trees that surround the famed Pebble Beach Golf Club are the hotels that are part of the Pebble Beach Resorts. Stay in one of the exclusive properties along the iconic 17 mile Drive.
Many of the rooms offer ocean views, and/or views of the fairway on the course.
These are luxury style hotels with many amenities. Most rooms include gas burning fireplaces, patios or balconies and access to a full spa. Complimentary parking is available. And The Lodge is pet friendly.
Monte Verde Ave. & 7th St.
Prices start at $285
The L’Auberge Carmel is just blocks away from the ocean and several rooms have a “peek of the ocean” or a courtyard view.
This historic hotel, built in 1929, boasts European elegance and a graceful style and offers 20 guest rooms.
From in-room spa services to the five star restaurant Aubergine, the hotel is considered a luxury property complete with valet parking, room service, and a continental breakfast.
Aubergine is the famous 9 table restaurant with a French Country charm.
The hotel has some accommodations that are pet friendly.
Lincoln Ave. & 7th St.
Prices start at $359
The Cypress Inn is most famous for its legendary dog-friendly policies. This is the hotel formerly co-owned by beloved actress/singer Doris Day and many of Hollywood’s most elite have stayed here.
The hotel is a small and charming spot that opened in 1929 and has since maintained its Mediterranean elegance and a warm, Carmel feel.
There are partial ocean views in deluxe rooms. You’ll find all the amenities here, including a delicious complimentary breakfast. Enjoy a cocktail and dine in Terry’s Lounge, a staple of Carmel. And yes, your dog is welcome!
Monte Verde Ave. & 6th St.
Prices start at $289
The Tally Ho Inn is a lovely boutique hotel in town with 12 rooms and suites and an atmosphere of charming countryside B&B.
Rooms have whirlpools, decks, fireplaces, and the suites have spectacular ocean views.
They serve a complimentary breakfast during the week at the acclaimed Il Fornaio Restaurant across the street, and an expanded breakfast in the lobby on the weekends. And it’s pet friendly.
Junipero Ave. & 5th St.
Prices start at $194
The Carmel Bay View Inn is considered one of Carmel’s hidden gems because of its location and affordable prices.
It’s a well taken care of small hotel in the heart of Carmel-By-The-Sea with easy access to the beach, shops, and restaurants.
The hotel has a lovely heated pool, complimentary breakfast and parking.
Many rooms have fireplaces and balconies which offer ocean views. Not pet friendly.
26270 Dolores St.
Prices start at $140.
The Mission Ranch Hotel is one of Carmel’s most famous properties with a very interesting history.
The ranch was at one time owned by a Native American family and then became a dairy farm and has had 17 owners since 1872. The actor Clint Eastwood, also formerly the mayor of Carmel, bought the ranch in 1986 to save it from being torn down for condos.
It’s now the perfect getaway for families or couples, has gorgeous views and the restaurant is amazing! The lodgings have gas fireplaces, private decks, balconies, and whirlpool tubs. The farmhouses are tucked into eucalyptus and cypress trees and there are still sheep who live on the ranch. There is onsite parking. And it is pet friendly
Monte Verde St. & Ocean Ave.
Prices start at $140.
I have very fond memories of The Normandy Inn. I stayed here with my parents once when they visited me years ago. We enjoyed the inn and its fairytale style so much. Its known for its “old world charm and modern comfort”
While there are not ocean views from the rooms, most of the cottages, suites, and rooms have fireplaces and are designed with a French Country warmth. The Normandy is very close to the beach and is in a prime location.
They offer a complimentary continental breakfast. Enjoy the pool April – October, and the gardens all year round. This is not a pet friendly property and no private parking is provided.
Ocean Ave. & Camino Real
Prices start at $250.
The Lamplighter Inn is another personal favorite and has been hosting guests since 1912 in Carmel.
These are a series of charming cottages, suites, and guest rooms, just a few blocks from the beach right on Ocean Ave and very close to Pebble Beach.
All of Carmel is in walking distance but you feel a little secluded from the busier part of town. I have stayed here a few times on girlfriends’ weekends and with my husband and kids.
You won’t find rooms with ocean views, but most rooms have fireplaces, and the grounds include a cozy firepit amidst the beautiful garden, private gazebos, and a light breakfast included. They are a pet friendly inn.
Visiting Carmel: FAQs
The Carmel region is so full of things to do all year long. Here are some tips and answers to your wonderings!
Is it better to stay in Carmel or Monterey?
This is a question I get asked often. My rec is to definitely stay in Carmel and visit Monterey while you are there. Carmel is a more quiet and relaxed spot and the beach is close by. Visit Monterey for seeing the Aquarium, shopping on Cannery Row, and eating fish and chips on Fisherman’s Wharf, but stay in Carmel for the chill vibe of a beach vacation.
How long should you stay in Carmel?
Obviously, more time is better! But I think the perfect amount of time is 3 nights. That way you can really relax into the Carmel scene. You’ll have enough time to walk and sit on the beach, explore the town, and make short trips in to Monterey and Point Lobos.
Best Time To Visit Carmel
The warmest months in Carmel are August through October with some temps in the high 80’s and 90’s. This is the “secret season” because it’s the end of the summer after the crowds leave, the fog decreases and the weather is awesome!
Winter is possibly my favorite time in Carmel because it’s chilly and lends itself to cozy sweaters and sitting by the fireplace after brisk walks on the beach. Carmel is very festive and beautiful during the holidays and is always a great getaway for some holiday cheer.
Where To Eat In Carmel
The Forge and The Forest – Junipero Ave. & 5th St.
This is a very casual spot for sitting by the fire for a snack or full meal. I can highly reccommend the Bloody Marys and everyone loves their burgers and pizzas.
The Catch – Ocean Ave. & Lincoln St.
This is a perfect spot for a seafood lunch of chowder, salads, or fish & chips. They always offer a little starter of champagne and caviar which is so much fun on vacation!
The Mission Ranch & Inn – 26270 Dolores Ave. This is a must in my book. A truly special dining experience overlooking the bluff, the ocean, and the grazing sheep. The Mission Ranch Restaurant is owned by Clint Eastwood, and offers classic American cuisine in a comfortable yet elegant setting.
Now you know exactly which hotels in Carmel have ocean views!
In a nutshell…
If you’re on the hunt for the best ocean view hotels in Carmel, California, you’re in for a treat! You can find classic charm and cozy boutique vibes. You can’t go wrong with Pacific Ocean views that take your breath away. And, a personal fav, is hearing the sound of crashing waves.
No doubt you’ll love the town’s charming atmosphere and the relaxation. So, for your next laid-back beach escape, Carmel is the place to be!
xx,
Carrie
