Vacation rentals in Carmel-by-the-Sea
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Top-rated vacation rentals in Carmel-by-the-Sea
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Santa Cruz A-Frame
This unique A-Frame cabin, in a quiet mountain neighborhood with private creek access, was handbuilt in 1965 and remodeled in the summer of 2024. Now a little slice of heaven on the creek in the redwoods. *5-10 min to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, Roaring Camp Railroad, Loch Lomond Recreation Area, the Trout Farm Inn, Quail Hollow Ranch + Felton stores. *20 min to Santa Cruz, beach + Boardwalk. *1 min to Zayante Creek Market (EV charger) Find us on social: Insta @SantaCruzAFrame
Guest House Carmel Highlands ~ Ocean Views ~
Serene fully-furnished 900 sq. ft. studio guest-suite 6 blocks up the hill from the beach, with 180 degree ocean-view, and 180 degree mountain and wilderness view from a private balcony. The guesthouse is artfully decorated, and is quiet. Our whole neighborhood is affluent and beautiful with plenty of beaches to explore. It is the perfect place to stay and visit remote Big Sur to the south, but also be close to the incredible restaurants & shops in Carmel. Our guests prefer a no pets policy.
Luxury Modern Home/ Pets OK & FREE EV
Welcome to our 4 bed/3 bath 3,000 sq. ft. contemporary home built in 2022. Enjoy the luxurious amenities in this spacious two-story house: brand-new furniture and TVs, state-of-art kitchen, high-end appliances, spa-like master bath, radiant heated flooring, built-in speaker system, fiber Internet, and stunning light fixtures throughout. Tesla charger in garage. Conveniently located minutes to beach, golf, restaurants and shopping. Have fun with the entire family and guests in this stylish place.
Very Private, 3 Balconies, Jacuzzi, Espresso, King
Spacious, light-filled Carmel hilltop home with large hot tub and sweeping views of ocean & forest. 🌲🌅 With 3 balconies + generous primary suite on main floor, this highly private retreat offers an elegant tranquility with coastal charm. Spacious 🍽️ fully stocked kitchen features espresso machine + conical burr grinder 🫘☕ as well as French Press and sizeable gas range. 3 bedrooms +3 pull-outs. Chore-free checkout. Property is *not* walkable to downtown Carmel. Outdoor BBQ is electric.
Cozy Coastal Redwood Cabin
Rest and connect in this warm, cozy, and private cabin that is nestled in the redwoods. Only minutes away from Henry Cowell State Park, where you can enjoy world class mountain biking trails, hiking, or swimming in the river. Or, enjoy the beach 15 minutes away. This is a perfect place to refresh in the magic of the Coastal Redwoods. Music fills most nights either from the Felton Music Hall or from the chorus of frogs. And wake up in the mornings to the mist in the trees when the fog rolls in.
Copper Nest beach retreat with stunning views
The Copper Nest is an ideal getaway located steps from the beach in the gated community of Pajaro Dunes where the Pajaro River meets the Pacific Ocean. This newly designed three bedroom home is customized to create a serene beach retreat for you and your guests. This newly designed three bedroom home has a well equipped kitchen and outdoor seating, game, and BBQ areas. There are stunning ocean and agricultural views from every room. Close to California's popular food and travel regions.
Serene Redwood Retreat w/Modern Comfort
At our Modern cabin nestled among 150 year old redwoods, we invite you to embark on a unique adventure of embracing the outdoors while only minutes from town. Wine tasting in downtown Carmel, World Class Golf at Pebble Beach or Hiking trails of Point Lobos and Big Sur. "Magical", "Amazing", "A True Sanctuary" are just a few words used by our guest to describe their stay with us. Get away and unplug in the stillness and solitude of our Serene Redwood Retreat. Please see property description.
Fairytale Cottage on Ocean Avenue, Downtown Carmel
Sades Loft is located in a fairytale cottage in the heart of downtown Carmel-By-The-Sea. The upstairs loft has its own private entry on Ocean Avenue. Open your front door and explore downtown Carmel or take a 10 minute stroll down to the beach. Once a VIP room where Hollywood & local legends gathered late into the night, today, the Loft is a relaxing spot where you can listen to soft music from the restaurant below or watch passerby's buying old fashioned candy from the Cottage of Sweets.
Carmel Rustic Cabin Like a Treehouse + Dog
Stay in our Carmel Rustic Cabin along with your dogs (see dog fee below) while shopping, visiting local wineries and restaurants or just walking your dog off-leash along Carmel's white sandy beach. Hidden in the woods, our rustic cabin is like a treehouse with all the amenities and minutes from downtown and the beaches. FYI the coast drive is now accessible between here and LA, but may be shut down during stormy weather, so be sure to follow local weather reports or just call Caltrans.
Beautiful Farm in Carmel Valley
Our 2 bedroom guest house in beautiful Carmel Valley is close to Monterey, Big Sur, Pebble Beach and Carmel by the Sea. Sight see all day and escape to a pastoral setting five minutes from Carmel Valley Village with quaint shops, restaurants and over 20 wine tasting rooms. Visit with our alpacas, horses, giant tortoises, goats, sheep, donkey and more! Wake up to sunshine, fresh air and the donkey braying for breakfast! (Due to the nature of our farm we have a strict "No Pets" policy).
Charming Carmel Cottage - Close to Downtown!
Step into this charming, quintessential Carmel Cottage located close to downtown Carmel. Easily accessible and set back on a corner lot, you'll be centrally located to all Monterey Bay has to offer. You're a short walk to all the shops and restaurants in downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea, as well as within walking distance to the beach. Truly a zen-like experience, we can't wait for you to stay in our beautiful home.
Pebble Beach Guest House
Pebble Beach guest house located in the quiet Del Monte Forest, a golf destination and gated community. 650 sq.ft. 1 bedroom with queen bed, living room, gas fireplace, WiFi, TV, kitchenette, private deck with fire pit and hot tub. 7 min walk to the ocean. 3 min drive to The Inn at Spanish Bay. 5 miles to the Pebble Beach Lodge. Portable crib available. No pets. No smoking on property.
Popular amenities for Carmel-by-the-Sea vacation rentals
Stay near Carmel-by-the-Sea's top sights
Carmel-by-the-Sea beach vacation rentals
28 Sec Walk to Beach with Private steam shower
One of a kind full River and Ocean view!
Magical & Romantic Beachfront Home at Pajaro Dunes
Oceanfront beach house with private hot tub
Artsy&Private UNIT C
Beach Front Dream House! Hottub/E-Bikes/Surfboards
Beachfront Tranquility
2B/2B Pajaro Dunes with Dunes and Ocean View
Carmel-by-the-Sea house rentals
Modern Lux home by downtown Carmel 3bd 2ba
Charming Victorian Home Near Beach
Carmel-by-the-Sea Mission Beach House
Adorable Sea House
Perfect Hideaway in Carmel Valley Hills
Pet Friendly Cozy Pacific Grove Getaway Lic#0388
Elegant Carmel Cottage
Sunset Cottage Vacation rental permit #111394
Pet-friendly vacation rentals in Carmel-by-the-Sea
Romantic Carmel Valley Casita & Hot Tub! Tax Incld
Carmel luxe, private, spotless, The Great Escape!
Charming, perfect location, large, super clean!
Yurt in Vineyard Overlooking Monterey Bay
Serenity Getaway - Near MRY Aquarium and downtown
Private Suite Near Carmel Beach
Horse Corral with Stunning Views
Life is Good
When is the best time to visit Carmel-by-the-Sea?
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg. price | ﺩ.ﺇ1,447 | ﺩ.ﺇ1,465 | ﺩ.ﺇ1,403 | ﺩ.ﺇ1,792 | ﺩ.ﺇ1,620 | ﺩ.ﺇ1,726 | ﺩ.ﺇ1,836 | ﺩ.ﺇ1,987 | ﺩ.ﺇ1,700 | ﺩ.ﺇ1,410 | ﺩ.ﺇ1,484 | ﺩ.ﺇ1,498 |
| Avg. temp | 11°C | 12°C | 13°C | 14°C | 15°C | 16°C | 17°C | 18°C | 18°C | 17°C | 13°C | 11°C |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best places to stay in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
Carmel-by-the-Sea has charming cottages, boutique lodgings, and vacation rentals nestled throughout its walkable downtown and residential streets. Many travelers seek stays near the main village area for access to shops, galleries, and the beach.
What are the best things to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea with kids?
Families frequently explore Carmel Beach for sand play and tide pools, visit local parks with playgrounds, and discover shops and galleries along Ocean Avenue. Nature trails nearby often appeal to younger adventurers.
What are some of the best things to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
Explore art galleries, stroll the picturesque streets, and relax on Carmel Beach. Mission San Carlos Borromeo del Río Carmelo provides historical insight, while nearby nature preserves are popular for gentle walks.
How is the weather in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
Carmel-by-the-Sea has mild, coastal weather with winters around 41–62°F (5–17°C) and occasional rain. Summer months are typically drier and range from 55–74°F (13–24°C), though foggy mornings are common.
What are the best places to visit in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
Carmel Beach has scenic coastline, while Mission San Carlos Borromeo del Río Carmelo invites visitors to learn about local history. Strolling around Ocean Avenue reveals unique shops, galleries, and inviting cafes.
What are some hiking trails in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
Garland Ranch Regional Park and Point Lobos State Natural Reserve have frequently suggested hiking trails with forest, coastal, and wildlife views. Local parks in town also provide gentle walking paths suitable for most abilities.
What are some family activities we can do in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
Families often explore sandy shores at Carmel Beach, browse local bookshops, and enjoy gelato in inviting cafes along Ocean Avenue. Nearby nature parks provide easy outdoor adventure for all ages.
What are some of the best day trip ideas from Carmel-by-the-Sea?
Many travelers explore Monterey’s aquarium, wander Big Sur’s coastal trails, and discover Pacific Grove’s butterfly sanctuary. Local vineyards and art museums around the region are also popular day excursions.
Are there any pet friendly accommodations available in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
Carmel-by-the-Sea has a welcoming attitude toward pets, with many vacation rentals and boutique lodgings allowing dogs. Several cafes, shops, and parks in the village are pet friendly, making it easy to plan a trip with your companion.
What are some local tips for visiting Carmel-by-the-Sea?
Wear comfortable shoes to explore Carmel-by-the-Sea’s picturesque streets, and pack layers as the coastal weather can change from cool mornings to mild afternoons. Navigating local boutiques and restaurants is easier with a map, since addresses can be subtle or newly added. Check the forecast and bring a light jacket, especially outside summer months.
What is Carmel-by-the-Sea known for?
Carmel-by-the-Sea is known for its fairy-tale cottages, flourishing art scene, and scenic beaches. The village atmosphere, literary history, and strong community traditions draw visitors year-round.
What are the best hidden gems to explore in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
Explore tucked-away courtyards off Ocean Avenue, lesser-known art galleries, and tranquil spots at Carmel Mission. The town’s winding lanes often reveal locally owned bakeries and peaceful gardens.
What are the best foods to try in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
Carmel-by-the-Sea has a lively food scene with fresh seafood, artisan bakery goods, and locally produced wines. Seasonal produce, wood-fired pizzas, and handcrafted chocolate treats are frequently suggested by locals.
What should I bring for a trip to Carmel-by-the-Sea?
Pack comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing for mild and variable weather, and a reusable water bottle. If you plan coastal walks or visits to the beach, sunglasses and a light jacket are often helpful.
What is the nightlife in Carmel-by-the-Sea like?
Carmel-by-the-Sea has a relaxed nightlife scene with wine bars, piano lounges, and cozy spots for live music around the village center. Many venues focus on conversation, regional wines, and small bites.
What are the most popular events or festivals in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
Carmel-by-the-Sea has an annual car show around late summer and art festivals in spring and fall. The village also hosts holiday celebrations, wine-themed events, and music gatherings throughout the year.
Are there family friendly vacation rentals in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
Many vacation rentals in Carmel-by-the-Sea are family friendly, with multi-bedroom options and spacious living areas. Staying near the village center allows easy access to parks, shops, and the beach for convenient outings.
When is the best time to visit Carmel-by-the-Sea?
Late spring through early fall is often recommended for pleasant temperatures and minimal rainfall. Summer brings clear afternoons, while spring features blooming gardens around the village.
All about Carmel-by-the-Sea
Situated on California’s scenic Highway 1, Carmel-by-the-Sea is a charming town filled with art galleries, boutique shops, and cottages that look like they came straight out of a fairy tale. For more than 100 years, the town located just outside of Monterey has attracted creatives from all over, contributing to its distinctly bohemian, laid-back vibe. Besides its gorgeous beaches, Carmel boasts a lively downtown where you’ll find big-name stores alongside specialty, family-owned businesses. Stop by an independent cafe located in a European-style courtyard from the 1920s, or sample locally made wines in a Tudor-style home-turned-tasting room.
You can also take a stroll around the Comstock Historic Hill District, which features a collection of storybook cottages full of odd angles and quirky architecture, and each month there is an Art Walk when local artists showcase their work. Head to the late 18th-century Carmel Mission at the edge of town and admire its creamy exterior and richly decorated rooms. While the town of Carmel is certainly idyllic, the best way to explore the area is to get out of it through a scenic drive along the coastline.
What are the top things to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
This beautiful coastal reserve lies along the headlands of the Monterey Peninsula, home to rocky cliffs, white sand coves, and an array of hiking trails. The park has an incredibly diverse range of flora and fauna, including more than 20 species of land mammals, such as pocket gophers, bobcats, and grey foxes, as well as sea lions, red-shouldered hawks, and alligator lizards.
Monarch Grove Sanctuary
Just over 15 minutes north of Carmel-by-the-Sea, this enthralling sanctuary is one of the main southbound migration spots for Monarch butterflies. As you walk along the sanctuary's pathways, you can catch a glimpse of these fluttering orange and black beauties resting in the trees. The migration season generally lasts from mid-October until mid-May, but the Monarch Grove Sanctuary is a wonderful, tranquil place to visit all year round.
17-Mile Drive
Connecting Carmel to Monterey, 17-Mile Drive is one of the most scenic drives in California that features rugged seaside cliffs against the dark blue backdrop of the Pacific Ocean. Along the rocky coastline of the Monterey Peninsula, you’ll pass by the cities of Pacific Grove and Pebble Beach, as well as luxurious seaside abodes and the 250-year-old Lone Cypress that stands all by itself on a rocky outcrop.
Quick stats about vacation rentals in Carmel-by-the-Sea
Total vacation rentals
Explore 240 vacation rentals in Carmel-by-the-Sea
Nightly prices starting at
Carmel-by-the-Sea vacation rentals start at ﺩ.ﺇ220 per night before taxes and fees
Verified guest reviews
Over 8,850 verified reviews to help you choose
Family-friendly vacation rentals
180 properties offer extra space & kid-friendly amenities
Pet-friendly vacation rentals
Find 120 rentals that welcome pets
Rentals with dedicated workspaces
160 properties have a dedicated workspace
Wi-Fi availability
240 of Carmel-by-the-Sea vacation rentals include wi-fi access
Popular amenities for guests
Guests love Self check-in, Beachfront, and Gym across Carmel-by-the-Sea rentals
4.9 Average rating
Carmel-by-the-Sea stays are highly rated by guests—averaging 4.9 out of 5!
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- Santa Cruz Beach
- Monterey Bay Aquarium
- Capitola Beach
- Pinnacles National Park
- Carmel Beach
- Rio Del Mar Beach
- Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
- Pfeiffer Beach
- Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
- Seacliff State Beach
- Carmel Beach
- Asilomar State Beach
- Natural Bridges State Beach
- Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park
- Davenport Beach
- Pebble Beach Golf Links
- Manresa Main State Beach
- Twin Lakes State Beach
- Big Sur Campground & Cabins
- The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park
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