Vacation rentals in Carmel-by-the-Sea
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Top-rated vacation rentals in Carmel-by-the-Sea
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Popular amenities for Carmel-by-the-Sea vacation rentals
Home rentals in Carmel-by-the-Sea
CAPITOLA PERFECT LOCATION! Steps 2 Beach/Shops
Big Beautiful Home Away From Home/9beds/18 Guests
Carmel Hilltop Retreat - Views, Fire Pit, Hot Tub!
Home Away from Home 3
Carmel Oasis By The Sea TOT # 001407
The Coop
Perfect house for a beach getaway
Best Beach House Santa Cruz-Opal Cliff Beach House
Dog friendly vacation rentals in Carmel-by-the-Sea
Magnolia Garden Bungalow :)Dogs/Hot Tub
cute cottage walking distance to beach
Surf cottage Pleasure Point walk to surf/ coffee
Blue Whale Bungalow
Gorgeous Bungalow 3 blocks to beach
Cozy cabin the Redwoods - Dogs Welcome!
Free Aquarium Passes for 2+ Nights + Pet Friendly
Beach View, Pet Friendly, 1 Min Walk to Sand
Beach home rentals in Carmel-by-the-Sea
Safe, Steps To Beach, Spa, Near Harbor, Pets Okay!
Monterey Bay Oasis on the Ocean!
The Seacliff Family Beach House!
Beach Suite
Jaw-Dropping Beach-Front Retreat!
Luxury Beach House - Game Room & Hot Tub
Wave House by the Beach for Two!
Ocean View, 5min flat walk to Beach, Pet Friendly
Quick stats about vacation rentals in Carmel-by-the-Sea
Total rentals
220 properties
Total number of reviews
7.5K reviews
Family-friendly rentals
160 properties are a good fit for families
Pet-friendly rentals
120 properties allow pets
Rentals with dedicated workspaces
130 properties have a dedicated workspace
Wifi availability
220 properties include access to wifi
Your guide to Carmel-by-the-Sea
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.
The best time to stay in a vacation rental in Carmel-by-the-Sea
Fall is one of the best times to visit Carmel, thanks to the warm, sunny weather that is perfect for exploring the nearby nature reserves and beaches. The temperature doesn’t fluctuate too much throughout the year, but it does take a little bit of a dip in winter, and you will see more rain from December to March, but this is the perfect time to visit if you’d like to explore the area with fewer people around. In the spring, the skies clear and bougainvillea blooms throughout town. The summer is the busiest season, and, though it never gets too hot, you will see almost no rain during this time. No matter what time of year you book your Carmel vacation rental, it is important to bring plenty of layers of clothing, as the weather can change quickly here.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the weather in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
Carmel-by-the-Sea has a mild Mediterranean climate. During summer, temperatures average around 68°F (20°C), and in winter, it's about 57°F (14°C). Rainfall is common from November to April, and fog often blankets the town, especially in the mornings and late evenings.
What are some of the best things to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
Popular activities in Carmel-by-the-Sea include strolling through the local art galleries, visiting the historic Carmel Mission Basilica, exploring the unique boutiques and shops, or relaxing on the pristine Carmel Beach. Nature lovers can also enjoy bird watching at Carmel River State Beach.
What is the best time of year to visit Carmel-by-the-Sea?
The most popular time to visit Carmel-by-the-Sea is between April and October. During these months, the Carmel Art Festival in May and the Carmel Bach Festival in July are frequently suggested events for tourists.
What are the best places to stay in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
Downtown Carmel, known for its charming cottages and bustling boutiques, is a popular area to stay. The beachside area, with its close proximity to Carmel Beach, is also often recommended. The outskirts of the town offer a quieter, more secluded setting.
What are the best places to visit in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
Visitors frequently explore the quaint Carmel Village, the historic Tor House, and the beautiful Carmel Mission Basilica. Other popular places include the Carmel Art Association Gallery, and the breathtaking Point Lobos State Natural Reserve.
What are some hiking trails in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
For lovers of nature, Carmel-by-the-Sea has several trails to explore. Point Lobos State Reserve provides trails with ocean views, while the Mission Trail Nature Preserve offers woodland walks. There's also the Scenic Bluff Path that showcases the beautiful coastline.
What are some family activities to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
Families can explore the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History, take a scenic drive along the 17-Mile Drive, or spend a day at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. A trip to the Carmel Beach or a picnic at the Devendorf Park are also popular activities.
What are some of the best day trip ideas in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
Popular day trips from Carmel-by-the-Sea include visiting the historic city of Monterey, exploring the world-renowned Big Sur coastline, or touring the vineyards in Salinas Valley. A boat trip to see the marine life around Monterey Bay is also often suggested.
What types of vacation rentals are available in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
Uncover the perfect home-away-from-home with our diverse selection of vacation rentals in Carmel-by-the-Sea. From over 130 house rentals to over 20 apartment rentals, we've got you covered. For even more variety, explore our Airbnb Categories to find the ideal space for your getaway.
Are there vacation rentals with a dedicated workspace in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
Yes! Work meets play with ease at over 130 vacation rentals in Carmel-by-the-Sea featuring dedicated workspaces. Stay connected and productive in your home away from home.
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- Santa Cruz Beach
- Capitola Beach
- Rio Del Mar Beach
- Seascape Park Beach
- Pfeiffer Beach
- Seacliff State Beach
- Carmel Beach
- Monterey Bay Aquarium
- Davenport Beach
- Twin Lakes State Beach
- Capitola State Beach
- New Brighton State Beach
- Sunny Cove Beach
- Pinnacles National Park
- Carmel Beach
- Bonny Doon Beach
- Sumner Beach
- Moran Lake Beach
- Corcoran Beach
- Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
- Waddell Beach
- The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park
- Pasatiempo Golf Club
- Big Basin Redwoods State Park