16 Best Ocean View Hotels in Carmel CA 2023 [Budget to Luxury]

LOOKING FOR THE BEST OCEAN VIEW HOTELS IN CARMEL CA?

Then we’ve got you covered. After countless visits to this charming coastal town, we’ve created this list of the best hotels in Carmel with ocean view.

We included everything you need to know, from what room to book for the best view to what amenities you will be offered, like freshly made breakfast.

Now, all you have to do is pick one of the best ocean view hotels in Carmel, CA and book your dream getaway to this California coastal town.

Top Picks: Hotels in Carmel with Ocean View

• Overall Best Carmel Ocean View Hotel: La Playa Carmel
• Best Ocean View Hotel with Easy Beach Access: Villa Mara Carmel
• Best Ocean Views from a Private Balcony: Tally Ho Inn

16 Best Ocean View Hotels in Carmel, CA

1. La Playa Carmel

• ❤️ Best For: Couples, honeymooners, intimate weddings, and families looking for a chill beach destination
• ⭐ Rating: 8.3/10
• ✅ VIEW ON BOOKING.COM

La Playa Carmel is the best ocean view hotel in Carmel.

Not only is the beach just a four-minute walk from the hotel, but it is also so close to the ocean that you can hear the waves from your room. 

The grounds at La Playa Carmel are stunning, with elaborate gardens and a terrace where you can relax and enjoy the ocean breeze.

La Playa Carmel offers a large list of amenities that will keep you entertained, from a heated swimming pool to a legendary bar called Bud’s which shakes up sophisticated cocktails.

Beautiful ocean views, wonderful breakfasts, nice walk to town central, friendly staff.

PHILLIP (READ MORE REVIEWS)

This Carmel ocean view hotel offers a yummy breakfast spread at their in-house restaurant, and there are countless charming restaurants within walking distance of the hotel.

The location of La Playa is perfectly situated just blocks from the downtown wine tasting rooms and local art galleries.

If you picked this Carmel by the sea accommodation for the views of the beach, make sure you book the Ocean View King Room. 

2. Villa Mara Carmel

• ❤️ Best For: Couples looking for an extraordinary Carmel vacation
• ⭐ Rating: 9.5/10
• ✅ VIEW ON BOOKING.COM

Of the hotels in Carmel with ocean view, Villa Mara Carmel offers the most comfortable rooms that will make it feel like your home away from home. 

The hotel’s Mediterranean-inspired villas feel like you are staying in a luxury guest house with the added benefit of traditional services, including a 24-hour front desk with concierge services. 

They even serve a delicious breakfast of locally made pastries and quiche with freshly brewed Acme coffee.  

Beyond expectations. What a great getaway boutique hotel only 1/2 block walk to Carmel beach.. Listening to the waves at night was relaxing.

RICK (READ MORE REVIEWS)

After breakfast, you can easily stroll along the beach as the Villa Mara is only one block from the southern end of Carmel Beach.

The rooms were thoughtfully designed with many little details that make a stay special, including heated bathroom floors and a complimentary mini-bar full of treats.

For the best views, book the Villa Mara Carmel’s King Room with Sea View, which includes a balcony with cozy outdoor furniture where you can watch the sunset. 

3. Tally Ho Inn

• ❤️ Best For: Couples, and small families looking for a hotel with a relaxed atmosphere
• ⭐ Rating: 8.7/10
• ✅ VIEW ON BOOKING.COM

Tally Ho Inn is easily one of the best Carmel ocean view hotels on this list. 

It offers elegantly appointed rooms that are inspired by the comforts of a traditional British B&B.

This equates to rooms that are classic in their design but with all the amenities you may want, from a whirlpool tub to a private deck with ocean views.

If that’s not enough, they feature a large ocean view terrace where they serve a complimentary glass of Brandy to toast the sunset.

Great large room with deck and ocean view. Comfy bed, nice robe, wine glasses, bottles of water and other extras.

JANET (READ MORE REVIEWS)

The Tally Ho Inn also has a sister property across the street where guests from both facilities can enjoy complimentary continental breakfast at their bakery and Italian restaurant.

This hotel is ideally located in the middle of the downtown shopping district and is only seven minute walk from the beach. 

Tally Ho Inn offers one of the best Ocean view hotels in Carmel at prices that are far less than the similarly rated competition. 

4. L’Auberge Carmel, Relais & Chateaux

• ❤️ Best For: Couples looking for a luxurious stay in Carmel
• ⭐ Rating: 8.6/10
• ✅ VIEW ON BOOKING.COM

L’Auberge Carmel is nestled in the heart of town and offers a boutique luxury stay in their 20 European-styled rooms. 

While accommodations at L’Auberge feature antique furnishings and canopy-style beds, they also managed to include some modern touches like heated bathroom floors.

A stay at L’Auberge comes with freshly made breakfast delivered to your room, along with access to their Michelin-starred California cuisine restaurant that is located on the property.

Every detail made the stay exceptional; breakfast included was above average, turndown service, all the friendly staff and location was perfect.

TAMSIN (READ MORE REVIEWS)

L’Auberge Carmel is in the Golden Rectangle neighborhood, about a 5-minute walking distance from the lively Carmel Plaza, along with a dozen winery tasting rooms and an experimental brewery. 

Of the Carmel by the sea hotels with ocean views, L’Auberge Carmel only offers a few partial ocean view rooms, but they more than make up for it with their thoughtful service and amazing location.

5. Horizon Inn & Ocean View Lodge

• ❤️ Best For: Honeymooners, couples looking for a quiet getaway near the Carmel beach
• ⭐ Rating: 8.6/10
• ✅ VIEW ON BOOKING.COM

Horizon Inn Carmel offers a combination of luxury hotel rooms and cottages for those that want to feel at home while on the road.

This is one of the best ocean view hotels in Carmel and their standard rooms come complete with jacuzzi tubs, gas fireplaces, and patios with ocean views.

You can also book a cottage with a fully equipped kitchen and all the comforts of a home-style stay.

very conveniently located. within walking distance to all the shops and restaurants.

JEAN (READ MORE REVIEWS)

No matter which room you select, you will be served a complimentary continental breakfast in your room that comes packed in a cute basket. 

The hotel is just a short walk from the shopping district in Carmel and is just a 2.8 mile drive from Pebble Beach and 5 miles from Monterey Bay Aquarium. 

The Horizon Inn & Ocean View Lodge is a perfect option for those looking for gorgeous ocean views and who wants a place to stay that feels relaxed and comfortable for a getaway to Carmel.

6. Tradewinds Carmel

• ❤️ Best For: Couples on the hunt for a Carmel resort with a massage
• ⭐ Rating: 8.9/10
• ✅ VIEW ON BOOKING.COM

If you and your partner have been dreaming of a retreat with an in-house spa and excellent ocean views, Tradewinds Carmel may be your perfect getaway accommodation. 

You can feel that Tradewinds Carmel is a family-run B&B from the impeccable room service, a lovely breakfast spread, and free snacks like warm cookies, chocolate-covered strawberries, and candies upon your arrival.

This Carmel ocean view hotel offers in-room spa treatments and massages. 

Exceptional stay at a gorgeous property with ocean views! Perfectly situated room with views of the ocean.

LOUISE (READ MORE REVIEWS)

Well-thought-of details like Japanese-style bathrobes, handmade beds from Bali, Asian-inspired paintings, and bamboo mirrors all contribute to the zen vibe of the place. 

Tradewinds Carmel is in a quiet neighborhood but is still only 10 minutes from the famous dog-friendly Carmel Beach. 

If you wish to explore downtown Carmel further, the unique boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, and coffee shops are also within walking distance.

If you’re trying to book a room with ocean views, Tradewinds offers options from Deluxe Double to Queen Room and King Room with partial ocean views of Point Lobos and Carmel Bay.

This is one of the best places to stay in Carmel with ocean view, so book early to secure the best room.

7. Carmel Bay View Inn

• ❤️ Best For: Couples and families in search of a value-for-money accommodation
• ⭐ Rating: 8.4/10
• ✅ VIEW ON BOOKING.COM

Of the Carmel by the sea ocean view hotels, the Carmel Bay View Inn offers the best bang for your buck with a location that is within walking distance of everything in town.

All the rooms are clean, unassuming, and equipped with everything you’d need for a Carmel-by-the-sea vacation. 

For wow-worthy sea views, book the Deluxe King Room with Ocean View, which features its own private balcony and fireplace. 

Always remarkably clean grounds, rooms, bathrooms. Best view of the ocean as well!

AMI (READ MORE REVIEWS)

This hotel features a heated outdoor pool for a dip, or you can make the short 12 minute walk down to the beach to wiggle your toes in the sand.

Like many Carmel hotels with ocean view, expect no air-conditioning, but you will most likely not need it when you can open the windows to let in the coastal breezes.

8. Hyatt Carmel Highlands

• ❤️ Best For: Couples or families looking for a 5-star hotel with spa 
• ⭐ Rating: 8.4/10
• ✅ VIEW ON EXPEDIA.COM

Hyatt Carmel Highlands offers up the most dramatic ocean views of the hotels on this list that can be enjoyed from a private balcony in your room.

You can also book reservations at their onsite restaurant, aptly named the Pacific Edge, which features majestic views of the jagged Big Sur coast.

Experience the serenity and luxury of this Carmel hotel with a visit to the spa, where you can treat yourself to a massage. 

We had an ocean view and it was truly spectacular. Drinks in the sunny lobby were just amazing, and the wait staff was so friendly. The view and the luxury of it all will be a memory forever.

DARYLYNN (READ MORE REVIEWS)

Hyatt Carmel Highlands offers plenty of ways to relax at the property, including a heated outdoor pool, three jacuzzis, and an outdoor fire pit. 

The hotel also features a sunset lounge with panoramic ocean views where you can sip cocktails and order light snacks. 

While this luxurious ocean view hotel is located in Carmel Highlands, it is only a ten-minute drive to Carmel by the Sea, and with amenities this nice, you will not want to leave the property. 

We recommend booking an ocean view room or a suite with Big Sur view for the best sunsets.

9. Tickle Pink Inn

• ❤️ Best For: Honeymooners willing to go beyond Carmel for one-of-a-kind ocean views
• ⭐ Rating: 4.5/5
• ✅ VIEW ON TRIPADVISOR.COM

Located at the Carmel Highlands is the Tickle Pink Inn, which offers spectacular views of the world-famous Big Sur coast. 

This family-run hotel knows how to warm guests’ hearts, from the complimentary champagne welcoming you once you arrive to a daily wine and cheese reception. 

In the mornings, you will be treated to a complimentary breakfast buffet to fuel up for a day of exploring the coast.

Views are amazing and staff goes the extra mile to make everything perfect. Very close to Carmel but secluded enough for a romantic getaway. Perfect for couples.

ANDERSON (READ MORE REVIEWS)

This inn takes advantage of its dramatic location with an outdoor hot tub and terraces so guests can enjoy the majestic view. 

Most rooms feature ocean views from their private balconies and have a fireplace to curl up by with a good book.

Carmel Hotels by the Beach

10. Vagabond’s House Boutique Inn & Spa Studio

• ❤️ Best For: Those looking for a charming boutique stay
• ⭐ Rating: 8.9/10
• ✅ VIEW ON BOOKING.COM

The Vagabond’s House Boutique Inn & Spa Studio offers artsy rooms that are situated inside the English Tudor-style structure in the heart of Carmel by the Sea. 

Vagabond’s Inn has so many things to love, from the stone courtyard to the cozy fireplace in most rooms. 

The hotel’s location can’t be beaten, as it is just a short walk to the best restaurants, coffee shops, and wine tasting rooms in town. 

The location was perfect. Easily walking distance to the beach.

ADRIENNE (READ MORE REVIEWS)

A stay at the Vagabond’s House comes with a cheese and wine happy hour every afternoon and breakfast delivered to your room in the morning. 

Book early to ensure that you can get an opportunity to relax in the room’s soaking tub, as this boutique hotel sells out fast.

Although this is not one of the Carmel by the sea hotels on the beach, it is only a 10-minute walk from the hotel’s front door. 

11. Candle Light Inn

• ❤️ Best For: Those looking for a romantic stay with a private jacuzzi
• ⭐ Rating: 9.1/10
• ✅ VIEW ON BOOKING.COM

Candle Light Inn embraces the Carmel charm thanks to its romantic outdoor patio, along with in-room fireplaces and spa baths.

The inn will make any event feel special, with complimentary items like a bottle of wine, freshly-baked cookies, and breakfast delivered to your room every morning. 

The room was beautiful and clean and the fireplace was the perfect touch. The bathroom was so nice and spacious and the jetted tub was fun.

REYES (READ MORE REVIEWS)

Although this classic Carmel inn does not offer ocean views, it is still a great place to stay because of its proximity to Carmel’s boutique shops, restaurants, and local wine-tasting rooms.

This Carmel hotel near the beach offers easy access to all the area’s attractions and is only a 12 minute walk down to the seashore.

Consider this hotel if you are looking for a relaxed setting where you can spend your days tasting wine and perusing the nearby shops.

12. Carmel Country Inn

• ❤️ Best For: An affordable getaway to Carmel
• ⭐ Rating: 8.7/10
• ✅ VIEW ON BOOKING.COM

Carmel Country Inn is one of the best hotels in Carmel for families traveling, as this hotel features multiple suite options that offer plenty of room for a comfortable stay. 

This especially applies to families with pets as this hotel is super dog friendly and even offers dog sitting and daycare.

Although the Carmel Country Inn does not have rooms with a sea view, it is only a short walk to the ocean.

Loved the location, a nice walking distance to nearby restaurants and shopping locations. The room was quiet and super cozy. I definitely will be back.

CHRISTINA (READ MORE REVIEWS)

This Carmel hotel near the beach offers extra touches like cookies for human guests and dog biscuits for furbabies that will make your stay feel special. 

For couples, the Carmel Country Inn rooms are equipped with romantic bathrooms with a spa and a fireplace for some private time after wine tasting at the downtown wineries. 

13. Coachman’s Inn, A Four Sisters Inn

• ❤️ Best For: Those who want to be centrally located
• ⭐ Rating: 8.7/10
• ✅ VIEW ON BOOKING.COM

The Coachman’s Inn is located in the heart of the downtown shopping district, just a block from multiple restaurants and wine tasting rooms. 

As one of the Carmel hotels by the beach, it has a great location and rooms that feel super clean and comfortable.

Coachman’s Inn feels like your home away from home as every room has its own fireplace, which is perfect for a foggy evening on the California coast. 

Comfortable bed, spacious room and central location in Carmel, free breakfast and afternoon wine and snacks were a very nice addition to our stay in Carmel

MARCO (READ MORE REVIEWS)

Outdoors, guests can treat themselves to a soak in the hot tub or destress in the dry sauna. 

The property also has a large outdoor sun deck which is the perfect place to enjoy the complimentary breakfast or the afternoon cheese and wine reception. 

The Coachman’s Inn is the perfect escape for a stay in Carmel, with easy access to the beach and plenty of exploring to do right from the hotel. 

14. Hotel Carmel

• ❤️ Best For: A warm and inviting stay in Carmel
• ⭐ Rating: 8.1/10
• ✅ VIEW ON BOOKING.COM

When you book a room at the Hotel Carmel, you feel like you’re staying in your own vacation house. 

From the nicely appointed rooms to the charming courtyard with a fire pit, they go out of their way to make every detail about the hotel exude comfort for your stay.

LOVED EVERYTHING ABOUT THIS PLACE. Gorgeous rooms, well appointed, incredibly spacious & comfortable. Fabulous location walking distance to the beach and main part of town.

SARAH (READ MORE REVIEWS)

There is a complimentary continental breakfast daily, but you don’t need to go far for lunch and dinner, as Brophy’s Tavern is connected to the hotel. 

The restaurant offers a relaxing vibe, and upscaled classic pub grub served alongside cocktails and craft beer.

The hotel offers a great location in the heart of town and is within walking distance of the beach.

15. Carmel Mission Inn

• ❤️ Best For: Those looking for a modern Carmel hotel with amazing views
• ⭐ Rating: 8.0/10
• ✅ VIEW ON BOOKING.COM

Carmel Mission Inn is located off the Pacific Coast Highway and offers easy access to Carmel River State Beach, and is only a five-minute drive to the gorgeous Point Lobos State Natural Reserve.

Aside from the heated pools and hot tubs on the ground floor, you’ll adore the individual decks attached to the rooms on higher floors where you can relax and enjoy a glass of locally made wine. 

They even have their onsite restaurant that offers poolside and patio service featuring tavern-style plates with a California twist.

Modern, spacious, good value for money, attentive staff, robes in room, other nice touches in room more typical of a much more expensive property

MARK (READ MORE REVIEWS)

Unlike many of the hotels in the area, the Carmel Mission Inn features a hip vibe with a modern design that is very chic.

They also provide guests with top-notch amenities ranging from a fitness room with Peloton bikes to a jacuzzi hot tub.

The location of Carmel Mission Inn is perfect and is within walking distance of the Barnyard Shopping Village, where you will find restaurants and coffee shops.

16. Cypress Inn

• ❤️ Best For: Those looking for a dog-friendly Carmel hotel
• ⭐ Rating: 8.6/10
• ✅ VIEW ON EXPEDIA.COM

The Cypress Inn may be the most famous dog friendly hotel in the country and has been a legendary destination for the Hollywood elite.

Many Carmel hotels claim they are dog-friendly and welcome your furry friends, but when you arrive, you’ll be slapped with expensive pet fees or pages of rules for your pet’s stay. 

The Cypress Inn will greet you and your furry friend no matter the breed or its size. 

Super dog friendly, beautiful lobby living room with fireplace, yummy breakfast. Right in the heart of town. So charming! Will be back!

KELLY (READ MORE REVIEWS)

As part of the Doris Day estate, the inn has many movie posters, memorabilia, and photos of Doris. It’s like you’re staying in a Doris Day-themed museum. 

Although the hotel does not offer rooms with ocean views, it makes up for it with well-appointed and comfortable rooms and genuine and thoughtful service.

Location-wise, the Cypress Inn is a 10-minute stroll down a gentle hill to the beach and only a few blocks from Carmel Plaza. 

Carmel Hotels Ocean View Map

Carmel by the Sea Travel Planning

Is it worth staying in Carmel-by-the-sea?

Yes, Carmel is a must-visit California coastal town that is famous for its perfect combination of a fairytale like downtown and its gorgeous stretch of beaches. 

Carmel by the sea is also famous for its art scene, gourmet restaurants, and sophisticated wineries that feature tasting rooms right in the heart of the town.

If you’re on a California Coast road trip, this charming town is one of the best places to stay along the Pacific Coast Highway.

How many days do you need in Carmel?

You can see most of Carmel-by-the-Sea in 2 to 3 days, but it would be easy to spend a week if you plan to visit the surrounding areas.

Carmel offers plenty of things to do, from exploring the tide pools at Carmel River State Beach to wine tasting at the downtown wineries. 

If you want to stay longer, you can venture into Monterey or Point Lobos, or you can catch some rays at some of the best beaches on the California coast.

What are the best months to visit Carmel?

The best months to visit Carmel are September and October, which offer high temperatures in the low 70s and plenty of sunshine.

The early fall also offers a break from the fog that sits along the coast during the summer months. 

A visit to Carmel and Monterey as part of a quick getaway or a California road trip can be best enjoyed after the summer when the tourist crowds dip when kids head back to school.

Can you swim in the ocean in Carmel?

Yes, you can swim in the ocean in Carmel, but be warned that the water will be cold even during the summer months.

Ocean conditions along the California Coast can be treacherous with strong rip currents, and it is important to note that there are no lifeguards at any of the beaches near Carmel.

If you plan to swim in Carmel, you should be a very strong swimmer, and you should consider using a wetsuit.

What airport do you fly into for Carmel CA?

Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) is the closest airport to Carmel, which is only an 11-minute drive to the town center. 

While this airport is the closest option to Carmel and Monterey, there are limited airlines and domestic flights that fly into this airport.

You will find better flight options and cheaper fares flying into San Jose International Airport (SJC), which is only 1 hour and 15 minutes away.

If you are visiting from San Francisco the drive from San Francisco International Airport is 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Getting Around Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a very walkable town where you can easily explore boutique shops, restaurants, galleries and even wine-tasting rooms, without a car.

However, with so many places to explore near by such as Monterey, Point Lobos and Big Sur, it’s best to rent a car to give you the most flexibility with your travel plans. 

FAQs: Carmel Ocean View Hotels

What’s the difference between Carmel and Carmel by the Sea?

“Carmel by the Sea” and “Carmel” are the same place, and both names refer to the small beach city on California’s Monterey Peninsula. 

On the other hand, Carmel Valley and Carmel Highlands are two different places disconnected from Carmel by the Sea. 

Is it better to stay in Big Sur or Carmel?

It is better to stay in Carmel than Big Sur because there are many more accommodation options along with more amenities in the immediate area.

Carmel by the Sea offers a perfect base for exploring the surrounding region, including Big Sur, Point Lobos, Monterey, and the Carmel Valley wine region.

If you stay in Carmel, getting to Big Sur is easy. The drive to Big Sur from Carmel is only 35 minutes, making it an easy day trip, and you can be back in town in time to watch the sunset at Carmel Beach.

You can head out of Carmel to enjoy the sights and then head back into town to relax and enjoy one of the many great restaurants or local wine bars.

What is Carmel by the Sea known for?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is best known for its charming downtown shopping district with its charming storefronts with English Tudor-style architecture.

Carmel is a popular destination for the rich and famous who flock to the charming beach town to enjoy the award-winning restaurants, art galleries, and wine tasting rooms.

This coastal hamlet is also adjacent to the famous Pebble Beach golf course, which draws large crowds to the area for its annual Pro-Am tournament.

How many days do you need in Monterey and Carmel?

The ideal stay in Monterey and Carmel is 2 to 3 days, but you will certainly want to stay longer to explore more of the surrounding region.

Make it 4 to 7 days if you wish to visit all the best places to visit along Highway 1, including Point Lobos, Big Sur, and the Carmel Valley wine region.

Wrap-Up: Best Carmel Ocean View Hotel

Now that you have picked out the perfect Carmel ocean view hotels for your stay, all you have to do is click the link and book your room.

If you’re still undecided, our top choice for the best ocean view hotel in Carmel is the La Playa Carmel, for its world-class amenities, stunning views and perfect location.

The best options will book out fast, so do not miss your chance to stay in a room overlooking the Pacific Ocean in the heart of Carmel by the Sea. 

Before you know it, you will be relaxing to the sound of the ocean while sipping on a glass of Carmel Valley wine with the sea breezes blowing through your hair.