Carmel vacation rentals

Why visit Carmel

• Stunning Coastal Scenery: Experience breathtaking views at Carmel Beach and the scenic Carmel Highlands.
• Outdoor Adventures: Explore nearby national parks and preserves for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing.
• Charming Neighborhoods: Wander through picturesque streets filled with quaint shops and art galleries.
• Rich Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in the area's history through local events and attractions.
• Variety of Accommodations: Choose from cozy cottages, stylish condos, or ocean-view rentals for your stay.

Popular types of accommodation in Carmel

Planning a getaway to Carmel? You’re in for a treat. Explore the most sought-after vacation rentals, including private homes, cozy cottages, and stylish condos. Whether you’re dreaming of ocean view rentals or charming sea-side accommodations, our listings offer transparency and savings. Discover the best of Carmel realty and find the perfect California vacation rental for your seaside escape.

• Houses: The top choice among travelers to Carmel, offering spacious and comfortable accommodations perfect for families or groups.
• Condos: A popular option for those seeking modern amenities and a convenient location, ideal for couples or small families.
• Cottages: These charming and quaint lodgings provide a cozy atmosphere, perfect for a romantic getaway or a peaceful retreat.
• Apartments: Great for travelers looking for flexibility and home-like comforts during their stay in Carmel.
• Villas: A luxurious choice that offers upscale living, perfect for those who want an indulgent vacation experience.**

Top attractions in and around Carmel

Carmel, California, is an ideal destination for outdoor and beach lovers, offering stunning scenery and a variety of attractions. Visitors can explore beautiful spots like Carmel Beach and nearby national parks and preserves, which provide rich cultural and outdoor experiences. Whether you're seeking a gorgeous vacation rental or simply want to soak up the sun, Carmel has something for everyone to enjoy during their getaway.

• Carmel Beach: A picturesque beach with soft sand and stunning views, perfect for sunbathing, beachcombing, and watching the sunset. The relaxed atmosphere and gentle waves create an ideal spot for families and couples alike.
• 17-Mile Drive: This scenic route offers breathtaking coastal views, luxury homes, and iconic landmarks like the Lone Cypress. Perfect for a leisurely drive or a bike ride, it captures the essence of California's coastline.
• Point Lobos State Natural Reserve: A stunning reserve featuring rugged cliffs, diverse marine life, and hiking trails. Ideal for nature lovers and photographers, it showcases California's natural beauty in every direction.

Things to do recommended for couples

For a romantic getaway in Carmel, explore Folktale Winery and Vineyards for a cozy atmosphere, or visit Scheid Vineyards Tasting Room for delightful tastings. Don't miss Galante Vineyards, where you can enjoy stunning views and intimate vibes, perfect for couples seeking memorable experiences together.

Things to do recommended for families

Families visiting Carmel, California, can experience the beauty of Jacks Peak County Park, just 3 miles away. This recreational area offers wellness and relaxation vibes, making it a perfect spot for outdoor activities and family bonding in nature.

Things to do recommended for groups

Groups visiting Carmel, California can tee off at the Pebble Beach Golf Links for a memorable golfing experience, or enjoy the adrenaline at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. For some shopping and entertainment, head to Carmel Plaza, where there's something for everyone in the family.

What do I need to keep in mind when booking a vacation in Carmel

If you're traveling with a group, family, or pets, or if you're seeking extended stays, be sure to prioritize your filters accordingly. Here are some helpful Vrbo booking tips to consider.

• Traveling to Carmel with a group: Think about how many bedrooms you'll require, along with features like a complete kitchen or outdoor areas for group gatherings. Thankfully, you can easily filter for these options and more on Vrbo.
• Traveling to Carmel with young kids: Traveling with little ones can be quite a task. It's important to prioritize their comfort and safety, along with providing suitable amenities like a private swimming pool. Additionally, it's wise to think about how close you are to family-friendly attractions.
• Taking your pets with you to Carmel: For many families, a trip isn’t truly fulfilling without their furry companion by their side. If that resonates with you, take a look at Vrbo listings that welcome pets. Many of these pet-friendly properties offer feeding bowls and beds, ensuring that everyone feels comfortable and at home.
• Planning for a long term stay visiting Carmel: If you're in search of vacation rentals with discounts for stays of a month or more, you've come to the right spot. By using the appropriate filters, you can effortlessly discover and save on monthly rentals. Don't forget to include options like parking, a well-equipped kitchen, or a private pool in your search as well.

Where to stay in and around Carmel

Carmel, California, offers a delightful blend of stunning coastal scenery and charming neighborhoods. Explore the picturesque Carmel Valley and the breathtaking views of Carmel Highlands, where outdoor enthusiasts can soak in the natural beauty. Enjoy family-friendly activities and immerse yourself in the area's rich history while experiencing the warm hospitality of the locals. With numerous vacation rentals available, you'll find the perfect base to discover the enchanting beauty of this coastal gem.

• Monterey: Located a mere 4 miles from Carmel, Monterey is a vibrant coastal city known for its stunning outdoor scenery and rich marine life. Visitors are drawn to the picturesque Monterey Bay, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront or explore the famous Cannery Row. The city's boardwalk offers a variety of shops and restaurants, perfect for a casual day out. Don’t miss the chance to visit the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium, which showcases a diverse range of ocean habitats and species, making it a top attraction for families and nature lovers alike.
• Pebble Beach: Just 2 miles from Carmel, Pebble Beach is synonymous with breathtaking views and world-class golf. This stunning coastal city is best known for its iconic Pebble Beach Golf Links, a must-visit for any golf enthusiast. Beyond golfing, visitors can explore scenic coastal trails, relax on beautiful beaches, and take in the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. The area is also home to the famous 17-Mile Drive, where you can enjoy picturesque vistas and iconic landmarks like the Lone Cypress.
• Carmel Highlands: Nestled in the hills overlooking Carmel, Carmel Highlands is a charming village that offers an exquisite blend of outdoor adventure and scenic beauty. Known for its stunning coastal views and proximity to nature, this area is perfect for hiking, golfing, and enjoying the tranquil beaches. The scenic drives and nearby Point Lobos State Natural Reserve provide ample opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography, making it a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts. Visit the nearby national park for a taste of California’s natural beauty, with its rugged coastline and diverse ecosystems.

Best time to go to Carmel

If you're planning a trip to Carmel, it's a good idea to check both the weather and property rates. The warmest month is September. Peak season runs in April and June to July, while off-peak times, like October to December tend to have fewer bookings and better deals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	52.5°F (11.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
February	51.8°F (11.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
March	52.3°F (11.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	53.4°F (11.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
May	55.2°F (12.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
June	58.3°F (14.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	60.1°F (15.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	61.2°F (16.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	61.9°F (16.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
October	60.1°F (15.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
November	55.9°F (13.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
December	52.2°F (11.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average

Booking with Vrbo is a breeze

Looking to save on your next vacation? Consider being flexible with your travel dates, as prices can fluctuate. Plus, extending your stay can often lead to significant savings. To discover the ideal Vrbo property that fits your budget, utilize our filters to search by price, location, and type of vacation rental.

Vrbo Trips: Planning as easy as it gets

Vrbo’s Trip Board provides a convenient platform for you to create new travel plans, continue organizing your trips, or review your existing bookings. Your saved or booked properties are thoughtfully categorized into Potential, Upcoming, or Current Trips for easy access. To check out the Trip Boards, please visit: https://www.vrbo.com/trips.

**Based on Vrbo properties bookings.

Explore beachside fun near Carmel-by-the-Sea vacation homes

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small beach city with an array of museums, cottages, galleries, and pristine beaches for a charming seaside getaway. Whether you want to unplug and recharge, hit the trails, or catch waves, cottage rentals in Carmel-by-the-Sea put you right in the heart of this enchanting village.

Enjoy the culture around Carmel-by-the-Sea vacation rentals

Though Carmel-by-the-Sea has a variety of outdoor spaces for fun and recreation, it also has plenty of historic and cultural attractions to satisfy any interest. Vacation rentals can be found near such sites as the Carmel Mission Basilica Museum, an 18th-century church and museum with a serene courtyard and historic tours, and Carmel Beach, a sweeping, quiet beach with cypress trees and stunning sunsets. Nature lovers will also enjoy Carmel River State Beach, a scenic bird sanctuary with bird-watching and vibrant marine life for scuba diving. If you’re looking to golf in the sunshine, Pebble Beach Golf Links has a pristine course with gorgeous views of the surrounding landscape.

Seasonal weather in Carmel

If warm-weather activities are high on your list, September, August, July and October are the hottest months to visit, when temperatures average 65°F.

Exploring the beaches and other natural features in Carmel

Carmel is famous for its beautiful ocean views, pebble beaches and sunsets. Whether you're looking for exciting outdoor activities or just want to take in the scenery, Carmel is a great place to get out in nature. Here are some of the area’s most enchanting natural features, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city center:

• Carmel Beach (0.5 mi / 0.8 km)
• Monterey Bay (17 mi / 27.4 km)
• Point Lobos State Natural Reserve (2.9 mi / 4.6 km)
• 17-Mile Drive (2.9 mi / 4.6 km)
• San Carlos Beach - The Breakwater (4.1 mi / 6.5 km)
• Asilomar State Beach (4.5 mi / 7.2 km)

Transportation to and around Carmel

The nearest airport is in Monterey Peninsula Airport (MRY), located 4.8 mi (7.7 km) from the city center. If you can't find a flight that's convenient for your trip, you could book a flight to Salinas, CA (SNS-Salinas Municipal), which is 18.6 mi (29.9 km) away.

Getting around Carmel-by-the-Sea

With its small size, Carmel-by-the-sea is a highly walkable area, making it easy to travel from vacation rentals to the area’s attractions. Transportation throughout the village and to neighboring areas is an option with train lines, rental cars, rideshare, limousines, and taxis. The nearby airports also offer shuttles that connect to public transportation or make stops at common landmarks.

Culinary delight in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea restaurants and bars boast a range of international, regional, and local cuisine, along with the distinctive influences of the Monterey Bay and Salinas Valley areas. The result is a blend of old-world elegance, modern luxury, and artistic flair for a unique dining experience that’s both familiar and novel. Whether you want Chinese takeout, French fine dining, or anything in between, vacation homes give you easy access to whatever taste you crave.

Key facts for your stay at a Carmel-by-the-Sea summer rental

Carmel-by-the-Sea has a mild climate with warm temperatures and a population of 3,842 people, though it’s part of the larger Monterey Bay area. It’s a safe, friendly village with a low crime rate and few natural hazards, other than mild rain showers. It’s best to pack some cool-weather clothing to prepare for unexpected rain or cool spells. The Carmel Police Department and paramedics service the village and its vacation rentals, and there are hospitals and clinics nearby.

Kid-friendly fun in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a family-friendly destination with quiet beaches, nature preserves, and historic attractions to excite children and adults alike near vacation rentals. Point Lobos, a scenic, oceanfront nature preserve has nature trails to hidden coves, dramatic ocean views, and a local population of adorable sea lions, and Lone Cypress has a single cypress tree that offers an ideal lookout point for stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. The Tor House and Hawk Tower, once the home of poet Robinson Jeffers, is a spectacular architectural landmark that offers tours of the buildings and surrounding landscape. Children will also enjoy the Monterey Bay Aquarium, which has exotic marine life in naturalistic habits and touch pools for up-close encounters.