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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The heart wants what the heart wants, and right now it wants to take a vacation. Now's the time to pack your suitcase and take off to one of these top vacation rentals in or near Carmel:
For even more great options, use the search bar at the top of the page to find the perfect Carmel vacation rental for you.
If you've been busier than a hamster on a treadwheel, you deserve to escape for a few days. Leave work early on Friday and make your way to one of these weekend getaways in or near Carmel:
Absolutely. If you're tracking down a small but stylish stay, you can't go wrong with a studio apartment. These compact properties ooze charm and are often located in the heart of town. Check out the following options in or near Carmel:
From modern apartments to large vacation homes, Vrbo has your quick escape sorted. Here are just two of our favorite picks in and around Carmel:
Nothing says "I love you" quite like a romantic weekend rendezvous. If you're longing to spend a couple of relaxing evenings away with your beloved, we've got some romantic getaways in and around Carmel that will set your hearts aflutter:
If you're looking for somewhere to reconnect with loved ones this vacation, why not a place with a little glitz and glamour? These mansions for rent in or around Carmel will easily accommodate the entire gang while doing it in style:
Take a look at these large group vacation rentals in or near Carmel where you won't have to leave anyone off your invite list:
A pool is often a nonnegotiable when deciding where to spend your vacation, particularly if you're getting away with the kids. Browse these houses with a pool in or near Carmel and fill your days with frolicking good fun:
Carmel has a mediterranean climate, with average summertime temperatures hovering between 55 ºF and 70 ºF. But there's no need to wait until summer to visit. Take a look at the search bar at the top of the page and adjust the filters to find the ideal Carmel vacation rental and organize your getaway for any time of year.
Whether you're traveling with the kiddos or you're bringing your cousins, aunts and uncles along, family vacations spell fun. These large rentals in and around Carmel have space for everybody — and everything you need to keep them all happy:
If you want to visit some family-friendly attractions around the area, McWay Falls promises a great day out for young and old.
Escape the busyness of life and treat the people you love to a different type of vacation. Stay in one of these family cabins in or near Carmel and get the camping experience — but with all the creature comforts!
For more options, use the search bar at the top of the page and adjust the filters to find the Carmel vacation rental that's perfect for your needs.