Discover a selection of 56 vacation rentals in Carmel, CA that are perfect for your trip. Whether you’re traveling with friends, family, or even pets, Vrbo vacation homes have the best amenities for hanging out with the people that matter most, including swimming pools and WiFi. Prices start at $299 per night, and houses and cottages are popular options for a stay in Carmel. Either way, you'll find a rental for everyone's needs.
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Top rated rentals — Carmel
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Destination guide

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.

Things to do

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.

Weather

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.

Natural features

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)
  • 17-Mile Drive (2.9 mi / 4.6 km)
  • Monterey Bay (17 mi / 27.4 km)
  • Point Lobos State Natural Reserve (2.9 mi / 4.6 km)
  • Dennis the Menace Park (3.5 mi / 5.7 km)
  • San Carlos Beach - The Breakwater (4.1 mi / 6.5 km)
How to get there

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

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.

Food and drink

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.

Essential info

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.

Family friendly

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.

What are the top vacation rentals in or near Carmel?

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:

  • Take advantage of amenities including a fireplace and a nearby marina at "Walk To 2 Beaches When You Stay At Beachwalk". Located around 1 mile from Carmel, this quality property has 2 bedrooms and good guest reviews.
  • "Five Acre Retreat, Great Location" is another top-notch choice, offering 5 bedrooms, golf, a hair dryer and more. It's around 2 miles from 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.

What are the top-rated vacation rentals for weekend getaways in or near Carmel?

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:

  • "Littlehouse In The Redwoods" is ideal for a weekend of R&R. It features useful amenities, such as a free nearby fitness center and internet services, and is located 11 miles to the south of Carmel.
  • "Charming Coastal Cottage Comfortable Living Indoor And Out" is another fantastic option. It's located 6 miles to the east of Carmel and features coffee and tea making facilities, a barbecue grill and more.

Can I find studio apartments for rent in and around 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:

  • One of our favorite picks is "Littlehouse In The Redwoods". Lock in a few nights or more at this popular apartment and you'll have access to coffee and tea making facilities and a balcony.
  • An equally good choice is "Charming Coastal Cottage Comfortable Living Indoor And Out". Don't be fooled by its compact size — this comfortable apartment is packed with convenient amenities like a nearby marina, golf and plenty more.

Can I find short term rentals 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:

  • For a fantastic few nights away, it's hard to go past "Steps To Ocean. Across The Street From The Municipal Golf Course. License 0020". It's nice and close to the center of Carmel, in addition to plenty of things to see and do.
  • Alternatively, book a few nights at "Carmel Modern Hacienda Walking Distance To Town W". This centrally located property makes exploring the sights easy.

What are the best romantic weekend getaways in or near 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:

  • Located around 1 mile from Carmel, "Walk To 2 Beaches When You Stay At Beachwalk" is the ideal place for doting couples. Beauty services and a fireplace are some of the many amenities you'll find here.
  • Alternatively, spend a few days sipping wine and canoodling at "Five Acre Retreat, Great Location", around 2 miles from Carmel. A fireplace and beauty services will help set the scene for romance.

Are there mansions for rent in or near Carmel?

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:

  • Situated about 2 miles to the northwest of Carmel, "Homerez - Big Mansion For 18 Ppl. With Swimming" is the place to go for a luxurious escape. Nice touches here include beauty services and a swimming pool.
  • Another top pick is "Mansion Pent House Near Monterey Carmel". Approximately 15 miles to the east of Carmel, this gorgeous vacation rental is the crème-de-la-crème of style and character and offers a nearby beach, a separate dining area and more.

What are the best large group vacation rentals in or near Carmel?

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:

  • There's loads of space to spread out at "Five Acre Retreat, Great Location". Around 2 miles northeast of Carmel, this welcoming retreat has 5 bedrooms that sleep up to 14 guests. Top amenities include a kitchen and a fireplace.
  • "B&B Domaine De Rasigous" is another excellent option. It's around 4 miles to the north of Carmel, has 5 bedrooms and welcomes up to 16 guests. A swimming pool and a nearby waterfront are among the things that'll help make your stay even more comfortable.

What are the best houses for rent with a pool in or near Carmel?

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:

  • Pack your swimsuit and take a break at "Monterey Peninsula Area Seaside Guest House". There are plenty of other great amenities here, including a video library and coffee and tea making facilities.
  • "Beachouse - Pacific Grove Beach House" is the sort of place you go to leave the everyday behind and make the most of your surroundings, starting with its inviting pool. A microwave oven and a dishwasher are also on hand to make your stay a memorable one.

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.

What are the best large family vacation rentals in or near Carmel?

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:

  • With 5 bedrooms that sleep as many as 14 guests, "Five Acre Retreat, Great Location" gives you space to connect with the fam. It's around 2 miles northeast of Carmel and comes with amenities designed to keep large groups comfortable, such as free toiletries and cable/satellite TV services.
  • "B&B Domaine De Rasigous", around 4 miles to the north of central Carmel, was made for family get-togethers. As many as 16 of your relatives or friends can fit into this spacious rental which features 5 bedrooms, a video library, a nearby coin laundry and more.

If you want to visit some family-friendly attractions around the area, McWay Falls promises a great day out for young and old.

Can I find family cabin rentals in or near Carmel?

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!

  • "Cabin - Per Monterey County Order" - This sought-after retreat offers a separate dining area and a kitchen and is around 11 miles to the south of central Carmel.
  • "A Cozy Rustic Cabin Retreat" - Rally the troops and spend a few nights or longer at this inviting property, which is around 12 miles to the southeast of Carmel. You'll have access to a garden, nearby birdwatching activities and a whole lot more.

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.

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