Carmel-by-the-Sea, a world-renowned destination, is undergoing its most substantial lodging evolution in recent history. Three new boutique hotels – Le Petit Pali at 8th Ave, Le Petit Pali at Ocean Ave, and Carmel Beach Hotel – opened their doors this season, joining iconic upgrades and renovations from coastal classics La Playa Carmel (soon to be La Playa Hotel) and Carmel Lodge (soon to be Stilwell Hotel).
With less than 1,000 rooms within one-square-mile, these redone properties amount to a 20% upgrade of the total available hotel rooms in the coastal village, making for a remarkable revolution to Carmel-by-the-Sea’s unique hotels and inns.
"We are thrilled to see our hoteliers reinvesting in their properties so they can provide a new level of comfort and amenity for guests to Carmel-by-the-Sea,” says Amy Herzog, executive director of Visit Carmel. “The blend of relaxed luxury and the town's timeless charm creates an irresistible allure for travelers seeking an enriching escape by the breathtaking Pacific coast.”
The new hotel openings round out the recent renaissance happening in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Beyond the evolving lodging accommodations, six new restaurants have opened in the past two-years bringing a wave of culinary excellence (including a 2023 Michelin-star-awarded Chez Noir, which joins Michelin-star-rated Aubergine), With more restaurants per capita than any other small town in the U.S., the influx of innovative eateries, locally owned businesses, paired with artistic and cultural happenings, only enhance the existing beauty and appeal of Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Carmel Beach Hotel, Where Modern Coastal Design Meets Adventurous Amenities: Situated just 100 steps away from the white-sand shores of Carmel Beach, Carmel Beach Hotel celebrates the coastal spirit in all its glory. This newly constructed hotel captures the essence of the area’s natural beauty, offering guests a fusion of upscale accommodations with adventurous opportunities. Formerly known as the Colonial Terrace Inn, the property has been a popular Carmel staple since 1925, and sits in the heart of the exclusive “Golden Rectangle'' residential neighborhood of Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Carmel Beach Hotel, a member of the award-winning Mirabel Hotel and Restaurant Group, boasts 26 guestrooms and suites across seven historic buildings. Each room is thoughtfully designed to reflect the unique charm of Carmel, creating a harmonious balance between contemporary elegance and coastal authenticity. Michelin-star awarded Chef Justin Cogley is the creative mastermind behind the curated epicurean offerings, with a menu that showcases locally sourced ingredients for festive fare. Carmel Beach Hotel beckons travelers seeking both relaxation and exploration, making it an ideal destination for those seeking to embrace the captivating allure of Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Le Petit Pali, a Bespoke Bed and Breakfast: With two locations in the picturesque village of Carmel-by-the-Sea, Palisociety’s Le Petit Pali emerges as an oasis of tranquility for discerning travelers seeking an intimate escape. The two properties (Le Petit Pali at 8th Ave and Le Petit Pali at Ocean Ave) feature a selection of thoughtfully designed suites that combine new-age elegance with classic charm, in a combined 58 room total. Each suite is appointed with plush amenities, from a daily Continental Champagne breakfast featuring pastries from Rise + Roam Bakery to house bicycles and Diptyque products available for guests.
Beyond the refined accommodations, Le Petit Pali offers personalized concierge services to cater to every guest's needs, whether they desire to explore the scenic wonders of Carmel-by-the-Sea, indulge in culinary delights at renowned local eateries, or simply unwind and bask in the unparalleled beauty of the Pacific coastline. With its prime locations and dedication to providing an unforgettable experience, Le Petit Pali sets a new standard for boutique hospitality.
La Playa Carmel and Carmel Lodge Reimagined: In addition to the exciting new additions to Carmel's hospitality landscape, two beloved landmarks have undergone remarkable renovations, reaffirming their place as cherished gems in this coastal town.
Known as “The Grande Dame,” La Playa Carmel (soon to be La Playa Hotel), the historic mansion-turned-hotel that has hosted generations of travelers, has been meticulously restored to its former grandeur while modernizing the guest experience. The renovation project thoughtfully preserves the property's unique architectural character while enhancing guest comfort, and remains an enduring symbol of timeless elegance in Carmel. All 75 guest rooms have been upgraded, along with public spaces, furnishings, finishes, and the addition of HVAC, three new one-bedrooms suites, and custom-built “barmoires.” The property features over 6,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor function space and is the premiere hotel for meetings, retreats, and social events in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Stilwell Hotel (formerly Carmel Lodge) is embracing a comprehensive renewal to cater to the evolving needs of today’s travelers. The hotel’s reopening, planned for winter 2023, will offer 42 renovated rooms, upgraded facilities, and a warm ambiance rooted in modern elegance. A versatile indoor space with up to 100 seats seamlessly opens out into an enchanting courtyard where guests can host events, meetings and celebrations against the backdrop of a 14 foot magnificent water feature. The outdoor patio area will be significantly expanded, offering guests the opportunity to enjoy custom-built fountains, fire pits, a rustic pizza oven, and intimate gathering spots, complemented by electric built-in heaters and natural stonework throughout. With these extensive enhancements, Stilwell Hotel’s revitalization reaffirms its position as a beloved destination for travelers seeking a peaceful retreat in Carmel's bustling downtown.
Guests can book directly with Carmel-by-the-Sea hotels and inns at carmelcalifornia.com.
