Check into any of these nine hotels and you won’t want to check out.
POST RANCH INN
Post Ranch Inn is truly a sanctuary for the soul. Precariously perched high atop the cliffs and 1,200 feet above the Pacific Ocean, this retreat is where you can escape the real world. The 41 architecturally-innovative guest rooms, suites and private homes run the gamut from cozy to sprawling, each one offering a unique, luxurious experience with vistas of ocean or mountain scenery. We understand how hard it is to leave these well-appointed accommodations, but you’ll want to do so to enjoy the two infinity-edge, cliff-top hot basking spas that are kept at a constant 102 degrees, available 24/7 and boasting expansive panoramas that meld sea and sky. We particularly love that this property is as kind to the environment as it is visually stunning.
47900 Highway One, Bit Sur, 831-667-2200
BERNARDUS LODGE AND SPA
Step into the lobby of the newly-renovated Bernardus Lodge, set on 28 sweeping acres of lavender and vineyards, and you may ask yourself if you’re really in Carmel Valley. From the dramatic chandeliers to the abundance of glass, this aesthetically-pleasing resort that reopened in April after a four-month, multi-million transformation sets a new style standard. You’ll go gaga over how open and inviting this rustic-chic ranch estate now is after the contemporary redesign that brings the outside inside. You’ll also find custom furnishings and dream baths for two in the 57 swank guestrooms and suites, all of which flaunt fireplaces and radiant-heated bathroom floors. For the ultimate experience, book the Vintner’s Suite, which includes a full kitchen and parlor. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a glass of Bernardus wine!
415 West Carmel Valley Road, Carmel Valley, 831-658-3400
THE LODGE AT PEBBLE BEACH
Standing as proud as a peacock, The Lodge at Pebble Beach is the place to stay when you want to be closest to the action of the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. Add to that the storied past of this legendary resort that opened its doors in 1919, and you’ll understand why it’s the hotel of choice for those with discriminating taste. The oceanside setting provides a glorious backdrop to the hotel whose offerings include arguably the best public golf course in the country, a world-class spa, tennis court and dazzling scenery. Despite having a whopping 161 rooms—book a deluxe ocean view suite to better enjoy your stay—the hotel offers highly attentive and personalized services.
1700 17-Mile Drive, Pebble Beach, 831-624-3811
CARMEL VALLEY RANCH
Prepare for Carmel Valley Ranch to bring out the youth in you. This playful, summer camp-inspired resort with rolling hills, vineyards and ancient oaks spread over 500 acres is rustic elegance at its best. A bevy of activities, including golf on a Pete Dye-designed course and an equestrian center, await the active traveler. Soak up fabulous valley and vineyard views from the outdoor living rooms at the 30 indoor-outdoor guest suites and studios that are set to open in July, which feature indoor-outdoor fireplaces, day beds and concrete soaking tubs. Double your fun in the Carmel Suite, a two-bedroom haven with a wraparound deck. In the evening, roast s’mores poolside and mingle with other guests who will undoubtedly be as happy as you are for having chosen this haute getaway spot. 
One Old Ranch Road, Carmel, 831-574-5570
VENTANA INN & SPA
Ventana Inn is where you can become one with nature. Weathered-cedar buildings delight at this tucked-away, woodsy-chic lodge on 243 acres of rolling meadow and wooded hillsides. Ensconce yourself in one of the 59 beautifully-appointed rooms or suites [there are also two houses] that features patios with sweeping views of the surrounding redwoods, mountains, canyons or sparkling ocean off in the distance; some have oversize soaking tubs and outdoor hot tubs. This is where you can curl up in a hammock, support local artists and artisans at an onsite art gallery and partake in a daily afternoon wine and cheese reception. This adults-only resort features two swimming pools, one clothing optional, both open 24 hours. The self-guided hiking trails are a magical way to throughly enjoy this retreat.
48123 Highway One, Big Sur, 831-667-2331
CASA PALMERO
Overlooking the first and second fairways of Pebble Beach Golf Links, this sophisticated and intimate Mediterranean-style estate that was once a private home features 24 rooms and suites, each with a wood-burning fireplace and fresh flowers delivered daily. The Palmero Suite, with its private courtyard entry, in-ground hot tub on the patio, dining area and huge master area that includes a shower big enough to throw a party in, is perfect for entertaining. This accommodation also puts you just steps from The Spa at Pebble Beach. Spend time in the authentically-restored main house, where a plush living room with a piano, library, billiards room, bar and lounge provide social areas.
1518 Cypress Drive, Pebble Beach, 831-622-6650
L’AUBERGE CARMEL
The proximity of L’Auberge Carmel to Carmel Beach and Carmel-by-the- Sea’s restaurants and shops is a terrific perk, but the main reason you’ll want to stay at this historic Relais & Chateaux property is the European-style and elegance. Originally built in 1929, this 20-room hotel is known for its graceful architecture and personalized guest services. Those who appreciate romantic old-world charm mixed with the luxury of modern amenities will be in heaven. Each room is uniquely designed and features the finest fabrics and linens, not to mention enlarged bath areas with radiant floor heating. Some have Japanese tubs and others have oversized freestanding baths that allow you to stretch out and have a true “Calgon hour.”
Monte Verde Street & 7th Avenue, Carmel-By-The-Sea, 831-624-8578
THE INN AT SPANISH BAY
Fronted by Scottish-style golf links, The Inn at Spanish Bay is famously known for the enchanting bagpiper who serenades at sunset. Enjoy the sounds as you gather around a fire pit after a leisurely stroll along the winding boardwalk that takes you past sandy beaches and hidden coves. Of the 269 rooms, you’ll want to book the Spanish Bay Suite for the ultimate in space and seclusion. Overlooking the Del Monte Forest, this refuge boasts a parlor, dining room that seats 10, service area, patio, gas fireplace and grand piano. Reserve an oceanview room to enjoy the amazing views from the first fairway.
2700 17-Mile Drive, Pebble Beach, 831-647-7500
QUAIL LODGE & GOLF CLUB
Sir Michael David Kadoorie’s Quail Lodge & Golf Club, nestled on 850 acres and home to The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, reopened in 2013 after a $28 million renovation to the hotel and golf course. You’ll love the revamped rooms with their beautiful California ranch décor, especially the impressive Fairway Villa Suite with a fireplace, secluded outdoor patios and a posh 700-square foot parlor with fireplace seating, living room, dining table and powder room. Recently opened is the refined and modernized 18-hole Robert Muir Graves-designed golf course. With its manmade lakes where mallards flock, trellised walkways and gorgeous landscaping throughout, this beloved property sparkles.
8205 Valley Greens Drive, Carmel, 831-624-2888
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