Carmel-By-The-Sea’s Hotel Carmel Charms

Photo Credit: Sara Swiger

Carmel’s charm is undeniable. From the storybook quality of each building and storefront, to the ocean views along the coastal walk, a weekend in Carmel refreshes and rejuvenates. Spend that weekend at the newly remodeled Hotel Carmel and reap the full effects of a classic Carmel get-away. Located in the heart of Carmel village just blocks from sister property La Playa Carmel, Hotel Carmel is a cozy home base for exploration and a stone’s throw from the shops, galleries, tasting rooms, and restaurants that lure visitors to the area.

Formerly The Dolphin Inn, the freshly refurbished boutique hotel blends classic Carmel-by-the-Sea cottage architecture with modern seaside aesthetics and was designed by LA-based Bishop Pass Design. The area’s ever present coastal fog calls for elements of warmth, which are delivered in spades in the form of a courtyard fire pit and fireplace, a concealed courtyard Jacuzzi, and fireplaces in 14 of the 27 rooms. Pillowy soft beds and bedding further ward off any chill in the air. Big Sur coastal photography by Matt Schwartz of ‘She Hit Pause’ is displayed throughout the property.

Photo Credit: Sara Swiger

Managed by Classic Hotels & Resorts, Hotel Carmel is the second creative concept executed by surfer and adventurer turned boutique hotel developer John Grossman, whose personal and vast collection of cassette tapes graces one wall of the hotel’s welcoming lobby. Peruse the choices, pop your favorite into the vintage cassette player, and take a trip down music memory lane as you enjoy a glass of complimentary wine with fellow travelers after a day of sight-seeing. Wind down further with a game of backgammon or select a book from the lobby’s lending library. Return to the lobby each morning for fresh coffee, bagels, and delicious house made granola.

Photo Credit: Sara Swiger

The hotel’s onsite restaurant Brophy’s Tavern ensures that after a full day of activities, you needn’t trek further for superior cuisine. Serving possibly the best burger and cobb salad in town, Brophy’s is a casual and amiable Carmel favorite, where the pint glasses of the neighborhood regulars hang from the bar ceiling, and where you’ll find thousands of classic and vintage beer cans lining the interior. A refurbished juke box plays classic tunes and authentic sports memorabilia dots the walls. The vibe is warm, welcoming, and convivial.

If your wanderlust extends beyond enchanting Carmel village, Hotel Carmel’s staff has recommendations: Visit Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, the crown jewel of the California State Park system, just three miles away. Tour the area’s many wineries. Plan a golf game at the one of the area’s iconic courses. Or, simply relax, and let Hotel Carmel work its own unique charm.

Photo Credit: Sara Swiger