Carmel Highlands Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
Renovated
2025
Price
$$$
Outside the door
The brand
HyattHistoric cliffside perch
Perched on a pine-covered hillside above the Pacific, this historic cliffside lodge looks out over the craggy shores of Point Lobos.
Where it shines
Notable
Operating above the Pacific since 1917, founded by Carmel co-founder J. Franklin Devendorf as Highlands Inn.
Notable
A cliffside Monterey fixture since 1917 where generations gather for sunset drinks and coastal milestones.
Listed
Perched over Point Lobos, pairing coastal pine views with Monterey Bay seafood and regional California wines.
What they say
Also in AFAR.
The 48 rooms (including 11 suites) all have wood-burning fireplaces and views of either the property’s gardens or the craggy coastline.
Tucked away
A place apart: the property is the destination.
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve sits just up the coast along Highway 1, offering rugged trails and marine wildlife viewing.
The rooms
Rooms feature private balconies and warming fireplaces, framing views across the surrounding pine groves or the open ocean.
The water
Bring a swimsuit.
The pool and hot tubs
A heated outdoor pool and three secluded whirlpool hot tubs sit along stone paths among hillside pine groves.
Restaurant
Pacific's Edge
A heated glass-railed deck looks out over Point Lobos, serving sustainable Monterey Bay seafood and regional wines.
At the table
The Sunset Lounge pours craft cocktails beside a stone fireplace, with floor-to-ceiling glass and scheduled live jazz.
How it began
Founded in 1917 by Carmel co-founder J. Franklin Devendorf, the property began as the Highlands Inn for visiting artists.
Good to know
Stay here
Hyatt Carmel Highlands
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Carmel-by-the-Sea
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.