Vibe
Perched on a pine-covered hillside above the Pacific, this historic cliffside retreat overlooks the rocky shores of Point Lobos.
“Historic cliffside perch”
Operating above the Pacific since 1917, originally founded as Highlands Inn by Carmel co-founder J. Franklin Devendorf.
A coastal fixture since 1917 where generations gather for sunset drinks and weddings overlooking Point Lobos.
Hillside rooms set in coastal pine groves serve Monterey Bay seafood and regional wines beside Point Lobos.
On Carmel Highlands hillside pine groves, overlooking the Pacific coastline and Point Lobos State Natural Reserve.
Rooms
Accommodations feature in-room fireplaces and private balconies or patios looking out toward coastal pine groves or the Pacific ocean.
Wellness
Three outdoor whirlpool hot tubs hide among the hillside garden paths alongside a heated outdoor swimming pool and spa treatment rooms.
Backstory
Opened in 1917 as Highlands Inn, the property was established by Carmel-by-the-Sea co-founder J. Franklin Devendorf.
Eat & drink
Pacific's Edge serves sustainable regional seafood across a heated glass-paneled deck, while the Sunset Lounge pairs cocktails with live piano music.
The neighborhood
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve sits just up the coast, with rugged hiking trails and marine wildlife viewing minutes away.
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The app
This is one hotel. The app has every one we rate, in your pocket, for the whole trip.
Our shorthand
What makes a hotel special, how well they pull it off, and what it feels like outside the door.
How well they pull it off
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
They did this well. You’ll notice.
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Architecture and interiors lead. There’s a creative vision at work.
The guest is conspicuously well cared for. Requests met before they’re made.
Rooted in place. Local character runs through the whole stay.
Energy and scene. Where the city goes out, whether or not it’s sleeping here.
A building with history. The story of the place is part of the stay.
Built around feeling better. Rest, sweat, soak, spa.
A hotel the city grew up with. Same rituals, same regulars.
A world of its own. No reason to leave the property.
Scene — what’s outside the door
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
A place apart: the property is the destination.