THE GRAND DAME OF CARMEL

Voted Best Hotel on the Monterey Peninsula

Preserved for history, modernized for today.

Once a luxurious mansion built in 1905 by an artist as a gift to his wife, a member of the Ghirardelli family, for over 100 years La Playa Carmel resort has been known as the “Grande Dame of Carmel.” Newly restored, this 75-room historic hotel is located just steps from the sands of Carmel Beach and the renowned shops, galleries and restaurants of charming Carmel-by-the-Sea. The cornerstone of one of California’s most prestigious neighborhoods, this landmark Carmel Hotel features meticulously tended gardens, intimate patios, secluded courtyards and a tranquil terrace swimming pool.

Our History

Trending on TripAdvisor

We were treated like royalty…The room, the food, and especially the staff were the best.

travelerstimestwo, Rancho Palos Verdes, California

Guests are delighted to receive a champagne breakfast each morning (with made-to-order hot items), sangria hour, wine-tasting hour and freshly baked cookies in the evening.

mwbaus, Los Angeles, California

The best part of our stay was probably the breakfast buffet…We had our fill of eggs, potatoes, prosciutto, oatmeal, and coffee.

Andrea A, Santa Cruz, California

Luxury Carmel Hotel Rooms

Charm and romance amidst the sights and sounds of the Pacific.

The new La Playa Carmel features 75 guest rooms with spectacular ocean, garden or estate views.
Reflecting a sophisticated beach cottage style, each hotel room is as unique as its past, yet modernized for today.

Premium Ocean View

Wake up and indulge in dramatic ocean views from the upper floor of the hotel.

Ocean View

Open plantation shutters and experience the sights and sounds of the Pacific and lavish gardens below.

Garden Patio

Step out and take a seat on your patio overlooking award-winning gardens.

Traditional

Take in views of the hotel’s lush grounds and secluded courtyards.

Poolside Casita

Enjoy an oversized guest room and fireplace after a dip in the pool located right outside your door.

Village

Rest comfortably on a plush pillow-top mattress with the village of Carmel-by-the-Sea just a short stroll away.

Dining

Perfection prepared daily.

The culinary experience at La Playa Carmel is sure to please even the most discerning palate with a sumptuous Champagne Breakfast Buffet or libations and light fare in the historic Bar and Lounge. The extraordinary culinary team also prepares a wide range of customized catering menus for groups, meetings, weddings and other special events unmatched by other Carmel restaurants.

Champagne Breakfast

Savor a robust Champagne Breakfast Buffet served in the Library.

Light Fare

Join us daily for light fare and tantalizing appetizers.

The Bar

Unwind after a day of activities with a libation at the historic Bar and Lounge.

Meetings & Events

A place to unite, inspire and innovate.

Experience a grand event in an intimate setting amidst lush gardens, soaring cypress trees and sounds of the Pacific. From executive retreats to events up to 200 attendees, La Playa Carmel offers state-of-the-art facilities, unparalleled cuisine and attentive service.

Meetings & Events

As the birthplace of the Macintosh Computer, La Playa Carmel is the ultimate getaway for meetings & corporate retreats.

Request a Proposal

Contact our specialists to plan your next meeting, wedding or social event.

Weddings

A History of Romance

La Playa Carmel, originally designed in 1905 by an artist for his wife, still resonates an aura of romance and old world charm. From the lush gardens and hand-laid brick patios, to the stunning views and ambient sounds the Pacific, your wedding will be full of new memories infused with old world charm.

Coordinating everything from flower arrangements and table settings to entertainment, meals and accommodations, your La Playa Carmel Wedding Specialist will assist you with all of your planning needs. Whether planning a garden reception or a serene beach ceremony, the wedding locations at La Playa Carmel provide the perfect setting for an unforgettable wedding.

Choose from our many beautiful wedding locations, including:

Courtyard – An enchanting garden setting for a grand ceremony or reception
La Playa Patio – Perfect for intimate outdoor affairs amidst the award-winning gardens
Pacific Room – Spectacular ocean views and rustic architecture provide the perfect backdrop
Garden Room – Picturesque views of the hotel’s lavish gardens and the Pacific Ocean
Fireside Room – A charming setting for small events featuring a private fireplace

Testimonials

“La Playa was the perfect venue for us and our visions and dreams came to life right before our eyes – it was PERFECT!” ~ Jen & Aron
“The wedding day was perfect, and we were told by countless guests that our wedding was the best wedding they’d ever been to.” ~ Katie

For more information about our wedding venues, or to schedule a private consultation and tour of La Playa Carmel, please contact our Wedding Specialists at 831-293-6109 or request a proposal here.

*Masthead photo by Heidi Borgia Photography

Hotel Packages & Specials

Plan your escape to Carmel with simplicity.

Whether it’s an extended weekend or overdue getaway to the Monterey Bay, La Playa Carmel provides the best of all worlds.

Wine Tasting

Enjoy an exceptional wine tasting experience in downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Romance

Let us set stage for love in Carmel with a luxury getaway.

Beach Picnic

Stroll to famous Carmel Beach and dine with your toes in the sand.

Location

Explore the culture and charm of Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Visit “Big Sur Island“

Located in the hub of activity for which Carmel is known, La Playa Carmel places serene beaches, unique art galleries, fine restaurants, and scenic beauty at your doorstep.

Carmel-by-the-Sea’s Ocean Avenue – Conveniently located steps from La Playa Carmel, enjoy dining and shopping at world-class restaurants, boutiques, art galleries, and wine tasting rooms.
Carmel Beach – Just two blocks away, La Playa Carmel is closer to the sand than any hotel in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve – This crown jewel of the California state park system can be found just three miles from La Playa Carmel with its spectacular ocean views, diverse marine and wildlife, and unparalleled hiking trails.

Carmel Valley Wineries – Spend a day touring the local wine country, and sample some of California’s highly acclaimed varietals.
17-Mile Drive – Travel along a picturesque road, and experience sweeping ocean views and intriguing mansions. An entrance to the route is just six blocks from the hotel.
Golf at Pebble Beach – The stunning signature holes and breathtaking scenic beauty have led many to consider this iconic course America’s greatest.

Discover the Area