La Playa Carmel

Carmel-by-the-Sea is now a must-visit destination for us, thanks to La Playa. It’s the perfect place to relax. The staff is genuinely warm and welcoming, and the rooms are equipped with what I’d call a real minibar—thoughtfully stocked and convenient. For a couple, the room size felt cozy and just right. We actually decided to go last minute, and we were so glad we did. We ended up staying in two different rooms because we extended our stay on the spot. Both rooms were on a higher floor with beautiful ocean views. Falling asleep to the sound of the waves was incredibly peaceful—we absolutely loved it. The champagne breakfast buffet is a highlight and definitely recommended. The hotel is just two blocks from the beach and only a short walk from a variety of great restaurants. The entire atmosphere of the hotel is warm and inviting. Thanks to La Playa, our experience in Carmel was truly unforgettable!

Went to La Playa for a friends wedding. Easily one of the better hotels we have stayed at in some time. Cost doesnt always equal quality, but at La Playa it does. The grounds, rooms, breakfast, fresh baked cookies nightly, and excellent service are all top notch. Plus, its two blocks from town and the beach. Will 100% be back for special occassions.

I would give this hotel a 4.5. There was much to like especially if you like historic buildings and properties which remain in that style. The location is 2 blocks from the beach and very walkable to shopping and restaurants. They had a driver from 5 pm to take you and pick you up from town restaurants. Very helpful and convenient. The grounds were gorgeous with a beautifully landscaped garden and pool. and lots of public places to sit and relax. The bar, and dining areas nearby, including a terrace were lovely. Many locals used the bar area in the afternoon. (We were sitting there both times when they had dime drinks-- all drinks 10 cents for 10 minutes but must be paid for with a dime.) The champagne breakfast buffet in that same location was well done, with much selection including an omelet and waffle station and ample seating. The service was outstanding from all we encountered-- exceeding our expectations. The furnishings were within the style of the hotel, very retro looking. The beds were excellently furnished and very comfortable. Here is where they could use some improvement--there was no place to charge devices near the bed, no USB connection with only two outlets on the floor. This seems like something they could easily modernize. What cannot likely be modernized is the bathroom--it was really really tiny. Additionally the water in the sink took many minutes to warm up. The room was an ocean view king and was small but adequate with two chairs. Parking was easy to find on the street near the hotel, or on one occasion in a lot at the back of the hotel. We would stay again.

My friends and I had the most magical stay at La Playa. Not only is the hotel beautifully designed, but their staff was also top notch. The entire team was welcoming and willing to go above and beyond to make our visit perfect. Their Champagne breakfast was one of the best hotel breakfasts I've ever had. It's also centrally located and easy to walk to the beach or downtown shops and restaurants. Would definitely return! 10/10 experience.

A 3 night stay came out to $2200. Room was tiny, just a bed, no place to sit, nowhere to put luggage, and so close to street had to keep curtains shut. Breakfast buffet food was bad. Free champagne/booze at 10 am is not a draw, a decent latte would have been much better. No service by the pool. Property located at the bottom of a hill with a 1/2 mile trek downtown. This was not a high end hotel despite the price tag.