Top Rated Accommodations in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Casa Palmero's richly landscaped grounds, trellised walkways and sun-drenched patios echo the gracious old-world European charm, elegance and serenity found in its 24 spacious, modern guestrooms and suites. Next door is a beautiful spa facility where guests can experience head-to-toe indulgence, and where couples can spend time together in an intimate and romantic setting. In addition to existing reiki and craniosacral therapy energy-balancing services, the spa adds acupuncture, the ancient Chinese therapy. There's also a library, billiards room and outdoor heated pool. The rooms are set in warm natural tones and you are pampered with slippers, robes and soaking bathtubs.

This Carmel Valley resort boasts star-rated dining, a wellness spa and outdoor heated pool. A limestone fireplace, 2-person soaking tub and down feather bedding are featured in each guest room. Monterey Bay Aquarium is 19 km away. Guests are welcomed with a gourmet snack basket, fruit bowl, fresh roses, and a complimentary "wine grotto" mini bar with Bernardus wines in their rooms. A flat-screen cable TV, iPod docking station and coffee machine are also provided. Lucia Restaurant & Bar boasts an extensive wine list and a menu that focuses on organic, local ingredients. The bar and lounge area provides a more casual menu and experience. The Spa at Bernardus offers marine-inspired massage services and body treatments in a spacious facility that includes locker rooms, sauna rooms, a fitness room and a juice bar. A warming room with fireplace, a meditation garden, a dipping pool and a reflecting pool are available for guest relaxation. A full-service beauty salon is also available. Two tennis courts are located on site. A croquet lawn and bocce court are offered for guest use. Garland Ranch Regional Park is 1.5 km away. Carmel Mission Basilica and Museum are 15.5 km away.

The Inn at Spanish Bay is set like a jewel on Monterey Peninsula, surrounded by some of the best golf courses in the world. This oceanfront hotel has won more than 15 awards from prestigious travel magazines and is counted among the 20 best golf resorts in the world. Choose from Garden View, Forest View and Ocean View rooms, and Governor's, Presidential and Spanish Bay Suites. Warm fireplaces, and views of Del Monte Forest, beautiful fairways and the craggy coast create an indelible experience. Its golf course called The Links at Spanish Bay is a world-renowned course, and hotel guests can also access five other golf courses and two members-only sports clubs in the vicinity. Choose to dine at one of the five on-site restaurants and savor exotic Hawaiian or Northern Italian food. Along with a loved one, admire the myriad shades in the sky during sunset, get pampered with luxury treatments at the hotel spa, and explore Pebble Beach's unique attractions. It is advisable to book tee times at the golf course well in advance before your stay here.

Currently owned by film star Clint Eastwood, Carmel's Mission Ranch has had a long and interesting history, transforming itself from a 160 acre ranch into a dairy farm, then into an officers' club, and finally into a hotel, which it remains to this day! Now spread across 22 acres, this scenic establishment still houses the old farmhouse and barn, a popular restaurant, a fitness center, six tennis courts and a lot of Old World charm. The 31 cozy accommodations include the Farmhouse, Bunkhouse, Hay Loft, Main Barn Rooms and more, ranging from moderately priced to expensive depending on the room.

One of the most romantic spots in all of California, this spectacular inn immersed in flowers and shrubbery, overlooks the Pacific Ocean crashing against the rocks directly below it. The rooms are as romantic as it gets: a stone fireplace, soft beige and pink colors, and a king-sized bed smothered in drapery. And, there are complimentary pink bathrobes. The atmosphere of the entire place will renew any passion you may have lost. Do not stay here without taking advantage of the hot tub outdoors on the terrace.

This inn, partly owned by Carmel resident and luminary Doris Day, is a local landmark. Its famous Mediterranean exterior and roof of red tile has landed it in many guidebooks. Inside, you'll find bright skylights, a spacious lobby, a library bar and a gorgeous fireplace. The rooms are luxurious, featuring a color scheme of whites, creams and yellows. The balconies offer incredible views of the beach that is within walking distance. It's a perfect combo of country comfort and city luxury.