Carmel-by-the-Sea vacation rentals

Book unique homes, vacation rentals, and more on Airbnb

Top-rated vacation rentals in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Guests agree: these vacation rentals are highly rated for location, cleanliness, and more.

Superhost

Guest suite in Carmel-by-the-Sea

4.8 out of 5 average rating, 665 reviews

"Carmel Cabinesque" great winter rates!

Please read ENTIRELY before booking: 1bedroom, 1bath in Carmel Woods, centrally located off Highway 1 in Carmel Ca. This ATTACHED yet private suite feels like a cabin in the woods; featuring second level bedroom, living room, kitchenette (NO OVEN), free laundry access, SMALL bathroom w/shower, private deck. Perfect for two. Additional $25 per night for occupancy over 2 guests. 5 minute drive to downtown Carmel, Monterey-Pebble Beach; 10 to Monterey Airport, Cannery Row, Carmel Valley&Big Sur.

Nov 14 – 21

$141 per night
Guest favorite

Apartment in Carmel-by-the-Sea

4.87 out of 5 average rating, 819 reviews

Private romantic 1 br in Carmel Woods- love dogs

Dog friendly! Private entrance to 2 rm studio overlooking the forest w/ floor to ceiling windows. Queen memory-foam bed, bathroom w/shower & amenities, kitchenette w/ dishes, microwave/convection oven, burner, toaster, coffee.Far ocean view, sunsets, deck, gas grill. Quiet, fireplace, complimentary wood, free internet, TV, DVDs, LPS, All amenities. Beach towels/mats, ottoman/cot, free parking. Peaceful. Let us know about dogs when booking. note: ceilings are low in spots & there are some steps.

Jan 14 – 21

$117 per night
Guest favorite

Guesthouse in Pebble Beach

5.0 out of 5 average rating, 192 reviews

Short walk to the Lodge at Pebble Beach

The cottage is bright and cozy with its wood beams, wood floors and many windows. On sunny days enjoy the rays of sunshine coming through the windows, open the bedroom french doors and relax with a book and a glass of wine on the private, quiet terrace and let the world go by or sit by the french limestone fountain and listen to the soothing sound of water. In the evening or on rainy days, lounge in the living room area by a cozy fireplace and enjoy the peacefulness of your home away from home.

Apr 16 – 23

$675 per night

Popular amenities for Carmel-by-the-Sea vacation rentals

Stay near Carmel-by-the-Sea's top sights

Carmel by the sea354 locals recommend
Carmel Plaza24 locals recommend
Dametra Cafe67 locals recommend
Carmel Mission76 locals recommend
Carmel Bakery9 locals recommend
Sunset Center42 locals recommend

Carmel-by-the-Sea beach vacation rentals

Superhost

Cottage in Carmel Highlands

4.87 out of 5 average rating, 264 reviews

Cathedral Redwood Studio with loft

Nov 22 – 29

$171 per night
Guest favorite

Condo in Carmel-by-the-Sea

4.92 out of 5 average rating, 660 reviews

Flora Belle, Perfect Carmel-by-the-Sea Getaway

Sep 9 – 16

$218 per night
Guest favorite

Apartment in Carmel-by-the-Sea

4.89 out of 5 average rating, 162 reviews

Charming Studio in the heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea

Sep 2 – 9

$357 per night
Guest favorite

Guest suite in Carmel-by-the-Sea

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 235 reviews

GreyHavens studio, Carmel Highlands — NO FEES

May 6 – 13

$286 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Carmel

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 143 reviews

Isolation Retreat - ocean view & hot tub

Sep 8 – 15

$427 per night
Guest favorite

Apartment in Carmel-by-the-Sea

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 330 reviews

Le Bijou at Toujours Maison

Dec 3 – 10

$275 per night
Guest favorite

Apartment in Carmel-by-the-Sea

4.94 out of 5 average rating, 345 reviews

Heaven-scape by-the-Sea

Jan 15 – 22

$271 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Carmel

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 215 reviews

HawksNest Sanctuary DO NOT REQUEST, CONTACT US

Dec 22 – 29

$330 per night
Guest favorite

Vacation home in Watsonville

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 327 reviews

Magical & Romantic Beachfront Home at Pajaro Dunes

Nov 11 – 18

$295 per night
Guest favorite

Guest suite in Carmel

4.88 out of 5 average rating, 530 reviews

The Cottage Room in Carmel

Oct 6 – 13

$239 per night
Superhost

Guest suite in Pacific Grove

4.85 out of 5 average rating, 957 reviews

No shared space! Guest suite! PGLic#0405

Aug 25 – Sep 1

$155 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Pacific Grove

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 166 reviews

Endless Summer Home Steps To Lovers Point Beach

Dec 5 – 12

$505 per night

Carmel-by-the-Sea house rentals

Superhost

Home in Carmel

4.93 out of 5 average rating, 327 reviews

Big Sur Dream Home

Feb 10 – 17

$499 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Carmel-by-the-Sea

4.93 out of 5 average rating, 367 reviews

Elegant Carmel Cottage

Jun 7 – 14

$230 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Watsonville

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 615 reviews

Sunset Cottage

Nov 20 – 27

$231 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Pacific Grove

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 122 reviews

Beach Cottage - walk to ocean and restaurants

Jul 24 – 31

$460 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Pacific Grove

4.86 out of 5 average rating, 630 reviews

Cottage Retreat Steps from the Sea

Oct 29 – Nov 5

$307 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Pacific Grove

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 219 reviews

Adorable Sea House

Oct 11 – 18

$635 per night
Superhost

Home in Carmel-by-the-Sea

4.88 out of 5 average rating, 163 reviews

Cabin Nestled in Forested Canyon

Jun 13 – 20

$657 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Pacific Grove

4.91 out of 5 average rating, 264 reviews

Mermaid Crossing

Jan 20 – 27

$599 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Pebble Beach, Del Monte Forest

4.89 out of 5 average rating, 291 reviews

Cozy Home with Ocean View

Sep 15 – 22

$447 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Santa Cruz

4.89 out of 5 average rating, 472 reviews

Town-and-Nature

Sep 15 – 22

$87 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Watsonville

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 107 reviews

Copper Nest beach retreat with stunning views

Nov 10 – 17

$508 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Pacific Grove

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 444 reviews

Pacific Grove Mid Century Near Beach

Sep 12 – 19

$321 per night

Beach house rentals in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Guest favorite

Home in Carmel

4.88 out of 5 average rating, 178 reviews

Now and Zen - Tranquility ( Luxury Rental)

May 5 – 12

$599 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Pebble Beach

4.93 out of 5 average rating, 105 reviews

Pebble Beach Hideaway

Mar 5 – 12

$543 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Castroville

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 165 reviews

Oceanfront Retreat w/Private HotTub

Sep 7 – 14

$864 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Aptos

5.0 out of 5 average rating, 167 reviews

Aptos Beachfront House

Jan 22 – 29

$364 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Monterey

4.89 out of 5 average rating, 120 reviews

Monterey Bay Oasis on the Ocean!

Jul 23 – 30

$527 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Sand City

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 371 reviews

The Sea Glass Cottage

Aug 20 – 27

$589 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Pacific Grove

4.94 out of 5 average rating, 202 reviews

Charming Victorian Home Near Beach

Apr 8 – 15

$475 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Carmel-by-the-Sea

4.88 out of 5 average rating, 120 reviews

Light and spacious Carmel cottage

Sep 8 – 15

$479 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Pacific Grove

5.0 out of 5 average rating, 162 reviews

La Piccola Casa "The Little House" Lic. # 0446

Jan 22 – 29

$360 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Sand City

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 139 reviews

Monterey Bay,2 Story,Ocean View,Fire Place,WiFi,WD

Jun 27 – Jul 4

$746 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Pacific Grove

4.9 out of 5 average rating, 308 reviews

Pacific Grove, Pebble Beach, Carmel only 2-day min

Jul 15 – 22

$189 per night
Guest favorite

Home in Seaside

4.89 out of 5 average rating, 230 reviews

Charming Entire House With Free Parking on Premise

Nov 2 – 9

$222 per night

Quick stats about vacation rentals in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Total rentals

210 properties

Wifi availability

200 properties include access to wifi

Rentals with dedicated workspaces

90 properties have a dedicated workspace

Pet-friendly rentals

110 properties allow pets

Family-friendly rentals

150 properties are a good fit for families

Total number of reviews

6.1K reviews

Your guide to Carmel-by-the-Sea

All About Carmel-by-the-Sea

Situated on California’s scenic Highway 1, Carmel-by-the-Sea is a charming town filled with art galleries, boutique shops, and cottages that look like they came straight out of a fairy tale. For more than 100 years, the town located just outside of Monterey has attracted creatives from all over, contributing to its distinctly bohemian, laid-back vibe. Besides its gorgeous beaches, Carmel boasts a lively downtown where you’ll find big-name stores alongside specialty, family-owned businesses. Stop by an independent cafe located in a European-style courtyard from the 1920s, or sample locally made wines in a Tudor-style home-turned-tasting room.

You can also take a stroll around the Comstock Historic Hill District, which features a collection of storybook cottages full of odd angles and quirky architecture, and each month there is an Art Walk when local artists showcase their work. Head to the late 18th-century Carmel Mission at the edge of town and admire its creamy exterior and richly decorated rooms. While the town of Carmel is certainly idyllic, the best way to explore the area is to get out of it through a scenic drive along the coastline.


The best time to stay in a vacation rental in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Fall is one of the best times to visit Carmel, thanks to the warm, sunny weather that is perfect for exploring the nearby nature reserves and beaches. The temperature doesn’t fluctuate too much throughout the year, but it does take a little bit of a dip in winter, and you will see more rain from December to March, but this is the perfect time to visit if you’d like to explore the area with fewer people around. In the spring, the skies clear and bougainvillea blooms throughout town. The summer is the busiest season, and, though it never gets too hot, you will see almost no rain during this time. No matter what time of year you book your Carmel vacation rental, it is important to bring plenty of layers of clothing, as the weather can change quickly here.


Top things to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

This beautiful coastal reserve lies along the headlands of the Monterey Peninsula, home to rocky cliffs, white sand coves, and an array of hiking trails. The park has an incredibly diverse range of flora and fauna, including more than 20 species of land mammals, such as pocket gophers, bobcats, and grey foxes, as well as sea lions, red-shouldered hawks, and alligator lizards.

Monarch Grove Sanctuary

Just over 15 minutes north of Carmel-by-the-Sea, this enthralling sanctuary is one of the main southbound migration spots for Monarch butterflies. As you walk along the sanctuary's pathways, you can catch a glimpse of these fluttering orange and black beauties resting in the trees. The migration season generally lasts from mid-October until mid-May, but the Monarch Grove Sanctuary is a wonderful, tranquil place to visit all year round.

17-Mile Drive

Connecting Carmel to Monterey, 17-Mile Drive is one of the most scenic drives in California that features rugged seaside cliffs against the dark blue backdrop of the Pacific Ocean. Along the rocky coastline of the Monterey Peninsula, you’ll pass by the cities of Pacific Grove and Pebble Beach, as well as luxurious seaside abodes and the 250-year-old Lone Cypress that stands all by itself on a rocky outcrop.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How is the weather in Carmel-by-the-Sea?

    Carmel-by-the-Sea has a mild Mediterranean climate. During summer, temperatures average around 68°F (20°C), and in winter, it's about 57°F (14°C). Rainfall is common from November to April, and fog often blankets the town, especially in the mornings and late evenings.

  • What are some of the best things to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea?

    Popular activities in Carmel-by-the-Sea include strolling through the local art galleries, visiting the historic Carmel Mission Basilica, exploring the unique boutiques and shops, or relaxing on the pristine Carmel Beach. Nature lovers can also enjoy bird watching at Carmel River State Beach.

  • What is the best time of year to visit Carmel-by-the-Sea?

    The most popular time to visit Carmel-by-the-Sea is between April and October. During these months, the Carmel Art Festival in May and the Carmel Bach Festival in July are frequently suggested events for tourists.

  • What are the best places to stay in Carmel-by-the-Sea?

    Downtown Carmel, known for its charming cottages and bustling boutiques, is a popular area to stay. The beachside area, with its close proximity to Carmel Beach, is also often recommended. The outskirts of the town offer a quieter, more secluded setting.

  • What are the best places to visit in Carmel-by-the-Sea?

    Visitors frequently explore the quaint Carmel Village, the historic Tor House, and the beautiful Carmel Mission Basilica. Other popular places include the Carmel Art Association Gallery, and the breathtaking Point Lobos State Natural Reserve.

  • What are some hiking trails in Carmel-by-the-Sea?

    For lovers of nature, Carmel-by-the-Sea has several trails to explore. Point Lobos State Reserve provides trails with ocean views, while the Mission Trail Nature Preserve offers woodland walks. There's also the Scenic Bluff Path that showcases the beautiful coastline.

  • What are some family activities to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea?

    Families can explore the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History, take a scenic drive along the 17-Mile Drive, or spend a day at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. A trip to the Carmel Beach or a picnic at the Devendorf Park are also popular activities.

  • What are some of the best day trip ideas in Carmel-by-the-Sea?

    Popular day trips from Carmel-by-the-Sea include visiting the historic city of Monterey, exploring the world-renowned Big Sur coastline, or touring the vineyards in Salinas Valley. A boat trip to see the marine life around Monterey Bay is also often suggested.

  • What are the most popular amenities for House Rentals in Carmel-by-the-Sea?

    Enhance your stay in our House Rentals with the most popular amenities: over 20 homes with self check-in, over 40 homes with a bbq area, and more. Indulge in the ultimate retreat, tailored to your preferences.

  • Are there vacation rentals with a dedicated workspace in Carmel-by-the-Sea?

    Yes! Work meets play with ease at over 90 vacation rentals in Carmel-by-the-Sea featuring dedicated workspaces. Stay connected and productive in your home away from home.

Destinations to explore