Villa Mara Carmel

We loved our stay here. I had Los Lobos and my friend stayed in Stillwater. The rooms are lovely--love the heated floor in bathroom. Stillwater would be a bit tight for 2, but not really hanging out in room much. It's in a quiet residential neighborhood a block from the beach. Although I could hear the waves standing on my lovely balcony, not really all night. The public areas are wonderful---lots of fire pits and places to sit and relax. The staff is thoughtful, kind and helpful. Really a perfect place to stay in Carmel!

We stayed at Villa Mara for three nights, in early July, as part of a California road trip from the UK. The quality of accommodation, breakfast, and service here is truly stunning. Honestly, the images on their website don’t fully do it justice. Our room was Lobos, with a sea view and balcony. Room is super comfortable. Breakfast is very hearty, a good start to the day. You are very near the beach and I’d recommend a walk along there is a beautiful quiet beach if you all to the left on the seafront, the beach toward the town is more crowded but still excellent! You are about a mile walk from central Carmel which is great, you can view some of the stunning properties or if not, an Uber is a cheap/quick alternative. Yes, it’s expensive, but wow what a place!

VM is quite simply the most exceptional property I have ever been to for leisure. The rooms, the cosy communal spaces, the design, the team, and the location—every detail is breathtaking. It’s hard to put into words how special this place is. It recently received a Michelin Key, and for good reason(s). The design of the hotel is incredibly thoughtful. Every corner feels whimsical, yet organic to its surroundings, and exemplifies quiet luxury. The aesthetic of the property—from the multiple firepits/places to the brilliant, manicured landscaping—gives their guests an elevated feel while making them feel right at home. The place is insanely pristine. Sheets, towels and bathrooms are immaculate, bright and crisp. The menu features the most delectable bites from local restaurants and bakeries in town. My favorite was the spinach quiche and the evening cake service (daily serving of a fresh cake for all guests to enjoy!) The team at VM consists of the most hospitable, well-versed and simply kind group of humans in the industry. They have a remarkable way with connecting with their guests that I have yet to experience at any other hotel. I felt so comfortable expressing any and all needs. They were prompt and interesting proactive (Huge!)—offering to make reservations and fulfilling any requests we had. They were deeply caring and attentive. The location is a stone’s throw away from Carmel Beach. Every step of my daily walk was idyllic. It’s a few steps away from a historic Frank Lloyd Wright home (I believe called the Clinton Walker House), which you should certainly stroll by if you get the chance. Every house you’ll walk past feels out of a fairytale novel. The hotel is nestled in a quiet and quaint neighborhood, but a mere 6-8 minute drive into the town where they have luxury and boutique shopping and dining alike—best of both worlds. Simply put, I’ll be back. In fact, I booked my next stay before I event left! Incredible experience!

Villa Mara...seriously, what can be said about this place that can do the full experience justice? From the moment we arrived to our room, we knew we had to stay at this hotel longer (which was no issue for the staff, "it happens all the time"). The level of hospitality that the staff offers is second to none. They ask about your plans for the day and are genuinely invested and will even follow up with you at the end of the day to see how it went. We could have stayed cozy all day in the main room with a book, the fireplace, and the best coffee. Instead, we took Roque's suggestion for a steakhouse and Robert's suggestion for a tasting room. After that, we knew we were in good hands with anything else they recommended. In the early evening, you could post up by a fire pit with a drink and some chips before you take on the night. At night, they offer cake that you better take them up on. And it goes great with a cocktail (try the Pete's Word, Jonathon's specialty). As for the room, it was spotless and the bed was comfortable. The service was prompt - we would step out for breakfast and come back to a clean room. They also did a turn-down service which was wonderful to come back to after a long day. All in all, this place was a 10/10. Kudos to George and the rest of the team for putting together such a great experience for my wife and I. We can't wait to come back.

For the second time, we had the best time. My husband and I went with our two small dogs for my birthday, and we were once again so impressed with the accommodations, service, and amenities. Thoughtful little personal touches really made us feel welcomed and pampered. Sincere thanks to George, Rocky and the entire Villa Mara team. We look forward to seeing you again!

Villa Mara was an unexpected surprise! Lovely small hotel with upscale accommodations. The location was great closer to the ocean than the bustling downtown Carmel area. It is a warm, cozy, quiet retreat with plenty of indoor & outdoor relaxing spaces. The staff are all very attentive & friendly from check-in to check-out. We loved Villa Mara & would definitely stay again if we returned to Carmel by the Sea.