Carmel Fairytale Cottages

Beaches - visit Carmel Beach, Carmel River State Beach, China Cove, Pebble Beach and Monastery Beach, and don't forget to walk along the rocky headlands seal spotting. These are beautiful white sandy beaches.

Sea Life - the rocky coastline is covered in sunbathing seals and sea lions, whales and dolphins play in the ocean and otters play in the shorelines. You are in Carmel Bay State Marine Conservation Area, Point Lobos State Marine Conservation Area and the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Discover more about conservation of precious marine animals at the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

The Carmel Mission Basilica - this basilica and buildings date from 1770 in distinctive Spanish colonial style. This is still an active place of worship and pilgrimage. You can visit the museum, courtyard and gardens as well as the basilica. Admire the thick adobe walls, red-tiled roofs, and graceful arches. This is now a National Historic Landmark. Just beautiful. Located at 3080 Rio Road, just 1 mile from Carmel Plaza.

Storybook Tudor Cottage - Carmel-by-the-Sea - California - USA

This fairytale Storybook Cottage was built by Hugh Comstock in 1928! It is a one-of-a-kind, cosy old world experience. Step back in time as you enter through the ancient oak trees and the stone paths. 1 bedroom and 2 bathrooms, ideal for 2 guests, a slice of authentic Carmel history. Are you sure there aren't fairies in the garden? 

'I could walk everywhere town, beach , food shopping, restaurants, very friendly neighborhood, shops, people very helpful.'

Tudor Comstock Cottage - Carmel-by-the-Sea - California - USA

This delightful cottage designed by fairytale architect Hugh Comstock in the 1920's is part of the rich Carmel history. With 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom this home is for 2 guests. Enjoy this quiet location with a private garden. Park you car in the driveway and then walk everywhere, you are so close to shops, cafes and restaurants of Carmel. Walk to the Mission Basilica and the beach, exploring the narrow lane ways of the town. Just dreamy.

'Fabulous property and location. The cottage is darling. The small space seems bigger due to the high ceilings and white walls. Quiet neighborhood and visits by hummingbirds and a little bunny enhanced the nice outdoor space. Landlord was very responsive and solved any minor issues very quickly. Would absolutely rent again.'

Edgebrook Cottage - Northwest Carmel - Carmel-by-the-Sea - California - USA

This classic 1926 fairytale cottage is nestled in a unique garden with a seasonal trickling creek. All of the charm of a quaint cottage with a fireplace and cosy accommodations for 7 guests in 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. A 6 minute walk to Carmel Plaza, so you can leave the car and walk everywhere.

'We all loved this enchanted little cottage and had a wonderful time. It’s beautifully furnished and so cozy, had everything we needed and so much more!'

Chez La Mer Cottage - Golden Rectangle - Carmel-by-the-Sea - Califorinia - USA

Located right in the centre of the village, this cottage has 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and welcomes 6 guests with a gourmet kitchen, fireplace and parking. Walk to the beach. Spacious deck, vaulted ceilings, hardwood floors add to the charm of this quaint yet comfortable home.

'Property was fully stocked with everything you could need. Well set up for cooking, games, etc. Location is perfect- walk to shops, restaurants, and the scenic trail. Beautiful home in a beautiful neighborhood. Our family of 4 adults all give it 10/10!'

Charming Carmel-by-the-Sea Cottage - Golden Rectangle - Carmel-by-the-Sea - California - USA

2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms sleeping 4 guests. On Casanova in the centre of the village. Walk everywhere from this leafy garden. Enjoy the outdoor entertainment areas at front and back. This is a historic board and bat Carmel Cottage now beautifully restored, with full kitchen, fireplace and cosy nooks.

'We recently spent two months in this lovely Carmel Cottage. This cottage is not only very comfortably decorated, has everything you'd need for your stay, but is also in one of the best locations in all of Carmel-by-the-Sea. The hosts are extremely responsive and considerate. We would highly recommend staying here and hope to be able to return soon.'

La Dolce Vita Cottage - Northeast Carmel - Carmel-by-the-Sea - California - USA

This cottage sits in a forest of pine, juniper and oak, in a lovely big quiet garden,it offers 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, ample space for 8 guests and a high quality amenity and decoration. Enjoy the outdoor seating areas, BBQ, and well-equipped kitchen. Close to everything.

'A quintessential charming and beautifully decorated Carmel cottage in a lovely peaceful setting. We’ve been married 41 years and this is the perfect romantic setting - like an Italian villette. Beautiful amenities, lots of sun exposure plus ample bright task lighting. The home is close to gorgeous walking paths, close to Ocean Avenue shopping and restaurants, Carmel Valley retail plus Monterey. Very quiet and so safe, lovely neighbors too. We were in the home for a month, working side by side, and really lived in it, cooking as well as basking on the front patio on warmest days. John and Karen really care about their guests - evident from the attention to the lovely decor to being responsive to our routine questions.'

Stone's Throw Cottage - Northwest Carmel - Carmel-by-the-Sea - California - USA

With 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms welcoming 7 guests this home offers a classic Carmel experience. Stone’s Throw is a historic English Tudor cottage build in 1925 and fully renovated and expanded in 2005 by award-winning architect David Martin. Historical details, luxurious fittings and plenty of space make this home a stunning escape haven. From the traditional English country gabled roof, to the vaulted ceilings and hand-plastered walls in every room, to the oak hardwood floors, you will love this home. Walk to the village and the beach.

'Fabulous house in perfect location. We had a wonderful time in this beautiful home. Very cozy and well appointed home. Highly recommend as it is close to down town and to the beach.'

Fairytale Cottage - Northeast Carmel - Carmel-by-the-Sea - California - USA

With accommodation for 5 guests in 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom, this 1925 home offers large gardens, exquisite features such as a turreted entrance, abundant paned windows, Dutch door with regional Carmel Stone entry and many luxuries. Close to the village and a walk to the beach.

'This is a beautiful Carmel cottage. You might as well be in the south of France. Loved every minute. Felt spoiled.'

Ship's Watch Cottage - Pacific Grove - California - USA

With 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms this historic home sleeps 7. Enjoy the porch, bay window, fireplace and parking. This Victorian cottage has a nautical theme, reflecting Monterey's shipping past. A few minute's drive to the aquarium, a 10-minute drive to Carmel village.

'Our family had a wonderful week! We loved sitting by the fire on the patio and there was plenty of room for all of us (6 adults, 1 baby, 1 dog)! The kitchen was well stocked so we could cook in, and the proximity to Lighthouse Ave was perfect when we wanted to walk to our meal instead. We'd gladly return for our next stay in Pacific Grove.'

Historic Cottage at the Cove - Lovers Point - Pacific Grove - California - USA

This building dates from 1884 and is one of the first Victorian homes built in the area. Fully renovated and comfortable with 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom ideal for a couple. Start the day on your front porch or in the rear garden. Just 1 minute's walk to Lovers Point. 8 minute drive to Monterey. 10 km or 6.2 miles to Carmel-by-the-Sea.

'Quaint Sea Cottage. Anyone with an appreciation for history and love of the ocean will most certainly enjoy their stay here! The cottage itself is a well-maintained Victorian sea cottage with plenty of charm and character and is within walking distance of a plethora of local shops and restaurants, and just a mile walk to Cannery Row. The host has made sure all of the comforts of home are available and detailed instructions for various things made everything easy to manage. We would definitely stay here again!'

Sea Foam Cottage - Lovers Point - Pacific Grove - California - USA

A romantic 1-bedroom cottage with 1-bathroom just a hop skip and jump from the sea. Enjoy the views and walks by the ocean. Close to both Monterey and Carmel. A few minute's walk to cafes and restaurants. Just 175 km or 110 miles from San Francisco Airport.

'Great cottage! Wonderful historic cottage which is a thoughtful combination of old charm and modern amenities. Perfectly located steps from Lovers Point which is an end point of the Monterey Coast bike/walk trail. You will love your stay!'

Sweet Pea - Pebble Beach - Carmel-by-the-Sea - California - USA

Pebble Beach is a gorgeous, luxurious location, this is a charming home just 2 minute's walk from the beach where otters play. Exquisitely finished with 4 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, room for 8 guests, enjoy terraces, sculptured gardens, space, peace and quiet. This home is light, bright and airy with high ceilings and French doors. Lovely fireplace, spacious kitchen. A 7-minute drive to the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

'Amazing stay! This charming home had everything we needed—comfortable, beautifully maintained, and just seconds from the beach. The location couldn’t be better. We felt right at home the moment we walked in.'

'Excellent place to stay. Cozy, classy, well appointed, well located. Beautiful.'

Molly’s Cove Cottage - Pebble Beach - Carmel-by-the-Sea - California - USA

With 3 bedrooms and 2 bathroom this stylish home welcomes 4 guests in the forest near the beach. Peaceful and quiet, with comfort and style. Enjoy the vaulted ceilings, large windows and spaciousness. Plenty of luxurious space to cook and entertain. A private and serene getaway haven. Walk to the beach. Drive 10 minutes to Carmel Plaza.

'Wonderful Home! This home away from home was immaculate! Plush white towels, crisp white bed linens, soft and white duvet covers, and spotless dishes/silverware made us feel right at home the moment we stepped inside. The views are gorgeous and the neighborhood is quiet. This home is everything you’d expect in a pebble beach home and more! It far exceeded our expectations and the complimentary bottle of wine, crackers, and cheese were an unexpected surprise. Highly recommended this home!'

Storybook Beach House – Pacifica – San Francisco

This cosy and private home offers 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and sleeps 8. Full kitchen, games room, outdoor seating area and charm. Just a couple of blocks to the beach. 10 km to airport.

'Gorgeous house, terrific location near the beach, clean, comfortable and the best rainwater shower I've ever had. Couldn't have been better!'

From San Francisco: Monterey and Carmel Tour

4.3 / 5 (96 Reviews)

'Great way to explore the areas of Monterey, Carmel and Pebble Beach without the pressure of driving. Lots of time to taste local cuisine and do a little shopping. The views were spectacular and the atmosphere very relaxed.'

Wine Tasting and Walking Tour of Carmel-by-the-Sea

3-hour walking and wine tastings at three hand-picked tasting rooms, history and insights of Carmel by knowledgeable local guide. 3 hours. A great tour to get your bearings about the village.

5 / 5 (13 Reviews)

'We loved this. Our guide was so knowledgeable and great at communicating the challenges of wine making around Carmel. He knew Carmel history and was able to teach me a lot even though I have been going to Carmel at least once a year all my life. I can't imagine anyone wouldn't love this and think it well worth the time and cost. He was very patient and gave us as much time as we wanted. This made our visit to this beautiful town special and memorable.'

Carmel-by-the-Sea Guided E-Bike Tour

Visit Carmel Mission, Mission Ranch
Clinton Walker House - Frank Lloyd Wright,
Robinson Jeffers Tor House, Downtown Carmel
Hugh Comstock Fairytale Cottages, Carmel Beach, Carmel River Beach with a local guide with the ease of an e-bike. 2 hours.

4.8 / 5 Tour provider rating

No reviews yet.

Fauna - keep an eye out for the grey spotty Harbor Seals on the beaches and rocks around this coastline. Aren't they just adorable?

Harbor Seal - Phoca vitulina

California Sea Lion - Zalophus californianus

California Sea Otter - Enhydra lutris nereis

Birds - gulls and cormorants can be seen hovering above the coastline, as well as these easy-to-spot species.

Common Murre -  Uria aalge

Brown Pelican - Pelecanus occidentalis

Great blue heron - Ardea herodias

Flora - take a walk to see the lonely cypress on Pebble beach.

Monterey Cypress - Cypressus macrocarpa

Coast Live Oak - Quercus agrifolia

California Goldenrod - Solidago californica

To arrive at Carmel-by-the-Sea in California, USA

• Fly into San Francisco Airport SFO
• Drive 178 km or 110 miles south, or choose the coast road, which is only a few miles more

Arrange your hire car for your journey, choose from petrol, electric or hybrid vehicles.

By Katia Luz, sharing my fairytale bush cottage, discovering enchanting, charming, whimsical cottages, cabins and cosy little places to inspire your dreams. Contact Me. About Me.

I trust you have enjoyed the magic of My Fairytale Cottage. Bon Voyage!