The 2026 Luxury Edit
Best 5-Star Hotels in the Monterey Peninsula
The Monterey Peninsula offers refined coastal escapes in several distinct flavors. Travelers worldwide visit Carmel-by-the-Sea, Pebble Beach, and Carmel Valley for their world-class scenery and amenities. It’s no surprise, then, that there are exceptional hotels throughout the region. However, for the frequent visitor, the question often shifts from "Where should I stay?" to "Why am I renting when I could own?"
The Economics of Luxury
When you frequent the Peninsula, the cost of luxury lodging rivals the cost of ownership.
Avg. 5-Star Suite Rate
- 14 Nights = $25,900
- Zero Equity Built
- Subject to Availability
Est. Mortgage ($3.5M Estate)
- Builds Equity Annually
- Tax Advantages
- Always Available
Five-Star Hotels
L’Auberge Carmel
Located at Monte Verde at Seventh Avenue in Carmel-by-the-Sea, L’Auberge Carmel is a 20-room hotel built in 1929 and now operated under the Relais & Châteaux brand. Guest rooms feature antique furnishings, four-poster beds, and heated floors. The architecture delivers a polished European feel in a compact footprint.
Dining is anchored by the Michelin-recognized Aubergine. Because the hotel is small and centrally located, you’ll be within walking distance of Carmel Beach and downtown galleries.
Real Estate Context: L'Auberge sits in the heart of the "Golden Rectangle." If you love this European, walkable vibe, view available cottages in the Golden Rectangle here.
Villa Mara Carmel
Located steps from Carmel Beach, Villa Mara Carmel is a 16-room boutique retreat blending California coastal design with refined, residential-style comfort. Recently reimagined, the property features warm natural materials and serene outdoor gathering spaces. Offering both intimacy and sophistication, Villa Mara provides an elevated experience ideal for travelers seeking design-forward accommodations.
Real Estate Context: Villa Mara exemplifies the "Carmel Point" lifestyle—larger lots, quieter streets, and direct beach access. Explore Carmel Point Estates.
Bernardus Lodge & Spa
Found in Carmel Valley, Bernardus Lodge & Spa deserves consideration among luxury stays. The lodge provides spacious suites, a full-service spa, and on-site golf. Large outdoor terraces overlook vineyards, and rooms include fireplaces and soaking tubs. This property appeals if you’re willing to stay slightly outside the village for more space and sun.
Real Estate Context: Carmel Valley offers a sunnier, warmer climate than the coast. It is the preferred choice for buyers wanting acreage and vineyard views. Search Valley Homes.
The Lodge at Pebble Beach
Located along 17-Mile Drive, The Lodge at Pebble Beach is one of the most recognized luxury properties on the Monterey Peninsula. Built in 1919, it overlooks the iconic 18th hole of the Pebble Beach Golf Links. Guests have access to the Spa at Pebble Beach, the Beach & Tennis Club, and the equestrian center.
Real Estate Context: Staying at The Lodge is iconic; living on 17-Mile Drive is a legacy. Properties here offer front-row seats to the world's best golf. View Pebble Beach Inventory.
Casa Palmero at Pebble Beach
Casa Palmero, adjacent to The Lodge, provides a more secluded counterpart within the Pebble Beach portfolio. With only 24 rooms and suites, it focuses on discretion and calm rather than activity. The Mediterranean-inspired property features stucco walls, tiled courtyards, and vine-covered archways.
The Inn at Spanish Bay
Situated among the dunes along the 17-Mile Drive coastline, The Inn at Spanish Bay merges contemporary resort comfort with direct access to golf. Guest rooms are spacious, including fireplaces and private balconies overlooking the ocean or fairways. Each evening, a lone bagpiper walks the course as the sun sets.
Four-Star Hotels
Hyatt Carmel Highlands
For dramatic ocean-and-cliff views outside the village, Hyatt Carmel Highlands delivers high standards along the Pacific Coast Highway. Rooms and suites face the sea, many with balconies. This property suits travelers seeking scale, sweeping views, and resort features.
The Hotel Carmel
Found on Mission Street near the center of town, The Hotel Carmel offers a modern reinterpretation of coastal cottage style. The location gives direct walkability to restaurants and boutiques. You trade resort scale for village access and pedestrian convenience.
