For truly spectacular oceanfront views and a luxurious hotel experience, try the Highlands inn, part of the Hyatt chain of hotels and resorts. The Inn bills itself as the "centerpiece of Carmel hotels" and Frommer's hails it for its "exclusive atmosphere" and having "plenty of character." Celebrities,from Madonna to Marlon Brando, are known for flocking to this glamorous yet intimate resort, situated on a 12-acre cliff above Point Lobos. Pleasure travelers have their pick of a dozen or so different suites, including those with ocean views; all feature wireless Internet, cable/satellite TV, movies on demand, soaking tub, in-room saf, and the Hyatt Grand Bed. Business travelers will love the well-appointed meeting rooms, all with views of the coastline.
Highlands Inn
120 Highlands Drive
Carmel, CA 93923
(831) 620-1234
highlandsinn.hyatt.com
Just a quick drive down the road from the Highlands Inn is the equally romantic Tickle Pink Inn. The inn takes its name from its former owners, the state senator Edward Tickle and his wife. Tickle Pink offers guests a magnificent yet intimate experience, from its lavish customer service to its specially chosen amenities. The rooms, each with its own private balcony that affords beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean, are tastefully designed and filled with opulent yet stylish furnishings and soothing color palettes. Room amenities include terrycloth robes, plush mattresses, flat-screen LCD TV and DVD library, and continental breakfast of homemade pastries and fresh orange juice. The higher-end suites also feature fireplaces and even a whirlpool tub. Guests also can choose to stay in the Senator's Cottage, with its Jacuzzi tub and spacious interior, for a true getaway.
Tickle Pink Inn
155 Highlands Drive
Carmel, CA 93923
(831) 624-1244
ticklepinkinn.com
The Cypress Inn is located just a few miles away in Carmel-by-the-Sea and offers a soothing Mediterranean atmosphere to business travelers and holiday guests alike. Famous for one of its co-owners, the acting legend Doris Day, the Cypress Inn is conveniently located in central Carmel, near plenty of galleries, restaurants and the beach. Guests have their choice of 44 rooms and suites in the two-story facility; amenities include a complimentary continental breakfast, fresh fruit and snacks, flat-screen TVs, turndown service and bathrobes. Gourmands will love the lunch and dinner menus as well as the traditional afternoon tea service, complete with fresh pastries, cookies and a wide selection of teas. Doris Day fans will especially appreciate the "Day Room," where films of the great musical actress are shown upon request.
Cypress Inn
Lincoln & 7th
P.O. Box Y
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93921
(800) 443-7443
cypress-inn.com
