Entire home

Romantic Escape by the Ocean - Walk to Town and Beach - It's a Dream House!

Holiday home with kitchen, 6-minute walk to Carmel Beach

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Sun-loungers - Romantic Escape by the Ocean - Walk to Town and Beach - It's a Dream House! (Carmel)
Interior - Romantic Escape by the Ocean - Walk to Town and Beach - It's a Dream House! (Carmel)
Dining - Romantic Escape by the Ocean - Walk to Town and Beach - It's a Dream House! (Carmel)
Interior - Romantic Escape by the Ocean - Walk to Town and Beach - It's a Dream House! (Carmel)
2 bedrooms, iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets - Romantic Escape by the Ocean - Walk to Town and Beach - It's a Dream House! (Carmel)
Welcome to a charming getaway in Carmel, where barefoot luxury meets historic charm. This 1920s cottage offers a treehouse-like back deck with birdsong serenades, while the interior features original pine plank floors and modern amenities like free WiFi and flatscreen HDTV. Guests can unwind on the romantic swing bench beneath an arbor or stroll through idyllic gardens filled with hummingbirds and flowering jasmine.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 4111 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Outdoor space
  • Parking available

Add dates for prices

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Romantic Escape by the Ocean - Walk to Town and Beach - It's a Dream House!

Welcome to our Carmel-by-the-Sea sanctuary — a storybook 2-bedroom cottage where time slows, ocean air cleanses, and every detail whispers comfort. Tucked behind a private garden gate, this historic home blends old-world craftsmanship with fresh, coastal elegance. Whether you’re sipping morning coffee with hummingbirds, curling up by the fire with a good book, or strolling to white-sand beaches and charming cafes, this is the kind of place where you arrive and instantly exhale.


WHAT TRAVELERS LOVE ABOUT OUR COTTAGE

Guests often tell us this cottage feels “like a dream you don’t want to wake from.” They rave about:

• The Best Sleep of Their Lives: Luxurious beds, Belgian linen duvets, and the gentle hush of ocean air create pure serenity

• Cozy Fireside Evenings: Curl up by the wood-burning fireplace with a novel or a glass of local Pinot

• Sunlit Mornings on the Deck: A peaceful retreat surrounded by whispering pines, trickling fountains, and the soft buzz of hummingbirds

• Sanctuary Gardens: Wander through flower-lined paths, listen to the fountain, or meditate among the cypress trees

• Unbeatable Location: It walk to everything - just a short stroll to downtown Carmel’s cafes, galleries, wine rooms, and boutique shops — and a short stroll down to the beach

• A Magical Host: Travelers often mention our attention to detail and warm hospitality — “It’s like staying with a friend who’s thought of everything.”

• Impeccable Cleanliness: Every corner gleams, maintained by one of the top-rated cleaning teams in Carmel.


ALL THE DETAILS

• Calm, Beautiful Interior Design

Step inside and feel an immediate sense of calm. The living room glows with natural light reflecting off whitewashed walls and original pine plank floors. Vintage wavy-glass windows and thumb latch hardware nod to the home’s 1920s heritage, while curated coastal décor and plush textures add an elevated, modern feel. Every space feels intentional, soothing, and quietly luxurious.

• Enchanting Gardens & Outdoor Spaces

Your private gardens are alive with color, fragrance, and birdsong. Relax on the sun-dappled back deck with morning tea, unwind by the fountain, or share wine beneath the twinkling lights of the patio. Guests say it feels like “a secret garden tucked within Carmel itself.”

• Fully Equipped Kitchen

The bright, well-stocked kitchen includes everything you need — from sharp knives and artisan tableware to high-end cookware and a three kinds of coffee makers. Whether you’re preparing a cozy breakfast or an elegant dinner, it’s designed to make cooking a joy.

• Sumptuous Bedding & Comforts

Both bedrooms feature hotel-quality mattresses, high-thread-count Egyptian cotton sheets, and Belgian linen duvets from Restoration Hardware. Fluffy down and hypoallergenic pillows ensure personalized comfort, so every night feels like a spa retreat.

• Impeccable Cleanliness

Our professional cleaning team — among the best in Carmel — uses premium, eco-friendly products to ensure the cottage is spotless and fresh. From crisp linens to polished floors, we prepare the home to five-star standards for every guest.

• Authenticity & History

Originally built in the 1920s, this is one of Carmel’s beloved storybook cottages — restored with respect for its history and comfort for today’s traveler. You’ll find original pine plank floors, wavy pane windows, and charming thumb latch hardware paired with modern amenities including high-speed business class Wi-Fi, smart TVs, streaming music, entertainment, and personal development programming.

• Our Commitment to the Environment

We believe that caring for this magical place means caring for the planet. We use refillable bulk cleaning supplies, LED lighting, and smart thermostats to reduce waste and energy use. Our guests’ stays have helped plant over 1,000 trees worldwide, and we sponsor the replanting of native Monterey Cypress trees right here in Carmel.

SOME FEEDBACK FROM PAST GUESTS

** About The Cottage **

“Fabulous! I have stayed in many different rental homes from Boston, Nashville, Hilton head, Colorado, etc. This by far was the most perfect. The owner/host, Barry, goes beyond your wildest expectations. He must love what he does because everything is thought out on every detail. Don’t pass this place up. I can’t wait to return.”

“A Little slice of heaven. What a gem! Charming, beautifully decorated, every amenity you could ask for. We just loved it!”

“This cottage is magical!!”

“Don’t walk but run to book this! The beds were so comfortable, the fireplace was dreamy. We absolutely loved this place and will be back again!”


** About The Host **

“Dearest Barry, thank you for touching our hearts and for sharing this magical place with us. Our hearts remain full from the love and grace of your beautiful soul touching ours."

"We have traveled quite extensively and I can say we have never received more gracious and thoughtful hospitality. Barry provides a 5 Star Concierge Level service equal to any luxury hotel or premium resort."

“Our time in your cottage was so memorable. We will always relish our stay at your cottage as if something greater than all of us has suspended it in time. I can still “feel” opening the gate and stepping down the stone entryway into nothing short of enchantment. I relive it often in grace and harmony remembering the creative journey you continuously and so beautifully have given to those of us who need a deep breath of peace. Thank you for who you are, all you’ve done and how you continue to contribute everyday of your life to others. You’re an angel on earth driven with universal guidance in more ways than just one. We adore you!”

*******************************
PLEASE NOTE: Due to town ordinance we accept only one booking per 30 day period.

Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach loungers

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Hob
  • Lobster/crab pot
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 2 bathrooms
  • Bathtub
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower/bathtub combination
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace
  • Living room
  • Separate dining area

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Music library
  • TV with cable/satellite channels
  • Video library

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Upper floors accessible by stairs only
  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Change of bedsheets (on request)
  • Housekeeping on request
  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • In a village
  • Near the sea

Things to do

  • Bicycle parking
  • Scuba diving nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • Fire extinguisher

General

  • At least 80% lighting from LEDs
  • Bed sheets changed on request
  • Bicycle parking
  • Bulk dispensers for toiletries
  • Eco-friendly cleaning products used
  • Eco-friendly toiletries
  • Energy-saving switches in guestrooms
  • Garden
  • Housekeeping (on request)
  • Local artist showcase
  • Locally-owned and organised tours and activities
  • Property does not allow children
  • Recycling
  • Unit size: 1,200 square feet
  • Water-efficient showers
  • Water-efficient toilets

Similar properties

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in and check-out are available
Minimum check-in age - 25

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out

Special check-in instructions

An adult aged 18 or older must assume all liability for the booking
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys
We try to minimize any clean up requirements so you can enjoy all of your time in Carmel! :)
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Pets

Pets not allowed

Children and extra beds

This property does not allow children

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts

Property is also known as

Steps to Town Beach. A Quiet Private Retreat. Ideal location
Steps to Town Beach. A Quiet Private Retreat. Ideal location.
724281

About the area

Located by the sea, this holiday home is in Golden Rectangle, a neighbourhood in Carmel. Pebble Beach Golf Links and Fisherman's Wharf are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Carmel Beach and Monterey Bay. Check out an event or a game at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, and consider making time for Monterey Bay Aquarium, a top attraction not to be missed. Take the opportunity to explore the area for water adventures such as scuba diving. Visit our Carmel travel guide
View more Holiday homes in Carmel
Map
Carmel, CA

What's nearby

  • Sunset Center showing theatre scenes and interior views
    Sunset Center
    2 min walk - 0.2 km
  • Carmel Beach which includes landscape views and a beach as well as an individual female
    Carmel Beach
    6 min walk - 0.6 km
  • GFB72N Carmel Plaza, Carmel-by-the-Sea
    Carmel Plaza
    7 min walk - 0.6 km
  • 17-Mile Drive featuring general coastal views and rocky coastline
    17-Mile Drive
    13 min walk - 1.1 km
  • Carmel Mission Basilica featuring religious elements, a church or cathedral and interior views
    Carmel Mission Basilica
    16 min walk - 1.4 km

Getting around

  • Monterey Station
    21 min drive
  • Monterey, CA (MRY-Monterey Peninsula)
    16 min drive

Restaurants

  • Carmel Valley Coffee Roasting Company
    6 min walk
  • Carmel Bakery and Coffee Company
    6 min walk
  • Pizza Heaven
    4 min walk
  • Alvarado Street Brewery & Bistro
    7 min walk
  • Il Fornaio
    7 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Romantic Escape by the Ocean - Walk to Town and Beach - It's a Dream House! pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at Romantic Escape by the Ocean - Walk to Town and Beach - It's a Dream House!?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Romantic Escape by the Ocean - Walk to Town and Beach - It's a Dream House!?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Romantic Escape by the Ocean - Walk to Town and Beach - It's a Dream House!?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Romantic Escape by the Ocean - Walk to Town and Beach - It's a Dream House! located?

Located in Golden Rectangle, this holiday home is within a 10-minute walk of Sunset Center and Carmel Beach. Galante Vineyards and Carmel Plaza are also within 10 minutes.

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Romantic Escape by the Ocean - Walk to Town and Beach - It's a Dream House! Reviews

Reviews

Exceptional

All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
More informationOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 99 out of 99 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 99 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 99 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 99 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 99 reviews

10

Cleanliness

10

Location

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Jeffrey S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Carmel'a Best

Perfection-- location, our welcome, comfort, communication during our stay. Could not be better! Five Stars!!
Stayed 8 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

DD M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Just lovely!

We had a wonderful stay at this lovely cottage. The home was absolutely spotless and Barry was the best host we’ve ever had! He was so responsive and kind. The location was perfect to explore Carmel downtown and the beach. Thanks Barry!
Stayed 7 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Pattie W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Little slice of heaven

What a gem! Cozy, beautifully decorated, every amenity you could ask for. We just loved it!
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent Location in Carmel

Clean & Cozy! Comfortable beds! Excellent communication with owner! We will definitely stay here again!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Adrienne W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic Week in Carmel

What an amazing week we enjoyed at the Lavender Cottage with our two kids! The cottage is magical and had everything we needed for our lovely week near (but not too near!) my parents & family. We had a super week and look forward to returning next year!
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Monica B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Magical place n the heart of Carmel

Wonderfully appointed property. Quintessential Carmel cottage with historic looking fireplace and cozy couches. We celebrated Christmas and Hanukkah here and it was lovely. Kitchen had everything we needed to cook and entertain and the twinkle lights added to the holiday spirit. The bedrooms were spacious and very comfortable beds. Will stay here again. The owner is super attentive and generous host.
Stayed 11 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Cathy C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect cottage

This cottage is so cute and in an ideal location! I would 100% stay here again. The host Barry went above and beyond with communication and fantastic surprises along the way. Don’t walk but run to book this! The beds were so comfortable, the fireplace was dreamy, the movies that he’s so thoughtfully had set up in advance or spot on.. We absolutely loved this place and will be back again!
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Amy F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cute cottage by the sea!

This was our first visit to Carmel. We loved the area , and location of the cottage. you can walk to shops, restaurants and the beach. Barry was a wonderful host. Very communicative, and has so many lovely touches to make your stay memorable and comfortable. The bedding was SO comfy! The area has so much to offer with Big Sur close by and so much more. We loved it so much, we rebooked another trip!
Stayed 7 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Paul L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Love, Lavender!

We loved our stay at The Lavender cottage, great vibe and location!! It was very well equipped, clean and well staged. Thank you Barry for welcoming us and making our stay so wonderful, you’re a fabulous host! See you again for sure. Paul, Patti, Ron & Mari
Stayed 10 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kelley F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best Rental Ever!

This cottage was, hands down, the best rental experience we have ever had. The cottage felt like our own, warm and inviting. Barry was the ultimate host. This cottage was perfectly located while still feeling isolated from town at the same time. We absolutely loved it and it was a perfect place for our home base. Thanks Barry!!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mark P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Hidden Gem

This property is fabulous. It has a quiet comfortable feel. with a mix it's glorious history, and the comforts of modern-day conveniences. The location is with-in walking distance of shops, restaurants and the beach. Barry's hospitality exceeded our expectations. Add in the special surprise treats that showed up from time to time, and our stay couldn't have been any better. We'll be back.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Susan R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Week in Carmel

The cottage is as fabulous as all the previous reviews indicate. Very clean and a great location. Well equipped kitchen. Barry is a great host. Many personal touches. Specially downloaded movies featuring Carmel and homemade cookies! We look forward to returning.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful Vacation Destination

After a difficult year of medical challenges, my wife and I choose to spend our vacation in the Lavender Cottage in Carmel by the Sea and it was an absolutely fantastic decision. The cottage is exactly as advertised and the reviews of Barry (the owner) were spot on. All the little things Barry did to make our stay comfortable were amazing and made our vacation memorable. The cottage and property were outstanding, the location is hard to beat and Carmel is now one of our favorite places to visit. We cannot more strongly recommend the Lavender Cottage to anyone looking for the "white glove" treatment - thanks for everything Barry.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Teila T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fabulous

I have stayed in many different rental homes from Boston, Nashville, Hilton head, Colorado, etc. This by far was perfect. The manager, Barry; goes beyond your wildest expectations. He must love what he does because everything is very thought out on every detail. This cottage is so charming we ate breakfast on the patio every morning. Don’t pass this place up.I can’t wait to return.
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Chryssa M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A gem!

We had the best time at this most adorable cottage! It was perfectly appointed and so incredibly comfortable and cozy. We loved everything about it from the delightful gardens and peaceful neighborhood (in an incredible location), to the beautifully decorated interior and comfort of the home. It was immaculate. Barry was lovely: very thoughtful and communicative- making sure we were settled well and had everything we needed. What a perfect getaway! We can’t wait to return!
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

jennifer w.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Carmel Oasis

A beautiful cottage that captures the magic of Carmel, this two-story house in the trees reminds one of the little bohemian hideaways that used to dominant the streets of California's most beautiful beach town. Barry has done a fantastic job of renovating with new bathrooms and kitchen, and beachy decor. Beds are super comfortable. If you're mobility challenged as my husband is, you'll be able to skip the stone steps down to the house and follow a path curving through the garden to the backdoor. Barry was an exceptional host, even bringing a special dessert for our last day. Thank you, Barry, for sharing your oasis with us. We can't wait to return.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Manuel G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect location

Great property with an incredible host.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

David H., Palo Alto, CA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely Getaway

A pleasure from beginning to end.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2020

10/10 Excellent

Neal L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Charm galore

Great home with farmhouse charm. Loved our stay and Barry was fabulous. Would stay again in an instant.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2021

10/10 Excellent

Ashley S., Ridgeland, Mississippi

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing!

Wonderful property, and is an excellent location. So easy to walk to all restaurants, shops and the beach! Property is clean and Barry is a very gracious host. Would definitely recommend staying at this property.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jerome H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful Thanksgiving week!

Location is perfect and space is comfortable. House is well stocked with all essentials.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2019

10/10 Excellent

Andrea B., Laguna Hills

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A great time in Carmel!

We had a great time staying at Barry’s beautiful home. He was very helpful and was a great host. The home was beautiful and really close to Ocean. We absolutely would stay again and highly recommend the property.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Janet W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Carmel retreat

We had a delightful experience in Carmel and at Barry’s cottage. It was charming, close to the main village and very well appointed. Barry was available as the need arose and quickly responded to our queries. It was outfitted with a well equipped kitchen with fine cookware and appliances. It lacked for nothing. I would recommend it to anyone.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Joe R., Phoenix Arizona

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A perfect place!

The cottage was everything we hoped for and needed to enjoy a brief respite from the desert heat. Barry is a world class host and made us feel more than welcome and at home. Can't wait to return!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2020

10/10 Excellent

David J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Carmel Vacation

Exquisitely kept and well appointed. Beautiful town and you can walk everywhere. We will be back.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022