Carmel River Inn & Cottages

Property class: 3

Photo gallery for Carmel River Inn & Cottages

A wooden cabin bedroom with a bed, bedside table, and a view of the outside.
A modern bathroom with a wooden vanity, a sink, a mirror, and a built-in microwave.
A garden with a gravel path, a row of empty glass jars, and a house in the background.
A cozy, well-lit tent-style room with two beds, a kitchenette, and a bathroom.
A row of wooden cabins with a central garage-style building, surrounded by trees and a clear sky.

Reviews

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful

Popular amenities

  • Pool
  • Free Wi-Fi
The current price is NZ$447
includes taxes & fees
5 Oct - 6 Oct

Explore the area

View map
26600 Oliver Rd, Carmel, CA, 93923
  • Place, Carmel Mission Basilica
    ‪13 min walk‬
  • Place, The Barnyard
    ‪13 min walk‬
  • Place, Carmel Beach
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Airport, Monterey, CA (MRY-Monterey Peninsula)
    ‪12 min drive‬

Room options

Studio Cottage, 1 Queen Bed

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
(23 reviews)
  • Garden view
  • 23 sq m
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

Studio (Cottage with Kitchenette)

8.6 out of 10
Excellent
(8 reviews)
  • Garden view
  • 35 sq m
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

Traditional Hotel Room, 1 King Bed (main building)

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful
(31 reviews)
  • River view
  • 19 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Traditional Double Hotel Room, 2 Double Beds (main building)

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(26 reviews)
  • River view
  • 19 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Double Beds

Studio Cottage with Wet Bar Two Beds

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(10 reviews)
  • Garden view
  • 35 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Studio Cottage with Wet Bar

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful
(7 reviews)
  • Garden view
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Luxury Tent

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(1 review)
  • Garden view
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

Deluxe Studio (Cottage with Kitchenette)

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(2 reviews)
  • Garden view
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Luxury Tent

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • Garden view
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Queen Bed and 2 Single Trundle Beds

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About the area

Carmel

At Carmel River Inn & Cottages you'll be 2.5 km (1.5 mi) from Carmel Beach and 3.3 km (2.1 mi) from 17-Mile Drive. Highlights at this motel include in-room free WiFi and furnished balconies. .Enjoy the seasonal outdoor swimming pool and pool loungers. Added amenities include free Wi-Fi in public areas and a coffee shop/cafe. On weekday mornings to-go breakfast is served between 7:30 AM and 10:00 AM. Bring your pet along and take advantage of this property's pet-friendly amenities, including food and water bowls and an off-lead area. There's also the convenience of free self parking. .Attractions within a 10-minute drive of this 3-property class Mission Fields motel include Monterey Bay and Point Lobos State Natural Reserve.

What's nearby

  • Carmel Mission Basilica - 13 min walk - 1.1 km
  • The Barnyard - 13 min walk - 1.1 km
  • Sunset Center - 3 min drive - 2.5 km
  • Carmel Beach - 4 min drive - 2.5 km
  • Carmel River State Beach - 4 min drive - 2.6 km

Getting around

  • Monterey Station - 19 min drive
  • Monterey, CA (MRY-Monterey Peninsula) - 9 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Starbucks - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪Pizza Heaven - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪La Bicyclette - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Mission Ranch Restaurant - ‬19 min walk
  • ‪Treehouse Cafe - ‬4 min drive

About this property

Carmel River Inn & Cottages

There's a coffee shop/cafe on site. WiFi is free in public spaces. There's an onsite business centre. A seasonal outdoor pool, a terrace, and multilingual staff are also featured at Carmel River Inn & Cottages. Free self parking is available.

This 3-star Carmel motel is smoke free.

  • 56 guestrooms or units
  • Built in 1934
  • Poolside lounge chairs
  • Business facilities
  • Breakfast available (surcharge)
  • Front desk (24 hours)
  • Express check-in
  • Express check-out
  • Staff members are multilingual
  • Storage area for luggage
  • Tour and ticket information
  • Concierge
  • Terrace
  • Garden
  • Outdoor picnic space
  • Fireplace in lobby
  • No smoking on site
  • Coffee shop
Carmel River Inn & Cottages offers 56 accommodations, which are accessible via exterior corridors and feature minibars and coffee/tea makers. Rooms open to furnished balconies or patios. Each accommodation is individually furnished and decorated. Cable televisions are provided.

Bathrooms include a shower, complimentary toiletries and hairdryers. This Carmel motel provides complimentary wireless Internet access. Additionally, rooms include an iron/ironing board and blackout curtains. Housekeeping is provided once per stay.

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Free uncovered self parking on site
  • RV/bus/lorry parking on site
  • Limited on-site self parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking and van parking available

Food and drink

  • Weekday on-the-go breakfast available 7:30 AM to 10:00 AM for a fee: USD 2 to 30 for adults and USD 2 to 30 for children
  • A coffee shop/cafe

Restaurants on site

  • Morning Joy

Things to do

  • Seasonal outdoor pool

Family friendly

  • In-room refrigerator
  • Seasonal outdoor pool

Conveniences

  • 24-hour front desk
  • Luggage storage

Guest services

  • Concierge services
  • Housekeeping (once per stay)
  • Multilingual staff
  • Proposal/romance packages
  • Tour and ticket assistance

Business services

  • Business centre

Outdoors

  • Garden
  • In a nature reserve
  • Picnic area
  • Pool loungers
  • Terrace

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • 4 accessible parking spaces
  • No lift
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible van parking

More

  • Banquet hall
  • Built in 1934
  • Fireplace in lobby
  • Smoking not allowed

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided
  • Blackout drapes

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Private bathroom
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • TV with cable channels

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Electric kettle
  • Minibar
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator

More

  • Access via exterior corridors
  • Heating
  • Individual decor
  • Individual furnishings
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone
  • Window screens

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 4:00 PM; check-in end time: anytime
Contactless check-in and check-out are available
Express check-in available

Check-out

Check-out before 11 AM
Contactless check-out
Express check-out available

Special check-in instructions

An adult aged 18 or older must assume all liability for the booking
Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property
This property enforces quiet hours from 9:30 PM to 8:00 AM
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Staffed front desk, lockbox

Pets

  • Pets: USD 125 per pet, per stay
  • Only dogs and cats are allowed
  • Food and water bowls and an off-lead area are available
  • Service animals are exempt from fees.

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Rollaway/extra beds are not available.
  • Cots (infant beds) are not available.

Payment types

Important information

Optional extras

The fees and deposits listed below will be charged at the time of service, check-in, or check-out.

  • Fee for to-go breakfast: approximately USD 2.00 to 30.00 for adults and USD 2.00 to 30.00 for children
  • Pet fee: USD 125 per pet, per stay
  • Service animals are exempt from fees

This may not be a comprehensive list. Fees and deposits are subject to change and might not include tax.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card 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
The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guestroom reservation
This property accepts credit cards; cash is not accepted
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Safety features at this property include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher and a smoke detector
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
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A credit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession. 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. The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guest room reservation. This property accepts Visa, Mastercard and American Express. Cash is not accepted. On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
    For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher and a smoke detector in all accommodation.

We should mention

  • The seasonal pool will open in May and close in August.
  • Pool access available from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM
  • Registered guests are the only ones allowed to be in guestrooms.

Property is also known as

Carmel River
Carmel River Inn
River Inn Carmel
Carmel River Hotel Carmel
Carmel River Inn Motel
Carmel River Inn Carmel
Carmel River Inn Motel Carmel

Frequently asked questions

What is the cancellation policy at Carmel River Inn & Cottages?

Carmel River Inn & Cottages offers free cancellation on select room rates. Check out the cancellation policy for more info.

How much does it cost to stay at Carmel River Inn & Cottages?

As of 14 Sept 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Carmel River Inn & Cottages on 5 Oct 2026 start from NZ$447, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Is parking available at Carmel River Inn & Cottages?

Yep, Carmel River Inn & Cottages has a free self car park.

Are there any beaches close to Carmel River Inn & Cottages?

The closest beach to Carmel River Inn & Cottages is Carmel Beach (2.6 km).

Does Carmel River Inn & Cottages have a pool?

Carmel River Inn & Cottages has a seasonal outdoor pool. Grab your bathers and lounge poolside while enjoying on a lounger. The pool is open 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM (Seasonal outdoor pool open from May to August).

What makes Carmel River Inn & Cottages a romantic place to stay?

Romance packages, plus private balconies in the guestrooms, help set the scene for a romantic weekend at Carmel River Inn & Cottages.

Does Carmel River Inn & Cottages serve breakfast?

Yep, to-go brekkie is offered on weekdays from 7:30 AM to 10:00 AM.

Is there a free airport shuttle available at Carmel River Inn & Cottages?

No, Carmel River Inn & Cottages does not offer an airport shuttle service.

What time are check-in & check-out at Carmel River Inn & Cottages?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM. Check-out time is 11 AM.

Are pets allowed at Carmel River Inn & Cottages?

Cats and dogs are welcome at Carmel River Inn & Cottages, with dog exercise areas and food and water bowls on offer.

Carmel River Inn & Cottages Reviews

Reviews

9.0

Wonderful

Rating 10 - Excellent. 622 out of 1003 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 249 out of 1003 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 78 out of 1003 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 34 out of 1003 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 20 out of 1003 reviews

9.2/10

Cleanliness

9.4/10

Staff & service

8.8/10

Amenities

8.6/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified review

8/10 Good

Sheila

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The grounds were so beautiful! Loved the dog friendly cottages with fenced porches. Would stay again for sure.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Nathan

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Welcoming and kind staff, clean bedroom and renovated bathroom, plentiful parking.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Hoi Ying

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Friendly stuff, clean room, reserved parking for each cottage.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

William

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Cute Better than a hotel stay Kitchen useful
Stayed 4 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jason

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This place is a gem. Close and convenient to most things in the area, and far enough away that it seems remote. Cabins were brand new and the older cottages were really nicely kept. Great staff and overall a great experience staying here.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Hugo

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful property. Great location. Close to everything. Great staff!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Jake

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Charming cottage on a gorgeous property and the staff helped me with a surprise in the room for my fiancé, highly recommend for a weekend getaway in a great location.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Kelvin

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Helpful staff. The cottages were lovely and the surrounding area are well maintained with parking right in front of each cottage. Location was roughly 5 to 10 minutes to downtown eateries or the beautiful beaches. Most importantly to us, they are pet friendly as we brought along our dog on a road trip!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Vincent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Clean room and friendly staff
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Ruthe

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
It felt secluded, private. Rooms were clean, fireplace made it cozy. We’ve been here a few times and noticed each room is unique. Highly recommend this place.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Pablo

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Loved this place. We stayed in a little cottage..close to Monteray aquarium. Would stay again!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Nikita

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Quaint place to stay! Beautiful property
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Yasmine

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Incredible hospitality! My partner and I stayed a weekend and it was absolutely amazing. Staff is helpful and very respectful. It is very quiet and comfortable. Customer service is available 24/7 and are very kind when you call at any hour. Our stay was wonderful and would recommend when planning your next Carmel/Big Sur visit.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Tamara

Liked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Delightful place to stay!
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025
Verified review

8/10 Good

Dhiraj

Nice room next to river
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Eva

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
A stunning place—very dog-friendly, impeccably clean, and featuring a beautiful garden. We stayed in a cottage with a small kitchen that was excellently equipped. Walking the dog was an absolute pleasure: it was quiet, clean, and offered plenty of grass and space.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Luca

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great staff and clean cottage! Love it will come back for sure!
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jesse

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very beautiful place to stay. Very private and pet friendly. Rooms were very clean, I even checked with a UV light. Staff is very friendly and helpful. Not far at all from downtown and the beach. Right across the way is the gass station and stores to stock up on anything necessary. I plan on returning with family very soon.
Stayed 1 night in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Judith

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very clean, very quiet and location was great. Staff was very friendly and amenable.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

VALERIYA

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Everything was perfect. No problems with anything. Beautiful, comfortable, clean, and safe place. Highly recommended
Stayed 5 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Christina

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I enjoy visiting Carmel By the River inn and Cottages and bringing my pups. The grounds are beautiful and peaceful
Beautiful flowers
Pups resting
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Tammy

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
What a lovely stay.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Lorien

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
What a hidden gem. All of the staff was kind and helpful and treated us like welcome guests. The property was immaculate and very dog friendly. We stayed in two of the older cottages which were nicely updated without loosing their unique character. It is the perfect halfway spot to meet our daughter and her dog and enjoy all the peninsula has to offer. Can’t wait to come back.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Swaroop Ravikantrao

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Clean room best staff recommending good places, parking place
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Danica

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Amazing hotel!!! The staff were so friendly and accomodating. The only thing is that there is no A/C since the property is older so keep that in mind BUT they do have fans to give you if needed. But they were amazing, bed was comfy and great views
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026