Top 10% of guest reviews in this areaTop 10% of guest reviews in this area
2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 4111.5 sq m
Popular amenities
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Free Wi-Fi
Outdoor space
Parking available
Explore the area
Carmel, CA
Sunset Center
Place, Sunset Center
2 min walk
Carmel Beach
Place, Carmel Beach
6 min walk
Carmel Plaza
Place, Carmel Plaza
7 min walk
Monterey, CA (MRY-Monterey Peninsula)
Airport, Monterey, CA (MRY-Monterey Peninsula)
11 min drive
Rooms & beds
2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)
Bedroom 1
2 King Beds
2 bathrooms
Bathroom 1
Bathtub
Bathroom 2
Spaces
Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Separate dining area
Garden
Dining area
About this property
Carmel’s Most ROMANTIC Escape - Walk to Beach&Town - 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.
Add dates for prices
Amenities
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Free WiFi
Outdoor space
Parking available
Have a question?
AI iconBetaBeta
Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.
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.
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
About the area
Carmel
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.
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
Dametra Cafe - 5 min walk
Il Fornaio - 7 min walk
Frequently asked questions
Is Carmel’s Most ROMANTIC Escape - Walk to Beach&Town - It's a Dream House! pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Carmel’s Most ROMANTIC Escape - Walk to Beach&Town - It's a Dream House!?
As of 3 April 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Carmel’s Most ROMANTIC Escape - Walk to Beach&Town - It's a Dream House! on 31 May 2026 start from NZ$1,417, 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.
How much is parking at Carmel’s Most ROMANTIC Escape - Walk to Beach&Town - It's a Dream House!?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Carmel’s Most ROMANTIC Escape - Walk to Beach&Town - It's a Dream House!?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Carmel’s Most ROMANTIC Escape - Walk to Beach&Town - It's a Dream House!?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Carmel’s Most ROMANTIC Escape - Walk to Beach&Town - 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. 17-Mile Drive is 0.7 mi (1.1 km) away.
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Great location! Fabulous host! Well appointed cottage!
Amanda K.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 4 December 2025
Dear Amanda, thank you so much for your kind and generous words! I'm glad you were able to make it out to Carmel to celebrate the holidays with family - where there's a will there's a way! And I'm always happy when guests says they enjoyed the location and host ;) I also wanted to thank you for taking such great care of the cottage. You are welcome back anytime! I hope you will think of this cottage as your home away from home anytime you want to escape the heat in your hometown. All my best you you! Be well, Barry
Super cute cottage located within an easy walk to Ocean Avenue, the heart of Carmel, where you can enjoy all the little town has to offer. Comfortable beds with crisp, high end linens, All Clad kitchen cookware and awesome water pressure for a marvelous shower were notable amenities. Both bedrooms in the main house are upstairs and have King beds. There is a shared, three quarter, hall bath with one sink for the two bedrooms and a main floor powder room with the added bonus of a soaking tub. The house was absolutely immaculate in terms of cleanliness. Excellent, off street parking and lovely garden areas surround the cottage. Our only wish would be for a mini-split air conditioner upstairs for the warmer days, which actually do happen in Carmel (we had an 81 degree, February day!). There is a one bedroom guest house available on property that we did not see personally, but would be great for a larger group or family staying. Overall, we loved our stay and the host Barry is fantastic.
Robert E.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 14 March 2026
Dear Robert, Thank you for taking the time to write such a thoughtful and generous review! I’m so glad you enjoyed the cottage, the gardens, and the easy walk to Ocean Avenue. It means a lot to hear that the comfort of the beds, the kitchen, and the little touches throughout the home helped make your stay special. I’m especially glad you enjoyed all that Carmel and the surrounding area have to offer. Carmel does occasionally surprise us with a warm day even in winter, and the cottage has a cooling vent system upstairs that helps keep the bedrooms comfortable when those days arrive. Thank you also for taking such wonderful care of the cottage during your stay. You are welcome back anytime!
It was a pleasure hosting you, and I hope you will always think of the cottage as your home away from home in Carmel.
All my best, Barry
What a wonderful stay in beautiful Carmel! Barry has thought of everything! He is a fantastic host!
Verified traveller
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 17 June 2025
Dear Susan, Mark, and Gaby! It was so wonderful to have you to the cottage in Carmel! Thank you for writing such a generous review. I also wanted to thank you for taking such great care of the cottage. I will make you part of my Inner Circle of special guests :) I hope you will think of this cottage as your home away from home in Carmel and come visit again whenever you feel like venturing up the coast. Until then... All my best to you! <3 Barry
Manuel, it was wonderful to have you and your lovely family to our cottage. Thank for this review and especially for the more expansive review you left in our guest book! It was very kind and generous. Most importantly, I'm glad that you were able to spend quality time with your family and that you, as you say, were able to escape the Texas heat. We get a lot guests from Texas, and the cool Carmel ocean air has a way of resetting our internal thermostats. The days have been pleasantly mild recently and the evenings cool - great for sleeping. Thank you also for taking such great care of the place. You are welcome back anytime you need a break from the heat in the future. My best to you and your family!
Barry
Perfection-- location, our welcome, comfort, communication during our stay. Could not be better! Five Stars!!
Jeffrey S.
Stayed 8 nights in Apr 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 27 April 2025
Dear Jeff, it was so wonderful to welcome your family to the cottage! And so nice to meet you. I hope you had an incredible time on the golf course. Thank you so much for your kind words. And thank you for taking such great care of the cottage. You’re welcome back here anytime! I hope you’ll think of this cottage as your home away from home in Carmel. All my best to you! Barry
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!
DD M.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 2 June 2025
Dear DD and Randy, I'm so happy you enjoyed your time in Carmel! And thank you for writing such a kind and generous reviews. I'm sure you've had a lot of other great hosts, too, so I'm truly grateful for your words. I'm glad you were able to explore the downtown area and the beach. And isn't Pilgrim's Way bookstore a gem? I'm so glad you had a chance to visit. Also, thank you for taking such great care of the place! You are welcome back here anytime :) I hope you will think of this cottage as your home away from home in Carmel and return whenever you miss Carmel. All my love to you both! Barry
Hi David, it was so wonderful to meet you and I'm glad that you were able to enjoy your time in Carmel. Thank you for the kind words in your review - you may always think of this cottage as your own private "getaway" from the bustle of Silicon Valley. Please know that you are welcome back here anytime. In the meantime, stay healthy and well!
Great home with farmhouse charm. Loved our stay and Barry was fabulous. Would stay again in an instant.
Neal L.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 10 June 2022
Dear Neal and Michelle, it was so wonderful to host you at our cozy Carmel cottage! Thank you for the glowing review! It's always my pleasure to provide a special, warm, and peaceful setting for my guests to experience all that this charming town has to offer. I'm so glad you enjoyed your stay. And of course I'd be happy to have you back anytime. If you ever feel you need to find a warm spot to hide out during the harsh winters in Minneapolis (I'm from the midwest too!), then we're just a phone call away. Please think of us as your home away from home in Carmel. All my best to you both, Barry
What a gem! Cozy, beautifully decorated, every amenity you could ask for. We just loved it!
Pattie W.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 14 December 2024
Dear Pattie and John, I was so happy to host you for your special celebration! This is a huge milestone for John and for both of you and I'm so happy to you chose to spend it in Carmel. Thank you so much for your kind and generous review. You were exceptional guests and took such great care of the place. Please know that you are welcome back anytime. I hope you may think of this cottage as your home away from home in Carmel. Until then, I wish you a healthy and happy holiday season!! All my best, Barry
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.
Ashley S.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 5 June 2022
Dear Ashley and Bryan, thank you for sharing such a wonderful review! I'm so glad that you enjoyed your birthday celebration, and I hope that your first visit to Carmel was everything you dreamed it would be. Both of you - along with Todd and Amanda - were such wonderful guests. Thank you for leaving everything in such great condition. You are welcome back to our cottage in Carmel anytime you feel the need to escape from Jackson. Please think of us as your home away from home in Carmel. All my best to you, Barry
Clean & Cozy!
Comfortable beds!
Excellent communication with owner!
We will definitely stay here again!
Verified traveller
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 1 September 2023
Dear Jody and Scott, thank you so much for your kind review! I was so happy to host your wonderful family as well as your famous guests ;) I truly appreciate you for taking such great care and leaving the cottage in such wonderful condition. You are model guests! Please know that you are welcome back here anytime. And I hope you will think of this cozy cottage as your home away from home in Carmel. Until then, kindest regards, Barry
Location is perfect and space is comfortable. House is well stocked with all essentials.
Jerome H.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 1 July 2020
Dear Jerry, thank you so much for your kind words. It was wonderful to host you and Beth for the Thanksgiving holiday! I hope you were able to spend some quality family time with your son in SF. If family or vacation ever bring you back to Carmel, please know that you're always welcome to stay at our cozy little cottage in Carmel. Be well! Best, Barry
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.
Andrea B.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 5 December 2022
Dear Andrea, it was wonderful to host you in Carmel. And thank you for taking the time to write such a kind and generous review! I'm glad you enjoyed the home and location. I do hope you're going to try that fun dessert at the next sleepover with your granddaughter. Let me know what she thinks. And as for staying here again, you're of course welcome anytime. You can think of us as your home away from home in Carmel. We're here anytime you need to get away. All my best to you and Dave.!
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!
Joe R.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 31 October 2020
Thank you for your wonderful review Joe! I hope that you and Karen were able to cool off a bit from the heat in Phoenix. I'm glad that you felt at home in our Carmel cottage, and I appreciate how clean you left the place when you left. Please know that you're always welcome back and I hope that you'll think of this cottage as your home away from home in Carmel. I with you all the best!
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!
Adrienne W.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 2 December 2024
Dear Adrienne, thank you for the beautiful note you left for us in the cottage and for this kind review on VRBO. I was so happy to host your incredible family during your stay and I'm glad you enjoyed the cottage. I appreciate all the care you took and would love to have you back any time. I hope you will think of this cottage as your home away from home in Carmel. Until then, I wish you and your family a healthy and happy holiday season. Much love!
Exquisitely kept and well appointed. Beautiful town and you can walk everywhere. We will be back.
David J.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 13 June 2022
Dear Brenda and David, it was such a pleasure hosting you in Carmel, and I truly appreciate you taking the time to write such a positive review. Reading your comments in the guest book inside the cottage really made my day! More importantly, though, I'm glad you enjoyed yourselves during your escape from the heat in Texas. It was a wonderful treat to meet all of you and hear about your many wonderful experiences in Carmel. Of course, you are welcome back here anytime. I'd love to host you again. Please think of us as your home away from home in Carmel. All my best to you, Barry.
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.
Barry is a thoughtful, responsive host, and the house is comfortable and impeccable. I can’t say enough good things about our experience. We’ve rented many vacation homes across the US and this was by far the best. Thank you, Barry!
Jill and Scott E.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 3 August 2023
And I loved having you! Dear Jill and Scott, it was so wonderful to have you as my guests. I hope you enjoyed every moment with Alex. Your review is so kind and generous, my head is swelling a bit :) I'm so glad you enjoyed your stay in Carmel. And thank you for taking such great care of the cottage! I consider you part of my "Inner Circle" now and would love to have you back any time. Please consider this cottage to be your home away from home in Carmel, and if ever the heat of the east coast gets to be too much, you know there's always a cool ocean breeze waiting for you in this little seaside village ;) All my best to you both! Barry
We loved our week in Carmel at this beautiful cozy cottage. We've stayed in Carmel for many, many years and this is now one of our favorite places to stay. Very close to everything but completely private and quiet. Barry was the perfect host and went above and beyond to make our week so enjoyable.
Brian W.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 17 May 2023
Dear Brian and Jana, thank you for taking the time to write such a lovely review! I'm so glad you enjoyed the cottage, but more importantly I'm happy that you enjoyed your time in Carmel. I know how special a place this is for the two of you and I'm glad that we were able to connect when your prior arrangements fell through. I consider it my good fortune to have met you both under these less than opportune circumstances. What a wonderful couple you are. And thank you for taking such great care of the place. You are welcome to come back any time - and as often as you like. Please think of this cottage as your home away from home in Carmel. All my best to you both! Barry
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.
Janet W.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 7 May 2025
Dear Janet and Greg, it was so wonderful to have your to our cottage in Carmel! And thank you so much for your kind review. I'm glad you enjoyed your time with friends. Thank you also for taking such great care of the place. You're welcome back here anytime! I hope you will think of this cottage as your home away from home in Carmel. All my best to you both, Barry
We absolutely loved staying in this charming cottage in Carmel. It was a short walk to Ocean Ave. The yard is lovely. The kitchen is perfect. We will come back every year.
annette h.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 27 January 2021
Dear Annette and Charles, it was wonderful having you as my guests in Carmel! And thank you so much for taking the time to write such kind words. You left the cottage in such beautiful condition I wasn't sure if anyone even stayed in it :) I'm glad you enjoyed your time in Carmel. Please think of us as your home away from home, and know that of course you are welcome back here anytime. All my best to you both, Barry
We had a lovely stay. The house has many little generous touches that elevate your stay. Luxurious linens and coveted off street parking area are some highlights. Charming Carmel garden and deck for lounging, eating dinner, make this a little corner of paradise.
Laura E.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 22 August 2022
Dear Laura and Michael, your review is so kind and generous! And your words "a little corner of paradise" are truly making my head swell a bit right now :) But, to be honest, I think of Carmel and these cottages the same way. This whole area truly is a little slice of heaven. Your video of the hummingbird sipping nectar from the bougainvillea on the back deck and taking drinks from the fountain was truly magical. I've seen many hummingbird visitors over the years, but have never been fast enough to capture a video in time. And thank you for your kind notes and messages. I'm so glad you enjoyed the ice cream and special touches. Please think of this cottage as your home away from home in Carmel. Oakland isn't that far away! You're welcome back here anytime. Be well!
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Allison J.
10 August 2017
Lovely cottage with every detail and convenience thougtfully considered!
Had a wonderful week stay at Barry's darling, quintessential Carmel cottage. He has taken care of all needs and is generous and attentive his guests! Thank you for a wonderful stay and we look forward to returning to "Cuddle Doon" on our next stay.
Allison J.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 30 March 2020
Allison, it was wonderful to meet you and your lovely family! And thank you so much for your kind words. I'm so glad you enjoyed your stay in Carmel, and I would feel lucky to have you back as my guests in the future. All my best
Oh, I would give this place and it's owner/property manager 6 stars if I could! It's a dreamy home in a prime location. You will be lucky if you stay here! It's absolutely lovely!
helene d.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 4 January 2021
Dear Helene and John, Happy New Year! I'm just catching up, but I've had both of you on my mind a lot recently with all that's going on in the bay area these days. I hope you and all your circle of friends and family and staying healthy and well. Thank you so much for your kind words and wonderful review! I'm so glad that you made it down to Carmel when you did. And I'm glad that you had a magical getaway. Carmel certainly is a magical place. All my best, Barry
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!
Cathy C.
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 1 November 2024
Dear Cathy and Jeff, the pleasure was all mine! I'm so grateful whenever I get the chance to host someone for their anniversary. Carmel is a place with such a rich history of romance. And I'm glad you were able to enjoy all the special touches and surprises <3 I really appreciate you taking the time to write such a wonderful and thoughtful review and of course you are welcome back here anytime. Please think of this cottage as your home away from home in Carmel and anytime you feel the longing to return, you know where to find me. All my best to you both, Barry
About the host
Hosted by Barry, Owner at Carmel Retreats
Hi, I’m Barry — a lifelong lover of old homes and the quiet stories they carry. I’ve spent years restoring places with soul — homes built with care, meant to be lived in slowly. There’s something deeply fulfilling about uncovering a house’s hidden character, honoring its past, and giving it new purpose.
I grew up in Chicago, surrounded by timeless architecture and true craftsmanship. In my twenties, I wandered through North Africa, the Middle East, and Europe, falling in love with the art of hospitality — the shared table, the unspoken warmth of being welcomed as family. Those experiences taught me that real connection lives at the intersection of people, place, and space — a feeling I try to evoke in every home I create.
Hosting happened naturally. Friends began staying in my renovated cottages, and I realized how much joy came from crafting spaces where people instantly feel at ease — spaces that are simple, serene, and genuine.
For me, hosting isn’t business; it’s an extension of care. I want guests to rest well, breathe deeply, and leave a little lighter than when they arrived. I believe the smallest details — soft light, a quiet reading nook, the scent of ocean air through an open window — can shift how we feel.
When I’m not hosting, you’ll find me exploring the California coast, sketching ideas for another design project, or traveling to gather new inspiration. Wherever I go, I’m drawn to that same timeless grace — the kind of hospitality that makes you feel instantly at home.
The best part of all this is hearing from guests who say they found peace here, or that they didn’t want to leave. That’s when I know the spirit of the place has done its work.
Welcome to Carmel — I hope your time here feels as restorative as it was to create.
— Barry
Why they chose this property
Carmel-by-the-Sea has always felt like a place apart — a small coastal village that moves at its own rhythm. I first came here for the beauty of the ocean and the trees, but I stayed for the feeling it gives me every time I return: a sense of calm, creativity, and belonging.
The air here carries the scent of salt, pine, and cypress. Mornings arrive with soft fog, and by afternoon, light filters through the branches, scattering across stone walls and garden paths. It’s beautiful without trying to be — quiet, natural, and timeless.
What I love about this neighborhood is its simplicity. There are no streetlights or sidewalks, just narrow lanes, ivy-covered fences, and homes that reflect the people who’ve cared for them. Each cottage feels individual, shaped by hand and history.
My home sits in a peaceful spot close to town and the beach. You can walk for coffee, stop at the bakery, browse a few galleries, and be back in time to hear the waves through the trees. The pace is unhurried, and that’s part of what makes it special.
The people here are another reason I love this place. Artists, travelers, and longtime locals all seem drawn by the same quiet spirit. It’s easy to start a friendly conversation on a morning walk or while tending a garden gate.
Even after years of living here, I still feel grateful each time I turn down the hill and see the ocean ahead. Carmel has a way of slowing you down and bringing you back to yourself.
That’s why I chose this neighborhood — for its natural beauty, its human scale, and the simple peace it offers. I hope you feel it too.
— Barry
What makes this property unique
What makes this cottage special isn’t any single feature — it’s the quiet harmony of light, space, and intention. From the moment you step through the garden gate, there’s an ease to it — a sense that everything belongs exactly where it is.
When I found the cottage, it was worn but full of promise. The bones were solid, the craftsmanship honest, the spirit intact. I restored it piece by piece, keeping what was real and true, and bringing in light, warmth, and calm. Every choice — from the hardware to the linens — was made with care, not to impress, but to feel right.
The cottage sits behind native gardens and old trees that filter the sun throughout the day. Inside, the design is simple and intuitive. Morning light pours through the windows; evenings settle into a quiet glow. The materials are natural — wood, stone, linen, glass — creating a timeless calm that reflects Carmel’s landscape.
What sets this place apart is its balance: old soul, modern comfort, and a genuine sense of ease. It’s a space meant for slowing down — to read, rest, or watch the light shift through the trees. Guests often say it feels larger than it is, not because of size, but because of how open and peaceful it feels.
The cottage is close to both town and the beach, yet tucked far enough back to feel secluded. You can walk for coffee, dinner, or a sunset stroll without ever starting your car. Mornings bring the scent of ocean mist; nights carry the hush of waves in the distance.
I didn’t restore this home as an investment, but as an act of care — to preserve a small piece of Carmel’s quiet spirit. Over the years, guests have told me the same thing: that the cottage helped them slow down, rest, and reconnect.
It’s not a showpiece. It’s a refuge — a simple, soulful home that holds space for you to feel at ease.
— Barry
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests