HOTEL: La Playa Carmel- Historic Coastal Hotel with Artistic Legacy
- Jody Holman
- Oct 28, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: Dec 30, 2025
Summary: Jody Holman of Viewfinder Travel explores La Playa Carmel, a historic coastal hotel that blends artistic legacy with sophisticated charm in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Carmel
Carmel-by-the-Sea, a charming coastal enclave in Northern California, has long been a refuge for artists, poets, and those in search of quiet sophistication. Founded as an artists’ colony in the early 20th century, this village-like town is defined by its unique blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and a pervasive air of creative energy. It is a very dog friendly town, and most restaurants have patios where guests can eat outside with pup underfoot.
The ideal time to visit Carmel is during the late summer through early winter, from September to December. The weather during these months is often temperate, with clear skies that provide the perfect backdrop for exploring the town’s galleries, boutiques, and the breathtaking coastline. This period also coincides with this hotel's busiest season, drawing a discerning crowd who appreciate the subtle luxury and historical charm that Carmel offers.
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The Hotel
La Playa Hotel is a storied property, with over a century of history, and has been a cornerstone of Carmel’s social scene since its inception in 1905. Located just a few blocks from Carmel Beach, the hotel is perfectly situated for guests to enjoy both the town’s cultural offerings and the natural beauty of the Pacific coast. Originally built as an atelier for artist Chris Jorgensen and his wife, the chocolate heiress Angela Ghirardelli, the hotel was transformed over the decades into a beloved retreat for creative minds and innovators. Its legacy is woven into the fabric of Carmel’s bohemian past, having hosted luminaries like Steve Jobs, who reportedly introduced the first Mac computer within its walls.
Following a thoughtful $15-million renovation, La Playa Hotel now seamlessly blends its historical roots with contemporary luxury. The hotel’s design pays homage to Carmel’s early bohemian era while incorporating modern amenities that cater to the expectations of today’s sophisticated traveler. The 75 rooms and suites are a study in understated elegance, featuring custom landscape paintings, brass accents, and oversized windows that frame views of the hotel’s meticulously maintained gardens and the Pacific Ocean. The corner rooms on each floor are particularly coveted for their expansive views, offering guests a stunning perspective of the surrounding area.
Design
Each room is equipped with a “barmoire,” a unique in-room amenity that offers a fully stocked bar with curated cocktail recipes, ensuring that guests can craft their favorite drinks in the privacy of their own space. The tiled bathrooms are stocked with Le Labo toiletries, providing a touch of indulgence that aligns with the hotel’s overall ethos of refined comfort. For those traveling with family or in groups, the three poolside rooms can be connected to create a spacious, private retreat, perfect for shared moments of relaxation (or wedding prep and celebrations).
The social heart of La Playa Hotel is Bud’s Bar, a cherished establishment that exudes a sense of history and warmth. Named after former owner Howard "Bud" Allen, this intimate space is defined by its dark woods, amber-hued mirrors, and the nostalgic glow of moody lighting. The bar’s pièce de résistance is an old 8-track player that serenades guests with tunes from a bygone era. Along the corridor of the bar are personal “lockers“ where locals leave their favorite libation to request a drink from the bartender when they arrive.
The hotel’s new lobby is a masterclass in blending historical elegance with modern design. Anchored by a grand stone fireplace, the lobby is both welcoming and sophisticated-a cozy area to gather, with plush seating, nooks for reading or whispering and a tile staircase that is a “wow”. The space is adorned with art that reflects Carmel’s rich cultural heritage, while large windows flood the room with natural light, highlighting the intricate woodwork. The lobby sets the tone for the entire hotel, offering a tranquil yet refined (if a tad dark) atmosphere.
Each morning, guests are treated to an impressive breakfast spread, included in the cost of the room, in the fern speckled terrace room, which offers a panoramic view that stretches from the gardens and pool area all the way to Carmel Point, providing a delightful setting to enjoy a morning coffee or an evening glass of wine.
For those looking to unwind, the hotel’s heated pool and sundeck provide a serene setting, while the nearby Carmel Beach, just a short stroll away, offers a more rugged form of relaxation with its stunning coastal views. The hotel’s gardens are a focal point, inviting guests to explore and find their own quiet corner of paradise.
- Rates: Starting from $500 per night.
If you are planning a trip to Northern California, you may be interested in these other areas and itineraries:
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About the Author Jody Holman is a boutique travel advisor, luxury travel writer, and photographer specializing in customized journeys through France, Hawai‘i, and Europe. She curates immersive group experiences, teaches wine classes, and shares sensory-rich stories through Viewfinder Travel. Her work blends editorial precision with a love of communal rituals, cultural depth, and off-the-path discovery.
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