Traveling down the Pacific Coast Highway from San Francisco, there are plenty of beach towns in which to stop along the way. When you’re ready to rest for the night, plan to stay at the delightful La Playa Carmel in Carmel-by-the-Sea in Monterey County.
The mansion was built in 1905 by artist Christian Jorgensen as a gift to his wife Angela, a member of the Ghiradelli family — and what a gift it was! With views of Carmel Bay and Pebble Beach, the home was a popular destination for artists and writers of the era, and even boasted the first swimming pool in Carmel.
Lone Cypress, Pebble Beach, California. Photo: Mikalai Dushkou | Dreamstime
In 1922, after several years as a boarding house, La Playa became a full-service hotel, and today the 75-room historic hotel is found tucked into its residential neighborhood and still known as the “Grande Dame of Carmel.”
During your stay, you’ll undoubtedly enjoy the hotel’s close proximity to Carmel Beach, perfect for strolling or maybe even a dip in the water, if you’re daring enough to brave the cold. If you’re planning to spend the day, coordinate with La Playa’s team and they’ll pack a gourmet picnic basket for you to take along and enjoy. On the other hand, the boutique shops, galleries and restaurants of Carmel-by-the-Sea await.
Back at the hotel, many of the comfortable guest rooms are available with either one or two luxurious beds and views of the ocean, or the hotel’s lush grounds and courtyards. If you’re traveling with little ones, consider a garden patio room on the ground floor from which it’s easy to run around or head straight to the pool to burn off some excess energy. When the sun sets, snuggle into a cozy cotton robe for the night and watch a movie, and as the next morning breaks, enjoy a sumptuous Champagne breakfast served daily. Just the right way to fuel yourself for the day ahead.
When it’s time to leave La Playa Carmel for your next stop along the Pacific Coast Highway, chances are you’ll already be planning your return visit to the “Grande Dame of Carmel.”
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