Sandpiper Inn

My wife and I decided to take a trip from Orange County to Carmel for our anniversary, and we’re thankful we found Villa Mara for our weekend stay. Where do I even begin? We were welcomed by the owner, Dev, who offered us wine upon arrival and a tour around the property. We learned about the hotel itself, the history of the surrounding area, local artists, important landmarks, and recommended restaurants. To say that it was a warm welcome is an understatement. The hotel itself is just incredible, you go up the rose-laced entrance stairs and see outdoor fireplaces with couches, a beautiful fountain, and yet it all feels so home-like. Our room itself was extremely comfortable, with cloud-like bedding, minimalist yet stunning decor as well as a breathtaking ocean view from the window and the patio. The bathroom was also fantastic with its heated floor, bidet, Le Labo toiletries and high shower head which matters a lot to me as a tall person. When it comes to location, it could not be more perfect. You are a few steps away from the beach where Dev also gave us a walkthrough of the neighborhood filled with gorgeous and unique homes you won’t see anywhere else in the world. Villa Mara is located one mile away from the cute downtown that can (and should!) be accessed by walking alongside the beach trail that feeds into the downtown area. Everything about Villa Mara is exceptional, no detail is forgotten. The common room with its fireplace, the books, the decor is so simple but works so well together and leaves you talking about every little feature. The staff is extraordinary, Jonathan was so kind and thoughtful, Joseph is the one person you want to see in the morning — such a gentle person bringing you the most exquisite pastries and dishes for breakfast with a smile. Not to forget about the owner Dev who was just as incredible and made us feel extremely special on our anniversary trip to Villa Mara. All of that to say that our stay at the hotel was magical and no other place will ever host us when in town.

My wife and I were blown away with our stay at Villa Mara! We were immediately greeted by Roque and Robert (front of house staff) and treated like long-time friends. They assisted us to our room (Stillwater), which has an incredible view of Carmel Bay and Pebble Beach. It was immediately clear that not a single aspect in the room was overlooked. We loved the slippers, books on the nightstands, toilet with heated seat, and overall aesthetics of the room and bathroom, just gorgeous! After getting settled we headed down to the living room / bar. Johnathan and George were bartending, they made amazing martini's, and helped us with dinner reservations in downtown Carmel! In the morning we headed down again to the living room and Lorena brought us quiche and croissants from a local bakery, a fruit plate, bottomless coffee, and green juice, over the top. We can't wait for our next stay?

My husband and I visited Villa Mara last month. What an amazing experience. If you want a quiet, beautiful and immaculately clean stay in Carmel this is your place. The service from the entire staff was amazing. Shout outs to; George, Robert and Roque. Upon entering the beautiful entryway it is obvious great effort was used to make every detail perfect. The fresh flowers, art and candles are all placed perfectly. There are fire pits several places outside for an early evening glass of wine and delicious cake awaits your arrival back to the hotel in the later evening. I cannot forget to mention the fresh farm to table breakfast options offered with some of the best croissants we have ever had. The rooms are beautiful, well appointed and each unique. We stayed in the McVay which was quite roomy and had a nice view out the windows. We had originally hoped for a room with a view and a balcony which was not available at check in. However, on our last night one opened up and George happily moved us. We slept every night with our window open so we could hear the crashing waves outside. The beds are comfortable, towels soft and the toiletries smell lovely. Walk to town during the day is very enjoyable. At night the streets are very dark so would recommend an Uber. We cannot wait to return to this wonderful piece of heaven.

So cool and so warm!Villa Mara is a perfect B and B. Wonderful hosts, terrific room a block from beach. Bar/cafe for breakfast or a nightcap And you have the ultimate base for your Carmel experience. The grounds are sweet and the attention to detail is impressive.

Villa Mara Caramel was the best hotel experience I’ve ever had. From the staff, (Roque and George are excellent), to the heated bathroom floors, this place accommodates and pampers you the minute you walk in and receive your welcome beverage. The rooms were warm and welcoming. All the amenities were fantastic and the space had a luxurious, comfy vibe. The location is outstanding, seconds from the ocean. There’s so much more to tell you, (breakfast in the morning and a to-go breakfast the staff kindly prepared the morning I left), but then you’ll have less time planning your trip to Villa Mara Caramel, you won’t be disappointed.

If you stay at Villa Mara Carmel it will most likely be one of the best hotel experiences you will have ever had! Everything, and I mean like literally everything, there is as close to perfection as things can get. First of all the staff is wonderful! Friendly, helpful, knowledgable and most important interested in you as a person and not so much as a paying customer. Secondly the property itself is beautiful. All public areas are made up as lovely as possible. The furniture is comfortable and luxurious, there are books everywhere which make you want to sit down and just enjoy your time, and finally they have several outdoor sitting areas, most of them with cozy fireplaces where you just love to have a first drink to start the evening. Last but not least the rooms are just amazin! Beautifully designed with exactly the right balance between coziness and a modern lean feel. The bed is super comfortable and very large - one of these beds you wish you had at home. The bathrooms are amazing (my wife loved the heated toilet seat), the shower is spacious and the towels are exactly how you want them to be in a place like this: large and cozy. We stayed in room "Asilomar" and loved the small balcony with views of Carmel and the ocean. Would I come back? Absolutely! Would I try another hotel in Carmel? Honestly, there might be others, but NO!

Villa Mara is a true gem! If I could give them 10 stars I would. They paid attention to every single tiny detail. Beautiful hotel and accommodations. The staff is second to none. I loved every single one of them! They made you feel like you were part of a family. Also love their approach to sustainability. No paper or plastic - BRAVO!!! I cannot wait to return. Thank you for a magical stay in a dreamy town!

What a great experience! It seemed every aspect of this hotel was thoughtfully considered. The designer did a wonderful job and clearly has an attention to detail. There is so much character and warmth throughout the hotel; it is a great place for inspiration. Olivia and the rest of the staff were very friendly and helpful. My room was elegantly designed, comfortable, and looked across the ocean to Pebble Beach in the distance. The hotel location is located close to downtown Carmel, Pebble Beach, and beautiful scenic walks. I am planning on returning here hopefully sooner than later.

Villa Mara was truly an exceptional boutique experience from start to finish. I have been looking for a place we love to stay in Carmel for the last few years and now we have finally found it. I’m only hesitant to write this review because I don’t want to let the secret out! The accommodations were lovely and the entire place so beautifully decorated. I even took pictures to try to replicate the vibe at home! The bathrooms were amazing with heated floors and just enough spacious for two people. The location could not be better, in my opinion. I felt like I was living the dream and living by beach amongst the neighbors in Carmel. Just a beautiful walk (although steep!) up to downtown or a short drive. The property was immaculate and so cozy and comfortable. I loved our room but often snuck out to read by the fireplace inside or the fire pits outside. Every need was met, every staff member was kind and attentive and helpful, and the food was wonderful. I can only speak to the coffee, pastries, drinks, and delicious daily cake that was in the lobby for us to try when we got home from dinner each night. What a lovely little touch. I could go on and on, but all I can say is I cannot wait to come back. I almost booked another stay before I left. If I didn’t live across the country, I would have. Thank you Villa Mara!