Carmel River Inn & Cottages

3.0 star property
Motel with free parking, near Carmel Beach

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Carmel River Inn & Cottages

Studio Cottage with Wet Bar | Minibar, individually decorated, individually furnished, blackout drapes
Exterior
Luxury Tent | Bathroom | Shower, free toiletries, hair dryer, towels
Property grounds
Luxury Tent | Terrace/patio

Reviews

8.6 out of 10
Excellent

Popular amenities

  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Business services
  • 24/7 front desk

Explore the area

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

Room options

Studio Cottage, 1 Queen Bed

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
(13 reviews)
  • 250 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

Studio (Cottage with Kitchenette)

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(6 reviews)
  • 375 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

Traditional Hotel Room, 1 King Bed (main building)

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful
(29 reviews)
  • 200 sq ft
  • River view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

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

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(24 reviews)
  • 200 sq ft
  • River view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Double Beds

Studio Cottage with Wet Bar Two Beds

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(9 reviews)
  • 375 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Studio Cottage with Wet Bar

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(6 reviews)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Luxury Tent

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

Deluxe Studio Cottage with Kitchenette

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

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About the neighborhood

Carmel

Located in Mission Fields, Carmel River Inn & Cottages is a leisurely stroll from sights such as Carmel River Lagoon and Wetland Nature Preserve and Carmel Mission Basilica. Each of the 56 rooms at this 3-star motel includes a furnished balcony, a refrigerator, and a minibar.

What's nearby

  • The Barnyard - 10 min walk - 0.6 miles
  • Carmel Mission Basilica - 13 min walk - 0.7 miles
  • Sunset Center - 2 min drive - 1.4 miles
  • Carmel Plaza - 3 min drive - 2.0 miles
  • Carmel Beach - 3 min drive - 1.4 miles

Getting around

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

Restaurants

  • ‪Starbucks - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪Pizza Heaven - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Carmel Valley Coffee Roasting Company at The Crossroads - ‬10 min walk
  • ‪Post No Bills -Carmel - ‬15 min walk
  • ‪Alvarado Street Brewery & Bistro - ‬4 min drive

About this property

Carmel River Inn & Cottages

Motel with free parking, near Carmel Beach
Carmel River Inn & Cottages features free WiFi in public areas, a business center, and a seasonal outdoor pool. If you drive, take advantage of free parking. The 24-hour front desk has multilingual staff ready to assist with luggage storage and concierge services. If you like to take your furry friend along on your adventures, this pet-friendly property offers food and water bowls and an off-leash area. Additional amenities include express check-in, express check-out, and a terrace.
Guests can expect free WiFi and TVs with cable channels. Bathrooms have hair dryers and free toiletries. Furnished balconies or patios, refrigerators, and minibars are other standard amenities. Housekeeping is available once per stay.
Recreational amenities at the motel include a seasonal outdoor pool.

Children under 18 years old are not allowed in the swimming pool without adult supervision.

The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

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

Parking and transportation

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

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 center

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 elevator
  • 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
  • Minibar
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator

More

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

Policies

Check-in

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

Check-out

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

Special check-in instructions

An adult age 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

  • This property welcomes pets for USD 125 per pet, per stay
  • Dogs and cats only
  • Food and water bowls and an off-leash area are available
  • Service animals exempt from fees

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

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

  • Pet fee: USD 125 per pet, per stay
  • Service animals are exempt from fees

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

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
Onsite 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, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
  • Check-in: 4:00 PM—-anytime
  • Check-out: 11 AM
The front desk is open 24 hours a day, and checking in and out are easy with express services. Driving? This property offers free self parking, along with RV, bus, and truck parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • 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, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A credit card for incidental charges and a government-issued photo ID may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts credit cards. Cash is not accepted. 
  • The credit card used at check-in for incidentals must be in the name of the primary guest who made the reservation.
  • Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
  • Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, and a smoke detector.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • The seasonal pool is open from May to August.
  • Pool access available from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
  • Registered guests are the only ones allowed in guestrooms.
  • There are no elevators.
  • No cribs or infant beds are available.
  • No rollaway or extra beds are available.

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

Is a free cancellation option available at Carmel River Inn & Cottages?

Carmel River Inn & Cottages provides free cancellation on certain room rates. If you'd like to learn more, take a look at the cancellation policy on our site.

What can I see near Carmel River Inn & Cottages?

This motel is situated in Mission Fields within a short 13-minute walk of Carmel Mission Basilica and also 12 minutes on foot from Carmel River Lagoon and Wetland Nature Preserve. You'll also find Carmel Beach and 17-Mile Drive within a short drive.

Will I be able to park at Carmel River Inn & Cottages?

Yes, uncovered self parking is offered for free at the motel. Accessible parking and RV/bus/truck parking are also available for guests.

Does Carmel River Inn & Cottages have a casino on the premises?

No, Carmel River Inn & Cottages doesn't have a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at Carmel River Inn & Cottages?

No, this motel doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there is an outdoor pool. Guests have access between 9:00 AM and 8:00 PM and the seasonal pool is normally open from May until August.

What do couples enjoy most about Carmel River Inn & Cottages?

There are many amenities for couples at this motel, including proposal/romance packages and a nature reserve plus some guestrooms feature fireplaces.

Are there hot tubs at Carmel River Inn & Cottages?

No, this motel doesn't have a spa tub.

Does Carmel River Inn & Cottages feature a restaurant that includes a breakfast menu?

No, Carmel River Inn & Cottages doesn't have a restaurant that serves breakfast.

Does Carmel River Inn & Cottages allow pets to stay free of charge?

Although they can't stay for free, cats and dogs are welcome at Carmel River Inn & Cottages for a fee of USD 125 per pet, per stay. The property also provides an off-leash area and food and water bowls.

Does Carmel River Inn & Cottages have connecting rooms?

No, this motel doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

Where is the closest airport to Carmel River Inn & Cottages?

The closest major airport to Carmel River Inn & Cottages is Monterey Peninsula Airport (MRY), which is 7 mi away (9 minutes by car). Another top airport is Salinas, CA (SNS-Salinas Municipal), which is located 24.6 mi away (30-minute drive).

Can I book a room with a balcony at Carmel River Inn & Cottages?

Yes, every guestroom at Carmel River Inn & Cottages comes with a furnished balcony with some featuring river or garden views.

Carmel River Inn & Cottages Reviews

Reviews

8.6

Excellent

Rating 10 - Excellent. 541 out of 1011 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 292 out of 1011 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 110 out of 1011 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 51 out of 1011 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 17 out of 1011 reviews

9.0/10

Cleanliness

9.2/10

Staff & service

8.6/10

Amenities

8.2/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.0/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

stella

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Loved it!
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jean Paul

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Everything was perfect, very clean and charming
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ronald

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

cynthia

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Very accommodating & comfortable stay

Great staff. Cottage with kitchenette was very comfortable. Will definitely recommend & stay again.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lanae

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
My husband and I came across this hotel by chance a few years ago and have since stayed here several times. We love to stay in the cottages as they privide some privacy and we appreciate that they are pet friendly. The grounds are also nicely lanscaped with walking paths. We look forward to staying here when we visit Carmel.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Amir

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities
Clean room
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

George

Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

agustin

Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Michelle

Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kevin

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Would and will stay again.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Veronica

Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Dale

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Charming cabins/cottages just off hwy1. Close to a large shopping center, beaches, point lobos, Carmel Valley entrance and the entire Monterey Peninsula. Very quiet and private.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

vivian

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Pamela

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Lovely cabins

We were upgraded to a cabin and it was very nice. Beware the regular motel rooms are not air conditioned and a lot of traffic noise.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Jason

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Clean room. Nice staff. Walls a bit thin though for the classic rooms. Also no ac in classic rooms. Would recommend upgrading to a cottage instead.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Nathalie

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Perfect Weekend

Stunning location, gorgeous accommodations, and incredible staff. Less than a 10 minute drive to downtown. I stayed in of the cottages and enjoyed the extra privacy. Having morning coffee in the patio was absolutely lovely. Everyone we met from check-in to check out were incredibly hospitable and kind. Would highly recommend this hotel to anyone planning a trip to Carmel!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Brandi

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Cozy cottage

The cottage was cozy and just perfect! Very serene and quiet. Beds are comfortable.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Romina, long beach

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This stay was absolutely gorgeous. Though we stayed for one night, the rooms were absolutely adorable, the vintage cottage vibe was to die for! Everything from the uniquely painted houses, to the flowers in the front yard, this place was super pretty! The beds were soft and comfy, and big enough to share. The amenities were good, water was hot and shower supplies were provided, but overall our stay at these cottages was amazing. Definitely would return!
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

Shauna

Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Rocio

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Disliked: Staff & service, amenities
We stay 3 nights at one of the cottages. The cottage was clean and remodeled with all the amenities necessary like microwave, fridge, tv and tub . The only negative thing we saw was that there isn’t an air conditioner and the first night we came from the beach sunburn and needed a fresh air . The room was at 75 degrees and when we called the front desk to ask how to turn de a/c on the man at the office told us there isn’t any . He told us how to turn off the heater. We ask for a fan and he said he can’t bring us one that day but that the next day he would. The next day there was no fan at our cottage so we had to drive to the closest target not to close from where we stayed and bought a fan.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Joseph, Aptos

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Clean and friendly staff.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sondra

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Our little cottage totally exceeded every expectation!! A charming, peaceful sanctuary from which we could walk to downtown Carmel, drive to Big Sur, or simply relax for a few hours. We LOVED having our own personal parking space literally right outside our door. Be sure to read about the history of Carmel River Inn and Cottages--totally fascinating! We will definitely be returning.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

James

Traveled with pets, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Sally

Traveled with partner
Relatively comfortable, although smaller room than I expected.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Taylor

Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025