Carmel River Inn & Cottages

3.0 star property

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Carmel River Inn & Cottages

A wooden cabin bedroom with a bed, bedside table, and a view of the outside.
A modern bathroom with a wooden vanity, a sink, a mirror, and a built-in microwave.
A row of wooden cabins with a central garage-style building, surrounded by trees and a clear sky.
A cozy, well-lit tent-style room with two beds, a kitchenette, and a bathroom.
Property grounds

Reviews

8.8 out of 10
Excellent

Popular amenities

  • Pool
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Breakfast available

Explore the area

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

Room options

Studio Cottage, 1 Queen Bed

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
(17 reviews)
  • Garden view
  • 250 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed
  • Free WiFi

Studio (Cottage with Kitchenette)

8.4 out of 10
Very good
(7 reviews)
  • Garden view
  • 375 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed
  • Free WiFi

Traditional Hotel Room, 1 King Bed (main building)

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful
(31 reviews)
  • River view
  • 200 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free WiFi

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

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(26 reviews)
  • River view
  • 200 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Double Beds
  • Free WiFi

Studio Cottage with Wet Bar Two Beds

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(10 reviews)
  • Garden view
  • 375 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds
  • Free WiFi

Studio Cottage with Wet Bar

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful
(7 reviews)
  • Garden view
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free WiFi

Luxury Tent

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(1 review)
  • Garden view
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed
  • Free WiFi

Deluxe Studio Cottage with Kitchenette

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(2 reviews)
  • Garden view
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free WiFi

Luxury Tent

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • Garden view
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Queen Bed and 2 Twin Trundle Beds
  • Free WiFi

About the neighborhood

Carmel

Located in Mission Fields within 2 miles (3 km) of Carmel Beach, Carmel River Inn & Cottages is within a few miles (5 km) of other popular sights such as 17-Mile Drive. This 3-star motel has 56 guestrooms and offers conveniences like a coffee shop/cafe, free in-room WiFi, and free self parking.

What's nearby

  • Carmel Mission Basilica - 13 min walk - 0.7 miles
  • The Barnyard - 13 min walk - 0.7 miles
  • Sunset Center - 3 min drive - 1.6 miles
  • Carmel Plaza - 3 min drive - 2.5 miles
  • Carmel Beach - 4 min drive - 1.6 miles

Getting around

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

Restaurants

  • ‪Starbucks - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪La Bicyclette - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Pizza Heaven - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Mission Ranch Restaurant - ‬19 min walk
  • ‪Alvarado Street Brewery & Bistro - ‬4 min drive

About this property

Carmel River Inn & Cottages

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 microwaves 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

Food and drink

  • Weekday on-the-go breakfast available 7:30 AM to 10:00 AM for a fee: USD 2 to 30 for adults and USD 2 to 30 for children
  • A coffee shop/cafe

Restaurants on site

  • Morning Joy

Things to do

  • Seasonal outdoor pool

Family friendly

  • In-room microwave
  • 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
  • Electric kettle
  • Microwave
  • Minibar
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator

More

  • Access via exterior corridors
  • Heating
  • Individual decor
  • Individual furnishings
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Laptop workspace
  • Phone
  • 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.

  • Fee for to-go breakfast: approximately USD 2.00 to 30.00 for adults, and USD 2.00 to 30.00 for children
  • 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.

How much does it cost to stay at Carmel River Inn & Cottages?

As of Jul 14, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Carmel River Inn & Cottages on Jul 19, 2026 start from $329, 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.

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 14 minutes on foot from The Barnyard. You'll also find Carmel Beach and 17-Mile Drive within a short drive.

Is there parking available at Carmel River Inn & Cottages?

Yes, uncovered self parking is offered for free at the motel. Wheelchair-accessible van 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 amenities will couples enjoy at Carmel River Inn & Cottages?

Couples staying at this motel will appreciate amenities like a minibar as well as proposal/romance packages and a seasonal outdoor pool.

Are there hot tubs at Carmel River Inn & Cottages?

No, there isn't a spa tub at this motel.

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

Yes, Carmel River Inn & Cottages serves to-go breakfast for a surcharge on weekday mornings at Morning Joy.

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.

Are there connecting rooms at Carmel River Inn & Cottages?

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).

Are there rooms with balconies at Carmel River Inn & Cottages?

Yes, every guestroom at Carmel River Inn & Cottages comes with a furnished balcony/patio and some offer river and garden views.

Carmel River Inn & Cottages Reviews

Reviews

8.8

Excellent

Rating 10 - Excellent. 604 out of 1014 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 261 out of 1014 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 90 out of 1014 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 40 out of 1014 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 19 out of 1014 reviews

9.0/10

Cleanliness

9.2/10

Staff & service

8.6/10

Amenities

8.6/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Pablo

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Loved this place. We stayed in a little cottage..close to Monteray aquarium. Would stay again!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nikita

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Quaint place to stay! Beautiful property
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

8/10 Good

Dhiraj

Nice room next to river
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Luca

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great staff and clean cottage! Love it will come back for sure!
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Christopher

Liked: Staff & service
Yes, perfect. A beautiful property.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tamara

Liked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Delightful place to stay!
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Christina

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I enjoy visiting Carmel By the River inn and Cottages and bringing my pups. The grounds are beautiful and peaceful
Beautiful flowers
Pups resting
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Judith

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very clean, very quiet and location was great. Staff was very friendly and amenable.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Swaroop Ravikantrao

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Clean room best staff recommending good places, parking place
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tammy

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
What a lovely stay.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Joshua

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Everything was nice close to stores and everything staff was nice cool cabin vibe, beautiful sunrise.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Olivia

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great place to stay at the last minute. Friendly staff and great cabin
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Pamela

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Wonderful stay. Very quiet. Lovely staff.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mark

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great location. Excellent service.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Matteo

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This place is a dream come true comfy cozy little cottages and very private. Yes you have neighbors but no one is wall to wall next to you.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

8/10 Good

Rashelle

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We had a fun first trip! The inn and cottage was along the Carmel River and provided a peaceful and affordable (compared to the general area) experience my friends and my puppy! There was plenty of areas for dogs to enjoy and quick fast drive to the supermarket and downtown Carmel. The room was spacious and cozy with all we needed!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Evelyn

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great location!
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Negar

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The renovated room we stayed in was lovely. The beds and bedding were comfortable and the river view from the second floor balcony was beautiful and soothing. The one area for improvement was to have microwaves in the rooms.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

2/10 Terrible

Sandra

Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
We booked a cot
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Daniel

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The cottage was awesome. It was very clean and quiet. The parking was excellent. You get your own personal space. It felt very safe.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Etinay

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Property is pet friendly and grounds are perfect to walk through. Updated cabins are really nice and everything was well kept and maintained. Very quiet.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

8/10 Good

Shun-Tak

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
At a convenient location. It's in a secluded and quiet area but right next to Highway 1 on this way to Big Sur. The amenities and convenience of Carmel-by-the-Sea is only a few minutes away. It's literally the last exit from the city onto Highway 1 and on to Big Sur. So you can stay very near but outside Big Sur at a relative discount.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ted

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Very pleasant three day stay. Dog friendly and great location.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

avi

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great location
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Maricela

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Cute, clean affordable
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026