When I arrived extremely late in Carmel, CA I hadn't made any arrangements for a hotel.
After speaking to a local he recommended the La Playa. We were greeted with a smile and the gentleman at the frong desk was very accomdating to what kind of room we wanted (an ocean view). We were two blocks from touching and seeing the ocean. In the morning they have a wonderful complimentary breakfast. I would diffently come back.

The hotel staff are friendly and very helpful. They truely make you feel at home!

The hotel is located just a few blocks from the restaurants and shopping. This town has numerous shops and art galleries that add to the quaint atmosphere.

Our room had an incredible panoramic ocean view. That being said... Even though the rooms have been recently renovated...I felt that our room was a bit on the small side. Also, wood plantation shutters were used as a window treatment. These were somewhat cumbersome and partially blocked the wonderful view. The room itself was clean and functional. However... It fell short on the character side that you expect with a $300/ nite room.

Complimentary breakfast is quite good! Fresh juices and champagne with a nice selection of fruits and breads and cheese.

Visit this hotel for it's wonderful ocean view and friendly staff!

I used to stay here as a child with my family in the 70's and 80's - this was my first time back to the newly renovated La Playa, and it was lovely. The rooms are clean and modern, but still have some old spanish charm about them - we had four rooms for a wedding party, so got to see a variety. Definitely better to get an ocean view or patio room. We had the Poolside King - a big room with fireplace and large bathroom, sofa and coffee tables. We got married in this room with a minister and 8 guests, and it was PERFECT, intimate and beautiful. The hotel sent down some complimentary champagne and extra chocolate.

The complimentary breakfast was also excellent - waffle and omelette chef, great croissants, fruit, bread pudding, etc. Helps offset the slightly pricey rooms.

This hotel is two short blocks down the hill to Carmel Beach, making it the perfect location if that is why you are in Carmel.

The renovated hotel is comfortable and elegant without being pretentious. I was very impressed with both the room and public spaces. The breakfast is surprisingly high quality. BUT....all this is countered by the absurd prices at the hotel bar. I was charged $19.50 for a scotch. In a span of 15 minutes I heard 3 other guests complain....One gentleman frustrated enough to say he will never return again after years of loyal patronage. If the hotel ownership and management do not choose to address this, then they are essentially saying: "we are going to stick you for the cost of our renovations...." Not a good business model.