Stilwell Hotel

The minds behind this modern addition to Carmel’s boutique lodging scene already ran one of the best hotels in town: the Japanese-inspired Tradewinds Inn, first opened in 1959 and prominently featured in Architectural Digest after the owner’s daughter, Susan Stilwell, led a style overhaul in the early 2000s. Its sister property a block away, the Stilwell Hotel, takes her name, and offers a similar brand of laid-back California chic. But while the original hotel has an eclectic vintage feel, the Stilwell is modern and minimalist, its interiors outfitted in neutral tones and sophisticated but down-to-earth decor.

Rooms and suites are spacious and silent, with views of the sea, the mountains, or the Monterey pines and cypresses that frame the building. All feature hardwood floors and a range of natural materials — wood, linen, cotton, raffia — as well as writing desks, plush robes, Nespresso machines, and marble bathrooms with walk-in showers. Some have balconies, tubs, or fireplaces, and a few overlook a striking open-air courtyard. It’s a lovely spot for breakfast by a row of modern fountains or, after dark, a glass of wine by the glow of the fire. Charcuterie boards and wood-fired pizzas are on offer at the hotel's café, and Carmel’s many shops, galleries, restaurants, and bars are just a short stroll away.