Carmel Comstock Cottages
Step into a fairytale at Carmel-by-the-Sea, home to enchanting Hugh Comstock cottages and stunning coastal beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Carmel Comstock Cottages
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into a fairytale at Carmel-by-the-Sea, home to enchanting Hugh Comstock cottages and stunning coastal beauty.
"Discover the magic of Carmel's storybook cottages, a truly unique and charming California gem."
🗺️ Get a Cottage Map
Pick up a map at the Carmel Visitors Center to find all the Hugh Comstock cottages.
🚶♀️ Respect Private Homes
Many cottages are private residences. Admire from the street and be mindful of residents.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hugh Comstock Cottages
Various locations in Carmel-by-the-Sea
Wander through a whimsical village of storybook homes, each with unique charm and history. A true fairytale experience!
Hansel and Gretel Cottages
Near downtown Carmel
Iconic fairytale dwellings built by Hugh Comstock, perfect for a magical stroll and photos.
The Tuck Box
Downtown Carmel
A charming cottage that now serves as a delightful tea room, offering scones and local spreads.
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Just south of Carmel
The 'crown jewel' of California parks, boasting stunning coastal views, wildlife, and hiking trails.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Fairytale Charm
Explore Beyond the Cottages
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🗺️ Get a Cottage Map
Pick up a map at the Carmel Visitors Center to find all the Hugh Comstock cottages.
🚶♀️ Respect Private Homes
Many cottages are private residences. Admire from the street and be mindful of residents.
☕ Enjoy a Tea Break
Visit The Tuck Box for a delightful tea experience in a historic cottage setting.
🥾 Hike Point Lobos
Don't miss Point Lobos State Natural Reserve for breathtaking coastal scenery.
Tips
from all over the internet
🗺️ Get a Cottage Map
Pick up a map at the Carmel Visitors Center to find all the Hugh Comstock cottages.
🚶♀️ Respect Private Homes
Many cottages are private residences. Admire from the street and be mindful of residents.
☕ Enjoy a Tea Break
Visit The Tuck Box for a delightful tea experience in a historic cottage setting.
🥾 Hike Point Lobos
Don't miss Point Lobos State Natural Reserve for breathtaking coastal scenery.
🚗 Scenic Drives
Explore the iconic 17-Mile Drive for stunning ocean vistas and famous golf courses.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the enchanting atmosphere and unique architecture of the Hugh Comstock cottages, describing them as a fairytale come to life. The town's charm, natural beauty, and friendly staff at local establishments are also frequently highlighted. Some guests note that parking can be challenging and that dining options can be on the pricier side.
"The Cottages of Carmel has been so welcoming to my sister-in-law, and helpful with her move in. Gina DiMaria in particular was helpful answering all of our emails and texts in a very timely manner. She's a delight, and Suzi is looking forward to her residency at The Cottages."
Patti Randall
"We had an incredible orientation with Gina DiMaria. Very detailed, very tailored to our current situation, answered all of our questions. A lovely facility."
Kiersten Lammerding
"My 87 year old Mom lives at the Cottages and we are SO glad she is there. The facility is lovely and the recent renovations look fantastic. Also, the Cottages is a nice size where everyone can get to know each other and the residents don’t get lost in the shuffle. But, most importantly, the people are really wonderful. The management team truly cares about their residents and works to listen and address to their feedback. The caregiver team (including the medical technicians and food services) are also wonderful. There is nothing more comforting than knowing that the people helping out my Mom genuinely care about her wellbeing. Many thanks to everyone at the Cottages for all they do!"
Wendy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The cottages are scattered throughout Carmel-by-the-Sea, a charming town located about 2 hours south of San Francisco. Many are within walking distance of downtown. +1
While there isn't extensive public transport directly to the cottages, you can reach Carmel-by-the-Sea via bus services from nearby Monterey. Once in town, walking is the best way to explore the cottages.
Carmel is very walkable, especially the downtown area where many cottages are located. For exploring further afield, consider driving or using ride-sharing services.
Street parking is available near many of the cottages, though it can be limited. Some accommodations may offer dedicated parking.
Absolutely! Carmel-by-the-Sea is a popular day trip destination from San Francisco and other parts of the Bay Area, offering a delightful escape to a fairytale town.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No tickets are required to view the exterior of the Hugh Comstock cottages. They are part of the town's charm and can be admired from the street.
The cottages are private residences, so there are no official visiting hours. It's best to visit during daylight hours to appreciate their architecture.
Generally, the interiors of the cottages are private. However, some, like The Tuck Box, operate as businesses and are open to the public.
You can often pick up a self-guided walking tour map of the Hugh Comstock cottages at the Carmel Visitors Center on Ocean Avenue.
There are no entrance fees for the areas where the cottages are located. Exploring the charming streets is free of charge.
📸 📸 Photography
Focus on the unique architectural details and fairytale aesthetics. Streets like Ocean Avenue and surrounding lanes offer picturesque views.
While you can photograph the exteriors, be respectful of private property and residents. Avoid intrusive photography.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, provides beautiful soft light that enhances the magical atmosphere of the cottages.
Photography inside The Tuck Box is generally permitted for personal use, but it's always polite to ask staff if you're unsure.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the full charm of the cottages, while a prime lens can be useful for detailed shots.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Downtown Carmel offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. The Tuck Box is a popular spot for tea and scones.
The Tuck Box is a notable exception, operating as a tea room within a historic cottage.
Popular choices include Stationaery for coffee and breakfast, Yafa for lamb chops, and Brophy's Tavern for burgers. La Bicyclette is also highly recommended. +1
Many restaurants in Carmel are accommodating to dietary needs, including gluten-free options. It's always best to check with your server.
Dining in Carmel can range from moderately priced cafes to more expensive fine dining experiences.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 A visit to The Tuck Box for tea and scones offers a delightful treat in a charming setting. Beyond the cottages, the beaches provide ample space for play, and Point Lobos State Natural Reserve offers exciting opportunities for wildlife spotting, which kids often love. 🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
+1 Pack a picnic to enjoy on one of Carmel's beautiful beaches or at a scenic overlook. 💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Consider a visit to The Tuck Box for a quaint afternoon tea. For breathtaking ocean views and a serene setting, a visit to Point Lobos State Natural Reserve at sunset is unforgettable. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enchanting History of Hugh Comstock Cottages
This unique beginning set the tone for what would become a distinctive architectural style in Carmel-by-the-Sea.Comstock went on to build approximately 30 cottages, with around 21 still standing today. These homes are characterized by their steep, gabled roofs, charming dormer windows, and storybook aesthetics, often evoking images from classic fairy tales. Many are nestled on small, picturesque lots, contributing to the town's intimate and enchanting atmosphere.
To fully appreciate the historical significance and architectural beauty of these cottages, visitors can obtain maps from the Carmel Visitors Center. This allows for a self-guided walking tour, revealing hidden gems and the unique stories behind each dwelling.
Exploring these cottages is a step back in time, offering a glimpse into a unique chapter of Carmel's architectural heritage.Exploring Carmel-by-the-Sea Beyond the Cottages
For nature lovers, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is an absolute must-visit. Often called the 'crown jewel' of the California State Park system, it features dramatic cliffs, turquoise coves, abundant wildlife (including sea lions and otters), and scenic hiking trails.
Carmel also boasts beautiful beaches perfect for a leisurely walk or simply enjoying the ocean breeze. The town's European-inspired ambiance, coupled with its artistic heritage and natural beauty, makes it a multifaceted destination that appeals to a wide range of visitors.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit