Just off of scenic Highway 1, Carmel is one of California’s coastal gems. It was my wife’s birthday and we decided to leave town, slow things down and take a long three day weekend trip to enjoy the beautiful landscape, great food, shops and all that Carmel has to offer. A beautiful drive from Los Angeles, there are lots of options as far as accommodations, but here are Carmel’s top 5 luxury hotels, based on TripAdvisor user reviews.

Tickle Pink Inn boasts a spectacular view of the Pacific Ocean from every single room.  Guests suggest the “cove view” as you will be treated to sounds of the waves splashing onto the rocky coast, ocean views with dolphins and whales jumping, a view of the Carmel highland upland.  At this Zagat rated inn, guests are treated to cozy European bedding, private decks with breathtaking views of the coastline, homemade breakfast pastries and an evening wine & cheese reception accompanied by classical music.

Hyatt Carmel Highlands is a picturesque retreat overlooking the Big Sur coast with epic views of the Pacific. This oceanfront retreat blends the amenities of a large property with the charm of a boutique hideaway. They have an award-winning restaurant, (Pacific’s Edge) and offer spa services, yoga, mountain bike rentals and useful maps for any hikes, jogs or bike rides around the Carmel area. The Concierge can also arrange a day trip to Carmel by-the-Sea or a round at nearby Pebble Beach. Guests praised the view, the service and the wine list, calling it “one of the finest wine lists in north America, boasting wines from around the world, with serious strength in the wines of Napa Valley.”

Carmel Valley Ranch has been a favorite getaway spot for decades, the resort recently reimagined itself as, what they are calling, a place dedicated to the idea of play. A guest review praises “A wide range of activities are nearby: hiking in Big Sur, driving through Pebble Beach, visiting Carmel by the Sea and Monterey. The Ranch itself is luxurious yet understated, cozy, natural, and comfortable. It is great for families and very dog friendly!”

The Pine Inn is a boutique, full-service hotel, and has the distinction of being the first hotel built in Carmel-by-the Sea. Built in 1889, it has been designated Historical Resource by the City of Carmel.  This inn is conveniently located close to shops, restaurants and art galleries.  A theme running through the majority of the reviews for this quaint inn is the praise for their customer service.

L’Auberge Carmel is an historic hotel located in the heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea, just blocks from the famed Carmel Beach. Built in 1929, the hotel is known for its architecture, personalized guest services, and award winning restaurant, Aubergine.  In addition to the amazing food and the proximity to the center of town, guests praise the hospitable staff and the charming attention to details: a glass of wine upon arrival, homemade oatmeal cookies (and the recipe!) at bedtime, heated bathroom floors…even a daily wash of guests’ cars.

So there you have it: Carmel’s top 5 luxury hotels, as determined by Trip Advisor reviews. Do you have a favorite that didn’t make the list?