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Question

I'm planning to visit with hubby in May. Not sure if we stay in town at quaint hotel, or maybe a little bit out at a vrbo with ocean views, hot tub and full kitchen. We will have a car since I want to make 17 mile drive and do Big Sur. My husband likes to cook and its nice to spread about a place to have room, but will we be missing the whole feel of Carmel by the sea? Also, should we stay 2 nights in Big Sur area or just day trip? Any suggestions or advice is greatly appreciated ..oh, we are both young 50 & 52 years young..work out daily, like hiking ( not too major, want to rent bikes, etc

Answer

For a trip to Carmel and the surrounding Monterey Coast, both staying in town and choosing a VRBO slightly outside have pros and cons, especially considering your interests in hiking, biking, and cooking.

Staying in Carmel-by-the-Sea:

Quaint hotels in town immerse you in the charming village atmosphere, with walkable streets full of art galleries, cafes, and boutique shops.
Easy access to beach walks, local restaurants, and bike rentals in town.
Less privacy and limited space compared to a rental with a full kitchen, so your husband’s love of cooking may be restricted.

Staying at a VRBO slightly outside town with ocean views and a full kitchen:

More space, privacy, and amenities such as a hot tub and kitchen for home-cooked meals.
Great for enjoying sunsets, coastal views, and relaxing at your own pace.
Requires driving into town for restaurants, shopping, and the village feel, but with a car this is easy and adds flexibility.

Regarding Big Sur:

Day trips from Carmel are doable but can be long; the drive is scenic and slows down with traffic or photo stops.
Staying one or two nights in the Big Sur area allows more exploration, short hikes, and less rush, making the experience more relaxing.
Accommodations in Big Sur can be limited and more expensive, so plan and book early.

Other tips for your trip:

Rent bikes in Carmel for coastal rides or around town; easy trails include the Carmel Beach Path and 17-Mile Drive segments.
For hikes, consider Point Lobos State Natural Reserve near Carmel for scenic and moderate trails.
Balance your stay: two nights in Carmel for village experience and one night closer to Big Sur if you want to explore more deeply without long day drives.
Check tide schedules and weather if planning beach walks or hikes along the coast.

In summary, if you value space, cooking, and ocean views, a VRBO slightly outside town is ideal, especially with a car. Staying in Carmel offers charm and walkability. For Big Sur, even one overnight stay can enhance the experience significantly versus a long day trip.

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