Located in beautiful Carmel-by-the-Sea, the comfy and friendly Hofsas House Hotel was founded in 1947 by Donna and Fred Hofsas. For the past 7 decades it has been a popular family-run, warm, hospitable boutique inn. In stages over the years it was expanded to its present 38 spacious rooms. Hofsas House has a swimming pool and is kid-friendly. Pets are also welcome.

A continental breakfast is served in the lobby. We suggest opting for a room on the 4th floor with a fireplace and an ocean and sunset view.

The hotel is located in a quiet neighborhood within a short stroll of downtown and all its unique shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Not to be confused with Carmel, this very special city, Carmel-by-the-Sea, is only about one square mile in size and is surrounded by Carmel. The city is unique in many ways. There are no street lights or parking meters. Business signage must be made of wood or wood-like material of a certain size, small and unobtrusive. There are no neon signs allowed. Nor are there any large chain hotels, motels or restaurants. Big-box warehouse stores are not allowed, either. Also, there are no house or building street numbers. Seriously. Residents pick up their mail at the post office where they chat with their neighbors. Homes are all custom, large and small. Some are fairytale-like. There are many, many trees and much charm to enjoy. The whole city’s motif is in keeping with the “village in the forest.”

We can recommend Gael Gallagher to do a 2-hour walking tour of the city. Tel: 831.905.0350, http://www.gaelgallagher.com. And for dinner we were extremely delighted with L’Escargo-Carmel for French fine dining. Tel: 831.620.1942. From Big Sur to the south or Monterey, Pacific Grove and Pebble Beach to the north, all are very close.

Hofsas House Hotel’s Carrie Theis, granddaughter of the founders, is the General Manager/Owner carrying on their legacy of fine service and hospitality. Hofsas House Hotel, San Carlos Street, north of 4th Avenue, Carmel by the Sea, California, Tel: 831.624.2745, http://www.hofsashouse.com