ALONG COMES MARY

It’s no secret that Carmel, California is one of my most favorite places to go. Nestled on the way to Big Sur and San Francisco, Carmel-by-the-Sea is one of those places that truly feel like you are away from it all as you watch the sunrise on coast while overlooking Pebble Beach, then find one of their incredible restaurants for breakfast, or maybe you hop in the car and take California’s famous 17 mile drive.

With Mother’s Day this weekend (I know, right?), many kids are scrambling for that last minute gift for Mom or any of the special ladies in their lives. Why not pull out all of the stops and tell her that you are off for a stay in Carmel-by-the-Sea? Read on to discover where to stay, what to eat and where to go if you head up north to discover a little piece of paradise!

Easily the best place to stay in Carmel-by-the-Sea, The Hofsas House is within walking distance of everything Carmel has to offer. From the gorgeous stroll down to the beach, the array of restaurants, shops and wine tasting, Hofsas House provides peaceful respite and European charm just minutes from California road trip destinations like Monterey, Pebble Beach, Big Sur and Pacific Grove. The Hofsas house offers 38 spacious, one-of-a-kind rooms boast European comfort and lovely views and amenities such as fireplaces, private balconies, wet bars, kitchens and patios. Their large suites provide the perfect stay for larger parties (How about Mom and afew of her friends or some more family?!) and anyone seeking an extra special getaway.

Easily the funnest feature, their Dutch doors in every room allow guests to welcome in the ocean air, and bird watch while the spacious balconies (private available) make it hard to want to ever fall asleep as the views and tranquil surroundings are incredible.

In addition to The Hofsas House’s adorable rooms, treat Mom extra special and request a bottle of local wine, artisan cheese and crackers are awaiting upon your check-in. It’s the perfect way to un-wind after your drive, and get you prepared for what is to come on your getaway! Tail Wagging package and bring Fido along?! Easily the most pet friendly hotel in Carmel, The Hofsas Tail Wagging Package provides everything your furry BFF needs to feel as much at home as you will. You’ll receive a special dog bed, Frisbee, a welcome letter from Tank, Hofsas’ very own pet concierge, treats and more. If that doesn’t make your tail wag, I don’t know what will.

Once you are settled in, leave your car parked and head on into town (literally outside your door) to get busy on the wine tasting! Hofsas can assist you in purchasing Carmel’s popular “Wine Passport” that includes stops at a variety of the town’s best wineries for a flight of their most beloved wines. Best part? Most rooms are completely fine if you want to bring your dog along, too!

Something else Carmel does not fool around with? Their restaurants. If you are in need of some great gluten free in Carmel-by-the-Sea, they have you covered. My favorite is easily Flaherty’s Seafood Grill and Oyster Bar where you can once again enjoy onion rings, calamari, and even eggs Benedict, all gluten free options. Each time Michael and I have been in town, we have made it a bit of a tradition to dine at Dametra Cafe. While you will usually encounter a bit of a wait at Dametra, it is well worth it as each visit has been like visiting family. Home-y, full bar and usually a band trio serenading you over lunch, Dametra has earned the title of best Greek food in Carmel and couldn’t be more true.

So, if you are still searching for the best Mother’s Day gift for this weekend, I hope you will consider a trip to Carmel-by-the-Sea! xo