Hofsas House Hotel is the perfect family-owned boutique inn in the heart of Carmel by the Sea. This hotel is within walking distance for exploring Carmel and has the casual European elegance you need in California.
The Plaid Shirt Yoga Pants Family visited the Hofsas House twice and cannot wait to return. The hotel was an excellent location for our trip down Highway One, and the Hofsas house has the warmth of family hospitality and truly makes you feel like you are in a home away from home.
Keep reading to learn about the best reasons to stay at Hofsas House.
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A Bit of Carmel By the Sea
Carmel-by-the-Sea, also known as Carmel, is an adorable small town in Monterey County. This whole already has stunning ocean views, and many of the activities are within walking distance from each other.
Established in 1902 and incorporated in 1916, this town is roughly 120 miles south of San Francisco. It is celebrated for its stunning natural landscapes, rich artistic heritage, and stunning art galleries and boutique shops.
Over the year, Carmel by the Sea has had Doris Day, Betty White, and Clint Eastwood as residents.
Carmel by the Sea is also known for not having any big box stores, chains, or widely known hotels – everything around here is quaint small businesses and mom-and-pop stores.
Hofsas House and Carmel by the Sea
There is more than meets the eye in the pink surroundings of the Hofsas House on San Carlos Street. This charming hotel dates back to the 1940s and offers guests a unique experience in this coastal town.
The hotel was owned and run by Donna Hofsas and Fred Hofsas and has stayed in the family for generations. This boutique family-owned inn is now owned by Carrie Theis, who remembers coming to the Hofsas House as a child.
The hotel’s European-style architecture and colorful Bavarian-themed designs create a fun and relaxed stay. Each room is decorated differently, and many boast stunning ocean views that allow guests to seek relaxation and tranquility.
One of my favorite things Hofsas House Hotel offers is the complimentary breakfast. It is enough to get you out the door, ready to take on the stunning California Coast.
Meeting with the owner, Carrie
After a long road trip, we met Carrie Theis, Donna’s granddaughter, the Owner and General Manager of the Hofsas House since 2000. She is the third generation to own this house from Donna. We were able to learn all about Hofsas house and even took a tour of the rest of the hotel.
Carrie assisted us with picking the perfect place to have a picnic and helped us form plans for cruising up and down Highway One. She even told us that the outdoor heated pool would be waiting for us after our long day of sightseeing.
Cute European Charm in a Boutique Hotel
Pulling up to the Hofsas House on San Carlos Street, you will immediately see a pink building with an adorable mural greeting you to the hotel’s lobby. This German-inspired Mural and decorations make staying at the Hofsas House a dream.
Talented artist Maxine Albro painted the Mural. Donna, the original owner, recruited Maxine to create the stunning Bavarian-themed Mural to welcome all guests while they enter the main lobby to get their keys.
I love the Mural and think it is an excellent location so that all guests can see how adorable it is!
HOFSAS HOUSE AMENITIES
The Hofsas House comes with many amenities that will make your stay more comfortable.
- Free wireless internet access
- Off-street parking lot
- Complimentary continental breakfast daily (fresh pastries from a local bakery, fruit, yogurt, etc.)
- Outdoor heated swimming pool
- Spacious rooms
- Dry Saunas
- Refrigerators, microwaves, and coffee makers
- Fireplaces, wet bars, kitchens, and a private balcony in select rooms
- HD cable TV
- Shampoo, Conditioner, Lotion, Vanity Kit, Blowdryer
- Dutch doors in every room so you can welcome the fresh ocean air!
- Dog-friendly select rooms!
Room 28 – a hotel review
On our first visit, we stayed in Room 28, one of the family suites. Upon entering, it felt like stepping into my late grandmother’s house, bringing a sense of nostalgia. The room was tastefully decorated with unique touches that suited our style.
The suite featured two bathrooms with a tub/shower combo. With multiple sinks and vanities, it was easy for us to get ready. It also had three beds, so each family member had a different place to sleep!
Though the room lacked air conditioning or a ceiling fan, we Southerners did not fret! We could open the windows and Dutch doors to allow the refreshing sea breeze to flow in.
The beds were extremely comfortable – my sister even exclaimed that she wanted to stay in the be forever!
Another highlight of the room that we enjoyed was the small kitchenette. We enjoyed our morning coffee in our room before grabbing breakfast from the lobby. In the evenings, we used the kitchenette to pour glasses of wine in the room from the local wineries.
I highly recommend staying in Room 28 at the Hofsas House!
Delicious Goodies
Carrie thoughtfully arranged a spread of goodies to enhance our stay. Upon arrival, we were greeted with a delightful selection of wine and cheese from a local cheese shop and winery. Little touches like this made us feel like we were at home.
We also had the option to pick up a picnic lunch from 5th Street Deli and a delicious dinner at Abalonettti in Monterey.
Delicious Continental Breakfast
During our stay at the Hofsas House, we began each morning with a yummy breakfast that featured an assortment of fresh pastries and baked goods, refreshing yogurt, and fresh fruit.
I loved picking up the necessities for the morning and meeting other families in the lobby. After chatting with a few guests, I brought the breakfast treats in a small breakfast so the rest of the family could enjoy breakfast in the room.
One of my favorite treats was the chocolate croissant – I love baked goods and chocolate.
Pet Friendly in Carmel by the Sea and Carmel Beach
Luckily for dog owners, Carmel Beach and many areas in Carmel by the Sea are dog friendly. You are in luck if you want to explore this charming coastal town with your furry companion.
Hofsas House Hotel has dedicated rooms that are pet friendly. After exploring everything Carmel Beach offers, your four-legged friends will be happy to rest their heads at night.
Things to do while visiting Carmel by the Sea
Carmel by the Sea offers so many fun things to do while you are in town. A must-visit you need to add to your bucket list is to take 17 Mile Drive and see Pebble Beach, a world-renowned golfing destination.
Take a Road trip up Highway One and visit Big Sur. Even though the hit is only a short drive away, Big Sur is stunning. It is perfect for hiking and enjoying California’s coastlines and glorious sunsets.
Looking for more things to do in Carmel By The Sea and the surrounding areas? Check out my blog post that goes into full detail!
How to get to Hofsas house
There are multiple ways to get to the Hofsas House. On one trip, we flew into San Francisco and road-tripped down to Carmel by the Sea; the second time, we flew into Los Angels and road-tripped up to Carmel by the Sea. You can also arrange to fly into San Jose International Airport or Monterey regional airport. Both airports are easy to fly into and drive into.
Should you stay at the Hofsas house?
It would help if you stayed at the Hofsas house because it is a great spot to go on a family vacation. The hotel is easy to walk from many shops, beaches, and sightseeing areas. Anywhere else that you cannot get to by food is only a short drive away.
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