I've stayed at this resort 5 times in the last 6 years and have always had a great time. OK, maybe I'm biased - my husband proposed to me here, and we had our wedding reception here as well - but I think with this much experience at Highlands Inn, I can also say that they have never let me down.

The Highlands Inn lobby is super place to hang out for wine, piano music, the gallery of photographs, and of course the panoramic view of the Pacific. We sat here while meeting with the wedding coordinator one afternoon, and saw the place fill up with observers about an hour before sunset. Walk a little further, and you'll be in the Pacific's Edge restaurant, which really a dining experience. A dinner for 2 runs about $150 with wine and desserts, but it's definitely worth it. Again, you'll be treated to a great view. For more casual dining (but still an excellent menu), there is a restaurant downstairs, I think it's called the California Grill.

The rooms are small, containing a bed, fireplace, small table with 2 chairs, and bedside CD player. I never measured it, but it's probably about 15x15, to give you an idea. It's nicely decorated, and has a comfortable - not luxurious - bathroom. There's an endless supply of firelogs in a nearby bin. Each basic room has a private deck, and this is important: GET AN OCEAN VIEW ROOM. Who cares about having a view of the pool when you can get a nearly unobstructed view of the Pacific. These are truly the best. For my wedding, my husband and I stayed in separate suites, and while these are roomier and come with a big tub, they're really not very cute.

To be honest, I've stayed in better appointed rooms, but the service more than makes up for it. You can call the front desk and ask someone to bring up Advil and hair gel. They will be at your door in 5 minutes to deliver. As a small hotel, they can deliver on these special requests. I believe that the success of a getaway depends a large part on how well you're treated by the staff. These guys have come through for us each time.

A couple thoughts: This hotel is about 10 minutes from downtown Carmel. You'll need to drive into town, no walking, trust me. If you really don't feel comfortable with the price of this place, they let you look at the rooms if they're available, or you can stay at the Tickle Pink Inn, just 50 yards beyond the Highlands Inn. The rooms are bigger and some may prefer them, but you will still have to go to Highlands Inn to eat. One last thing: Order room service and eat it by candle light on your private deck.

Recommended: Yes