A friend and I stayed here for one night while we stopped in Carmel and I think a quick, casual stay is the best type of stay here. If I was looking for romance, luxury, modernity--I would look elsewhere. First off--look for a sign that says "Carmel Oaks", Clarion is tiny on the sign and easy to miss. We drove by a couple of times before we realized we were missing it. The motel is old and needs some updating--namely new furniture, a new TV, phone, etc etc. Why have sat TV only to show it on a tiny old fashioned TV? Also, a fresh coat of paint would do wonders. Our room had a bizarre faux finish, including on the ceiling, that looked like someone had sprayed blood all over the place. Just re-do everything in a crisp white or cream and you add instant improvement. The bathroom had been redone recently and was fine.
Despite my criticisms, the room was clean and well kept--just old fashioned. Oh and the walls are thin!
The location is great--right in the center of town and a great base for walking everywhere else.
- Clarion Carmel
- Carmel Clarion
