The Cottages of Carmel

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  • Interior

    A cozy living room with a fireplace, comfortable seating, and a grand piano in the corner.
  • Outdoors

    A scenic view of a large building surrounded by trees and hills under a cloudy sky.
  • Decor

    A cozy dining area with a well-set table, adjacent to a kitchen.
  • Living Room

    A cozy living room with comfortable seating and a fireplace.
  • Architecture

    A historic mission building with a garden and fountain in California.
  • Bedroom

    A cozy bedroom with a patterned bedspread, bedside lamp, and a window letting in natural light.
  • Trees

    A serene park setting featuring two wooden gazebos surrounded by greenery and a bench in the foreground.
  • Windows

    A cozy living room with a modern sofa, wooden coffee table, and decorative plants near large windows.
  • Dining

    A cozy restaurant dining room with arranged tables and chairs, ambient lighting, and decorative elements.
  • Landscaping

    A serene outdoor space featuring a wooden fence, greenery, and a bench along a paved pathway.
  • Kitchen

    A well-designed kitchen interior featuring wooden cabinets, a granite countertop, and decorative orchids.
  • Natural Light

    A cozy and elegantly decorated bedroom with a large window leading to a balcony, allowing natural light to fill the space.
  • Palm Trees

    A picturesque church with Spanish colonial architecture, set against a clear blue sky and surrounded by palm trees.
  • Salon

    A stylish hair salon interior with well-arranged furniture and a large mirror reflecting the workspace.

The Cottages of Carmel

26241 Carmel Rancho Blvd, Carmel, CA 93923

For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973

4.8 from 84 reviews
5 stars
77
4 stars
4
3 stars
1
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0
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2

Assisted Living Memory Care

The Cottages of Carmel Costs & Pricing

The Cottages of Carmel offers a range of room types at competitive prices relative to both Monterey County and the broader California market. For instance, the monthly cost for a studio unit stands at $4,995, which is notably higher than the county average of $3,761 but aligns closely with the state average of $4,145. Semi-private rooms are priced at $5,495, exceeding both county and state averages, reflecting perhaps the enhanced amenities or services provided. One-bedroom accommodations are available for $6,695, surpassing not only local costs but also those seen statewide. The most significant difference appears in two-bedroom options at $9,235 - considerably above Monterey's average of $5,112 and California's median of $5,270. These price points suggest that The Cottages of Carmel may be positioning itself as a premium choice in a highly desirable location, catering to residents seeking an elevated living experience amidst the picturesque surroundings of Carmel.

Floor plansThe Cottages of CarmelMonterey CountyCalifornia
Studio$4,995$3,761$4,145
Semi-Private$5,495$3,561$3,333
1 Bedroom$6,695$4,189$4,340
2 Bedrooms$9,235$5,112$5,270

What level of care are you interested in?

Assisted Living

Memory Care

Independent Living

Skilled Nursing Facility

Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC)CCRC

Other


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    Overall Review of The Cottages of Carmel

    Pros

    • pro The Cottages of Carmel is a warm, welcoming community that provides peace of mind to families.
    • pro Gina DiMaria is helpful, knowledgeable, and goes above and beyond for residents and families.
    • pro The staff are consistently friendly, caring, and professional.
    • pro The facility is beautiful, well-maintained, and inviting, with renovations that enhance the common areas.
    • pro The dining and meals are outstanding with a varied menu and daily specials.
    • pro Tours and orientations are detailed, tailored, and informative, helping visitors feel confident about the decision.
    • pro Julie May Estrellado is a fantastic director who is responsive and attentive to residents and families.
    • pro The memory care unit is supported by compassionate staff, offering individualized care and meaningful activities.
    • pro The community offers engaging activities and programs that residents enjoy and look forward to.

    Cons

    • pro The Bridge memory section may not provide the care and safety needed for a dementia patient who is a fall risk.
    • pro There were not enough measures in place to minimize fall risk during the night shift, which seemed understaffed.
    • pro The memory care was a huge disappointment, with advice to visit unannounced many times to gauge staff and management.
    • pro The facility is described as corporate-run, with little personal touch, and has had three general managers in three years with no follow-up.
    • pro It was noted as somewhat expensive, with a higher-than-budget price and a required $2,500 deposit for events.
    • pro The memory care manager was perceived to have an attitude.
    • pro Some reviewers felt that activities and kitchen staff could improve or upgrade interactions and choices for residents.

    Review

    The Cottages of Carmel is best suited for families seeking a boutique, home-like assisted living environment where personal attention, warm hospitality, and a high-touch care model are non-negotiables. This community shines for residents who want a private, homelike apartment (often with a fireplace and patio), easy navigation on a single level, and a campus that feels like a cared-for home rather than a clinical setting. It appeals to those who prize strong leadership, consistent staffing, and a dining program that doubles as social and culinary delight. In short, it is ideal for seniors who value intimate routines, thoughtful programming, and frequent family touchpoints with a proven team at the helm.

    Those weighing alternatives should consider options if cost is a primary constraint, if a larger campus footprint is a priority, or if dementia care needs demand a more tightly controlled safety framework. Some families may prefer a facility with less corporate flavor and more individualized, DIY-style caregiving. For memory care specifically, the Bridge unit is a meaningful feature, but it has drawn scrutiny from some families who want more robust nighttime oversight and a track record of zero falls. If certainty about predictive safety metrics and unannounced, transparent visits is non-negotiable, alternatives that emphasize these elements may be worth a closer look.

    The strongest positives here are evident in the tangible, everyday experience: beautifully renovated common spaces and apartments, a warm front-of-house atmosphere, and a kitchen that delivers consistently good meals. Residents and families repeatedly highlight the quality of the on-site staff across roles - nursing, med techs, dining, activities, and maintenance - who are described as attentive, patient, and genuinely caring. Tours and admissions tend to proceed smoothly under the guidance of Gina DiMaria and Julie Estrellado, with families reporting clear communication, comprehensive answers, and a sense of relief as transitions unfold. The combination of a forgiving, home-like environment and a strong social calendar translates into meaningful engagement for many residents.

    Yet, concerns surface in the memory-care area. The Bridge unit has been cited as insufficiently engineered to prevent nocturnal falls for a highly fall-prone dementia population, leading to hospitalizations and a perception that safety controls could be tighter. Understaffing at night is another recurring worry, with families wondering whether the care plan and monitoring truly match the risk profile of residents. Such drawbacks are not dismissed lightly, and they cannot be fully offset by the excellent dining, activity schedule, or guest-friendly tours. The reality is that memory care safety requires vigilant, consistent execution, and any impression of gaps here will temper the otherwise glowing impressions.

    Even so, the offsetting strengths remain compelling. The Cottages' intimate scale, long-tenured staff, and on-site clinical professionals create a level of continuity that is rare in larger communities. Families report highly personalized care plans, frequent family updates, and authentic, relational care that makes residents feel seen and valued. The remodels strengthen not only aesthetics but practical safety and comfort, while the dining program and outings provide meaningful quality-of-life benefits. For many, the combination of a supportive culture, strong leadership, and a true sense of community outweighs the trade-offs associated with higher cost and the more nuanced memory-care concerns.

    For families deciding in favor of The Cottages of Carmel, the next steps are practical and targeted. Plan multiple tours, insist on meeting the Bridge unit leadership, and request detailed staffing ratios for night shifts. Ask for candid examples of how individual care plans adapt to changing needs and how communication with families is maintained during transitions. If the goal is a warm, engaging environment with excellent meals, abundant activities, and a community that treats residents like family, this campus delivers. If, however, budget pressure or a preference for absolute, demonstrable safety guarantees in memory care takes precedence, explore alternatives that foreground those elements more explicitly. The Cottages of Carmel remains a standout option in Monterey County for families prioritizing intimate care, personal connections, and a genuinely home-like setting.

    Features

    Types of Care

    • Assisted Living Assisted LivingAssisted living facilities provide crucial support and care for seniors who may need help with daily tasks such as medication management, bathing, and meal preparation. These communities offer a safe and comfortable environment where seniors can maintain their independence while receiving the assistance they need to thrive in their golden years.
    • Memory Care Memory CareMemory care is crucial for seniors as it provides specialized support and services for individuals with dementia or Alzheimer's disease. These programs offer a safe and secure environment where residents receive personalized care, cognitive stimulation, and help with daily activities. Memory care helps seniors maintain their independence, quality of life, and dignity while also providing peace of mind for their families.

    Pets

    • Cats allowed Cats allowed"Pet friendly" senior living communities are important for seniors because pets provide companionship, reduce feelings of loneliness and depression, promote physical activity and mental stimulation, and offer a sense of purpose and responsibility. Pets can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors in many ways.
    • Dogs allowed Dogs allowed"Pet friendly" senior living communities are important for seniors because pets provide companionship, reduce feelings of loneliness and depression, promote physical activity and mental stimulation, and offer a sense of purpose and responsibility. Pets can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors in many ways.

    Amenities

    • Activities off-site Activities off-siteEngaging in off-site activities is crucial for seniors to maintain social connections, stay active, and stimulate their minds. It promotes overall well-being and helps combat feelings of isolation and loneliness.
    • Activities on-site Activities on-siteActivities on-site are important for seniors because they provide opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, physical activity, and overall well-being. Engaging in activities can help seniors stay active, maintain their independence, and improve their quality of life.
    • Air-conditioning Air-conditioningAir conditioning is important for seniors as they are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses and may have underlying health conditions that make it difficult for them to regulate their body temperature. It helps to keep them comfortable, safe, and healthy in hot weather.
    • Beautician on-site Beautician on-siteHaving a beautician on-site at a senior living community is important for seniors as it allows them to easily access grooming and personal care services, boosting their self-esteem and overall well-being. It also provides convenience and helps seniors maintain their sense of independence and personal style.
    • Devotional services off-site Devotional services off-siteDevotional services off-site are important for seniors as they provide spiritual nourishment, social engagement, and a sense of community outside of the senior living facility. This can enhance overall well-being and help combat feelings of isolation and loneliness often experienced by older adults.
    • Devotional services on-site Devotional services on-siteDevotional services on-site provide seniors with spiritual support and a sense of community, as well as an opportunity for reflection and guidance during their senior living experience. This can promote emotional well-being and connection to others, leading to a more fulfilling and enriching lifestyle in their later years.
    • Full kitchen Full kitchenHaving a full kitchen in a senior living facility is important for seniors because it allows them to maintain their independence and prepare their own meals. This promotes healthy eating habits, saves money on dining out, and provides a sense of familiarity and comfort for residents.
    • Indoor common areas Indoor common areasIndoor common areas are crucial for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, recreation, and community engagement, promoting overall well-being and reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness.
    • Kitchenette KitchenetteKitchenettes are important for seniors living in senior living communities because they provide the convenience and independence of being able to prepare simple meals and snacks in the comfort of their own living space. This can help promote a sense of autonomy and well-being for seniors, allowing them to maintain some level of control over their dietary choices and daily routines.
    • Outdoor common areas Outdoor common areasOutdoor common areas are important for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, physical activity, and relaxation. Being outside in nature can improve mood and overall well-being, while also encouraging movement and engagement with others. These spaces can help combat feelings of isolation and promote a sense of community among residents.
    • Wheelchair accessible showers Wheelchair accessible showersWheelchair accessible showers are crucial for seniors as they provide a safe and independent bathing option for those with mobility challenges. These showers help prevent falls and allow seniors to maintain their dignity and autonomy while ensuring they can bathe comfortably.

    Transportation

    • Monterey Peninsula (5 miles away) Monterey Peninsula (5 miles away)

    Care Services

    • Ambulatory care Ambulatory care"Ambulatory care services provide essential medical support and treatment to seniors without requiring hospitalization, allowing them to maintain their independence and quality of life while managing chronic conditions or receiving routine medical care."
    • Incontinence care Incontinence careIncontinence care is essential for seniors to maintain their dignity, hygiene, and overall quality of life. By addressing incontinence issues promptly and effectively, seniors can enjoy a sense of independence and comfort in their daily activities.
    • Medication management Medication managementMedication management is crucial for seniors to ensure they are taking the right medications at the correct dosages and times. This helps prevent adverse drug interactions, reduces the risk of medication errors, and promotes overall health and well-being. Proactive management also allows for adjustments as needed based on changing health conditions or new prescriptions.

    Dining

    • Meals provided Meals provided"Meals provided" are crucial for seniors in assisted living communities as it ensures they have access to nutritious, balanced meals without the stress of meal planning and preparation. This can help promote overall health and well-being for seniors who may have limited mobility or cognitive abilities.
    • Special dining programs Special dining programsSpecial dining programs are important for seniors because they provide nutritious meals tailored to their dietary needs and preferences. These programs also offer socialization opportunities, promote overall health and well-being, and can help prevent malnutrition.
    • Vegetarian VegetarianA vegetarian diet is important for seniors because it can help lower the risk of chronic diseases, maintain a healthy weight, and provide essential nutrients needed for aging bodies. Additionally, plant-based diets are often easier on digestive systems and can contribute to overall well-being in older adults.

    Activities

    • Activities on-site Activities on-siteActivities on-site are important for seniors because they provide opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, physical activity, and overall well-being. Engaging in activities can help seniors stay active, maintain their independence, and improve their quality of life.
    • Art classes Art classesArt classes are important for seniors because they provide a creative outlet, improve cognitive function, reduce stress and anxiety, promote socialization, and enhance overall well-being and quality of life.
    • Day trips and outings Day trips and outingsDay trips and outings are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, physical activity, and a break from daily routines. These experiences can enhance overall well-being and quality of life for older adults living in senior communities.
    • Devotional activities offsite Devotional activities offsiteDevotional activities offsite are important for seniors because they provide social engagement, spiritual growth, and a sense of community outside of their living environment. This can improve overall well-being, mental health, and combat feelings of isolation or loneliness.
    • Devotional activities on-site Devotional activities on-siteDevotional activities on-site provide seniors with a sense of community, spiritual fulfillment, and emotional support, promoting overall well-being and a positive sense of purpose in their lives.
    • Educational speakers / life long learning Educational speakers / life long learningEducational speakers and lifelong learning opportunities are crucial for seniors as they provide mental stimulation, promote social engagement, and contribute to overall well-being. Continuous learning helps seniors stay mentally sharp, build new skills, and maintain a sense of purpose and fulfillment in their lives. It also allows them to stay connected to the world around them and fosters a sense of community within senior living facilities.
    • Gardening club Gardening clubGardening clubs are important for seniors because they provide a sense of community, promote physical activity and mental well-being, and offer opportunities for socialization and connection with nature. Gardening can also improve cognitive function and overall quality of life for seniors.
    • Happy hour Happy hourHappy hour is important for seniors as it provides a social activity that promotes camaraderie and reduces feelings of loneliness or isolation. It also offers an opportunity for older adults to relax, unwind, and enjoy some drinks or snacks in a fun and welcoming atmosphere.
    • Live musical performances Live musical performancesLive musical performances can provide seniors with a sense of joy, nostalgia, and connection. Music has the power to evoke emotions and memories, improve mood and cognitive function, and foster social interaction among seniors. It can also serve as a form of therapy and stress relief for older adults, making it an important activity to include in senior living communities.
    • Live well programs Live well programs"Live well programs are essential for seniors as they provide opportunities for physical activity, social engagement, and mental stimulation, ultimately promoting overall health and well-being in later years."
    • Stretching classes Stretching classesStretching classes are important for seniors because they help improve flexibility, reduce the risk of injury, and promote overall health and well-being. Regular stretching can also help alleviate joint pain and stiffness, enhance balance and coordination, and increase range of motion.
    • Trivia games Trivia gamesTrivia games are important for seniors because they provide mental stimulation, social interaction, and a fun way to keep the mind sharp. They can help improve memory, cognitive function, and overall well-being in older adults.

    Description

    The Cottages of Carmel in Carmel, CA is a charming assisted living community that specializes in Memory Care. Our beautiful cottages provide a warm and welcoming environment for individuals with memory loss.

    Our residents enjoy a variety of amenities designed to enhance their comfort and well-being. On-site activities keep our residents engaged and entertained, while air-conditioning ensures their comfort year-round. Our beautician is available on-site to provide personal grooming services, and devotional services can be attended both on-site and off-site to cater to different spiritual needs.

    Each cottage features a full kitchen where delicious meals are prepared, and residents also have access to kitchenettes for convenience. Indoor common areas provide comfortable spaces for socializing, while outdoor common areas offer opportunities for enjoying fresh air and nature. Wheelchair accessible showers ensure that all residents can bathe safely and comfortably.

    Our dedicated staff provides exceptional care services, including specialized assistance with incontinence issues and medication management. We understand the unique needs of individuals with memory loss, and our compassionate caregivers are trained to provide the highest level of care.

    Dining at The Cottages of Carmel is a delightful experience, with special dining programs that cater to various dietary preferences, including vegetarian options.

    Engaging activities are an integral part of life at our community. Residents can participate in art classes, join day trips and outings to explore the local area, engage in devotional activities both on-site and off-site, attend educational speaker events for lifelong learning, join our gardening club, or simply relax during happy hour while enjoying live musical performances. We also offer stretching classes to promote physical well-being and trivia games for mental stimulation.

    Conveniently located near numerous amenities, The Cottages of Carmel provides easy access to 11 cafes, 7 parks, 9 pharmacies, 27 physicians' offices, 38 restaurants, transportation options as well as theaters and hospitals.

    At The Cottages of Carmel, we strive to create a supportive and enriching environment for individuals with memory loss. Our community offers personalized care, engaging activities, and a warm atmosphere where residents can thrive and enjoy each day to the fullest.

    Nearby Places of Interest

    Located in the beautiful city of Carmel, California, this area offers a variety of amenities that cater to seniors looking for a comfortable and convenient lifestyle. With an array of restaurants like From Scratch Restaurant and Sushi Heaven within close proximity, residents can easily enjoy delicious meals without having to travel far. Additionally, cafes such as Starbucks and Carmel Bakery provide the perfect spot for socializing over a cup of coffee. For medical needs, there are reputable physicians like Gregory Tapson MD nearby, as well as pharmacies like CVS Pharmacy and Rite Aid for easy access to medications. The area also boasts several parks like Devendorf Park and Point Lobos State Reserve, ideal for leisurely strolls or enjoying the outdoors. In case of emergencies or medical care, hospitals like Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula are just a short distance away. Overall, this part of Carmel offers convenience, dining options, healthcare facilities, and recreational activities that make it an attractive location for senior living.

    Restaurants

    • From Scratch Restaurant (0.1 miles)
    • Sushi Heaven (1.3 miles)
    • Tree House Cafe (1.3 miles)
    • Tommy's Wok (1.3 miles)
    • La Bicyclette (1.3 miles)
    • Carmel Belle (1.3 miles)
    • Café Carmel (1.3 miles)

    Physicians

    • Gregory Tapson Gregory S Tapson MD (0.3 miles)
    • Breast Care Center (3.5 miles)
    • Monterey Laser & Skin Care (3.5 miles)
    • Debra L Bunger, MD (3.6 miles)
    • Haleh Bassiri, MD (3.6 miles)
    • Ann M. Hudacek, D.P.M. (3.6 miles)
    • Wesley Sharon, MD (3.6 miles)

    Cafes

    • Starbucks (0.3 miles)
    • Carmel Bakery (1.4 miles)
    • Starbucks (3 miles)
    • The Market (3.8 miles)
    • ALTA Bakery & Cafe (3.9 miles)
    • Captain + Stoker (4.1 miles)
    • Plumes Coffee House (4.1 miles)

    Pharmacies

    • CVS Pharmacy (0.4 miles)
    • Carmel Drug Store (1.4 miles)
    • Rite Aid (2.9 miles)
    • Ordway Drug Store (4 miles)
    • Rite Aid (4 miles)
    • Ordway Pharmacy (4 miles)
    • CVS Pharmacy (4.6 miles)

    Parks

    • Devendorf Park (1.3 miles)
    • Point Lobos State Reserve (2.5 miles)
    • Sea Lion Cove (3 miles)
    • Via Pariso Park (3.6 miles)
    • Veteran's Memorial Park (4 miles)
    • Veteran's Memorial Park (4 miles)
    • Dennis the Menace Park (4 miles)

    Hospitals

    • Adolescent Inpatient Treatment Community Hospital of the Montere (2.5 miles)
    • Radiology Services at Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula (2.7 miles)
    • Radiation Oncology (2.7 miles)

    Theaters

    • Cinemark Monterey 13 (3 miles)

    Transportation

    • Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) (4.4 miles)

    Frequently Asked Questions

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