The best treehouse rentals near Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

South of Monterey on the California coast, Carmel-by-the-Sea—usually simply shortened to Carmel—has long been celebrated for its coastal scenery, architecture, and thriving arts community. One of the pet-friendly city’s biggest draws is the 18th-century Mission San Carlos de Borromeo, but the area is equally great for taking hikes and strolls, particularly at nearby Carmel River State Beach and at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. While camping in area state parks is limited, you'll find loads of fantastic options in the surrounds, both at waterside campgrounds along the Carmel River and on privately owned land.

98% (739)

Top-rated campgrounds

South of Monterey on the California coast, Carmel-by-the-Sea—usually simply shortened to Carmel—has long been celebrated for its coastal scenery, architecture, and thriving arts community. One of the pet-friendly city’s biggest draws is the 18th-century Mission San Carlos de Borromeo, but the area is equally great for taking hikes and strolls, particularly at nearby Carmel River State Beach and at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. While camping in area state parks is limited, you'll find loads of fantastic options in the surrounds, both at waterside campgrounds along the Carmel River and on privately owned land.

98% (739)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. dabudage Big Sur

95%

(720)

47mi from Carmel-by-the-Sea · 9 sites · Tents, Lodging · CA

DABUDAGE in southern Big Sur. ***READ THIS ENTIRE WRITTEN DESCRIPTION BEFORE REQUESTING TO BOOK!* And Format Request as Specified *. Disconnect from the virtual world and surround yourself in nature. At the base of a majestic canyon where steep mountains plunge to the ocean, along a flowing creek. Backed by redwood trees and surrounded by national forest is a minimalistic homestead with family, friends and animals. *The prices have been raised on hipcamp as Hipcamp now takes more than a 25% cut. Discounts and/or trades may be available if needed. You can visit our site on the web for more information at dabudage. *We currently only accept reservations for dates within the next 3 weeks*. You must Arrive Before Dark to find your site. There is no wi-fi, cell service or electricity. Hwy 1 is currently closed to the north of this land. The only access is through Cambria from the south or over the mountain from King City off of Hwy 101 There are two small communal guest kitchens, fresh water, a shower/bath and composting barrel poopers. A massive flood in Jan 2021 brought 100's of gigantic full sized redwood trees and boulders smashing down thru most of the land and previous structures. It is and will be in the process of rebuilding for many years to come. Children are welcome. Dogs are welcome off-leash. Alcohol is discouraged. No electronic music devices. Fires in designated pits only. Pack out trash. TO RESERVE A SITE - Please include a bit about yourself/party and where you’re coming from. *YOU MUST ALSO INCLUDE - “ My party and I have read the description” - IN ORDER TO BE ACCEPTED Requests are usually checked once daily.

2. The Secret Gardens by the Bay

98%

(314)

28mi from Carmel-by-the-Sea · 35 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Watsonville, CA

✨ The Secret Gardens ✨ Once upon a time, hidden just beyond the whispers of the ocean breeze, there was a secret place where roses stretched toward the sky, dahlias painted the land with color, and lavender cascaded like purple waterfalls. No one quite knew how to find it—until they stumbled upon it. Here, hearts opened with ease, carried by birdsong, the sway of ancient oaks, the fragrance of woodsmoke, and the laughter that seemed to live in the very air. The Secret Gardens unfurls across 11 acres of enchanted redwoods and noble oaks, where each campsite bears a name drawn straight from the pages of Alice in Wonderland. Guests often tell us: “One night is never enough.” And indeed, when you step out of your car, words and pictures fail—there is only the Wow. In true secret-garden spirit, we share just enough glimpses to spark curiosity. The real magic is revealed only when you arrive. Just one mile from Seascape Beach and a short stroll to Seascape Village—with its quaint cafés, market, spa, and more—our haven balances wild wonder with simple comforts. 🌿 The Realms of the Secret Gardens 🌲 Tulgey Woods Nestled beneath towering redwoods, this woodland hosts RV and tent sites, along with Dodo’s Glamp and the Secret Wagon. Here you’ll find showers, bathrooms, a communal kitchen, a campfire circle, and outdoor dining spaces. It’s perfect for families, car campers, and adventurers with roomy tents. ♟️ Chessboard Land Where play and comfort intertwine: cabins, a communal lounge, a sprawling kitchen, living-wall showers, cozy firepits, and even a projector screen for starlit cinema nights. This is the social heart of the gardens. 🐇 Rabbit Holes (open late spring through summer) Two primitive hideaways—Tweedledee and Tweedledum—await in the wilder reaches of the land. Here, no cars intrude; instead, we whisk your belongings by ATV to these tucked-away forest nooks. 🌸 Private Group Groves Three secluded enclaves designed for gatherings, each with its own bathroom, shower, grill, and sink: • Cheshire Grove • The Horseshoe • Wonderland ⸻ 🌟 What Awaits You • Cozy cabins, Dodo’s Glamp, and the Secret Wagon—complete with bedding, heaters, and access to Chessboard Land’s wonders. • Communal spaces alive with warmth: kitchen, fire pits and trail

3. Epic Views at Lago Lomita Vineyards

39mi from Carmel-by-the-Sea · 2 sites · Lodging · Los Gatos, CA

Our yurt and treehouse are located on Lago Lomita Vineyards with a view of the entire Monterey Bay. We've been hosting guests since 2015 and are looking forward to meeting you! Both our treehouse and yurt listings are unique experiences. They both are adjacent to the Tierra Madre Vineyard Block and have awesome views of the entire Monterey Bay/Pacific Ocean. We are located on 44 acres high atop the Santa Cruz Mountains but close to all the major beaches and Silicon Valley. Please be aware this is camping in nature, along with squirrels, spiders, falling leaves, etc. and nature is not always for everyone. There is a 45ft. ladder to climb to get into the treehouse. The view at sunset is spectacular. Featured on the first page of top Glamping destinations in California, in National Geographic's 50 States, 500 campgrounds. Both sites include a trunk of goodies: Complimentary trunk of goodies that is filled with muffins, mugs, creamer, sugar, coffee, croissants, cards, champagne & wine glasses & wine opener! We acquired the property in 1991, shortly after the Lexington Fire (1985) and Loma Prieta earthquake (1989). At that time, the entire property has degenerated into disrepair, and all the vineyards had been overwhelmed by the wilderness. In 2011, we started the herculean effort of clearing away the wilderness, resurrecting all the vineyards and renovating our home. In 2014, we started replanting the vineyards, and opened our tree house to visitors in 2015. Just like us, I think you will fall in love with this property, and enjoy every minute of your time here. We look forward to your stay. Robin and Mark

Stories from the community

B

Bo

September 2025

1 night at dabudage Big Sur

My partner and I loved the redwood gazebo at Gene’s camp site. The view from the site is gorgeous. Gene is responsive and friendly. I would love to go back when possible - also highly recommend it to anyone looking for a calm and therapeutic experience.

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Lorraine

September 2025

2 nights at dabudage Big Sur

The views are stunning and definitely help with emotional regulation and grounding. The more in tuned you are with nature the better your experience will be. The hike up to the Redwood Room was a lot and my first day my legs were SORE! However, there is a water spigot and a pooper close by the room so you don't have to keep climbing up and down for basic needs. The only downfall is food. Because of the raccoons, having food up is a giant no no. However, the nighttime racoon activity did keep my pup up all night, less about me feeling in any sense of danger, but more of something to keep in mind. There was also a cluster of daddy long legs just outside of the room. Knowing they are completely harmless to humans I didn't mind, plus apparently when they cluster, they emit an odor that is supposed to repel predators from coming close so it gave me a sense of safety. Overall, it was a wonderful experience being out there and I hope to return.

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Tara

September 2025

Weekend Trip to The Secret Gardens by the Bay

The place is super special. The host were beyond wonderful. We thoroughly enjoyed being here and will definitely be back. One thing to note specifically about the tree house... there are no windows coverings, so I felt really exposed when changing our using the toilet, which has just a pony wall for privacy. There is also road noise, which was noticeably when you're trying to sleep. I would stay in a different spot next time.

Brady

August 2025

3 nights at dabudage Big Sur

I was blown away by the listing, and it met and even exceeded expectations upon arrival. Gene is super cool, and is passionate about his property, and great with communication. The attention to detail he's put into this place is incredible. I was in heaven the three days and nights I spent here. There's no service, and you have a very serene location to unplug here, with easy access to your own beaches and hiking trails. Gene's outdoor kitchen area was great for my cooking needs, and the shower was great too. I stayed in the Redwoods Gazebo up top. It's a hike up, so be prepared, but it's worth it!

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eyal

August 2025

1 night at dabudage Big Sur

Magical place, nothing more to add. Cant wait to come back again !

Adrienne

July 2025

2 nights at dabudage Big Sur

This is a unique property and in the most beautiful location right across hwy1. The Cabana is very comfortable, nice comfy bed. No electricity and the hike up to it is a very steep narrow trail. You cannot roll a wagon up it so everything needs to be carried to your Cabana and it's not for anyone who has physical restrictions. But the view from the top is worth it!

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Alisa

June 2025

1 night at dabudage Big Sur

Amazing spot. Pictures definitely don’t do it justice

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John

June 2025

3 nights at dabudage Big Sur

The property is exactly as described - wonderful, private, on a creek, delightful. Gene and his family are kind and helpful. We slept great, the gazebo was very comfortable for two.

Eva

June 2025

Weekend Trip to dabudage Big Sur

What a beautiful place! Stunning location right on the ocean, with sounds of the river (frogs at night!) echoing up the canyon. The Redwood Room sits at a special spot up the hill with a gorgeous view. Everything is rustic yet thoughtfully designed. The description is spot on (ex: BYO bedding, etc), and if you're used to camping, this will be a treat.

Luciana

May 2025

Weekend Trip to The Secret Gardens by the Bay

I loved the camping at yeyens land! Its magic and beautiful. We had a great time, and we cannot wait to go back again! Yeyen and her husband are great hosts. Thank you for everything!

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Maureen

April 2025

Weekend Trip to dabudage Big Sur

We loved this place! We only stayed on night along our drive home. Really nice coming from the north even though Hwy 1 north of the property was closed. A beautiful/ kinda scary drive but if you go slow, it’s an experience. Reminded me of the road to Hana! lol! You gotta be into rustic vibes. Epic view, full moon rise. Creek side fire. We are it up! The redwood Gazebo is up a steep hill. We backpacked up with our sleeping bags, pillows and other little essentials. We wish we would have done all our business down low before we hiked up. I’d bring a couple libations and snacks. Chilling up in the perch is epic! We will be back!!

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Jasmine

April 2025

Weekend Trip to dabudage Big Sur

This was our second time camping here and it was just as lovely as the first. All the little animals are adorable. The kitchen is always helpful. The Redwood Room Gazebo was a great site! Worth the short hike up and down.

Christine

February 2025

Weekend Trip to dabudage Big Sur

Honestly, never made it there because we left somewhat late and got lost in the dark so found another campsite, but the host was very communicative with quick replies which was much appreciated so I wanted to comment on that. There were road closures that were not listed on google maps, so next time I would definitely leave much earlier to leave plenty of time to get there.

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Nicholas

February 2025

Weekend Trip to The Secret Gardens by the Bay

Very nice site. Beautiful cabin that has windows that look out. Space heater and bathrooms.

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Benjamin

January 2025

Weekend Trip to dabudage Big Sur

We were in the redwood gazebo; the view from the room is pretty gorgeous and the whole property is in a really pretty spot off highway 1. Animals everywhere and the kitchen/campfire areas are easy to find. Would recommend!

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Allison

January 2025

1 night at dabudage Big Sur

My best friend and I spent a night at the Redwood and we loved it so much! The view and the property itself was beautiful. Definitely be prepared and bring extra blankets. Gene asked us if we needed extras too! Truly worth going if youre looking to make camping with a twist. We’re definitely gonna be back anytime we visit the area again! Thank you Gene!

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Ana

December 2024

6 nights at dabudage Big Sur

We loooved the property! Super charming. The bath house was magical. Beautiful spot tucked away right by the water. Gorgeous views. The cats were cute but a bit annoying, aggressively trying to take our food.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best treehouses near Carmel-by-the-Sea guide

Where to go

The Monterey Peninsula

Just north of Carmel, the Monterey Peninsula is ideal for taking in coastal scenery, with numerous viewpoints that look out over the sea—not to mention a ton of golf courses. Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium to learn about (and view) coastal creatures ranging from sea otters to sharks.

Big Sur

South of Carmel, Big Sur has a reputation for having some of the prettiest coastline in California, if not the United States. Tent sites are available at many area parks, including Andrew Molera State Park and Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, but reservations usually fill up well in advance.

Santa Cruz Mountains

If you want to do some serious hiking or backcountry camping, head north up Highway 1 to the Santa Cruz Mountains. Here you'll find a mix of county parks and wilderness areas, plus plenty of high-elevation viewpoints.

When to go

The weather in Carmel is mild throughout the year, with cool, somewhat rainy winters and mild, dry summers. The months of June through August see the most crowds, but weather in early fall is usually just as warm, with little chance of rainfall. If you hope to see migrating whales, your best bet is to come from January through March, when pods of gray and killer whales pass through the area.

Nearby attractions

Adventure calls at Fort Ord National Monument, a spectacular destination for camping enthusiasts. With its rolling hills, diverse flora and fauna, and an array of hiking and biking trails, it promises an unforgettable outdoor experience.