Hofsas House: Comfort and Care in a Home away From Home

By Kelly Grace Thomas

There aren’t many hotels that greet their guests by first name. Or many that can host a family reunion equipped with meeting halls, family suites and kitchens. And even less that offer saunas, fireplaces, ocean views and wine and a cheese plates upon check in. The Hofsas House in Carmel-by-the-Sea does all of this and more. The Hofsas House, one of Carmel-by-the-Sea’s most beloved hotels, offers a personalized stay while making sure each and every one of their guests feels like family. 

The Hofsas House located in the heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea has all the amenities of corporate establishments while still maintaining a family feel. The pretty-in-pink hotel which is owned by the Theis family has been in business for over six decades and offers a variety of options to accommodate all groups large to small. 

The Hofsas House has 38 different guest rooms that range from standard singles, to queens with in-room fireplaces and ocean views, to a two bedroom suites with private balconies. The Hofsas House has something to fit any need and provides the benefits of an AirBnB without the fuss. They take the worry out of booking and cleaning fees, providing guest with comfortable stay and a prime location, walkable to all Carmel-by-the-Sea’s amenities. They are a one-stop-shop, selling tickets for many of the local sights and attractions. 

The Hofsas House even starts your day off right with a complimentary morning breakfast, hearthside fire and newspaper, another finishing touch on their outstanding and sincere customer service, where guests are always greeted with a warm smile.

“It’s a family place, that’s why people keep coming back,” said Scott Theis. This family-run business cares about their neighborhood. Each co-owner is highly involved in the Carmel-by-the-Sea’s community, they love their town and want their guests to feel the same. These values are apparent and reflected in the way they tailor and personalize each guests experience to ensure a restful stay.

During Edible Skinny’s stay we were impressed by how much Hofsas helped to make our experience enjoyable both in and outside the hotel. Hofsas always has a friendly face at the front desk to greet customers with recommendation of outstanding local eateries like Cafe Dametra and wonderful organic tasting rooms De Tierra and Windy Oaks. The Hofsas House can also help guest buy tickets for the Monterey Bay Aquarium and the Wine Walk, both highly recommended by Edible Skinny. The Hofsas House made seeing Carmel-by-the-Sea a positive and hassle-free experience.

Hofsas goes the extra mile for their guests. Edible Skinny was greeted with a bottle of Will’s Fargo Pinot Noir, a delicious and velvety wine made by the always amazing and organic Holman Ranch, as well as a cheese plate from the local cheese shop. While wine and cheese aren’t included with every room, guests can order it for their arrival for a very reasonable fee. With a fine glass of wine and cheese and crackers,  Edible Skinny editors cuddled up by the in-room fireplace (Duraflame included)  to enjoy the quiet luxury of relaxation of (what felt like) a home away from home.

While all of these things help Hofsas standout against other hotels, we would remiss if we didn’t mention the funky style of this seaside institution. One thing Hofsas is known for is their unique decor This painted-pink hotel stands out as a kitschy neighborhood gem among the subue designs of the town's other lodgings. The Hofsas House has a vintage feel, like you are going back in time, ready for a cozy stay at your grandmother's house. It is an atmosphere of comfort and care, with a splash of hip funk. The standout style of Hofsas acknowledges how what was once old has become new again. One thing that accounts for the Hofsas unique style is the decorative eyes of Doris Theis. “A lot of newer hotels everything is white, that is not the Hofsas House,” said Doris, with a smile.

While staying at Hofsas, even though you are a visitor you feel like you’re part of the community, you’re part of the family. Whether it is the smiles and first name-greeting at the front desk, or settling in front of the fire after a full-day of wining and dining, Hofsas House is the perfect place to getaway while still enjoying the comforts of home.

Within walking distance to every amenity in Carmel-by-the-Sea the Hofsas House perfect for those doing the Wine Walk, Art Galleries or dining at any of the amazing eateries. Hofsas House is a must stay destination for any traveler who wants to an exceptional stay that goes above and beyond. For more informaion about the Hofas House please visit www.hofsashouse.com