Perched above the dramatic Big Sur coastline, the Hyatt Carmel Highlands has reopened with 48 newly renovated guestrooms in time to celebrate its 100th anniversary. The cliffside resort first welcomed guests in July 1917, nearly two decades before California’s Highway 1 was completed. A longtime fixture of the Carmel-by-the-Sea area, the hotel was conceived by Carmel co-founder J. Franklin Devendorf and is known for attentive service and exceptional dining.
As part of its centennial programming, the property will host the Forks.Corks.Action! Winemaker Series with two fall events featuring locally sourced menus created by executive chef Chad Minton.
On Sept. 28, the hotel will present a benefit dinner in collaboration with DeTierra Wines and the National Steinbeck Center. The evening takes place in The California Market at Pacific Edge Wine Room and includes a four-course meal paired with De Tierra Vineyard selections. Steinbeck scholar Susan Shillinglaw will join the dinner as guest speaker, sharing stories and insights about the author while winemaker Anna Russell discusses the vineyard’s organic farming and sustainable practices.
On Nov. 9, also held in The California Market at Pacific Edge Wine Room, the series continues with featured wines from Bernardus Winery presented by winemaker Matt Shea. Both events emphasize regional ingredients and thoughtful wine pairings, reflecting the hotel’s commitment to local flavors and hospitality.
The Hyatt Carmel Highlands blends historic charm and modern comforts, offering cliffside views, refined dining, and a program of events that celebrate the region’s culinary and cultural heritage. With its recent renovations and centennial programming, the hotel reaffirms its role as a landmark destination along the Monterey coast.