Highlands can have incredible views right out onto the ocean. And you'll get more space and likely (although not always) a wood-burning fireplace if you get into one of the townhouse suites. And it's closer (although not by much) to downtown Carmel. This is important since i believe there is still no food and beverage service whatsoever on property. I didn't think the hard product was that nice. So if you want to hunker down with the fireplace and some takeout and really are prioritizing the view, then highlands it is.

Recent descriptions of CVR are spot on. Can be crowded, has amenities that Highlands doesn't have, hard product OK. maybe slightly better than highlands but not a key point of differentiation. Close to both Carmel and Carmel Valley Village, which has a few more restaurants options and winery tasting rooms. Very spread out with some hiking access

Personally, after three days at ventana, you will have gotten your fix of woodburning fireplace (if the weather is appropriate) and the view is not enough for me to forego the other advantages of CVR (like an open kitchen).