All depends upon what you're looking for. For us, Carmel and Monterey mean the ocean. We wouldn't think about staying anyplace in that area that didn't have a direct ocean view. I can find hotels with the ambiance of Carmel Valley many places in the country. Of course, you can drive from Carmel Valley to the ocean, but being on the ocean and being able to sit outside our hotel room and view it makes all the difference to us. Hyatt Carmel Valley is certainly a more polished resort but the suites at Highlands Inn are certainly much older but not run down.