Discover the Magic of the Hugh Comstock Fairytale Cottages at Carmel-by-the-Sea

If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into a real-life storybook, look no further than Carmel-by-the-Sea. This fun seaside town is home to the Comstock Fairy Tale Cottages—whimsical homes that look like they were plucked straight out of a fairytale. Each one feels like magic, capturing the imagination of anyone lucky enough to see them. 

Join us as we dive into the history of the Comstock cottages and why they should be on your Carmel-by-the-Sea itinerary. 

Once Upon a Time in Carmel...

Let us tell you a little story: Back in the 1920s, Hugh Comstock—a guy with an artist’s soul and a knack for thinking outside the box—moved to Carmel with his wife, Mayotta. Mayotta had a hobby of making little dolls she called "Otsy-Totsies," and soon there were so many they needed their own home. Hugh got to work and built Hansel, the first of these iconic cottages, to house her growing doll collection.

Hansel was so charming that the entire town fell in love with it. One thing led to another, and Hugh started building more cottages in the same quirky, storybook style. By the time he was done, Carmel was sprinkled with these one-of-a-kind homes that have been enchanting visitors ever since.

The Secret Ingredients of Storybook Magic

What makes these cottages so special? They’re full of personality, with little details that bring each one to life. Here’s what to look for:

• Roofs That Reach for the Sky: These steeply pitched roofs are just like those out of old fairytales—absolutely iconic.
• Unique Stonework: The stone chimneys and walls look like they were shaped by hand (because they pretty much were).
• Cozy Little Windows: Small-paned windows framed with rustic wood create the perfect storybook setting.
• Perfectly Imperfect Lines: Nothing about these houses is “straight.” They have a wonderfully whimsical, slightly uneven style that makes them feel alive.
  

About the Cottages

Every cottage is different, but they all share that magical, handmade look that’s hard to resist. Here are a few that really steal the show:

1. Hansel and Gretel: The OG cottages that started it all. Their half-timbered design and fairytale design are truly enchanting.
2. The Tuck Box: A cottage-turned-tea-room that’s now a small restaurant. Stop by for the ambience, and grab a scone while you’re at it.
3. Obers: A true standout with stunning details and a magical feel.
4. Doll’s House: This one is as fun as its name suggests—tiny, photo-worthy, and packed with antique dolls.

How to Explore These Fairytale Gems

The best way to see the Comstock cottages is to take a stroll down the streets of Carmel, like Ocean Avenue. Carmel-by-the-Sea is completely walkable, and every step can feel like a treasure hunt. You can grab a map online or stop by a visitor center to find the cottages, then spend an afternoon seeking them out. Just remember, most of these homes are private residences, so enjoy the view from the street.