Cypress Inn

The upper-mid-range Cypress Inn is classically elegant and offers a fun-loving atmosphere. Although the property has been expanded and renovated several times since it first opened in 1929 as La Ribera Hotel, it still has much of its original charm. With whitewashed walls, terra-cotta floors, and low-pitched clay tile roofs, the main building is a beautiful example of Mission Revival architecture, and the new sections have the same style and historic feel. Actress Doris Day has been the property’s co-owner since the 1980s, and there are lots of references to her throughout the common spaces. The lounge has several posters of Day's most famous movies, and some of her films can be screened on request. Along with these pieces of memorabilia, walls display a number of photos and paintings of dogs, a clear nod to the hotel’s pet-friendly policy (the property is one of the most popular hangout spots for dog owners in central Carmel, as their pets are allowed even in the restaurant). Interiors are charming and cozy throughout, with a strong Mediterranean feel and a few Moroccan accents. The lobby is warm and inviting, with a simple front desk area displaying a red Moroccan rug and a few plants. Right across the reception area is a lovely lounge with a roaring fire, several comfy couches, wooden floors, and a pitched ceiling with wooden beams. A relaxing, understated elegance emanates from the lounge, inviting guests to unwind and slow down. Outside, the courtyard is a popular spot to mingle on warmer days. 

The Cypress Inn is located on the corner of two quaint streets a block from Ocean Avenue, Carmel’s main drag. There are dozens of restaurants, bars, and shops right outside the hotel and along the adjacent streets, and some of the town’s famous galleries can be found within a few blocks. Carmel’s beach, a cute stretch of white sand, is an easy 10-minute walk away down the street. Local attractions such as Robinson Jeffers Tor House, the Carmel Mission, and the Gravity Garden are all within a 10-minute drive. Point Lobos Natural Reserve and several golf courses can also be reached in about 10 minutes. The nearest major airport is in San Jose, about 90 minutes away. 

This boutique has 44 rooms featuring elegant, classic decor with lots of wood and a soft earth-tone palette. Terra-cotta floors, white walls, wooden shutters, and antique-style furniture lend rooms a soothing Mediterranean feel, while small tables with wood latticework, and some intricate patterns in red hues are cute Moroccan-inspired touches. All units are equipped with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, iPod docks, robes, and nice freebies such as sherry, fresh fruit, and small snacks. Although decor is similar in most rooms, many have special extras such as working fireplaces, canopy beds, and furnished balconies. Some units are labeled Ocean View, but there are trees obstructing the vistas in most, and the ocean is several blocks away. Most bathrooms are small but appealing, with shower/tub combos or walk-in showers, Gilchrist & Soames toiletries, and beige tiling throughout. Pets are allowed for a daily fee, and the hotel provides blankets, bowls, and treats for dogs. Most rooms are in good shape, but a few in the original building could use an update, especially the bathrooms. Also, ground-floor units overlooking the courtyard and rooms facing the street may get some noise.

Terry’s Restaurant & Lounge serves regional and Mediterranean cuisine with a touch of Moroccan flavors in a cozy yet lively room with large windows, wooden and terra-cotta floors, and comfy seating. It also has a courtyard offering additional seating for warmer nights, and there is live music and afternoon tea service weekly. The hotel’s pet-friendly policy makes it a popular hangout spot for local dog owners as well, and there are blankets, bowls, and treats available free of charge. Additionally, the Cypress Inn offers a service rarely found in a hotel: dog-sitters, hired through a local company for an extra fee. All rates include free Wi-Fi, an extensive buffet spread, in-room treats such as fruit and sherry, and parking, although there are only nine spots on-site. There is also a tiny business center with a computer and a printer. There is no pool or fitness center.