Cypress Inn is the most characterful place to stay in Carmel-by-the-Sea and arguably the most dog-friendly hotel on the California coast: a whitewashed, Mediterranean-style landmark built in 1929 at Lincoln Street and Seventh Avenue, in the middle of the village's galleries, cafes and storybook cottages, and co-owned for many years by the film star and animal welfare champion Doris Day. Her influence still runs through the place. Dogs (and cats) are not merely tolerated but welcomed, with treats, bowls and beds, and the lobby lounge often looks like a canine social club. Terry's Lounge, named for her son, is the heart of the hotel, serving cocktails, afternoon bites and morning popovers, with a garden patio and live music on weekend evenings, plus a regular dog-friendly happy hour. The roughly 44 rooms vary in size and style, from cozy queens to deluxe kings with verandas and suites with balconies; decor is classic and comfortable rather than flashy, and a recent renovation refreshed the property while keeping its old-Carmel charm. Breakfast is served on site. Everything in Carmel is walkable from here: Ocean Avenue's shops and restaurants are a few blocks away, and Carmel Beach, where dogs can run off leash, is a downhill stroll. Fit: couples (romantic village base), travelers with pets (the obvious pick), first-timers who want to walk everywhere in Carmel, and fans of Hollywood history.
Doris Day lived in Carmel Valley for decades and became part of local life; her partnership in the Cypress Inn made it a haven for traveling pets long before pet-friendly hotels were common. Movie posters and memorabilia in the public rooms nod to her career, and the hotel continues to support animal welfare causes.
Room craft
Rooms vary considerably, so ask for a veranda or balcony room for outdoor space, or a larger suite for longer stays. Rooms facing the street can hear village activity; courtyard-side rooms are quieter. Book well ahead for weekends and events, as Carmel has limited lodging.
Practicals
Lincoln Street and Seventh Avenue, Carmel-by-the-Sea, about 15 minutes from Monterey. Parking in the village is limited; ask the hotel about options. Fit: pet owners, couples and walkers who want Carmel at the door.
Why stay here
- ✓Exceptionally pet friendly
- ✓Historic 1929 landmark building
- ✓Terrys Lounge with garden patio
- ✓Live music on weekend evenings
- ✓Breakfast on site
- ✓Rooms with verandas or balconies
- ✓Walk to Ocean Avenue and the beach
- ✓Doris Day memorabilia
Good questions
How pet friendly is the Cypress Inn?+
Extremely. Shaped by its longtime co-owner Doris Day, it welcomes dogs and cats with amenities and hosts a dog-friendly happy hour in Terry's Lounge. Check the hotel policies for fees and limits.
Can we walk to the beach?+
Yes. Carmel Beach is a downhill walk of several blocks from the hotel, and the shops and restaurants of Ocean Avenue are even closer.
What was Doris Day's connection to the hotel?+
The actress and animal welfare advocate was a co-owner for many years and made the inn famous for welcoming pets. Her memorabilia and legacy are part of the hotel's character.
