Cypress Inn Carmel-by-the-Sea

Restaurant really good for you and your pet?

2.5 stars. I rarely write Google reviews, but I just left this inn with such a sour taste in my mouth that I felt compelled to warn anyone who is looking for a place to stay in Carmel to spend their money elsewhere. We were originally scheduled to stay here back in March for our anniversary, but we received news of the death of a family member the Sunday before our Friday reservation—within their seven-day no- cancelation window. When I called to ask to reschedule or cancel, the gentlemen on the phone—part of the weekend staff— asked me to provide PROOF OF THE FAMILY MEMBER’S DEATH. I wish I were joking. I was shocked at the insensitivity here and the implication that a guest would be dishonest about something so awful, especially during a difficult time for us. I decided to call back the next morning—a weekday—and spoke to another front desk representative who was incredibly apologetic and helpful, working with me to find a suitable date. She was very kind and helpful and I wish I got her name to give her a shout out. In addition to her, the Friday evening staff were lovely, as were all of the bar staff and housekeeping staff. Our stay was going well until our last morning. We were looking forward to sleeping in, but were awoken at 6:45am by a smoke detector going off in the room directly across from us. It proceeded to go off for over an hour. When I checked out, an incredibly rude woman, who I assume is the weekend manager, gave me my receipt. At any hotel, no matter the class or price point, this is typically the point where the staff ask if everything was alright and if you enjoyed your stay. Not this woman. I finally asked and said, “Were you all planning to, in some way, compensate those in the immediate vicinity of the smoke detector incident this morning?” And rather than apologizing, all she said was, “No.” No explanation, nothing. Not only did I feel like this “manager” was being ageist because I was younger than many of the guests and dressed casually, but I felt completely disrespected as a human being. I understand the smoke alarm issue likely wasn’t the hotel’s fault, but in that case this woman should have explained that and offered some apology, even just verbally. I wasn’t expecting any monetary compensation, just some basic human decency. I really wish I could write a positive review for this place as it’s in a great location and the building is beautiful (and the doggos are so cute), but I felt so unwelcome at this establishment (mostly by the employee on the last day) that I cannot in good faith recommend it to anyone. Needless to say, we will not be back.

Historic and beautiful inn, owned by Doris Day, in downtown Carmel. Well known as a social gathering place and for its dog-friendly hospitality. Has excellent bar and restaurant, too. A place not to be missed.

Over $400 a night for no hot water. That’s right, cold water only in our shower! Maintenance man came and turned it on and just said to wait like 5 mins. It never got warmer. I called again and said it’s cold and we can’t shower and the front desk informed me they were fully booked and there’s nothing they could do. We are sweaty from our hike and don’t want to take ice cold showers! Disappointing. Also no parking.

I love the quiet front “living room”. Great for having a quiet conversation.

Very sad to see how Cypress Inn has changed. We’ve been coming here with our dog for years. It was expensive but the customer service was incredible. But now their prices have increased significantly yet they no longer offer the decanter of Sherry, or the doggie amenities. The cheapest room is $350, plus $40 for dog, plus $40 for parking lot and the room is so tiny with no dresser and no place to set your suitcases. Time to find another place I guess. :-(