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La Ribera Hotel
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The La Ribera Hotel, also known as the Cypress Inn, is a historic Spanish Eclectic hotel in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California. It was designed by architects Blaine & Olsen of Oakland, California and built in 1929, by Meese & Briggs.[1] The building was designated as a significant commercial building in the city's Downtown Historic District Property Survey, and was recorded with the Department of Parks and Recreation on February 13, 2003.[2]
Key Information
History
[edit]
La Ribera Hotel has its origins in a home; watercolorist Sydney J. Yard designed and built his house on Lincoln Street and 7th Avenue in 1906. He later added an art studio, where he had regular showings.[3][4]
The current building is a two-story reinforced concrete and wood frame Spanish Eclectic style hotel. It is located on Lincoln Street & 7th Avenue. La Ribera means "The Riverbank " in Spanish. A tall stepped Moorish style tower is centered in the hotel with paired, keyhole arched opening on each elevation. A one-story hypen connects the main building with a two-story addition. A grass patio separates the two wings, enclosed by a wrought iron fence along 7th Avenue.[2] It qualified for inclusion in the Downtown Historic District Property Survey because it is an example of the Spanish Eclectic commercial designed by the architects Blaine & Olsen of Oakland, California, and the 1949 two-story addition by San Francisco architect Gardner Dailey.[2][5]
The hotel was built two years after Blaine & Olsen completed the Kocher Building (1927), and one year after El Paseo Building (1928). The building was designed to complement the Kocher and El Paseo buildings in the Spanish Eclectic style. Dr. Rudoph Kocher found funding for the project through his associate, Grace Deere Velie (of the John Deere Family). Mrs. John S. Ball, who operated the Lincoln Inn, on the former site prior to construction, continued as manager of the La Ribera.[2][5]
During the Great Depression in the United States, the hotel went into receivership in 1930. It was reopened and managed as the La Ribera by A. G. Wood, a former manager of Monterey's San Carlos Hotel. In 1949, a two-story addition was made.[2]
La Ribera kept its original name until the 1960s when new management renamed it the Cypress West hotel. In the mid-1980s, businessman Denny LeVett and actress Doris Day restored the hotel and reopened it as the Cypress Inn.[6] It was an early pet–friendly hotel[7] and was featured on March 15, 1999, in the Architectural Digest.[8][9]
See also
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ "La Ribera Hotel, Carmel". California Arts and Architecture. 38 (1): 47–49. July 1930.
- ^ a b c d e Richard N. Janice (February 13, 2003). "Department Of Parks And Recreation" (PDF). National Park Service. Retrieved March 31, 2020.
- ^ "New Of Carmel". Monterey Daily Cypress and Monterey American. Monterey, California. 12 Nov 1908. p. 1. Retrieved 2022-02-28.
- ^ "Chapter Two – Western Frontiers: Birth of the Carmel Art Colony (1896-1909)" (PDF). Traditional Fine Arts Organization. Retrieved 2022-03-01.
- ^ a b Dramov, Alissandra (2019). Historic Buildings of Downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea. Arcadia Publishing. pp. 8, 49. ISBN 9781439666890. Retrieved 2022-02-27.
- ^ Champlin, Charles (13 Mar 1988). "Doris Day to offer bed and breakfast to pets at her Carmel hotel". Oakland Tribune. Oakland, California. p. 38. Retrieved March 31, 2022.
- ^ Braun, Eric (2004). Doris Day. London: Orion. p. 13-14.
- ^ Lippe-Mcgraw, Jordi (May 15, 2019). "Inside Doris Day's Pet Hotel, The Cypress Inn". Architectural Digest. Retrieved March 31, 2022.
- ^ Borger, Irene (July 1999). "Carmel's Cypress Inn: A Historic California Hotel Owned by Doris Day". Architectural Digest. 56 (7): 62–68.
External links
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Wikimedia Commons has media related to La Ribera Hotel.
La Ribera Hotel
View on Grokipediafrom Grokipedia
The La Ribera Hotel, now operating as the Cypress Inn, is a historic boutique hotel located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, renowned for its pet-friendly accommodations and old-world charm.[1] Originally constructed in 1929 by Dr. Rudolf Kocher and builder Hugh Comstock on a site that previously housed an art gallery established in 1906 by Sydney J. Yard, the hotel was designed in the Spanish Eclectic style, featuring elegant architecture with red-tiled roofs and stucco walls that earned it immediate recognition as a showplace of the Monterey Peninsula.[1][2][3][4]
In the 1960s, the property underwent revitalization under owners Earl E. McInnis and Frank McInnis, who renamed it Cypress West to highlight its cypress tree surroundings.[1] By the mid-1980s, actress Doris Day and businessman Dennis LeVett acquired co-ownership, renaming it the Cypress Inn and emphasizing its status as Carmel's original pet-friendly hotel, a feature that continues to draw national acclaim.[1] Today, the Cypress Inn remains a beloved landmark, offering 44 uniquely decorated rooms, fine dining at Terry's Restaurant, and a courtyard fountain, while preserving its legacy as a gathering spot for travelers, locals, and pets in the heart of this coastal village.[5][6]
History
Origins and early development
The La Ribera Hotel site, originally developed as a private residence and artist's studio, traces its beginnings to 1906 when watercolor artist Sidney J. Yard constructed a home and studio at the corner of Lincoln Street and 7th Avenue in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California (coordinates: 36°33′14″N 121°55′22″W).[1][7] Yard, born in 1855 in Rockford, Illinois, had relocated to California in the 1880s, initially operating photography studios in San Jose and Palo Alto before dividing his time between San Francisco and the burgeoning artist colony of Carmel starting in 1904.[8] By 1906, he settled permanently in Carmel, where his studio also served as the village's first art gallery, showcasing his English-style watercolors of coastal landscapes and gardens.[1] The early design of Yard's home and studio reflected influences from the Arts and Crafts movement, which emphasized natural materials, craftsmanship, and harmony with the environment—hallmarks of Carmel's artistic and architectural ethos in the early 20th century.[9] This movement, prominent in the region's bohemian community, shaped many of the area's initial structures, including artist dwellings that integrated rustic elements like exposed wood and simple forms to complement the Monterey Peninsula's pine forests and rugged terrain.[9] Yard's studio, though modest, embodied this aesthetic, supporting his work until his death in 1909.[8] In the 1920s, the property transitioned toward commercial potential under the ownership of Dr. Rudolf Kocher, a local physician, who acquired the site with financial backing from his patron, Grace Deere Velie, a member of the John Deere family.[4] Velie's support enabled Kocher to envision redevelopment, marking a shift from residential artistic use to broader community-oriented purposes while preserving the site's historical footprint.Conversion to hotel and early operations
In 1929, the site of the former Lincoln Inn was transformed into the La Ribera Hotel through extensive construction led by architects Blaine & Olsen of Oakland, California, and builder Hugh Comstock, resulting in a structure embodying the Spanish Eclectic style with features like stucco walls, red-tiled roofs, and arched entryways designed to evoke Mediterranean luxury.[9][10] This redesign built upon the foundation of the original 1906 structure, adapting the property for upscale hospitality amid Carmel-by-the-Sea's growing reputation as an artistic retreat.[1] The hotel officially opened on July 3, 1929, under the ownership of Dr. R.A. Kocher, positioning itself as a boutique establishment that emphasized seclusion and refined comfort, with amenities including flower-strewn patios and proximity to the village's pine-shaded lanes.[11] Initial operations were managed by Mrs. John S. Ball, a seasoned hotelier who had previously overseen the Lincoln Inn on the same site, ensuring a smooth transition to guest services tailored to affluent visitors seeking privacy and elegance in the coastal enclave.[1] Despite positive reception as "one of the showplaces of the Monterey Peninsula," the La Ribera faced early financial challenges exacerbated by the onset of the Great Depression, leading to receivership in 1930.[12] The property was promptly reopened later that year under the management of A. G. Wood, a veteran hotelier formerly in charge of Monterey's San Carlos Hotel, who stabilized operations and maintained the focus on luxury accommodations during the economic downturn.[11]Mid-20th century changes and receivership
Following its successful opening in 1929 as a showcase hotel in Carmel-by-the-Sea, the La Ribera Hotel entered receivership in 1930 amid the economic fallout of the Great Depression, which severely impacted tourism and hospitality operations on the Monterey Peninsula. The property was soon reopened under new management by A. G. Wood, formerly the manager of the San Carlos Hotel in Monterey, who oversaw its continued operations through the decade.[13] During World War II, Carmel-by-the-Sea experienced disruptions to its tourism industry due to gasoline rationing, travel restrictions, and nightly blackout regulations enforced from 1941 onward, affecting local hotels' guest volumes. The La Ribera adapted by maintaining essential services for residents and supporting community war efforts, such as recycling drives and USO-related entertainment. Post-war, the region saw a significant tourism boom, with visitor numbers surging and the number of hotels and motels in Carmel rising from 9 in 1947 to 46 by 1963, driven by economic recovery and increased leisure travel.[9] In the 1960s, as the hotel aged and faced growing competition from modern motels and resorts, it underwent revitalization under the management of Earl E. McInnis and his son Frank, who renamed it Cypress West to align with contemporary branding trends. This change marked an effort to refresh the property's appeal amid the proliferation of newer accommodations that drew away guests from historic establishments like the former La Ribera. By the late 1960s, the hotel's prominence had diminished relative to these competitors, setting the stage for further transformations.[1][9]Restoration and modern era
In the mid-1980s, following a period of mid-20th century instability including receivership, the La Ribera Hotel was acquired by actress and animal welfare advocate Doris Day and local businessman Dennis LeVett, who undertook a comprehensive restoration to revive the property.[1][14] They renamed it the Cypress Inn, transforming it into a boutique hotel that emphasized hospitality and community, with Day's influence shaping its welcoming atmosphere. Day co-owned the hotel until her death in 2019.[1] A key innovation during this restoration was the establishment of pet-friendly policies, allowing dogs to stay alongside human guests with amenities such as treats, blankets, and bowls provided in rooms.[14] This approach, inspired by Day's advocacy for animals, positioned the Cypress Inn as one of the earliest pet-welcoming hotels in the United States, earning it recognition as the nation's "pet friendliest" establishment by multiple publications and contributing to Carmel's reputation as a dog-loving destination.[14][1] The Cypress Inn continued to operate successfully as a boutique inn through the 1990s and 2000s, attracting guests with its intimate, historic charm and hosting events that fostered a sense of community.[1] It gained further acclaim with a feature in Architectural Digest in July 1999, highlighting its restored elegance and appeal as a Carmel landmark.[15] As of November 2025, the Cypress Inn remains an active historic hotel in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Following Dennis LeVett's death on October 6, 2025, it is owned by LeVett Properties and managed to preserve its family-owned vibe and Doris Day's legacy of warmth and pet inclusivity.[1][16] Recent phased renovations, including updates to guest rooms and communal spaces, ensure its ongoing vitality while honoring its heritage.[17]Architecture and design
Original Spanish Eclectic features
The La Ribera Hotel, constructed in 1929, exemplifies the Spanish Eclectic architectural style prevalent in early 20th-century California coastal developments. This style draws from Mediterranean and Spanish colonial influences, characterized by its romantic and ornate elements adapted to the region's mild climate. Designed by Oakland architects Roger W. Blaine and David Olsen, the hotel was built specifically as upscale lodging by local builder Hugh Comstock for Dr. Rudolf Kocher, one of Carmel's early physicians.[9][4][1] Key exterior features include a red-tiled, cross-gabled roof that provides both aesthetic appeal and practical weather protection, paired with smooth white stucco walls that evoke the sun-drenched adobe structures of historic Spain. Arched doorways and windows punctuate the facade, creating a sense of fluidity and invitation, while wrought-iron accents—such as balcony railings and decorative grilles—add intricate detailing inspired by Andalusian ironwork. These elements combine to form an imposing yet harmonious structure at the corner of Lincoln Street and Seventh Avenue in Carmel-by-the-Sea.[9][4] The hotel's layout centers around a spacious, landscaped central courtyard, a hallmark of Spanish Eclectic design that fosters privacy and outdoor living. Flanking the courtyard are gable-roofed guest wings, arranged to offer secluded access to rooms while maintaining the building's compact footprint amid the village's dense urban fabric. A prominent two-story Moorish-style tower with keyhole arches anchors the composition, enhancing vertical interest and serving as a focal point visible from the street. The structure is a two-story reinforced concrete and wood frame building.[9][1] Integration of local materials underscores the design's regional harmony, with Carmel stone—quarried from nearby hills—used in the tower and structural accents to blend with the area's natural granite outcrops and earthy palette. Generous use of colorful glazed tiles adorns entryways and patio edges, reflecting the style's emphasis on vibrant, handcrafted details. This thoughtful material selection not only ensures durability against coastal fog and winds but also ties the hotel to Carmel's bohemian artistic heritage.[9][4] Recognized for its architectural merit, the La Ribera Hotel was designated a significant commercial building within Carmel's Downtown Historic District Property Survey on February 13, 2003, under Criterion 3 for its exemplary Spanish Eclectic form. It was listed in the California Register of Historical Resources on October 28, 2002. The original 1929 design influenced later expansions, such as the 1949 addition, which extended the aesthetic while preserving core features.[4]1949 expansion and modifications
In 1949, the La Ribera Hotel underwent a significant expansion with the addition of a two-story wing at the northwest corner of the property, designed by prominent San Francisco architect Gardner Dailey.[4] This project, constructed by builder Harold Geyer, increased the hotel's room capacity and overall facilities to meet growing demand. The design harmonized with the original 1929 Spanish Eclectic structure by incorporating compatible stylistic elements, such as stucco finishes and tiled accents, ensuring the addition blended seamlessly with the existing architecture. A one-story hyphen connects the main building to this addition.[4] These modifications addressed practical needs for enhanced functionality, including updates to support larger guest volumes in the post-World War II era. The expansion played a key role in accommodating Carmel's burgeoning tourism industry, which saw increased visitation from returning service members and leisure travelers drawn to the Monterey Peninsula's coastal attractions.[9] By expanding accommodations without compromising the hotel's historic character, the 1949 project solidified La Ribera's position as a vital lodging option during a period of regional economic and visitor growth.[4]Interior elements and furnishings
The interior of the La Ribera Hotel, originally constructed in 1929, featured Mediterranean-inspired decor that complemented its Spanish Eclectic architecture, including original tiled floors, wrought-iron grillwork, and a grand stairway that evoked the elegance of coastal Spanish estates.[18] Antique furnishings, such as carved wooden pieces and upholstered seating in earthy tones, were selected to enhance the warm, inviting ambiance of the guest rooms and public spaces, reflecting the era's emphasis on rustic luxury.[19] Following its restoration in the mid-1980s under co-owners Doris Day and Dennis LeVett, the hotel—renamed the Cypress Inn—retained and revived these historical elements while incorporating subtle updates to honor its origins. Day's influence as an animal advocate shaped the interiors by prioritizing pet-inclusive designs, such as providing complimentary pet blankets and treats upon arrival, alongside furnishings that accommodated four-legged guests without compromising the Mediterranean aesthetic.[1] Restored common areas, particularly the lobby, showcase beamed ceilings, a large central fireplace surrounded by plush seating, and preserved tiled flooring, creating a cozy gathering space that ties into the building's exterior motifs.[20][21] Guest rooms post-restoration blend antique-inspired elements like gas fireplaces in select suites with modern comforts, including ceiling fans and neutral-toned linens that maintain the serene, coastal vibe. Artwork featuring Doris Day's personal touches, such as photographs displayed in the lobby, adds a layer of Hollywood nostalgia to the furnishings, underscoring her legacy in transforming the space into a welcoming haven for both people and pets.[22] Pet accommodations are thoughtfully integrated, with rooms offering dedicated spaces for crates and beds to ensure comfort, pioneering the hotel's reputation as Carmel's first pet-friendly boutique property.[23]Ownership and management
Founding investors and initial proprietors
The La Ribera Hotel emerged during the 1920s boom in Carmel-by-the-Sea, when the village's status as a thriving artist colony and seaside resort attracted increasing tourism and spurred investments in hospitality infrastructure.[9][24] This period of economic prosperity, mirroring national trends, encouraged developments like upscale lodging to accommodate visitors drawn to the area's bohemian arts scene and natural beauty.[24] Dr. Rudolph Kocher, a Swiss-born physician and developer, spearheaded the hotel's construction on the site of the former Lincoln Inn at the corner of Lincoln Street and Seventh Avenue.[25] The project received crucial funding from Grace Deere Velie Harper Harris, an heiress to the John Deere tractor fortune, who supported Kocher's vision for a Spanish Eclectic-style establishment catering to affluent travelers and health-conscious guests.[25] Velie's investment aligned with her interests in wellness initiatives, as she later funded the nearby Grace Deere Velie Metabolic Clinic in 1929.[9] As the initial proprietor, Mrs. John S. Ball played a pivotal role in launching operations, drawing on her experience managing the Lincoln Inn on the same property.[4] A respected figure in local hospitality, Ball oversaw the hotel's opening on July 3, 1929, ensuring seamless transition and immediate appeal as a "showplace" of the Monterey Peninsula.[4] The legal and financial structure was a private venture led by Kocher, with Velie's backing enabling construction by contractor Hugh Comstock and architects Blaine and Olsen, culminating in the hotel's debut without public financing or complex corporate entities.[25] This straightforward setup reflected the era's optimistic real estate climate in Carmel, though it later faced challenges leading to receivership in the 1930s.[24]Key figures in operations
Following the 1930 receivership during the Great Depression, A. G. Wood, a seasoned hotelier and former manager of Monterey's prestigious San Carlos Hotel, took charge of reopening and operating the La Ribera Hotel.[4] Under Wood's leadership in the early 1930s, the hotel resumed operations, preserving its status as a notable lodging option on the Monterey Peninsula despite economic hardships.[4] Throughout the 1940s and 1950s, the hotel's management navigated the challenges of World War II, including federal rationing of materials and fuels that affected hospitality operations across California coastal areas.[9] These years saw continued daily oversight by local operators who ensured the property's functionality amid blackout regulations and restricted travel, maintaining its appeal to regional visitors.[9] By the mid-20th century, the hotel had undergone a 1949 expansion with a two-story addition, reflecting adaptive management to meet growing demand post-war.[4] In the 1960s, Earl E. McInnis and his son Frank assumed management, revitalizing the aging property and renaming it the Cypress West to align with evolving tourism trends while upholding its historic charm.[1] The McInnis family's efforts focused on restorations that sustained the hotel's reputation for quality service and architectural integrity, fostering strong community connections in Carmel-by-the-Sea through their emphasis on local patronage and preservation.[1] As prominent local figures in the hospitality sector, they bridged the hotel's operational legacy from its founding investors' era into a period of renewed prominence.[1]Doris Day's involvement and legacy
In the mid-1980s, actress and singer Doris Day, along with local businessman Dennis LeVett, acquired the property previously known as the Cypress West hotel, rebranding it as the Cypress Inn and establishing it as a premier pet-friendly destination in Carmel-by-the-Sea.[1][20] Day's lifelong commitment to animal welfare profoundly shaped the hotel's identity, with her insistence on accommodating pets in all guest rooms setting a pioneering standard for hospitality at the time.[14] This personal touch reflected her advocacy, transforming the inn into a haven that celebrated human-animal bonds through features like welcome amenities for pets and events such as the daily "Yappy Hour" gathering for dogs and their owners.[26] Day's involvement extended beyond operations; as a longtime resident of Carmel-by-the-Sea, she maintained a deep personal connection to the Cypress Inn, frequently visiting and overseeing its management until her death on May 13, 2019, at age 97.[27][28] Her co-ownership helped preserve the historic structure, originally built in 1929 as the La Ribera Hotel, ensuring its adaptation into a modern cultural landmark that blended Old Hollywood elegance with Monterey Peninsula charm.[1] Following Day's death, LeVett continued as owner until his passing on October 6, 2025.[16] Day's legacy at the Cypress Inn endures through its ongoing role as a pet-centric retreat and a hub for philanthropy, particularly animal welfare initiatives. The hotel hosted numerous fundraising events benefiting the Doris Day Animal Foundation, including birthday celebrations, adoption drives, and galas that supported spay/neuter programs, rescue efforts, and local charities, raising significant funds for causes close to her heart.[29][30][31] As of November 2025, the inn is managed by LeVett Properties, continuing to honor her vision as a testament to her contributions to hospitality, preservation, and compassionate causes.[32]Facilities and amenities
Accommodations and room types
The Cypress Inn, formerly known as the La Ribera Hotel, features 44 guest rooms and suites as of 2025, designed to blend historic charm with modern comforts.[6] These accommodations include standard options such as queen, king, two doubles, and two queens rooms, as well as deluxe categories like deluxe queen, deluxe king, and deluxe king with veranda.[33] Suites are available in king and balcony configurations, offering separate living areas for added space.[33] Many rooms provide garden views, while select deluxe options, including the deluxe king with veranda, offer partial ocean views and proximity to the nearby Carmel Beach, just steps from the property.[34][35] Amenities across the rooms emphasize relaxation in a historic setting, with features like gas fireplaces, jetted tubs, private verandas or balconies, and complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property.[36][33] All rooms are non-smoking and pet-friendly, a policy originating from co-owner Doris Day's lifelong advocacy for animals.[36] As a boutique inn in Carmel-by-the-Sea, pricing typically ranges from $300 to $600 per night in 2025, varying by season and room type.[37][38] Booking emphasizes seasonal availability, with higher demand during summer months and holidays, recommending advance reservations through the official website or partners.[39]Dining and lounge options
The primary dining venue at the La Ribera Hotel, now known as the Cypress Inn, is Terry's Restaurant + Lounge, which specializes in California-Mediterranean cuisine emphasizing fresh, locally sourced ingredients from the Monterey Bay area.[41] The menu features shareable small plates, brunch favorites, and elegant evening entrées, with highlights including seafood options such as seared sesame tuna, shrimp scampi, Monterey sand dabs, and fresh Alaskan halibut, often paired with an extensive selection of California wines from Monterey County producers.[42][43] These dishes reflect a commitment to seasonal, coastal-inspired flavors, complemented by handcrafted cocktails and a curated wine list that enhances the dining experience.[44] The lounge area within Terry's provides a relaxed setting for guests to enjoy live music performances by local Carmel musicians, typically held Thursday through Sunday evenings, alongside vintage-inspired cocktails and ambient lighting that evokes the hotel's historic charm.[45] This space fosters a social atmosphere, with options for tapas-style bites and beverages in a pet-friendly environment that aligns with the property's legacy.[46] Terry's operates daily, with restaurant hours for lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., dinner from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., and Sunday brunch from 11:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.; lounge service extends until 9:00 p.m. on weekdays, 9:45 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and 9:00 p.m. on Sundays.[41] Reservations are recommended during peak seasons to ensure availability, though walk-ins are welcomed, making it an integral part of the guest stay for both meals and casual lounging.[44][45]Pet-friendly policies and unique services
La Ribera Hotel, operating as the Cypress Inn, established its pet-friendly policies in the mid-1980s following its acquisition by actress Doris Day and businessman Dennis LeVett, positioning it as one of Carmel's pioneering accommodations for animal companions.[1][26] Pets of various sizes and breeds are accommodated in all guest rooms, with amenities including complimentary plush beds, blankets, and water bowls to ensure comfort during stays.[47] Policies require pets to remain leashed in public areas, prohibit them from being left unattended in rooms, and restrict access to furniture, fostering a respectful environment for all guests.[23] The hotel's unique services emphasize relaxation and community, including in-room massage and spa treatments arranged through skilled practitioners for personalized wellness experiences.[48] Guests can participate in the signature Yappy Hour at Terry's Lounge, a pet-friendly social event featuring drink specials for humans and treats for dogs, often held in the late afternoon to celebrate animal companionship.[49] Centrally located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, the property facilitates easy access to guided walking tours of the village's historic sites and scenic paths, enhancing exploration for both human and pet visitors.[18] Ties to the Doris Day Animal Foundation run deep; the hotel has hosted adoption events, fashion shows, and fundraisers that support animal rescue and welfare programs, reflecting Day's lifelong advocacy, and continues to support the foundation through donations as of 2025.[50][51][16][31] In 2025, the hotel hosted a National Dog Day celebration with pet activities in the courtyard.[52] Sustainability practices at the Cypress Inn include local and organic sourcing for dining options, partnering with environmentally conscious businesses to promote responsible fishing and reduce ecological impact.[53] The property employs energy-efficient measures and filtered water systems to minimize waste, aligning with broader eco-conscious efforts in Carmel-by-the-Sea.[54] Pet owners can enjoy outdoor dining on the garden patio, where leashed animals are welcome alongside sustainable menu selections.[23]Cultural and historical significance
Notable guests and events
Throughout its history, the La Ribera Hotel, later known as the Cypress Inn, has attracted notable guests drawn to Carmel's vibrant arts and coastal allure. Among the Hollywood luminaries who have stayed there are actress Lauren Bacall and actor Orlando Bloom, reflecting the inn's appeal as a discreet getaway for celebrities.[55] The property's location in the heart of Carmel's creative scene has also made it a favored spot for artists, with early ties to figures like watercolorist Sidney J. Yard, who established the site's first art gallery in 1906.[1] In the mid-20th century, the hotel served as a hub for cultural gatherings, including artist retreats that capitalized on Carmel's bohemian reputation. Modern iterations of these retreats continue today, with the Cypress Inn partnering to host immersive art courses and workshops for creative professionals.[56] The inn has also hosted intimate weddings and rehearsal dinners, utilizing its spaces blending Mediterranean elegance with personalized service.[57] As co-owner from the mid-1980s until her passing in 2019, Doris Day's involvement elevated the hotel's profile, drawing events connected to her extensive network in entertainment and philanthropy. Annual birthday celebrations for Day often featured VIP receptions at the inn, attended by celebrities such as television host Peter Marshall, with proceeds supporting the Doris Day Animal Foundation.[58][59] These gatherings, including themed bingo nights and concerts, underscored the hotel's role in charity initiatives, fostering a legacy of animal welfare advocacy amid festive occasions.[58]Recognition and designations
The La Ribera Hotel, now operating as the Cypress Inn, was recorded on February 13, 2003, in the Downtown Historic District Property Survey of Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, as a significant contributing commercial building to the area's historic fabric.[10] This designation highlights its role in preserving the village's early 20th-century architectural heritage amid ongoing urban development. Constructed in 1929 by Dr. Rudolf Kocher and builder Hugh Comstock, the hotel exemplifies the Spanish Eclectic style, characterized by its stucco walls, red-tiled roof, and arched entryways, which remain intact as a rare preserved example of this regional aesthetic.[60] Careful restorations, including those in the 1960s and later under new ownership, have sustained its original features while adapting to modern hospitality standards.[1] The property has received accolades for its pet hospitality and boutique excellence from prominent travel sources. In 2025, Forbes magazine named the Cypress Inn the best boutique hotel in Carmel-by-the-Sea, praising its historic charm, welcoming pet policies, and evocation of Old Hollywood glamour.[61] It has also been repeatedly honored in The Carmel Pine Cone's annual Golden Pine Cone Awards as the most dog-friendly hotel in the region, reflecting its pioneering approach to accommodating pets since the 1980s.[62] Through its enduring presence and historic status, the Cypress Inn contributes to Carmel's cultural heritage as an integral element of the Monterey Peninsula's artistic and architectural landscape, embodying the area's evolution from a bohemian artist colony to a premier coastal destination.[1]Media appearances and publications
The La Ribera Hotel, later renamed the Cypress Inn, received notable coverage in Architectural Digest on March 15, 1999, highlighting its role as an early pet-friendly establishment co-owned by actress Doris Day, with the feature emphasizing its welcoming policies for animals and historic charm as a getaway in Carmel-by-the-Sea.[20] The property has been mentioned in several books and publications on Carmel history, including surveys of Monterey County architecture, such as the 1996 Historic Context Statement for Carmel-by-the-Sea, which details its construction in 1929 by architects Blaine and Olsen as a purpose-built lodging in the Spanish Eclectic style.[9] It also appears in the 1987 publication Carmel's New Identity: The Peninsula's Art Colony (1915-1933), which references the hotel as a venue for early community events, like art society meetings in the late 1920s, underscoring its integration into the area's bohemian cultural scene.[63] Appearances in travel guides have showcased the hotel's enduring appeal as a Carmel inn, with Fodor's Travel Guide describing it as a luxurious, pet-friendly option with Mediterranean ambience and Moroccan-inspired decor, noting its central location and on-site dining.[64] While specific film cameos are limited, the hotel is located in an area used for filming movies in Carmel-by-the-Sea, such as the 1956 thriller Julie starring Doris Day.[65] In online and modern media, the Cypress Inn has garnered extensive attention through platforms like TripAdvisor, where it holds a 4.5-star rating from over 1,800 reviews praising its historic ambiance, pet accommodations, and proximity to Carmel Beach.[6] Lifestyle publications in the 2020s have further spotlighted it, such as Forbes Vetted's 2025 recognition as the best boutique hotel in Carmel-by-the-Sea for its blend of old-world charm and modern updates, and Modern Luxury Magazine's 2025 award as Best Hotel & Spa in the Silicon Valley region, emphasizing its renovated spa services and coastal elegance.[66][67] Vogue Arabia also featured its Arab-inspired architecture in a recent profile.[68]References
- https://www.[booking.com](/page/Booking.com)/hotel/us/cypress-inn.html