Help choose between 2 hotels

Question

Hi there!

Traveling thru Carmel for 1 night next week with my partner on his 40th birthday trip. We have the option of staying at either the Cypress Inn or Hotel Carmel. Which would you choose and why?!

Answer

Both the Cypress Inn and Hotel Carmel are excellent choices in Carmel, but they offer slightly different experiences depending on what kind of birthday trip atmosphere you’re looking for.

Cypress Inn is co-owned by Doris Day and has a historic, boutique charm. It’s known for being pet-friendly, stylishly decorated, and centrally located on Ocean Avenue, making it very easy to walk to Carmel’s shops, galleries, and restaurants. The lobby and common areas have a classic, elegant feel, and many guests appreciate the attention to detail in the rooms.

Hotel Carmel is also centrally located, offering a cozy, boutique experience with a slightly more modern and quiet vibe. The rooms are comfortable and well-appointed, and it tends to have a more intimate, low-key atmosphere. Hotel Carmel is excellent if you want a peaceful stay without too much hustle and bustle from street activity.

Key considerations:

Cypress Inn: Historic charm, pet-friendly, lively and stylish, excellent location for walking around central Carmel, more of a “classic Carmel” experience.
Hotel Carmel: Quiet and intimate, modern comforts, still centrally located, ideal for a relaxing, low-key birthday evening.

For a special birthday trip with a partner, if you want a lively, iconic Carmel experience with character and charm, Cypress Inn might be the better pick. If you prefer a quieter, more private retreat that’s still convenient to the main attractions, Hotel Carmel would be excellent.

Either way, both are walking distance to restaurants and galleries, so you won’t be missing out on the town’s main highlights.