Doris Day’s Pet-Friendly Hotel: The Cypress Inn
Published: October 5, 2000

In 1981, Doris Day moved to the village of Carmel-by-the-Sea. It had been a favourite place of hers since she was on location in 1956 filming her Thriller ‘Julie’.

Carmel is on the sunny Californian coast boasting a multitude of restaurants, galleries, boutiques, parks & even an Aquarium (Monterey Bay). It is situated near picturesque attractions like the 17 Mile Drive, The Big Sur Coast and Point Lobos State Reserve where many Cypress trees grow. These of course gave name to this Inn built in the centre of the village in 1929.

This period building so impressed Doris’s son that, following its discovery, he & Doris decided to go into a partnership with Dennis LeVett, the owner. Then, with the help of a local designer the original, beautiful Spanish Colonial style was brought back to life. The Cypress Inn now has a very serene and comfortable atmosphere. Its rustic architecture has many original wood and ironwork features tastefully incorporated. You’ll also find a dash of Doris Day nostalgia with the odd movie poster subtly appearing here and there, surrounded by a rich variety of works by local artists which are tastefully scattered throughout including the 34 contrasting guest rooms.

The Inn also comes well equipped with the usual facilities of colour televisions, telephones, private bathrooms. These are warmly complimented by homely touches like fresh flowers, fruit, bottled water, a decanter of sherry, daily newspapers at hand in the rooms, wrapped up with the welcoming service provided by the staff which extends to you and your Pets. This unusual feature of the Inn stems from Doris’s deep love of animals. You are more than encouraged to bring along your pets to enjoy the holiday stay, there are even pet sitting services available for any times when you can’t have them by your side.

The Doris Day of today: Mother, Grandma, Animal Rights Campaigner, also thrives on involving herself with particularly the animal-friendly aspects of this unique venture. Nothing uplifts her sprits more than receiving letters from people who enjoyed their memorable stay.

“My experience in Carmel was unbelievable….I knew that I would enjoy it, but not as much as I did….Its beauty is impeccable…The Cypress Inn is the best place I have ever stayed at during a vacation. The room was great and the atmosphere was wonderful….The Cypress Inn has such a friendly environment and that is very often hard to find.” – Jannette Jauregui (Visitor in Feb 2000)

“My husband Harris, Stan and Faith (my husband’s brother and wife), and I just completed a fabulous holiday to California, Yosemite, and the Grand Canyon. We stayed at the Cypress Inn for two nights and I must say it is beautiful and the hospitality was so cordial…….” – Sherlene Corbett (Visitor in May 2000)


The Cypress Inn
Toll-Free: 1-800-443-7443
http://www.cypress-inn.com