Mendocino’s historic hotels aren’t just places to stay—they’re the soul of the town, standing defiantly on ocean-worn cliffs. Now, with an investment firm linked to Marriott taking over, the fear is real: Will these beloved landmarks keep their charm, or morph into something unrecognizable? Locals, fiercely protective of Mendocino’s character, aren’t impressed. The new owners have barely introduced themselves, and their behind-the-scenes renovations leave the hotels looking abandoned. But here’s the hard truth—these buildings are crumbling, and no local buyers stepped up. If it’s corporate dollars or slow decay, which is the lesser evil?
I get the hesitation. A town like Mendocino, built on independence, doesn’t warm easily to outsiders with deep pockets and vague promises. Yet, passing the faded, shuttered Mendocino Hotel, it’s clear something had to give. Nostalgia doesn’t fix leaky roofs. The question isn’t whether change is coming—it’s whether the new owners will respect what makes this place special.
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Lumber and labor isn’t getting cheaper anytime soon and fire insurance is sky high. Respecting community norms may also not be an viable option or else Mendocino hotels will start to look like the Palace hotel.