Public Vote Honors West Sonoma County Inn at Sonoma County Tourism’s Stars of the Industry Awards
OCCIDENTAL, Calif. — The Inn at Occidental has been named Sonoma County Lodging Property of the Year at Sonoma County Tourism’s annual Stars of the Industry Awards, held on June 10, 2026, at Graton Resort & Casino.
The award, determined through a public vote, recognizes excellence in hospitality and guest experience among lodging properties throughout Sonoma County.
Learn About all the Stars of the Industry Winners
For owners Matthew and Victoria Meblin, the recognition marks a meaningful milestone just over two years after purchasing the Inn and embarking on an ambitious effort to enhance the guest experience while honoring the property’s unique history and character.
“This award means more to us than I can adequately put into words,” said Matthew Meblin, Owner and Innkeeper of the Inn at Occidental. “For the past two years, Vicky and I, along with our incredible staff, have poured our hearts into this property. We’ve worked long days, late nights, and countless weekends because we believed this special place could become something truly exceptional. To be recognized by the public and by our peers in the Sonoma County tourism industry is incredibly rewarding. It’s a reminder that all of that hard work matters, and we couldn’t be more grateful.”
The Inn at Occidental occupies a historic building originally constructed in 1876 as a private residence. The property was transformed into an inn in the late 1980s and today offers seventeen guest accommodations in the heart of West Sonoma County.
Since taking ownership in 2024, the Meblins have invested extensively in property improvements, guest amenities, landscaping, hospitality programming, and community events. The Inn has become known for its welcoming atmosphere, acclaimed breakfast service, OX Wine Bar, winemaker dinners, art events, and its popular Sunset Concert Series, which brings nationally touring and regional musicians to Occidental throughout the summer and fall.
Watch our Lodging Property of the Year Video
“This award is especially meaningful because it recognizes the vision we’ve been working toward every day,” said Meblin. “The Inn at Occidental is more than a place to stay. It is a place where guests can immerse themselves in the very best of Sonoma County—from world-class wine and culinary experiences to live music, local art, towering redwoods, and our spectacular coastline. Helping people discover and connect with this remarkable region is what inspires us every day. We’re deeply grateful that so many people have embraced that vision and honored us with their vote.”
“Hospitality is ultimately about people,” added Victoria Meblin. “It’s about creating a place where guests feel welcomed, cared for, and connected. This recognition belongs to our staff, our guests, our local partners, and the Occidental community. We are honored by their support and excited for what lies ahead.”
The Inn at Occidental serves as a gateway to Sonoma County’s renowned wineries, redwood forests, Pacific coastline, and vibrant small-town culture. As the property continues to evolve, the Meblins view the award not as a finish line, but as encouragement to continue creating memorable experiences for guests while contributing to the cultural life of the community.
For more information about the Inn at Occidental, accommodations, dining, or upcoming events, visit www.InnAtOccidental.com.
MEDIA CONTACT
Matthew Meblin
Owner & Innkeeper
Inn at Occidental
3657 Church Street
Occidental, CA 95465
(707) 874-1047
www.InnAtOccidental.com
Watch the SCT Stars of Industry Recap Video
