Monterey is located along the rugged central coast of the state, where huge mountains cascade into the ocean. It is just a short drive from the stunning 17-Mile Drive and Big Sur, a place that is unparalleled in natural beauty.
At Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, you can witness huge elephant seals, striking anemones, and captivating jellyfish while kayaking or scuba diving. In case you want to watch the beautiful creatures without getting into the water, Monterey Bay Aquarium has got you covered. You can also go on a pleasant walk and savor fresh seafood, Old Fisherman’s Wharf is the place to be. In case you are traveling with your family and want to take the kids on a fun day out, Dennis The Menace Playground is a perfect choice. Cannery Row, once the center of the sardine canning industry, is now home to cute waterfront shops, kid-friendly restaurants, and other fun things to do.
Whatever you choose to do in the city, you’ll need a great place to crash at night. We’ve rounded up the best accommodations if you’re wondering where to stay in Monterey, California. Check them out below!
Travel advisory:
Monterey can be truly enjoyed if you choose to walk around the city. You can go car free to avoid traffic and parking concerns. It takes only about 20 minutes to walk to Monterey Bay Aquarium from Old Fisherman’s Wharf. If you get tired, you can ride the free trolley or hop on a bike.
Take the Grapevine Express to explore the wineries in the area without having to bring or rent a car. This bus service operates hourly, so you can easily catch it and stop wherever you feel like.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on September 10, 2024.
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Hotels and resorts
1. Monterey Marriott (from USD 410)
The Monterey Marriott is a large hotel with everything you could need for a comfortable stay. It is also home to a large conference center, and offers the utmost in convenience and hospitality for business travel. There are two restaurants on site, luxury beddings, and down comforters in each room, as well as cable TV with video game rentals if you need to wind down after a long day of working. The Monterey Marriott isn’t just for business travelers. It’s also great for families and is just a five-minute drive from the Monterey Aquarium!
Monterey Marriott
Address: 350 Calle Principal
2.06 km (1.3 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
2. Hotel Abrego (from USD 356)
Boasting exceptional services and cleanliness, Hotel Abrego is the place you want to stay at if you’re looking for a budget accommodation that doesn’t sacrifice comfort and style. This property is close to Monterey attractions like the iconic Fisherman’s Wharf, the quirky stores of Carmel-by-the-Sea, and Monterey Bay Aquarium. There’s free Wi-Fi in all rooms, and the on-site restaurant Bistro Abrego serves an all-American buffet. A modest gym, an outdoor pool, a hot tub, and a garden are some of the facilities available at this lodging.
Hotel Abrego
Address: 755 Abrego Street
2.77 km (1.8 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
3. Spindrift Inn (from USD 350)
Another fine hotel choice along Cannery Row is Spindrift Inn. All the rooms at this 3.5-star accommodation boast a cozy seating area with a spectacular view of the bay. There’s also an indulgent continental breakfast that you may request to be served right in your room; a wine and cheese service is available on afternoons as well. The conveniences and amenities offered at the property are daily housekeeping, food and grocery delivery, and a highly efficient concierge service. Monterey Bay Aquarium and Old Fisherman’s Wharf are only a short walk from this stylish hotel.
Spindrift Inn
Address: 652 Cannery Row
373 meters (0.3 ft) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
4. The Monterey Hotel (from USD 192)
Reasonable pricing for a historic hotel in downtown Monterey.
Antique decor, spacious rooms, and a cozy fireplace in some rooms.
Centrally located, within walking distance to restaurants, the Golden State Theatre, and attractions like Fisherman's Wharf.
Convenient access to nearby restaurants, cafes, and a complimentary coffee station in the lobby.
Monterey Hotel is a historic hotel dating back to 1904 that perfectly blends modern and historic touches. It has ornate details like carved wooden headboards, stone fireplaces, and marble bathrooms that create an elegant European air. You’ll feel like you’re on a grand tour as you check into the spacious lobby and later sink into the comfortable bed in your room. Enjoy perks like complimentary continental breakfast and valet parking. The hotel is located in the Old Monterey section so continue your trip back in time as you walk around this historic and charming part of town.
The Monterey Hotel
Address: 407 Calle Principal
2.17 km (1.4 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
5. Best Western Plus Victorian Inn (from USD 395)
Reasonable rates with parking fee, complimentary breakfast, and wine & cheese
Spacious rooms, cozy fireplace, underground parking, happy hour, and pet-friendly
Ideal location near Cannery Row, Monterey Aquarium, and restaurants
Delicious breakfast, wine & cheese, but limited seating and basic options
Don’t let the chain hotel name dissuade you from this hotel–the Best Western Plus Victorian Inn will be unlike any Best Western you’ve ever stayed at before. The hotel looks from the outside like a large Victorian mansion, complete with peaked roofs and striped awnings over the windows. The rooms are anything but boring, with high ceilings, plush furniture, and even bay window seats in some rooms. Enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast to start your day, and wind down with free wine and cheese in the lobby after you’ve been out exploring.
Victorian Inn
Address: 487 Foam St
628 meters (0.4 ft) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
6. Cannery Row Inn (from USD 119)
Cannery Row Inn is a cozy yet elegant hotel with beautiful views of the ocean. In fact, you can walk to San Carlos Beach in just a few minutes, as well as Cannery Row and Fisherman’s Wharf. The rooms are simple but luxurious, including a refrigerator, microwave, and coffeemaker for your convenience. There is also complimentary parking with your stay, making this a great starting point for driving around and seeing nearby sights like Big Sur!
Cannery Row Inn
Address: 200 Foam Street
966 meters (0.7 ft) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
7. Monterey Bay Inn (from USD 514)
Reasonable pricing for spacious, well-appointed rooms with stunning bay views.
Convenient parking, in-room breakfast, spa, fire pit, and binoculars provided.
Perfect location on Cannery Row, walking distance to shops, restaurants, beach, and aquarium.
Delightful in-room continental breakfast, though some guests desired more variety.
Nestled right along the historic Cannery Row, Monterey Bay Inn is a four-star hotel that has always been a top pick among travelers, especially couples, mainly because of its prime location. Staying here gets you an unobstructed view of the iconic waterfront street and, of course, Monterey Bay. Each room has a private balcony that overlooks these stunning vistas in the city. Breakfast is served inside the suites daily, and guests may even avail of rejuvenating in-room massage services should they fancy a wellness day.
Monterey Bay Inn
Address: 242 Cannery Row
912 meters (0.6 ft) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
8. Carmel Bay View Inn (from USD 285)
One of the more budget-friendly hotels in Monterey is the 2.5-star Carmel Bay View Inn on Junipero Street. If you aren’t too keen on luxurious stays, this charming accommodation should make you feel comfortable enough on your vacation. There are free on-site parking and free Wi-Fi provided to all guests, as well as a nice outdoor pool. Some of the closest landmarks to this quirky property are The House of Hansel & Gretel, Philips Gallery of Fine Art, Gallerie Amsterdam, and the famous Cheese Shop.
Carmel Bay View Inn
Address: Junipero between 5th and 6th
7.05 km (4.4 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
9. Portola Hotel & Spa (from USD 503)
The moment you step inside Portola Hotel & Spa, you will be greeted by a gorgeous lobby that features seating around live trees decorated with lovely lamps. Another stunning space is the bar area, which showcases marvelous wooden floors, ceilings, and walls, where patrons can savor artisanal cocktails.
It also boasts the largest spa in the entire county with 11 treatment rooms and over 40 signature treatments aimed to make guests forget all about their worries. Natural ingredients such as seaweed and coconut balm are used here to boost rejuvenation and restoration. You can try a scalp massage to boost blood circulation or choose aromatherapy to calm your senses.
Portola Hotel & Spa
Address: Two Portola Plaza
1.98 km (1.3 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
10. Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa (from USD 361)
Built on stilts over rocks and extending into the sea itself, Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa is another excellent choice for water lovers. You can soak some up sun in the outdoor dining area while savoring fresh seafood, or go on a peaceful walk on the adjacent private beach at any time of the day.
Based on your requirements, you may go for a Classic, Aromatherapy, or De-stress massage at the spa or indulge in a Rejuvenating Oxygen Facial to pamper yourself. Afterward, you can soak in a hot tub on the sundeck and witness an amazing sunset along with panoramic views of the harbor, sea, and distant hills.
Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa
Address: 400 Cannery Row
700 meters (0.5 ft) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
11. Holiday Inn Express Monterey - Cannery Row (from USD 480)
Reasonably priced for the area, with free parking
Convenient location within walking distance of Cannery Row and the aquarium, free parking, and water bottle refill station
Perfect location for exploring Monterey, within walking distance of attractions and restaurants
Good breakfast options with hot and cold choices, including a pancake machine, and all-day coffee/tea provided
Just a five-minute drive from Monterey’s city center is Holiday Inn Express Monterey. As a three-star rated resort, the accommodation provides modern rooms with amenities like flat-screen television with cable, a mini-fridge, and access to free Wi-Fi. A hearty continental breakfast is also served daily. If you’re interested in checking out the latest events in town, you are most welcome to approach the front desk. They may be able to sell admission tickets to some of the attractions and shows in Monterey.
Holiday Inn Express Monterey - Cannery Row, an IHG Hotel
Address: 443 Wave Street
669 meters (0.5 ft) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
12. InterContinental The Clement Monterey, an IHG Hotel (from USD 418)
Reasonable pricing for upscale location and amenities.
Spacious rooms, ocean views, on-site restaurant and bar, and attentive staff.
Prime location on Cannery Row, walking distance to attractions and dining.
Delicious dining options with great views, though some minor issues with pricing and offerings.
If you love staying in waterfront properties, InterContinental The Clement Monterey, an IHG Hotel, is the perfect choice as it is situated right on the water. Depending on your selection of accommodation, you can watch beautiful white boats sail by against the contrasting blues of the bay right from the comfort of your room. Or, you can sit out on the deck and relish a hot brew while enjoying the cool sea breeze.
The bathrooms, which come with standing showers, fresh towels, and bathrobes, are fitted with soaking tubs for a relaxing experience. If you would rather get pampered by a professional, you can head to the spa for a rejuvenating treatment. Opt for beauty services such as pedicures and manicures to give yourself a makeover. You may also just relax in the hot tub.
InterContinental the Clement Monterey, an IHG Hotel This is a Proud Certified property where you can be extra sure of a welcoming stay.
Address: 750 Cannery Row
167 meters (0.2 ft) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
13. Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa (from USD 230)
Featuring hacienda-style buildings and carefully refurbished accommodation that reflects the local heritage, Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa is situated in the historic part of the old town. You won’t have to sacrifice any of the modern comforts either as it offers air-conditioning, HDTVs, and fridges in all of its rooms and suites.
You can sample delectable Spanish-influenced dishes at the award-winning restaurant, which sources the freshest ingredients from local farmers, ranchers, and fishermen. Then, you may head to the spa, DESUAR Spa, and relax while enjoying their signature deep-tissue massage. You can also take advantage of herbal polishes and wraps that will rejuvenate and replenish your body and opt for aromatherapy to destress. The spa can be accessed between 10 am and 6 pm.
Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa
Address: 700 Munras Ave
2.67 km (1.7 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
14. Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa (from USD 555)
Situated at a secluded spot and surrounded by a large area dotted with local pines, Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa aims to instill a sense of peace and tranquility in its guests. Featuring lovely views of the pool, forests, or golf course through window walls, the rooms and suites offer gorgeous living spaces with full carpets, plush beds, and contemporary lights and panels.
If you are a foodie, you will love the wide array of options here, which include Mediterranean delicacies, beer and barbecue, and freshly pressed juices. When it’s time to unwind, you can visit the spa for a session in the steam room or the sauna. there’s also a hot tub for unwinding. Additionally, you can book soothing massages to feel rejuvenated.
Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa
Address: 1 Old Golf Course Rd
3.68 km (2.3 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
15. HI Monterey Hostel (from USD 39)
What you save on accommodations when you stay at a hostel you’ll make back with a rich and rewarding travel experience! The options to sleep in dormitories as well as the shared lounge and kitchen spaces create opportunities to meet new travel buddies for outings to the aquarium, Presidio of Monterey Museum, and more! If you’d rather it be more like a hotel, they also offer private rooms for up to four people. The hostel looks like an old Spanish mission and has been made into an eco-friendly building, even with air conditioning!
HI Monterey Hostel
Address: 778 Hawthorne Street
390 meters (0.3 ft) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
Bed and breakfasts
16. The Jabberwock Bed & Breakfast (from USD 318)
If you are planning a quick escape to the beautiful city of Monterey in the near future, you might want to check out this bed and breakfast accommodation in a charming fully furnished lodge with gorgeous gardens. In total, this home houses seven cozy guestrooms with spacious Victorian beds. Some of them even have a personal fireplace and a hot tub. Guests of The Jabberwock Bed & Breakfast are served a sumptuous gourmet breakfast throughout their stay. Additional amenities of this three-star lodge include a stunning patio with scenic views, a boccie ball court, and a fantastic parking space. To top it all off, it is within a short distance from most of the city’s top attractions, such as Asilomar State Beac, Pacific Grove, CanneryRow, and others.
The Jabberwock Bed & Breakfast
Address: 598 Laine Street, Monterey City Center, Monterey (CA), United States, CA 93940
642 meters (0.4 ft) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
17. Green Gables Inn, A Four Sisters Inn (from USD 462)
Reasonable pricing for a Victorian charm hotel with ocean views and convenient location.
Spa bath, fireplace, wine and cheese hour, delicious breakfast, and comfortable rooms.
Fabulous location by the beach, walking distance to attractions, and stunning ocean views.
Delicious and generous breakfast, wine and cheese hour, and superb dining options.
Green Gables Inn is a lovely haven that will provide you a comfortable shelter during your days in Monterey, California. It showcases a gorgeous exterior look and a lovely tastefully curated interior design, and it boasts amenities that are planned for all types of travelers. This three-star lodge has a gorgeous garden and a convenient parking space for guests traveling by car. Additionally, rooms in Green Gables Inn are cozy and well equipped with a sparkling-clean bathroom with provided bathing essentials. Plus, mornings in this lodge are lovelier with a sumptuous buffet dining experience prepared for all of its patrons.
Green Gables Inn, A Four Sisters Inn
Address: 301 Ocean View Boulevard
712 meters (0.5 ft) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
18. Merritt House Inn (from USD 196)
Need more suggestions for the best places to stay for your upcoming Monterey adventure? If you are looking for an affordable haven but with excellent amenities, Merritt House Inn might be the one for you. Situated in the peaceful and safe area of Pacific Street, boasting a lush enchanting garden, this three-star lodge will provide you with the relaxation and peace of mind that you long for. Plus, you will be sleeping in a gorgeous, beautifully curated room with a flat-screen TV, a fireplace, and your own personal bathroom. WiFi is also available throughout the property. On lazy afternoons, you can chill in the relaxing lounge area, or meditate in the garden. To top it all off, Merritt House Inn is a short walk away from the Fisherman’s Shoreline Park and its fantastic seafood restaurants.
Merritt House Hotel
Address: 386 Pacific Street
2.02 km (1.3 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
19. Old Monterey Inn (from USD 547)
Another fantastic haven that is a wonderful choice for your Monterey escapade is the Old Monterey Inn. This five-star lodge is tastefully furnished, cozy, and complete with delightful amenities that will make your stay a lovely one. Wifi is available throughout the property, and guest rooms, aside from having access to it, are well equipped with chic decors, a comfy bed, a seating area, an en-suite bathroom with toiletries, and convenient appliances, such as a flat-screen TV and air-conditioning unit. Plus, Old Monterey Inn has several lovely lounge areas and a dining area that guests have access to. To top it all off, a delicious breakfast is served in guests’ bedrooms on a daily basis.
Old Monterey Inn
Address: 500 Martin Street
2.77 km (1.8 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
Vacation rentals
20. Home away from home (from USD 5237)
Just a 10-minute walk from the beach, this centrally located cottage is a family delight. With quirky interiors and modern decor, this property is the perfect mix of fun and class. This cottage has all the basic amenities and more, making it a home away from home. This property is also very close to Carmel-by-the-Sea, in case you want to plan a visit. All-in-all, this cottage was loved by everyone who has stayed previously.
21. Garden apartment close to everything (from USD 3056)
With a private backyard and easy access to Monterey Bay, this apartment has the perfect location. It’s cozy, it’s modern, it’s comfortable and it’s right next to the bay, making it one of the best vacation rentals in Monterey for couples. Places like Fisherman’s Wharf and downtown are all close by, making this a very central yet private property. This property is ideal for people who want to be in the center of everything!
22. Bayview Cottage (from USD 182)
Bayview Cottage, as the name suggests, has a beautiful and never-ending view of Monterey Bay. With a spacious deck which is almost as big as a living room, you can relax on the deck and enjoy the sunset and sunrise above the bay. With a new and modern kitchen as well as fancy bedrooms, this property is ideal for families or friends on vacation. Also, this is a pet-friendly property making it the perfect place for pet lovers.
23. Point Lobos (from USD 652)
Merely 10 minutes away from the white sandy Carmel Beach, this two-bedroom vacation rental in Monterey County is a fascinating retreat for a family or group of six guests. The deck is the best place to enjoy your morning coffee while breathing in the fresh air. You won’t miss homemade meals as the cabin features a fully stocked kitchen with propane barbecue. If you are here anytime between the end of May to the end of October, you can enjoy swimming in the outdoor heated pool.
The Airbnb vacation rental is adjacent to the RV parking space, which you can book separately to enjoy camping fun. Your kids will love playing various games with their four-legged friend on the playground, as the cabin is pet-welcoming. A foosball table, a private hiking trail, and a communal deck are also available.
24. Valley Eden Barn (from USD 207)
The secluded tiny home with a pleasant private yard is the best option to experience tranquility during your vacation. Formerly a single horse barn, the renovated one-bedroom abode is an ideal getaway for a solo backpacker or two travelers. If you have a weekend holiday plan, the rental is open for a minimum three-night stay.
Every morning, enjoy a savory breakfast on the lovely outdoor seating while admiring beautiful views. The house boasts a new Tuscan-inspired kitchen, where you can cook delicious meals. The rental runs on solar power and uses rainwater for landscaping.
You can find a fantastic collection of books on the shelves to read. Private outdoor spaces are the best spots to enjoy a glass of wine while watching sweeping sunset views. You may spot wildlife such as deer, rabbits, and lovely birds. Stream a movie on the flat-screen television before you go to bed.
25. Charming retreat with sauna in the wilderness (from USD 267)
For a relaxing stay away from the hustle and bustle of the city, reserve this lovely secluded cabin. The south-facing dwelling lies on a property’s private corner and offers spectacular canyon and forest views. A group or family of five can enjoy a relaxing stay in the one-bedroom abode. The cabin boasts a pleasant deck area on three sides where you can soak up some sunlight. The redwood garden room boasts a deep claw-foot tub where you can enjoy a refreshing soak.
Web access, a flat-screen television, and a DVD player will help you stay entertained indoors. A heating facility and a full kitchen are available for your hassle-free stay. A short trail from the cabin leads you to a wood-fired sauna where you can unwind while watching impressive canyon views.
26. Cozy pet-friendly getaway with scenic mountain views (from USD 288)
Sitting in a tranquil setting, this one-bedroom cabin is the best getaway for a family or group of four travelers, solo backpackers, or couples. Forest-themed décor makes it a pleasant retreat. The patio with a lovely garden is the best spot to enjoy your breakfast. Free web access, heating, flat-screen television, and washing machine are available modern comforts.
The fully stocked kitchen with a microwave, brand new stove, dishwasher, and other kitchen appliances help you prepare warm meals. While you relax in the backyard, you might spot bunnies, deer, wild turkeys, and other local wildlife.
27. Forest Cabin
Get a one-of-a-kind experience by staying in this charming cabin in a serene old oak forest. The one-bedroom dwelling welcomes a solo backpacker or a couple. The newly refurbished cabin boasts an open-plan living space with a kitchen, dining space, and bedroom area. The cabin adopts eco-friendly living, so you will find organic body products and bedding. The updated vintage bathroom features a deep claw-foot tub where you can enjoy a long soak after a tiring excursion in the forest.
The oak forest area in the backside of the cabin is open and private for you to explore the wilderness. You might be lucky to spot wildlife such as deer. When here, visit Carmel Beach, which is merely 10 miles (16 kilometers) away.
28. Rustic bolthole in a tranquil setting (from USD 265)
Break away from your daily stresses by relaxing in this cozy cabin, which sits on 10 acres (4 hectares) of private land boasting lavender fields, a seasonal creek, and oak woodlands. You will enjoy off-the-grid living as the tiny home runs on solar energy. The private well provides you with potable water. A propane-fueled furnace, a stove, and a water heater are available. In the summer, the window AC unit and the ceiling fans help you stay cool. On a pleasant day, you can unwind in the hammock and read a book.
Explore the surroundings with your pup as the pet-friendly cabin welcomes up to two dogs. After a day-long excursion, relax on the deck and roast and savor hot dogs on the propane grill.
Where the land meets the ocean
Monterey is a gorgeous coastal city in California that is an ideal hideaway for tourists who long for relaxation and peace of mind. It has breathtaking beaches and gorgeous natural parks that attract people from around the country. If you plan to explore this side of California any time soon, use this list as your guide to choosing the best place to stay for your vacation.
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