About Monterey

Monterey, the jewel of California’s central coast, is famed for its sweeping ocean vistas, historic Cannery Row, and world-class marine life. When it comes to hotels, the options are as diverse as the scenery. Couples adore boutique hideaways perched above the Pacific, while families flock to Pacific Grove resorts with space and kid-friendly extras. Budget seekers find charm in downtown B&Bs, and those chasing indulgence will love waterfront luxury hotels offering fine dining, spa days, and golden-hour views.

Stroll or cycle along the seafront paths, scuba dive at San Carlos Beach, or take to the water for kayaking, whale-watching, and boat tours across the bay. History buffs will love exploring the Monterey State Historic Park, with its old Custom House, Pacific House Museum, and whaling station, while downtown’s Spanish and Mexican architecture gives the streets plenty of character. Cannery Row, once the bustling heart of the sardine industry, now hums with shops, restaurants, and bars, perfect for souvenirs or a lively night out. The star of the show, though, is the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, where both kids and adults can marvel at whales, dolphins, sharks, and forests of sea kelp. And when you’re ready to roam further, the dramatic beauty of Big Sur, the elegance of Pebble Beach, and a scattering of state parks and golf courses are right on the doorstep, making Monterey as adventurous or as relaxing as you want it to be.

The Best Places to Stay in Monterey

For Family-Friendly Luxury

  • Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa- Perched above Monterey Bay, this luxury retreat pairs chic suites (including two-bedroom options) with a rooftop spa, full fitness centre, and lively coastal dining. Ideal for families with tailored activities, yet equally perfect as a romantic wedding or honeymoon escape.

For romance & sea views

  • Hotel 1110 is an intimate, adults-only boutique with 17 unique rooms steps from Del Monte Beach. Expect chic design, a lively vibe, and rooftop cocktails overlooking the Pacific. For the ultimate romantic hideaway, book the coveted third-floor room.
  • A landmark on Cannery Row, Spindrift Inn is a romantic inn offering opulent suites with log fires, four-poster beds, and marble baths. Some rooms feature ocean-facing patios above McAbee Beach; others overlook historic streetscapes. A classic couples’ choice with timeless charm.
  • The Seven Gables Inn- Spread across seven Victorian houses, this 25-room B&B pairs antique-filled interiors with sweeping ocean views—especially from the romantic Beach House. Guests linger by fires, stroll the coast, and watch seabirds. No meals are served, but restaurants are within walking distance.

For a characterful B&B

  • Old Monterey Inn is an ivy-clad retreat with 10 cosy, classically decorated rooms featuring floral quilts, bookshelves, and log fires. Guests enjoy sunshine on the terrace, an intimate spa, and excellent local dining tips—perfect for a romantic or restful Monterey escape.
  • A cheerful Victorian mansion in Pacific Grove, Gosby House Inn has welcomed guests for over a century. With 22 rooms, hearty breakfasts, easy beach access, and bikes to borrow, it’s a charming B&B pick for a seaside stay full of character.

For an apartment or villa

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel information

  • There are regular international and domestic flights to Monterey Regional Airport (MRY). Most hotels will be happy to arrange an airport pickup, or you can hop into a bus or taxi for the short ride into town.
  • Visitors can also fly into San Jose International Airport and catch the regular shuttle service to Monterey, which takes 1.5 hours.
  • Alternatively, contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car. The Californian coastline is a famously fantastic region to explore by road.
  • Monterey is at its busiest during the summer months, when the sunshine and warm weather draw visitors to the area's fantastic beaches. Time your trip for the spring (April and May) for fewer crowds and some great food festivals!

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The best hotels in Monterey

Gosby House Inn

Monterey (California)

An elegant Victorian inn, located on the breathtaking Monterey Peninsula in Pacific Grove. Rooms are comfortable and tastefully decorated with views out onto the lovingly tended gardens and central patio. Miles of coastline to be discovered!

  • Sailing - Adventures by the Sea offers a wide range of recreational rental activities including sailing and kayaking.
  • Restaurant
  • Sea Views
  • Boutique
from $173 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Hotel 1110

Monterey (California)

This lovingly owner-run boutique hotel has a prime beach-view location in central Monterey. 17 rooms have been individually decorated with antique furniture and chandeliers, inspired by well-known figures and locations dear to the couple. Dine or have a drink on the rooftop overlooking the ocean.

  • Total relaxation - Many guests will love the hotel's adult-only policy; the owners aim is to create a peaceful environment for rest and relaxation
  • Local exploring - A base to explore Monterey, enjoy the beach, learn about wildlife or take day trips to famous Californian coastal towns
  • Beach Life - Monterey's famous Del Monte beach is across the road
  • Great walks - Stroll along the waterfront trail. Monterey's downtown and the wharf are also just a walk away
from $194 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Old Monterey Inn

Monterey (California)

Boutique B&B resting in manicured gardens offering spectacular breakfast, location and romantic setting. Large classic rooms are flooded with natural light and feature fireplace, spa baths and complimentary toiletries. History and restaurants are on the cards, or relax at the spa or with a book.

  • Great walks - Walking tours aroud the historical Monterey State Historic Park, with three museums included, happen three times a day.
  • Sights nearby - Watch the whales from Monterey’s historic Fisherman’s Wharf.
  • Fishing - Monterey’s historic Fisherman’s Wharf for fishing trips.
  • Kayaking - Sea kayaking for all the family.
from $200 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Spindrift Inn

Monterey (California)

Monterey Bay views and prime town location complete this luxury boutique hotel's elegance and popularity. Large, naturally light rooms are complete with classic furnishing, wooden floors and fireplaces. Breakfast in bed is a real treat before heading out to explore the local history and the ocean.

  • Sights nearby - If in the area you can not miss the idyllic beaches and sea lions at Point Lobos State Reserve.
  • Great walks - Up to Point Pinos Lighthouse, which has been helping ships since 1855.
  • Views - Ocean.
  • Restaurant
from $212 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Seven Gables Inn

Monterey (California)

This sea-facing Pacific Grove inn has been run by the same family since 1982. The ocean views from the property's 25 guestrooms and homely public areas are jaw-dropping. Comfy, cosy rooms may be hard to leave but the area warrants exploring. No meals are served but many options are walking distance.

  • Local exploring - Enjoy the Carmel Valley Scenic Drive, visit Big Sur, hike in nature reserves or learn at the area's literary sites
  • Total relaxation - Simply relax in one of the property's many sea-view areas with a book and a drink and listen to the ocean waves
  • Sights nearby - Point Pinos Lighthouse, Cannery Row and the many galleries, boutiques and cafes of Monterey
  • Restrictions on children - Some rooms do not accept children under 12
from $255 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa

Monterey (California)

Built on pylons over Monterey Bay, this an unbeatable hotel for a seaside holiday. 290 rooms and suites nearly all look out over the sea, as does the restaurant, lounge bar and cafe. As well as an impressive rooftop spa with ocean-facing hot tubs, the area offers unparalleled outdoor activities.

  • Spa breaks - The Vista Blue Spa has 11,000-square-feet of sea views. Enjoy a soothing massage or soak in the hot tub surrounded by blue
  • Outstanding location - The property is the closest hotel to the ocean on the northern California peninsula - sea views surround you on every side
  • Families - There are endless family-friendly activities in the area that will appeal to all ages
  • Local exploring - This is a great base to explore Monterey and its famous surroundings, such as Big Sur
from $265 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia