Hotels in Monterey

Monterey: Where Ocean Dreams Meet Coastal Serenity

Nestled along California’s stunning coastline, Monterey is a romantic haven that captivates with its picturesque beaches and vibrant marine life. Explore the enchanting Monterey Bay Aquarium, stroll the iconic Cannery Row, or bask on the sun-kissed shores of Pebble Beach. The rugged cliffs and serene landscapes of the Monterey Peninsula offer breathtaking views and scenic hikes, perfect for nature lovers. This charming coastal town is ideal for honeymooners seeking intimacy and adventure, with delightful dining, art galleries, and whale-watching experiences that create unforgettable memories. Discover Monterey, where the ocean’s embrace meets coastal charm. For the best hotel rates in Monterey, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Monterey

Some of the best places to stay in Monterey are Downtown Monterey, Golden Rectangle and Downtown Santa Cruz. Monterey, California, offers stunning coastal views and rich history, making it ideal for travelers. Downtown Monterey features charming hotels and motels, providing easy access to attractions. The Golden Rectangle is perfect for beach lovers, with a range of accommodations from upscale suites to budget-friendly options. Downtown Santa Cruz buzzes with a vibrant atmosphere and diverse lodging choices. For first-time visitors, Downtown Monterey is the best choice, offering a balance of attractions and comfortable stays. Here are some of the best hotels in Monterey that our travelers love:

1. Downtown MontereyOpens in a new window: Nestled by the coast, Downtown Monterey is a vibrant area known for its rich maritime history and attractions like Fisherman's Wharf and Cannery Row. Visitors can enjoy stunning views and a lively atmosphere perfect for family outings or romantic getaways. For accommodation, consider Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & SpaOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star resort offering business amenities, golf experiences, and family-friendly services. Another excellent option is Monterey Plaza Hotel & SpaOpens in a new window, which features a luxurious spa and pool service, ideal for relaxation after a day of exploring. Lastly, InterContinental the Clement Monterey, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window combines luxury with family-friendly services, making it a perfect choice for those traveling with children.
2. Golden RectangleOpens in a new window: The Golden Rectangle is a beach lover's paradise, boasting attractions like Carmel Beach and the famous Pebble Beach Golf Links. This scenic area offers outdoor adventures and picturesque landscapes. For a stay, look into Bernardus Lodge & SpaOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star resort that provides various adventure activities like kayaking and hiking. Alternatively, L Auberge CarmelOpens in a new window offers luxury accommodations with pet-friendly options, making it a great choice for travelers with furry companions. For an upscale experience, consider The Quail LodgeOpens in a new window, which features golf facilities and family amenities, catering to both leisure and business travelers.
3. Downtown Santa CruzOpens in a new window: Known for its stunning coastline, Downtown Santa Cruz is a lively area filled with entertainment options like the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Capitola Beach. This destination is perfect for families and adventure seekers alike. For accommodations, Santa Clara MarriottOpens in a new window is a great option, offering luxury and business amenities in the city center. The Ameswell HotelOpens in a new window is another excellent choice, welcoming pets and providing various business facilities. Lastly, Shashi Hotel Mountain View Palo AltoOpens in a new window caters to those looking for adventure and leisure, with golf options and access to outdoor activities.

Things to do in Monterey for first time

Monterey offers a captivating blend of coastal beauty and outdoor adventures, making it an ideal three-day getaway. Travelers can enjoy stunning beaches, majestic mountains, and lush parks, with activities like boating, hiking, and whale watching. The serene environment invites relaxation, while the vibrant marine life promises unforgettable experiences. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Monterey:

• Day 1: Start your exploration with a scenic drive along the iconic 17-Mile Drive, where breathtaking ocean views and stunning coastal landscapes await. Make sure to stop at the famous Lone Cypress Pine, a symbol of the rugged beauty of the Monterey Peninsula. After soaking in the picturesque sights, continue your journey to Fan Shell Beach, where you can relax on the sandy shores and enjoy the sound of the waves crashing against the beach.
• Day 2: Your adventure continues at Carmel Beach, renowned for its soft white sand and beautiful sunsets. After a leisurely stroll along the beach, visit Tor House, the historic home of poet Robinson Jeffers, which offers a glimpse into the artistic history of the area. Conclude your day at Carmel River State Beach, where you can relax and watch the serene river flow into the ocean, providing a perfect spot for photography and wildlife watching.
• Day 3: Begin your day at the stunning Monterey Bay, where you can partake in various water activities or simply enjoy the coastal views. Then, head to the Monarch Grove Butterfly Sanctuary, a tranquil spot where you can witness the magical sight of migrating butterflies. Wrap up your visit at Asilomar State Beach, where the sandy stretches and rocky outcrops invite you to take a peaceful walk and reflect on the beauty of your Monterey experience.

5 tips to find a great Monterey hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Monterey is during January, November, and December, when hotel prices drop significantly. If you're traveling internationally, it's wise to book your flight at least 8 months in advance to secure better rates. For a budget-friendly experience, plan to stay for at least 2-3 days to fully enjoy the area’s main attractions, which include stunning beaches and beautiful coastal scenery. This approach ensures you get great value for your money while exploring all that Monterey has to offer.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Looking for last-minute deals to Monterey? You could find some great hotel rates by checking the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com. This area often features competitive prices on accommodations as your travel date approaches. To maximize your chances of snagging a bargain, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you’re more likely to stay informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, making it easier to save on your Monterey getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Monterey.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Monterey is usually more expensive. However, if you opt for accommodations farther from the center, you can use transportation options like a car, bike, bus, or taxi to explore the area and save on expenses.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Join Hotels.com's free One Key program and book your next stay in Monterey. As a member, you can earn and use rewards points for hotel bookings. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various benefits like room upgrades when available, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up today.

What to eat in Monterey

Here are some top-rated dishes in Monterey, California, United States of America:

• Clam Chowder: A classic coastal dish, clam chowder is a creamy soup that showcases the abundant seafood of the Monterey Bay. Made with fresh clams, potatoes, onions, and often served in a sourdough bread bowl, this dish is a comforting favorite among locals and visitors alike. Its rich flavors and smooth texture reflect the maritime heritage of the region and are perfect for enjoying while taking in the stunning ocean views.
• Cioppino: This San Francisco-inspired seafood stew is a must-try in Monterey. Packed with a variety of fresh fish, shellfish, tomatoes, and fragrant herbs, cioppino is typically served with crusty bread for dipping. It’s a dish that embodies the spirit of shared meals, often enjoyed in a lively setting with friends and family, celebrating the bounty of the Pacific Ocean.

Best time to go to Monterey

Monterey experiences its lowest average temperature in December, at 51.8°F (11.0°C), while September is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 64.0°F (17.8°C). December tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Monterey are June to August, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is sunny, accompanied by dry rainfall. In contrast, January, November, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by dry to light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.

Amenities available in Monterey hotels 

Hotels in Monterey, CA offer a range of amenities to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. From complimentary Wi-Fi and gourmet on-site dining to fitness centers, each amenity is tailored to enhance your experience. Imagine waking up to breathtaking ocean views or taking a dip in a luxurious pool. If you're blending work with pleasure, business centers and meeting spaces are at your disposal. Some Monterey hotels like Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa and Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay also welcome pets. 

Budget-friendly and family-friendly Monterey hotels 

Monterey is a great choice if you're hunting for a budget-friendly getaway that doesn't skimp on the fun for the whole family. Many Monterey hotels are wallet-friendly and packed with everything you need—free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfasts, and no-charge parking. You'll find yourself right in the heart of all the action. 

How to find the right hotel in Monterey 

Use the filters to search for the type of Monterey hotel you want, the area you want to stay in and even nearby attractions. You can even look for hotels around top attractions like the must-see Monterey Bay Aquarium and picturesque Cannery Row. If price is an issue, you can set a price range, so you don't waste any time looking at hotels that are outside your budget. If you want a specific luxury level, you can also set the minimum star rating. If accessibility is important to you, there's a filter for that, too, and you can also filter for other specific needs. 

Book with confidence with Hotels.com 

With the option to filter for fully refundable stays or for stays where you reserve now and pay later, you can be assured that, if you need to change your plans or even cancel your stay, you won't lose any sleep or money. What's more, Hotels.com offers reward points that you can redeem for more nights. 

Monterey Travel Information