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Where to Stay in Monterey

Where to Stay in Monterey

Monterey California, USA Travel Guide

Accommodation Types: Find Your Perfect Stay

Full Spectrum of Lodging Options

  • Hostels

    Limited, but a few budget-friendly options exist (e.g., HI Monterey Hostel). These are a choice for solo travelers or small groups seeking affordable shared accommodation.

  • Motels/Inns

    Abundant throughout Monterey, specifically along Munras Avenue. These offer varying levels of comfort and price points, from basic, clean rooms to more updated properties.

  • Mid-range Hotels

    Numerous options from major chains (e.g., Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt) and independent properties. These hotels typically include amenities like pools, fitness centers, and on-site restaurants.

  • Luxury Hotels/Resorts

    High-end properties with premium services, often with ocean views, golf courses, and spas (e.g., The Inn at Spanish Bay, Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa).

Unique Local Accommodation Types

  • Historic Inns & B&Bs

    Charming Victorian-era homes converted into bed and breakfasts remain common, specifically in Pacific Grove and some parts of downtown Monterey.

  • Boutique Hotels

    Smaller, stylish hotels with unique design, often locally inspired aesthetics, and a focus on personalized service.

  • Vacation Rentals

    Platforms like Airbnb, Vrbo, and local property management companies offer a wide range of rentals, popular for families or groups seeking more space.

  • Camping and Outdoor

    RV parks are near Monterey. Limited tent camping options exist in nearby state parks (Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park).

Neighborhood Guide: Choose Your Base

Monterey and its surrounding towns present distinct characters, influencing your stay.

Cannery Row

Highlights
  • Bustling, tourist-centric, home to the Monterey Bay Aquarium.
  • Steps away from major attractions, scenic ocean views.
  • Many dining and shopping options.
  • Highly suitable for first-time visitors.
Considerations
  • Can be very crowded and noisy, specifically during peak season.
  • Accommodation prices tend to be higher.
  • Parking is often expensive.
  • Less tranquil.

Fisherman's Wharf/Downtown

Highlights
  • Historic waterfront, seafood restaurants, whale watching.
  • Central location, easy access to boat tours.
  • Diverse range of dining.
  • Good public transit connections.
Considerations
  • Can be very busy and commercialized on the wharf.
  • Parking can be challenging.
  • Crowded at times.
  • Mainly tourist-focused on the wharf.

Pacific Grove

Highlights
  • Quaint, charming Victorian town, quieter, residential.
  • Beautiful coastal paths, historic lighthouse.
  • Better value for accommodation (especially B&Bs).
  • Beautiful scenery and close to Point Lobos.
Considerations
  • A short drive or bus ride to reach central Monterey attractions.
  • Fewer dining and shopping options than Monterey.
  • Less central for main Monterey sights.
  • May require transport.

Safety and Proximity Insights

Safety

All listed areas generally remain very safe for tourists. As in any popular destination, standard precautions against petty theft apply, specifically in crowded tourist zones. Keep valuables out of sight in vehicles and remain aware of your surroundings.

Noise and Ambiance

Cannery Row and Fisherman's Wharf can be lively and noisy, specifically during the day and early evening. Pacific Grove and Carmel are generally quieter and relaxed. Munras Avenue remains louder due to traffic but quieter at night within hotels.

Booking Strategies: Secure Your Stay

Thoughtful booking strategies locate the best value and availability for your Monterey accommodation.

Advance Booking Recommendations by Season

  • High Season (Summer, Fall, Major Holidays): Booking 3-6 months in advance secures preferred dates and often more competitive rates.
  • Shoulder Season (Spring, Late Fall): Booking 1-3 months in advance is generally sufficient. You may locate flexibility and some deals.
  • Low Season (Winter, excluding holidays): Booking 2-4 weeks in advance, or even last-minute bookings, may yield good deals. Booking ahead secures the best selection.
  • Seasonal Price Fluctuations: Accommodation prices can double or triple between low season and peak summer or holiday weekends. Weekend rates are typically higher.

Booking Platforms and Policies

  • Trusted Booking Platforms: Use platforms like Booking.com, Agoda, Expedia, Hotels.com, Kayak, and TripAdvisor for comparing prices. Airbnb and Vrbo are popular for vacation rentals.
  • Direct Hotel Websites: These often include best rate guarantees or special perks if you book directly. It is a good practice to check the hotel's official website. (IHG Hotels)
  • Deposit and Cancellation Policies: Policies vary by property and booking platform. Always read the fine print carefully before confirming your reservation.
  • Refundable Rates: Many rates present free cancellation up to a certain date (e.g., 24 or 48 hours before check-in). Consider refundable rates if travel plans might change.

Additional Booking Aspects

Negotiation Customs
  • Negotiation for walk-in rates is not common in the U.S. Hotels generally possess fixed rates, and online booking often includes the best publicly available prices.
  • Booking online in advance almost always has a more affordable option than arriving without a reservation.
Local Tourism Resources
  • The See Monterey County Convention & Visitors Bureau website (SeeMonterey.com) details local deals and direct links to accommodations.
  • For vacation rentals, local property management companies specializing in the Monterey area present options.

Homestay and Outdoor Options

Homestay Opportunities

Formal homestay programs are less common as distinct tourism offerings. Some vacation rentals may present a more localized experience.

RV Parks

Several RV parks are near Monterey (e.g., Monterey Veterans Park, Marina Dunes RV Park). These include hookups and facilities for recreational vehicles.

Glamping

Some glamping sites might be available in the wider Monterey County area, offering upscale tent or cabin experiences with amenities.

Accommodation Recommendations: Top Picks

Monterey includes many excellent places to stay. Here are recommendations across different budget levels and travel styles.

Budget and Mid-Range Stays

HI Monterey Hostel

Centrally located, within walking distance to the Aquarium and Wharf. Good for solo travelers or small groups seeking affordability. Includes dorms and private rooms.

  • Affordable shared or private rooms.
  • Central location.
  • Social atmosphere.
  • Close to attractions.
Super 8 by Wyndham Monterey/Carmel

A basic, clean motel often with competitive rates, located on Munras Avenue. It has value for travelers with a car.

  • Value-focused.
  • Clean and basic.
  • Easy access to Highway 1.
  • Parking available.

Luxury and Unique Stays

Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa

An iconic oceanfront hotel on Cannery Row. It sometimes has mid-range deals, specifically in the off-season. It features stunning views and a location that cannot be matched.

  • Oceanfront grandeur.
  • Excellent service.
  • Rooftop spa.
  • Unbeatable Cannery Row location.
The Sanctuary Beach Resort

Located a short drive north in Sand City, it includes secluded beach access and private cottage accommodations. It has a tranquil, upscale escape.

  • Secluded beach access.
  • Private cottage options.
  • Tranquil setting.
  • Upscale escape.

Family and Long-Stay Options

  • Family-Friendly Options

    Many hotels in the Munras Avenue corridor offer larger rooms or suites suitable for families. Vacation rentals (Vrbo / Airbnb) are often ideal for families.

  • Long-Stay Accommodations

    Vacation rentals (Airbnb/Vrbo) or extended-stay hotels (e.g., Residence Inn by Marriott) suit longer stays. These properties often possess kitchens or kitchenettes.

  • Amenities for Children

    Look for properties with amenities like pools. These can entertain children. Separate bedrooms and kitchen facilities are often included in rentals.

  • More Space and Privacy

    Vacation rentals present more space, separate bedrooms, and kitchen facilities, suitable for family travel.

Culturally Significant Properties

  • Spindrift Inn (Cannery Row)

    Built on the site of former sardine canneries, it has a direct connection to the area's industrial past while providing modern comfort.

  • Victorian B&Bs in Pacific Grove

    Many charming properties offer a glimpse into the region's architectural past and an unique, intimate lodging experience.

  • Hotel Del Monte (Naval Postgraduate School)

    A historic former grand resort, now part of a military base and not generally open to public lodging. Observe its architecture from the outside.

  • Personalized Service

    These unique stays often deliver a personalized and memorable experience distinct from larger hotels.

Specialized Stays

Solo Traveler Recommendations

Hostels like HI Monterey Hostel offer social opportunities to meet other travelers. Smaller B&Bs in Pacific Grove also present a welcoming and safe environment for solo travelers.

  • Social opportunities at hostels.
  • Welcoming B&Bs.
  • Safe environment.
  • Personalized service.
Properties with Exceptional Views

Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa includes stunning oceanfront views. The Sanctuary Beach Resort has secluded beach access and private cottages.

  • Ocean views at Monterey Plaza.
  • Beach access at Sanctuary.
  • Scenic locations.
  • Memorable backdrops.

Accommodation Type Overview

Hotel Pacific

An all-suite hotel with a fireplace in every room, walking distance to the Wharf and downtown. It offers comfort and space.

The Inn at 17-Mile Drive

Located in Pacific Grove, it includes a charming stay with good value. Close to the 17-Mile Drive entrance and Pacific Grove's attractions.

The Lodge at Pebble Beach

An iconic, world-renowned golf resort presenting ultimate luxury, impeccable service, and access to famous golf courses and scenic beauty.