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We've compiled the best of the best in Monterey - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.
A cluster of Spanish-theme buildings in the heart of downtown, Casa Munras pays homage to Monterey's roots and the legacy of Spanish diplomat Don Estéban Munras, who built a residence on the site in 1824. All rooms have hardwood floors, custom-designed headboards, and granite bathrooms with oversize vanities; many have fireplaces.
A 22-acre resort amid cypress forests on the Del Monte Golf Course, the Hyatt Regency Monterey is a good choice for business travelers and families (especially those with pets) seeking relatively affordable lodgings with numerous on-site services. Rooms and public spaces have a crisp, contemporary, seaside vibe and Monterey-themed art. The resort has two separate buildings next to an exclusive play zone for dogs and owners.
Spectacular bay views, upscale amenities, assiduous service, and a superb location next to the aquarium propelled this luxury hotel to immediate stardom. Its spacious rooms, in several Craftsman-style buildings on both sides of Cannery Row, have marble, natural wood, and glass elements that create a feeling of warmth and serenity. All rooms have baths with soaking tubs and walk-in showers, and many have fireplaces and balconies. Unusual artworks abound in the public spaces.
Guests at this Cannery Row hotel can see frolicking sea otters from its wide outdoor patio and many room balconies. The architecture blends early California and Mediterranean styles and echoes elements of the old cannery design. Meticulously maintained, the property has both simple and luxurious accommodations. The top-floor spa offers a full array of treatments, perfect after a workout in the penthouse fitness center.
One of the area's best values, this hotel has a great waterfront location—2 miles north of Monterey, with views of the bay and the city skyline—and offers a surprising array of amenities. Rooms are modern getaways with platform beds and puffy duvets, flat-screen TVs, and fine linens. The grounds are pleasantly landscaped, and there's a large pool with a sunbathing area.
One of Monterey's largest hotels, and locally owned and operated for more than 40 years, the coastal-theme Portola anchors a prime city block between Custom House Plaza and the Monterey Conference Center. A lofty lobby atrium with live trees evokes the essence of Monterey Bay and welcomes you to its popular farm-to-table restaurant, Jacks Monterey, and adjacent Peter B's, a brewpub. The hotel's Spa on the Plaza is the largest day spa in Monterey County.
Walk to the sand from spacious, luxurious bungalows furnished in contemporary, ocean-theme style at this 19-acre, wellness-centered resort next to Marina Dunes Preserve and a secluded stretch of Marina State Beach. Each room has a private patio or deck, a fireplace, binoculars for spotting whales and other wildlife, and at least a partial ocean view; some have living rooms with sleeper sofas and panoramic ocean views. It’s about 10 miles north of Monterey, but the on-site Salt Wood Kitchen and Oysterette restaurant, where meals center on fresh local fare, and the many activities—from nightly bonfires and wine-and-cheese tastings to weekend beach yoga sessions—make it easy to just hang out and enjoy the resort.
This boutique hotel on Cannery Row has beach access and a rooftop garden that overlooks the water. Designed in traditional American style, the spacious rooms (completely renovated in 2023) have sitting areas, hardwood floors, fireplaces, and down comforters. Oceanside rooms have window seats, and some rooms have balconies above Cannery Row. An afternoon wine-and-cheese hour takes place in the light-filled lobby, which has a soaring four-story ceiling.
