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Find exceptional hotels in one of California's most captivating coastal destinations. From rugged shoreline to historic adobes, discover the perfect base for your Monterey stay.
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About Hotels in Monterey
Monterey is one of California's most rewarding coastal cities, combining the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, the wild beauty of Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, a celebrated history along Cannery Row, and a thriving seafood dining scene centred on fresh Dungeness crab and Pacific sardines. Whether you're whale watching on the bay, cycling the Monterey Peninsula Recreation Trail, or exploring the historic Custom House Plaza, the city delivers at every turn.
From full-service hotels along the waterfront in Cannery Row to boutique inns tucked into the quieter streets of Old Town Monterey, accommodation options suit every taste and budget. The city is highly walkable along the bay, with the MST bus network connecting visitors to Pacific Grove and Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Where to Stay in Monterey
Cannery Row & the Waterfront
The classic first-timer choice, placing you steps from the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Fisherman's Wharf, and the Recreation Trail. Hotels here offer direct bay views and unbeatable access to the city's most iconic sights.
Downtown & Old Town Monterey
Monterey's historic core, home to the Custom House, Colton Hall, and the vibrant Alvarado Street dining scene. An excellent upscale base blending boutique character with easy walkability to cultural landmarks.
Del Monte Beach
A quieter stretch east of the centre with a relaxed, residential feel and direct beach access. Ideal for travellers seeking calmer surroundings without straying far from Cannery Row or the Conference Center.
Monterey Hills & Skyline
The hillside neighbourhoods above the city offer a peaceful retreat with glimpses of the bay. Good value compared to the waterfront, and a short drive or bus ride down to the main attractions.
Airport and Transport Guide
Monterey is served by Monterey Regional Airport (MRY), a small regional hub with connections to Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Phoenix via American Airlines and United Express. Ground transport to the city centre takes around ten minutes by taxi or ride-share; the Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) Route 20 connects the airport to downtown for a modest fare, though late-night service is limited.
Within the city and wider peninsula, Monterey-Salinas Transit operates buses covering Carmel, Pacific Grove, and Salinas. The MST Day Pass offers the best value for visitors exploring multiple areas. Taxis from downtown to Cannery Row or the Aquarium typically cost $10–$15. Uber and Lyft are both readily available across the Monterey Peninsula.
Tips for Finding the Best Hotel Deal in Monterey
- Book at least 8–10 weeks ahead for the Monterey Jazz Festival in September and the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am in February, which fill hotels across the peninsula extremely quickly.
- Staying in Seaside or Sand City offers noticeably lower nightly rates than central Monterey or Carmel, with easy access via Monterey-Salinas Transit bus routes.
- Look for hotels that include breakfast — dining on the wharf and Cannery Row carries a significant premium, making an included breakfast a practical and worthwhile saving.
- Book with free cancellation where possible, as coastal fog and unpredictable weather along the Monterey Bay can prompt last-minute itinerary changes throughout the year.
- Midweek stays from Tuesday to Thursday are consistently cheaper than weekends, when Bay Area visitors drive up demand significantly at hotels across the peninsula.
- Sign up to loyalty programmes with Hyatt and Marriott, both of which have a strong Monterey presence, for member rates and priority access during high-demand periods.
When to Visit Monterey for Lower Prices
Winter (Low Season)
December to February brings cool, quiet days and the lowest hotel prices of the year. Whale-watching season peaks and crowds are thin. Expect mid-range rates from around £100–£150 per night, with good availability across the peninsula.
Spring (Value Season)
March to May offers mild temperatures, wildflowers along the coastal trails, and prices that remain below summer peaks. The spring marine layer keeps mornings cool but afternoons are often bright — a pleasant and affordable time to visit.
Summer (High Season)
June to August is peak season, with warm afternoons, busy beaches, and premium hotel rates. The famous June Gloom can bring morning fog, but demand remains high. Book well in advance and expect significantly higher nightly rates throughout.
Autumn (Value Season)
September and October bring some of Monterey's finest weather — warm, clear days and a lively atmosphere around the renowned Monterey Jazz Festival. Prices ease slightly after Labour Day, offering a strong balance of experience and value.
Popular Areas to Stay in Monterey
Downtown Monterey
The historic heart of the city, steps from Fisherman's Wharf, Old Fisherman's Grotto, and the Custom House Plaza. Central demand keeps rates elevated, but walkability to the waterfront is unmatched.
Cannery Row
Monterey's most iconic strip, home to the Monterey Bay Aquarium and boutique hotels overlooking the Pacific. Atmospheric and popular with visitors, but expect a premium for those ocean views.
Monterey Peninsula Airport Area (Del Monte)
The practical choice for business travellers and conference guests, with easy freeway access, reliable mid-range chains, and proximity to the Monterey Conference Centre without the waterfront premium.
New Monterey
A quieter residential stretch above Cannery Row favoured by locals, with independent cafés, galleries, and honest mid-range lodging well away from the tourist crush along the waterfront.
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