Best Hotels In Monterey For An Amazing California Coast Getaway
Finding the best hotels in Monterey can be surprisingly tricky. With so many options that look similar online, it’s easy to book a place that feels convenient on paper but leaves you wishing you were somewhere else.
Downtown, Cannery Row, Pacific Grove – each area offers something different. Depending on your travel style, where you stay can make or break how relaxed and enjoyable your trip feels.
I’ve visited Monterey multiple times on separate California road trips, so I’ve learned how to pick hotels that will make your Monterey visit a breeze no matter your budget.
In this article, I’m breaking down the best hotels in Monterey, who they’re ideal for, and how they fit into a bucket-list Monterey, Carmel, and Big Sur itinerary. My goal is to help you book with confidence and spend more time enjoying the coast instead of stressing over where to stay.
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Best hotels in Monterey
| Hotel | Best For | Location | Key Amenities | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arbor Inn Monterey | Budget travelers | Downtown Monterey | Walking distance to Old Fisherman’s Wharf & Cannery Row, some bay-view rooms, simple & comfortable | $ |
| Victorian Inn | Convenient location | Cannery Row | Fireplaces, complimentary breakfast, walkable to aquarium & waterfront | $$ |
| Centrella Hotel | Overall walkability | Pacific Grove | Victorian charm, bike rentals, close to 17-Mile Drive & beach trails | $$ |
| Seven Gables Inn | Romantic getaways | Cannery Row | Ocean views, private balconies, fireplaces, boutique charm | $$$ |
| Spindrift Inn | First-timers | Cannery Row | Oceanfront rooms, intimate atmosphere, fireplaces, wine tastings | $$$ |
1. Arbor Inn Monterey
Budget-friendly $ | Best for budget travelers | 8.4 rating
Arbor Inn Monterey is a perfect choice for budget-conscious travelers who don’t want to sacrifice location. I stayed in a second-floor room with a bay view, and waking up seeing the ocean was surprisingly refreshing. Rooms are simple but comfortable, with all the essentials for an stress-free stay. Some larger rooms also have a fireplace.
Why stay here:
- 5-minute drive to to Old Fisherman’s Wharf, Cannery Row, and restaurants
- Budget-friendly without feeling “cheap”
- Sunset views from select rooms
Booking tips: Ask for a bay-view room or the upper floor for the best experience. Weekends fill quickly, so early booking is advised.
👉 Check availability for Arbor Inn Monterey for your travel dates
2. Victorian Inn
Budget-friendly $ | Best for convenience | 8.7 rating
The Victorian Inn is a great option if you want to stay right by the action without paying full luxury prices. It has that old-school Monterey charm, with classic Victorian architecture that makes the stay feel a little more special than a standard hotel. The rooms are cozy and well-kept, and the fireplaces are a big plus on cooler coastal evenings.
One thing I really like about staying here is how easy everything feels. You can walk to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, wander Cannery Row, grab dinner, and head back without thinking about parking or driving at night. The complimentary breakfast makes mornings easy, and the daily wine and cheese hour is a nice touch after a long day of exploring.
Why stay here:
- Easy walking distance to Cannery Row, the aquarium, and waterfront restaurants
- A great balance of charm, comfort, and location
- Great for couples or travelers who want to park once and explore on foot
Booking tip: Ocean-adjacent rooms are limited and tend to book out early, especially on weekends.
👉 Check availability for Victorian Inn – the best rooms don’t last long
3. Centrella Hotel
Mid-range $$ | Best for overall walkability | 7.8 rating
If you want to slow things down a bit, the Centrella Hotel is a really nice change of pace from downtown Monterey. It’s located in Pacific Grove, which feels calmer and more residential, but still close enough that getting to Cannery Row or the aquarium is easy.
You can rent bikes here and explore the coastal paths around Pacific Grove, such as Lover’s Point Beach. The rooms are uniquely-decorated and comfortable, with friendly staff who are genuinely helpful with local recommendations. You can even book tickets for Monterey Bay Aquarium and whale watching tours at the front desk.
Why stay here:
- Much quieter than Cannery Row or downtown, but still perfect for sightseeing
- Easy access to coastal trails, beaches, and scenic drives
- Great for travelers who want a more relaxed, coastal feel
Booking tip: Pacific Grove hotels tend to book up quickly in fall and spring. If you’re traveling during those seasons or over a long weekend, it’s worth booking early.
4. Spindrift Inn
Luxury $$$ | Best for first-timers | 8.9 rating
If you’re planning a scenic coastal getaway in Monterey, the Spindrift Inn is hard to beat. Waking up to ocean views through huge bay windows and then walking straight to Cannery Row for dinner is the dream Monterey experience to me.
The vibe is intimate and cozy, with fireplaces, quiet lounges, and little touches that make it perfect for a cozy stay. The afternoon wine and cheese tasting is a nice bonus, especially if you’re taking a break after a long coastal walk.
Why stay here:
- Oceanfront location puts you right by the beach and Cannery Row
- Complimentary breakfast delivered to your room
- Elegant rooms with luxury bedding and incredible ocean views
Booking tip: Book an ocean view room early as they are limited and book up fast, so don’t wait if your dates are set.
👉 Check availability early – ocean view rooms sell out quickly
5. Seven Gables Inn
Luxury $$$ | Best for romantic getaways | 8.9 rating
Seven Gables Inn is perfect if you want a romantic stay with character and a quieter setting. Perched on a bluff overlooking Monterey Bay, the views here are stunning, especially at sunrise and sunset. It feels more like a charming coastal retreat than a traditional hotel.
Each room has its own balcony and fireplace, which makes it especially cozy if you’re traveling as a couple or celebrating something special. Even though it’s close to Cannery Row and Pacific Grove, it’s tucked away enough that it feels peaceful and relaxed.
Why stay here:
- Bluff-top oceanfront location with panoramic views
- Intimate, boutique feel that’s ideal for couples
- Cozy rooms with fireplaces and private balconies
- Close to major attractions without feeling busy or crowded
Booking tip:Â Ocean-view rooms with balconies go fast, especially on weekends. For the best views and a little extra privacy, pick a higher-floor or a suite if available.
Monterey vs Carmel: Which is best for hotels?
Because Monterey and Carmel are just 15 minutes apart, it’s easy to feel torn. Here’s a simple way to decide:
Choose Monterey if you want:
- A larger selection of hotels with more availability
- Budget-friendly options and some last-minute flexibility
- Easy access to Cannery Row, the wharf, and downtown attractions
Choose Carmel if you want:
- A charming, walkable town with boutique hotels
- Closer access to Big Sur and Point Lobos
- Quiet evenings without driving after sunset
Monterey is generally more affordable, but Carmel offers a more intimate, storybook-like experience. For many travelers, the ideal plan is to stay in both towns and split the trip between Monterey and Carmel. Here’s my guide for best hotels in Carmel.
How Many Nights Should You Stay in Monterey?
For a first-time visit, I recommend one night in Monterey if you’re planning a short trip. You can explore the aquarium, Cannery Row, and watch sunset at the wharf without feeling rushed.
For a more relaxed experience, two nights works best:
- Morning visits to Monterey Bay Aquarium
- Leisurely walks along Cannery Row or Pacific Grove
- Sunset at the wharf or oceanfront hotels
- Extra time for whale watching, scenic 17-Mile Drive, or a Big Sur road trip
Staying longer lets you enjoy the town without racing daylight, giving a balanced mix of adventure and downtime.
FAQ: Best hotels in Monterey
Is Monterey more expensive than Carmel?
Not necessarily. Monterey has a much wider range of prices, which makes it easier to find solid, budget-friendly hotels. Carmel, on the other hand, leans more boutique and upscale, so accommodations there tend to be pricier overall.
Is Monterey walkable?
Yes, especially around downtown and Cannery Row. You can easily walk to restaurants, the wharf, shops, and many top attractions without needing a car.
Is Monterey a good base for exploring Carmel and Big Sur?
Absolutely. Monterey sits right in the middle of the coast, which makes it a super practical base for day trips. Carmel is only about a 10–15 minute drive, and Big Sur is an easy scenic drive south.
Which hotels are best for budget travelers?
If you’re looking for something affordable that still feels comfortable and well-located, Arbor Inn Monterey is my top pick.
Which hotels are best for romantic getaways or special occasions?
Seven Gables Inn is my go-to recommendation. The ocean views are incredible, and in my opinion, it has some of the most beautiful decor in Monterey, making it perfect for a special trip.
Conclusion: Is staying in Monterey worth it?
Yes, especially if you want easy access to California’s central coast without overcomplicating your trip. Hotels near Big Sur book out fast, so staying in Monterey gives you better availability while keeping everything within easy reach.
Staying in Monterey puts you right by the water, close to Cannery Row, Pacific Grove, and some of the most scenic coastal drives in the state. That’s why I often recommend Monterey as a base for a weekend getaway or a longer coastal road trip.
Choosing the best hotels in Monterey can genuinely change how your trip feels. The right hotel means less driving and more time actually enjoying the coast.
Overall, Monterey has a variety of options to fit different budgets and travel styles. From budget-friendly stays to romantic oceanfront inns, you won’t go wrong with a hotel in Monterey. Don’t forget to enjoy the food, history, and marine wildlife there!
👉 Check current hotel availability in Monterey and book early
Coastal hotels here tend to fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak travel seasons.
