The best of Central California is found in laid-back Monterey. The ocean is as picturesque as it gets, the cypress trees create an inspired atmosphere, and sea lions on the sandy beaches greet stunned visitors. It’s a town where life is slow and contemplative. Coming here you would want to stroll along the coast, observing the waves go by, and then lounge in a boardwalk cafe for hours. Home to a superb Monterey Bay Aquarium, a getaway to Big Sur, and a neighbor to Carmel-by-the-Sea, this quaint California coastal destination makes you feel the thirst for life. And it surely knows how to accommodate travelers. So, here are the best hotels in Monterey for you to have a fantastic time in Central California.
Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa
It’s only the Pacific and you at this magnificent property. The best five-star hotel in Monterey, Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa is located directly on the boardwalk with the town’s top attractions a stone’s throw away. Elegant rooms and suites come with unobstructed ocean vistas, Nespresso machines, and complimentary WiFi. If you’re looking for something exclusive, select units have fireplaces, whirlpool tubs, and terraces. The spa is a real gem with the outdoor part set on the panoramic sundeck with two whirlpool tubs. Imagine lounging here during the Monterey sunset. Pure magic. On-site dining is on-point too, you’ve got contemporary American Schooners Monterey, fine dining Coastal Kitchen, and hip Tidal Coffee. The hotel is a part of historic Cannery Row so you won’t have problems exploring the town’s sights.
Spindrift Inn
With the beach as your backyard, ocean sunrises as your breakfast backdrop, and Cannery Row as your neighborhood, at Spindrift Inn you’re getting a quintessential Monterey hotel experience. Founded in 1927, it was thoroughly renovated to become one of the best boutique hotels in town. The decors inside are easy on the eye and bear notes of romantic nostalgia. It’s a top choice for a honeymoon hotel in Monterey or a romantic California couples retreat next to the Pacific surf. You would certainly want to book one of the oceanside suites. The views are breathtaking and proximity to the water creates an illusion that you’re actually gliding above the waves. Step outside and you’ll find yourself right in the middle of Cannery Row made famous by John Steinbeck. It’s a vibrant area full of restaurants, bars, and cafes set in the former cannery buildings.
InterContinental The Clement Monterey
You can’t go wrong with InterContinental The Clement Monterey. One of the best hotels in Monterey, it offers a full package for Central California exploration. Sitting in Cannery Row, alongside the Monterey Bay Aquarium, is unbeatable. Light-filled spacious rooms open to the prime coastal panoramas. Guests noted the friendly attitude of the staff, a nice on-site dining proposition, and the convenient location. Free WiFi is provided throughout the property, pets are allowed for a fee (although only in patio room types), and the hotel is ADA accessible. An ocean-looking restaurant deck is a fantastic place for events, celebrations, or simply a romantic evening next to the Pacific.
Monterey Bay Inn
There is no better way to savor Monterey’s beauty than at Monterey Bay Inn from your private balcony with a glass of California wine in hand. Soaking in a hot tub on a rooftop terrace is good too. Both things can be done at this boutique lodging that is among the top hotels in Monterey. Oceanfront and central, it will make your exploration here effortless. The accommodation’s rooms and suites feature 47″ HDTVs, complimentary WiFi, and Keurig coffee makers. Some come with fireplaces, an obligatory cozy fix for the colder months. Staying next to the ocean in Monterey means that you can spot elephant seals right from your balcony. Quite a special moment that is only possible in Central California.
Victorian Inn
It’s not only stunning coast and eclectic restaurants, Monterey is also known for its Victorian architecture. You find many mansions lining its airy streets. Why not spend a memorable night in one? Victorian Inn is that past-meets-present kind of boutique hotel where the spirit of the old times is still alive. It’s an accommodation with modern amenities, large rooms, and an exceptional location. The charm of yesteryear is found in the tasteful interior design here, with its marble fireplace in your suite and period furniture. Reviewers loved the excellent location, the tasty breakfast, and the delightful atmosphere. You’re just a few steps away from Cannery Row while enjoying the tranquility of a Monterey backstreet.
Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa
Looking for a fine Monterey hotel that won’t break the bank? Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa has lower prices than Cannery Row properties and offers a refined California resort experience. Occupying a beautifully landscaped area in the Old Town Monterey, it boasts Spanish-inspired architecture and dates back to 1824. Book a stay here and you’ll have access to a blossoming California garden with a picturesque outdoor pool area. The design of the rooms and suites is reminiscent of old haciendas with added contemporary touches. A piece of great news for guests with furry friends is that Casa Munras Garden allows up to two pets per guest room.
Wave Street Inn
Location is among the most mentioned advantages of this great Monterey hotel. Cannery Row and Old Fisherman’s Wharf are just across the street from Wave Street Inn, so if you’re looking for a super-central four-star lodging, it’s a fine pick. Choose between rooms and suites, all sporting slick designs, 50-inch flat-screen TVs, and complimentary WiFi. Situated outside of the Cannery Row crowds and the traffic ensures a more tranquil, noise-free stay. There’s also an outdoor terrace with firepits that is a hit with the guests.
Hotel Abrego
A piece of the Old Town Monterey, Hotel Abrego delivers a Spanish-inspired Central California atmosphere. It would work perfectly as a retreat. You will love taking a plunge in the heated outdoor pool with a hot tub, exercising in the fitness center, and sipping cocktails at the on-site Bistro Abrego. Rooms bear notes of old-time elegance and present-day sophistication. You’ll have 37″ HDTVs, free WiFi, Bluetooth stereos, and USB ports inside. Also, pay closer attention to the ones with fireplaces and balconies, as they would be the ultimate choice for a classic Monterey stay. The historic San Carlos Cathedral is right opposite the lodging, while Alvarado Street, filled with cool cafes and bars, is a short walk away.
Old Monterey Inn
Romance is alive and well at Old Monterey Inn. Drowning in lush English Garden greenery, it’s a luxurious bed and breakfast set in a 3-story manor from the 19th century. Interiors here are thoroughly curated to create a special historic ambiance. One of the best hotels in Monterey for couples, this inn features masterful woodwork, tiled windows, and elegant copper details, something definitely worthy of your attention. There are no two similar suites here, every unit is carefully designed and has a name. You can feel the effort the owners put into the property. Starting from the fantastic gardens outside to the postcard-perfect interiors inside, this hotel was created with love. And celebrating love feels good here. Old Monterey Inn is a go-to spot for budget honeymoons, weddings, anniversaries, and mini-moons.
Monterey Marriott
If chain hotel comforts are calling your name, Monterey Marriott will satisfy the urge. Set steps away from the ocean, Old Fisherman’s Wharf, and iconic Del Monte Beach, it delivers a fine four-star stay complete with water views and ultra-modern amenities. Clean, spacious rooms sport floor-to-ceiling windows and bay views. A combo of premium toiletries, bedding, and pillows ensures extra comfort. An outdoor pool with a hot tub, a panoramic rooftop terrace, and a 24-hour fitness center are welcoming features. On-site Fin + Field Restaurant and Bar will be happy to provide you with delicious Californian fare with a seafood focus and farm-to-table philosophy.
