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Monterey, California Travel Guide: Things to Do, Best Hotels & Local Tips
- May 13, 2024
- 14 min read
Updated: Mar 5
Planning a trip to Monterey, California? This Monterey travel guide covers everything you need to plan the perfect visit, what to do, where to stay, how to get there, and whether Monterey is worth visiting. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a Highway 1 road trip, Monterey Bay offers coastal views, fresh seafood, scenic drives, and wildlife experiences you won’t find anywhere else.
In this guide, you’ll find our best tips based on dozens of personal trips over the years, including the top things to do, the best areas to stay, how many days you need, and the distances from San Francisco, San Jose, and Los Angeles. Let’s dive into everything Monterey Bay has to offer.
Disclaimer: This post does contain affiliate links, which if used, we can earn commission from. These types of links help us continue to make honest reviews for our viewers
Best Time to Visit Monterey Bay
Monterey Bay is a year-round destination, but the experience changes depending on the season. Weather along the California coast can be unpredictable, with fog, sunshine, and marine life patterns shifting throughout the year. Here’s a quick breakdown of what to expect each season.
Spring (March–June): Best Overall Time to Visit
Spring is our favorite time to visit Monterey. Winter rains bring wildflowers to the coastal hillsides, the air feels fresh, and the summer crowds haven’t arrived yet.
It’s also a great time for wildlife.
Gray whales migrate north
Sea otters are active in kelp forests
Coastal trails are green and blooming
Temperatures usually range from 55–65°F, making it perfect for hiking and exploring the coast.
Summer (June–August): Peak Season
Summer is the busiest time in Monterey, especially around Cannery Row and the aquarium. Expect higher hotel prices and more traffic. One thing many visitors don’t realize is that summer often brings morning fog, locally called “June Gloom.” The fog usually clears by midday, leaving mild temperatures around 60–70°F.
Fall (September–November): Best Weather
Early fall often has the clearest weather of the year in Monterey. The summer fog fades, temperatures stay comfortable, and the ocean remains active with marine life.
It’s also one of the best seasons for:
Humpback whale watching
Scenic drives along Highway 1
Sunset views along the coast
Winter (December–February): Quiet & Cozy
Winter is the quietest season in Monterey, with fewer tourists and lower hotel prices. Storms occasionally roll through the coast, creating dramatic ocean waves and moody coastal scenery. It’s also the beginning of gray whale migration season, making it a good time for wildlife lovers. Temperatures usually stay between 50–60°F, but rain is more common during these months.
How Many Days Do You Need in Monterey?
Most travelers need 2–3 days in Monterey to experience the highlights without rushing. While it’s technically possible to visit in a single day, you’ll miss many of the scenic coastal stops and nearby destinations that make the area so memorable.
Here’s a quick breakdown to help plan your trip:
1 day: Explore Cannery Row, visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium, and take a quick coastal walk in Pacific Grove.
2 days: Add the scenic 17-Mile Drive, relax at Lovers Point Park, and enjoy a sunset along the Monterey or Pacific Grove coastline.
3 days: Include time in Carmel-by-the-Sea, stroll Carmel Beach, and take a half-day drive down the famous Big Sur coastline.
4+ days: Perfect for a slower-paced trip. You can add Highway 1 hikes, explore more state parks, enjoy coastal bike rides, or take a whale-watching tour.
Distances & Drive Times to Monterey Bay
Monterey Bay is an easy road trip destination from many major California cities. Most visitors arrive by car, which also makes it easy to explore nearby coastal towns and scenic drives.
Starting City | Distance | Drive Time |
San Francisco | ~120 miles | 2–2.5 hours |
San Jose | ~75 miles | 1–1.5 hours |
Oakland | ~110 miles | ~2 hours |
Sacramento | ~185 miles | ~3.5 hours |
Los Angeles | ~330 miles | 5–6 hours |
Fresno | ~150 miles | ~3 hours |
Modesto | ~140 miles | ~2.5 hours |
Because of its proximity to the Bay Area, Monterey is one of the most popular weekend road trips in Northern California. Many travelers combine it with nearby destinations like Carmel-by-the-Sea or a scenic drive down Highway 1 into Big Sur.
How To Get to The Bay of Monterey, California:
Getting to Monterey Bay is fairly easy, whether you’re flying directly into the area or starting from San Francisco or San Jose. Below are the most common transportation options, based on convenience, cost, and how much time you want to spend traveling.
Flying Into Monterey Regional Airport (MRY)
The most convenient way to reach Monterey is by flying into Monterey Regional Airport (MRY), which receives daily flights from United, American, and Alaska Airlines. These routes connect from select cities such as San Francisco, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Seattle, Denver, and Phoenix. While flights into MRY can be more expensive, the trade-off is convenience, Cannery Row and the Monterey Bay Aquarium are only about eight minutes from the airport. Depending on what you plan to do, you may not need a rental car at all.
Flying Into San Francisco (SFO) or San Jose (SJC)
For most travelers, flying into SFO or SJC offers the best mix of availability and affordability. These airports have far more flight options and often cheaper fares. From either airport, you can choose to book a shuttle or rent a car to reach Monterey, depending on your budget and comfort level.
Taking a Shuttle From SFO or SJC
If you don’t want to rent a car, Groome Transportation operates daily shuttle service from both major Bay Area airports. Prices are around $62 per person from SFO and $51 per person from SJC, and each passenger gets two free checked bags. Shuttles offer a convenient, no-stress connection into Monterey and are ideal if you prefer not to drive after a long flight.
Driving to Monterey (Recommended for Most Travelers)
Renting a car is often the most flexible and enjoyable way to reach Monterey, especially if you want to visit nearby highlights such as 17-Mile Drive, Pacific Grove, Carmel-by-the-Sea, or Big Sur. You can take the scenic Highway 1 route, which winds along the coast with beaches and overlooks, or the faster inland options via US-101 or CA-156. Expect about 2–2.5 hours from SFO and 1–1.5 hours from San Jose. Having a car makes it easier to explore the entire Monterey Peninsula at your own pace.
Taking the Train to Monterey
Travelers who prefer not to drive can reach Monterey by train, though it’s the slowest option. From San Jose, the Amtrak Coast Starlight goes to Salinas, and from there an Amtrak Thruway Bus connects directly to Monterey. This route is straightforward and usually costs around $26 one way. Traveling from San Francisco by train is technically possible but not recommended, it requires taking BART into the city, transferring to an Amtrak bus, and then continuing through multiple transfers that can take up to six hours. After a flight, it’s simply too long to be practical
Hotels & Best Areas to Stay in Monterey Bay
Monterey Bay has accommodations ranging from budget-friendly chain hotels to luxury oceanfront resorts. Prices vary widely depending on the season, but most travelers can expect to pay $190–$1,000+ per night depending on location and time of year.
Where you stay can also shape your experience. Some areas are walkable to the Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row, while others offer quieter beach access or scenic cliffside views. Below are the best areas to stay in Monterey Bay, followed by four hotels we’ve personally stayed at and recommend.
Best Areas to Stay in Monterey Bay California
Monterey (Cannery Row Area)
Monterey itself is the best base for first-time visitors. Staying near Cannery Row puts you within walking distance of the Monterey Bay Aquarium, oceanfront walking paths, restaurants, and shops.
This area is lively but still relaxed, and you’ll find everything from boutique oceanfront hotels to mid-range chains. If you only have 1–2 days in Monterey, staying here keeps most attractions close together.
Pacific Grove
Just minutes from Monterey, Pacific Grove is quieter and more residential. It’s known for its charming Victorian homes, scenic coastal trails, and beautiful spots like Lovers Point Park.
Hotels here tend to be smaller inns and boutique properties. If you prefer a peaceful coastal vibe while still being close to Monterey, Pacific Grove is an excellent choice.
Carmel-by-the-Sea
Carmel-by-the-Sea is the most charming and upscale area near Monterey. The town feels almost storybook-like, with art galleries, cozy cafés, and boutique hotels tucked along winding streets.
Carmel Beach is one of the most beautiful stretches of sand in the region, and sunsets here are spectacular. Many visitors choose Carmel for romantic trips, luxury stays, and quieter evenings.
Seaside & Marina (Budget-Friendly Options)
If you’re looking for more affordable accommodations, nearby Seaside and Marina often offer lower prices than Monterey or Carmel. These areas are just 10–20 minutes from Monterey’s main attractions but have more chain hotels, larger parking lots, and easier access to Highway 1. It’s a practical choice for travelers focused on budget or road trips.
Hotels We Personally Recommend
These are four hotels we’ve personally stayed at in Monterey Bay, ranging from luxury oceanfront resorts to reliable budget-friendly options.
1. Monterey Plaza Hotel (Luxury Oceanfront Stay)
What we paid: $607.72 for a king ocean-view balcony
You’ll also get access to rooftop hot tubs overlooking the ocean, which feel like a private coastal spa session.
Why we like it:
Incredible balcony views
Walkable to Cannery Row
Rooftop hot tubs
Great for anniversaries, birthdays, or splurges
If you want a true coastal experience, Monterey Plaza is hard to beat. The ocean is literally beneath your balcony, we fell asleep to waves crashing and woke up to seagulls gliding past the deck. The hotel is walking distance to Cannery Row, beaches, shops, and restaurants, so we never needed the car. Full Review Here: Monterey Plaza Hotel
2. Hampton Inn Monterey (Budget-Friendly + Free Parking)
What we paid: $221.25 for one night during spring break
If you want something simple, clean, and reliable, this is our go-to affordable option. Free breakfast and free parking alone can save you a surprising amount in Monterey. The location is convenient, close to the beach, local walking trails, and a shopping area if you need snacks or essentials.
Why we like it:
Great price for Monterey
Includes breakfast + parking
Easy access to the coast
Calm, quiet area
3. The Sanctuary Beach Resort (Private Beach Feel + Great Sunsets)
What we paid: varies from $400 to $1,800 depending on season & night
Why we like it:
Private, quiet atmosphere
Fire pits + onsite dining
Great for families or couples
Amazing sunset views
We’ve stayed here a few times, and always tell friends: book midweek if you can. Weekend prices spike heavily. Sanctuary has a private-beach vibe, fire pits, bocce ball courts, a pool, and an onsite restaurant , plus one of the best hotel sunset views we’ve had anywhere in Monterey County.
4. Hyatt Carmel Highlands (Woodsy Retreat With Ocean Views)
What we paid: ~$450 per night (summer)
If you want something tucked away and quiet, Hyatt Carmel Highlands sits in the trees overlooking the Pacific. Rooms have huge windows, the property has pools and hot tubs, and the atmosphere feels like a coastal cabin retreat.
They’ve been undergoing renovations (as of April 2024), so check recent reviews before booking.
Why we like it:
Woodsy, secluded atmosphere
Big ocean-facing windows
Great for unwinding
Ideal for couplest to unwind outside of town. Just know it’s a little farther from downtown Monterey.
What to Do in Monterey Bay, California
The Monterey area has something for everyone, beautiful coastlines, sandy beaches, fresh seafood, hiking trails, and incredible marine wildlife. Whether you're planning a quick weekend trip or a longer coastal getaway, there are plenty of ways to explore the region.
Below are our favorite things to do in Monterey Bay, with real prices and local tips from our visits.
Top Attractions in Monterey Bay
These are the most popular activities in the area and the ones most first-time visitors include in their itinerary.
Monterey Bay Aquarium
The Monterey Bay Aquarium is one of the top attractions in California and easily worth half a day. It’s known for its open-ocean exhibits, deep-sea creatures, jellyfish displays, and rotating research exhibits.
The sea otter program is one of the highlights, and the aquarium often rehabilitates rescued pups before releasing them back into the wild.
Admission
Adults: $59.95
Youth (13–17): $49.95
Children (5–12): $44.95
Children 4 and under: Free
Tip: Plan for 2–4 hours depending on crowds. Weekday mornings are usually the quietest time to visit.
Cannery Row
Cannery Row is a historic oceanfront stretch packed with restaurants, souvenir shops, small beaches, and scenic pullouts. It used to be home to active sardine canneries but is now one of Monterey’s most photographed areas.
Even if you’re not shopping, it’s a great place for a relaxed walk with ocean views.
Whale Watching
Whale watching in Monterey Bay is one of the best wildlife experiences on the West Coast. Depending on the season, you may see humpback whales, blue whales, gray whales, dolphins, and huge groups of sea lions. Most tours depart from Old Fisherman’s Wharf.
Price range: $75–$100 per person
Popular tour companies
Chris’ Fishing & Whale Watching
Discovery Whale Watch
Monterey Bay Whale Watch
Princess Monterey Whale Watching
Budget Things to Do & Explore in Monterey Bay
Monterey doesn’t have to be expensive. Many of the best experiences in the area — scenic drives, beaches, coastal trails, and small towns — are free or very affordable.
Pacific Grove & Lovers Point
Pacific Grove is one of Monterey’s most underrated areas, known for quiet coastal paths, tide pools, and beautiful sunset views. Lovers Point Park has a small beach, picnic tables, restrooms, and calm water perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding. In spring, pink ice plant blooms cover the cliffs and create some of the most photographed views along the coast.
Parking is often easier here than on Cannery Row, and the coastal trail stretches all the way to the aquarium.
Old Fisherman’s Wharf
Old Fisherman’s Wharf is a lively pier filled with restaurants, snack stands, gift shops, and oceanfront views. Even if you don’t take a whale-watching tour, it’s worth visiting for the atmosphere.
You’ll often see sea lions and pelicans around the docks.
Parking Tips:
Fisherman's Wharf Waterfront Lot WF#1 is our go-to spot
Downtown Garage West is a reliable backup
Scenic Coastal Walks
One of the best budget activities in Monterey is simply walking the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail, which stretches for miles along the ocean.
The trail connects several highlights including:
Cannery Row
Monterey Bay Aquarium
Pacific Grove
Lovers Point
It’s perfect for walking, biking, or watching sea otters in the kelp forests offshore.
Scenic Drives & Day Trips Near Monterey
If you have a car, some of the best experiences in Monterey are just a short drive away.
17-Mile Drive
17-Mile Drive is a scenic coastal route that passes Pebble Beach Golf Course and the Del Monte Forest. Along the way you'll see dramatic coastal viewpoints, sea lions, harbor seals, and sometimes grazing deer.
Entrance fee: $12 per vehicle
Local tip: Many Pebble Beach restaurants reimburse the entry fee with a qualifying purchase.
Big Sur & McWay Falls
Big Sur is one of the most scenic coastal regions in California. The drive along Highway 1 offers panoramic views of cliffs, wildlife, and turquoise water. One of the most popular stops is McWay Falls, where a waterfall flows onto a protected beach below. The viewpoint is just a short walk from the parking lot.
Carmel-by-the-Sea
Just south of Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea feels like a storybook coastal village. The town is known for art galleries, wine tasting rooms, bakeries, and boutique shops. Carmel Beach is the highlight, a wide stretch of white sand with dramatic cliffs and beautiful sunsets.
Go Sailing
Sailing is a great way to explore the bay without needing to kayak. We booked with Sail Monterey, and it remains one of our favorite water-based activities in the area. The crew was friendly and knowledgeable, and we saw tons of wildlife.
We sailed with: Sail Monterey,
Day sail: $55/person
Sunset sail: $85/person
The crew was friendly and knowledgeable, and we saw tons of wildlife!
Old Fisherman’s Wharf
Old Fisherman’s Wharf is a lively pier with restaurants, snack stands, gift shops, and oceanfront lookouts. It’s also the launching point for whale-watching and sailing trips. The wharf gets busy during peak season, so parking can fill up quickly.
Water Activities in Monterey Bay
Monterey Bay’s protected waters make it a great place to get out on the ocean.
Kayaking in Monterey Bay
Kayaking through the kelp forests is one of the easiest ways to see wildlife up close. Sea otters, harbor seals, and porpoises often swim nearby.
Rental shops along the waterfront offer both guided tours and walk-up rentals when the weather is calm.
Sailing in Monterey Bay
Sailing is a relaxing way to explore the bay without needing to paddle. We booked with Sail Monterey and it remains one of our favorite water-based activities in the area. The crew was friendly and knowledgeable, and we saw plenty of wildlife.
Prices
Day sail: $65 per person
Sunset sail: $95 per person
Best Restaurants & Where To Eat in Monterey Bay California
We have tried a lot of food in the Monterey area, and sometimes we have left places disappointed, or feeling like we had been tourist-trapped! Below are some places we have tried on multiple occasions that have never failed us. Our favorite of all is Heirloom Pizza!! If you try one thing from the list, it should be their deep-dish pizza. Our family from out of state brings it up every time we see them!! Honestly, I think about it once a week!! It is seriously so good!!
Heirloom Pizza Co (Our #1 Pick):
This is deep-dish pizza done right. We like to order a build-your-own with garlic and pepperoni, but honestly, everything we’ve tried is good. It’s near downtown, easy to get to, and every time family visits, this is the one place they still talk about months later. Not exaggerating, we think about this pizza every week. Find it on Google Maps here!
First Awakenings (Breakfast + Lunch):
Right near Cannery Row, this place always hits the spot for breakfast or a casual lunch. Big portions, fast service, and the kind of menu where everyone finds something they like. Great for fueling up before a full day out. Find it on Google Maps here!
Schooners Monterey (Oceanfront Drinks + Light Bites):
Located right over the water, this is our go-to for a drink and appetizers with a view. The patio is unbeatable, great for sunset, and you’ll usually catch seals or otters bobbing nearby. We don’t go for full meals here, but the vibe and drinks are top tier. Find it on Google Maps here!
Chart House (Dinner with Ocean Views):
Upscale steak and seafood spot with huge windows, and on our last visit, we got to watch a mom and baby sea otter play right outside while we ate. The food is solid, but the views make it a dinner experience, not just a meal. Find it on Google Maps here!
Sardine Factory (Old-School & Fancy):
If you want something more classic and formal, this spot has themed dining rooms, seafood, steak, and some surprisingly fun desserts. We go for the chocolate ice cream bonbons, and they’ve never disappointed. Find it on Google Maps here!
Whaling Station Steakhouse (Classic Steakhouse Vibes):
Tucked close to Cannery Row, this is where we go when we want a classic steakhouse feel, dim lighting, heavy silverware, and old-school energy. The beef Wellington is our favorite here. Find it on Google Maps here!
Is Monterey Worth Visiting? (Travel Guide Summary)
Yes, Monterey is absolutely worth visiting, whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway or a longer California coastal road trip. Located about two hours south of San Francisco, the area combines dramatic ocean scenery, marine wildlife, fresh seafood, and some of the most famous coastal drives in the United States. Monterey is one of the most rewarding destinations on the Northern California coast, especially if you enjoy ocean views, wildlife, and small coastal towns.
What Makes Monterey Worth Visiting
Here are some of the biggest reasons travelers include Monterey in their California trips:
Easy access from the Bay Area, about 2–2.5 hours from San Francisco and 1–1.5 hours from San Jose
Iconic attractions like Cannery Row, the Monterey Bay Aquarium, and the scenic 17-Mile Drive
Beautiful coastal scenery along Highway 1 with beaches, cliffs, and ocean viewpoints
Incredible wildlife including sea otters, harbor seals, whales, dolphins, and tide pools
Walkable waterfront dining with fresh seafood restaurants and oceanfront cafés
Close to Carmel-by-the-Sea and Big Sur, making it perfect for day trips or a longer coastal itinerary
How Long to Spend in Monterey
We recommend 3–4 days in Monterey to fully enjoy the area. That gives you enough time to visit the aquarium, explore Cannery Row, take a scenic drive through Pebble Beach, and spend time in Carmel or Big Sur. It’s possible to visit in a single day, but you’ll miss the slower coastal atmosphere that makes Monterey so memorable.
Where We Like to Stay
Monterey has accommodations ranging from affordable chain hotels to luxury oceanfront resorts. For budget-friendly trips, we often stay at Hampton Inn Monterey, which includes free breakfast and parking, two things that can save quite a bit in this area. For a special occasion or oceanfront splurge, Monterey Plaza Hotel is our top pick. The ocean sits directly beneath the balconies, and falling asleep to the sound of waves is hard to beat. And if you’re looking for a great meal while visiting, Heirloom Pizza Co. makes our favorite deep-dish pizza in Monterey.
Looking for other things to do or where to stay in San Francisco? Checkout or full guide for visiting the San Francisco Bay Area!
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