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Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa Review: Is This Oceanfront Stay Worth It?
- Alyssa
- Apr 9, 2024
- 9 min read
Updated: Oct 8
Here’s our honest review after celebrating a birthday weekend on California’s Central Coast. Monterey Bay is famous for its aquarium, Pebble Beach, 17-Mile Drive, and incredible seafood. The area offers upscale dining, art galleries, and world-class golf, but also peaceful beaches and ocean lookouts perfect for a relaxing getaway. At just a two-hour drive from the San Francisco Bay Area, we decided it was the ideal spot for a short luxury escape. We stayed one night at the Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa, perched directly above a small sandy beach on Cannery Row. We booked a King Ocean View room with a patio and paid $607.72 for the night, here’s what the experience was really like.
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Where Is the Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa Located?
The Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa sits directly on Cannery Row, overlooking the Monterey Bay. Its oceanfront setting makes it one of the most scenic and convenient places to stay on California’s Central Coast.
If you’re flying in, the Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) is less than five miles away, about a 10-minute ride by taxi or rideshare. Uber and Lyft both operate in the area, and taxis typically cost around $20–25 each way depending on traffic. Public transit is also available, though slower, taking about 25–30 minutes via Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) Route 13.
For travelers coming from farther away, you can also fly into San Jose International Airport (SJC), which is about 75 miles north or roughly an hour and a half by car. We didn’t fly, we drove from San Francisco and took the coastal Highway One route, which runs about 120 miles and takes two to two and a half hours depending on stops. It’s easily one of the most breathtaking drives in California, with viewpoints overlooking the Pacific nearly the entire way.
If you’re already visiting San Francisco or the Bay Area, we highly recommend driving to Monterey instead of flying. You’ll save time when you factor in airport wait times, and the drive itself feels like part of the trip thanks to ocean views, seaside towns, and the freedom to stop whenever you want.
Quick takeaway: Flying into Monterey is quick and easy, but driving down Highway One from San Francisco offers one of California’s most unforgettable coastal experiences, and it’s only about a two-hour trip.
Check-In, Check-Out & Parking at Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa
Check-In:
Check-in at the Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa begins at 4:00 PM sharp. Our experience felt a little underwhelming, the front desk staff weren’t particularly welcoming and didn’t go over hotel details or amenities. With several elevators leading to different wings, we ended up wandering around trying to find our room until the housekeeping team kindly helped us (they were wonderful).
We had also noted during online booking that we were celebrating a birthday, but it wasn’t acknowledged at check-in or during our stay. At hotels of this caliber (four stars and above), special occasions are usually recognized in some way, so it felt like a small miss.
Check-Out:
Check-out was smooth and simple. We just left our keys in the room, and our receipt arrived by email later that afternoon, everything was correct. The noon check-out time was a highlight, letting us start the day slow with coffee on the balcony before heading home.
Parking:
Valet parking is available at the hotel’s main entrance for about $45 per night, and the service is quick and well-run. However, if you’d rather save, there’s a great budget-friendly alternative: metered street parking nearby costs only $3 per hour and is free after 6 PM. You can easily manage it using the Parkmobile app, which even lets you renew your time right from your room.
Quick takeaway: Check-in starts at 4 PM and check-out at noon. Valet is convenient, but savvy guests can use nearby street parking for just $3 an hour (free after 6 PM) and extend time from the ParkMobile app.
Our King Ocean View Room at Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa
We booked a King Ocean View Room with a patio and paid $607.72 for one night. The room itself was spacious and comfortable, with a large bathroom, a separate vanity area for getting ready, and a cozy sitting space beside the bed. Behind the sliding glass doors, a small private balcony overlooked the bay, offering peaceful ocean views right from the bed or while relaxing outside.
The room was spotless and well-maintained. Inside the bathroom hung two plush white robes and an assortment of aromatherapy toiletries. While it felt luxurious, the fragrances were a little overwhelming, each product had a different scent, and they clashed instead of blending. The room also included a Nespresso coffee bar, stocked with pods (regular and decaf), cream, and sugar, along with two espresso cups, a nice touch for morning coffee lovers.
Patio & View
Although the room felt large, the patio was surprisingly narrow. It was difficult to turn the chairs outward toward the water without bumping into the railing. Still, the view made up for it, we sat above the waves watching sea otters swim by, using the binoculars provided by the hotel. It was one of the most relaxing parts of our stay and a highlight of the entire trip.
Turndown Service
We didn’t realize the hotel offered turndown service, so it caught us off guard when we returned from dinner to find our bed re-made, towels refreshed, and two pieces of chocolate on the pillows along with the next day’s weather forecast. It was a sweet touch, though we wish we had been informed ahead of time, as we had left the room a bit messy before heading out!
Bathroom
The bathroom was one of the standout features of our stay. It was bright, spacious, and equipped with everything needed for a comfortable night in, plush white robes, soft towels, and a full range of aromatherapy toiletries. While we appreciated the attention to detail, the fragrances were a bit overpowering since each item had a different scent. Still, it felt like a well-thought-out space that matched the overall sense of luxury the hotel aims for.
Dining & Amenities at Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa
The Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa offers plenty of ways to unwind beyond your room. The property features multiple on-site restaurants, a full-service spa, a fitness center, and even rooftop hot tubs overlooking the ocean. Guests can also arrange bike rentals and kayaking tours directly through the hotel, adding extra adventure to a stay right on Cannery Row.
Dining at Schooners Coastal Kitchen
During our stay, we stopped by Schooners, one of the hotel’s on-site restaurants, for light bites and drinks. The highlight was the outdoor patio, which sits directly above the bay. It’s a beautiful setting to enjoy cocktails while watching sea otters and seals swim below. The atmosphere felt casual yet upscale, perfect for unwinding after a day exploring Monterey.
We didn’t get to try their full dinner menu, but it looked impressive and heavily seafood-focused. If you visit, we recommend reserving a patio table at sunset for the best views.
(Note: We also tried ordering room service later in the evening, but found the menu closed at 9:00 PM with no late-night options available, something to plan for if you arrive late.)
Rooftop Hot Tubs & Spa
The hotel’s rooftop terrace features two ocean-facing hot tubs and a cozy fireplace, making it one of the most scenic relaxation spots in Monterey. Sitting in the hot tub at night, with the sound of waves below, was a highlight of our stay, until the staff came by and promptly turned everything off right at 9:00 PM sharp, politely telling everyone “out.” We were surprised by how strict the closing time was, especially since there are no visible clocks on the rooftop. If you’re planning to stargaze, set an alarm so you don’t get caught off guard!
The property also has a bike rental shop and offers kayaking tours, though we weren’t informed of any discounts for hotel guests unless it’s part of a package deal. The Vista Blue Spa, located on-site, is one of the most acclaimed spas in the region, but it was fully booked during our visit, so we’ll definitely reserve earlier next time.
Quick takeaway: The property shines with its oceanfront amenities, from Schooners’ seaside dining to the rooftop hot tubs and renowned spa. Just remember: the tubs close at 9 PM sharp, and you’ll want reservations for both dinner and spa treatments in advance.
Things to Do & Eat Near Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa
One of the best parts about staying at the Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa is its unbeatable location on Cannery Row, surrounded by Monterey’s top attractions and dining. Everything from world-class aquariums to scenic drives and oceanfront restaurants is within easy reach, many of them just a short walk or drive from the hotel.
Distance: About a 10-minute walk. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is one of California’s most famous attractions and an easy walk from the hotel. Set right on the edge of the bay, it features massive floor-to-ceiling tanks filled with sea turtles, schools of sardines, and hammerhead sharks. We loved watching the playful sea otters and the hypnotic jellyfish exhibits, which glow beautifully under the dim aquarium lighting. If you plan to go, try arriving early in the morning to avoid the crowds and leave enough time to explore the Cannery Row shops afterward, they’re right next door.
Distance: About 10–15 minutes by car from the hotel. No visit to Monterey is complete without driving the 17-Mile Drive, a scenic route that winds through Pebble Beach and Pacific Grove, passing rugged coastal cliffs, forested neighborhoods, and golf course viewpoints. The road features plenty of stops where you can pull over for photos, including the Lone Cypress and Bird Rock, which are two of the most photographed spots in California. We recommend doing the drive in the late afternoon, the golden light reflecting off the ocean makes for incredible photos, and the toll gate attendants usually hand out maps highlighting each stop.
Distance: About a 5-minute drive or 20-minute walk. Chart House Monterey is an upscale seafood restaurant that sits right on the water, offering panoramic views of the bay through its wide glass windows. We went for dinner and timed our reservation for sunset, the perfect choice. As the sun dropped below the horizon, the whole restaurant glowed with orange light reflecting off the waves. The menu features fresh local seafood, steaks, and creative appetizers. It’s pricier than many nearby options, but the atmosphere, view, and service make it a great pick for a romantic dinner or special occasion.
Distance: About a 10-minute walk from the hotel. Just a short stroll from Cannery Row, Just a short stroll from Cannery Row, The Sardine Factory is one of Monterey’s most historic fine-dining spots, elegant, timeless, and full of old-world charm. We ordered steak and seafood, both perfectly cooked, and the attentive service made the evening feel special. A true Monterey classic since the 1960s, it’s the ideal place to dress up for dinner without needing to drive anywhere.
Distance: Short drive from Cannery Row. Heirloom Pizza Co. is just a short drive from Cannery Row and absolutely worth it. Theyhandmade pizzas with creative toppings, fresh salads, and local craft beer in a laid-back setting. We stopped here after leaving the hotel and loved the freshness of the ingredients, especially the thin, wood-fired crust. It’s an excellent option for travelers who want something local and relaxed after a long day of sightseeing.
Exploring Around Cannery Row
From the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail that runs right past the hotel to small wine-tasting rooms and souvenir shops, Cannery Row offers plenty to explore without even needing a car. You’ll find small cafes, coastal overlooks, and benches where you can sit and watch the sea otters float by. If you’re visiting for the weekend, plan to spend at least one afternoon just walking the area, it’s one of the most charming parts of Monterey and gives a great sense of what makes the Central Coast so special.
If you are looking for more things to do or eat, checkout or Monterey Travel Guide!
Worth Your Wallet Verdict: Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa
Our stay at the Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa cost $607.72 for one night in a King Ocean View Room with a patio. We skipped valet parking and used nearby free overnight street parking, which worked perfectly with the ParkMobile app. There’s no denying the property is beautiful, the rooftop hot tubs, on-site restaurants, and small touches like turndown service and in-room binoculars make the experience feel special. The views from our room were stunning, and watching sea otters from the balcony was a moment we’ll remember.
That said, not everything lived up to the luxury price point. The patio was so narrow that we couldn’t even turn our chairs to face the ocean, and we encountered a few staff interactions that felt less friendly than expected for a four-star property. At over $600 a night, we found the value questionable compared to other Monterey stays with similar views. We’d happily return for a standard room closer to $300 per night, but probably wouldn’t splurge again on the ocean-view patio.
Verdict: Gorgeous views and great amenities, but the service and patio size keep it just short of “worth it” at full price.
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