Old Monterey Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Visit Old Monterey
Popular places to visit
Colton Hall Museum
Find out about the early days of Californian state rules via the displays and guides in this historic 19th-century building.
Monterey Bay Aquarium
Perched on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, you’ll find a spectacular window into life both above and below the waves.
Cannery Row
Renamed after John Steinbeck’s Cannery Row, this historic area has transformed since the gritty industrial days described in the book.
17-Mile Drive
Discover palatial mansions, lush golf courses and a wild stretch of coastline inhabited by sea lions on a road often dubbed one of the world’s most scenic drives.
Fisherman's Wharf
Take a whale tour, admire the ocean views from seafood restaurants and browse the souvenirs for sale in this thriving marina.
Del Monte Beach
Relax in this tranquil sandy bay hidden behind quaint coastal villas among the sand dunes and choppy waves of Monterey Bay.
Activities
Monterey Bay: Whale Watching Tour
Monterey: Whale Watching Tour with A Marine Guide
Monterey: Catamaran Sailing Cruise
Monterey: Treasure Hunt The Ride - Ticket + Power-Up Combo
Monterey Bay: Sunset Catamaran Sailing Cruise
Monterey and 17 Mile Drive: Half-Day Electric Bike Rental
Our pick of the best Old Monterey Hotel Deals
Merritt House Hotel
Lovely historical hotel. Beautifully restored with many original details but also nicely appointed with modern conveniences. For example, large newly renovated bathroom and great wifi. It is rare to find a historical hotel that retains its vintage charm with such well done modern updates. Additionally, ...
Reviewed on 16 Dec 2025
Hotel Pacific
The rooms were clean. The staff was very helpful. But they need to get new pillows. The pillows were so uncomfortable..
Reviewed on 14 Dec 2025
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
Spacious room. Great staff.
Reviewed on 12 Dec 2025
The Monterey Hotel
Good rooms, clean and just what you need. Excellent location! Walk downtown and or to the Fisherman’s Warf.
Reviewed on 12 Dec 2025
Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa
Friendly staff
Reviewed on 9 Dec 2025
Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa
All very good, very clean and very friendly people.
Reviewed on 8 Dec 2025
Other neighbourhoods around Old Monterey
Downtown Monterey
The pristine beaches and popular aquarium are top of the list for many visitors to Downtown Monterey. A stop by Golden State Theatre or Munras Avenue might round out your trip.
Alta Mesa
While visiting Alta Mesa, you might make a stop by sights like Munras Avenue and Del Monte Shopping Center.
Oak Grove
While Oak Grove may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Monterey Bay Aquarium and Del Monte Golf Course.
Monterey Vista
While Monterey Vista isn't home to many top sights, Monterey Bay Aquarium and Munras Avenue are some notable places to visit nearby.
Lighthouse District
Lighthouse District is well-regarded for its pristine beaches, ample dining options and popular aquarium, and you might also want to make a stop by Cannery Row, a top sight in the neighbourhood.
New Monterey
If you're spending some time in New Monterey, Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row are top sights worth seeing.
