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Monterey is one of the most beautiful cities in California. With its rugged coastline, stunning views, historic charms and vibrant atmosphere, Monterey is absolutely one of America’s most up and coming areas.
But saving money in Monterey can be a big challenge, which is exactly why we put together this guide for where to stay in Monterey.
This article is designed with one purpose – to help YOU find the best neighborhood to stay in based on YOUR travel interests.
So whether you’re looking to dine on delicious seafood, immerse yourself in history, or enjoy the natural side of the city, our list will help you find a place to stay that best fits your needs – and hopefully save you a little money while you’re at it.
Let’s jump right into where to stay in Monterey, California.
Looking for a specific place to stay on your Big Sur trip? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Monterey.
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
Otter Inn Monterey | Best Hotel in Monterey
The Otter Inn Monterey is in a fantastic location for walking to the best bars, clubs and restaurants in Cannery Row – which is why it’s our pick for the best hotel in Monterey. Rooms are clean and stylish, and each is outfitted with excellent modern amenities. They also provide a ticket service and luggage storage.
Beautiful beachhouse | Best Airbnb in Monterey
When you’re in Monterey for the first time, you want to be close to the main attractions. Luckily, this Airbnb is located within walking distance to everything you need to see. The cottage is beautifully designed with nice beach vibes. It’s a spacious place, with a great kitchen and a massive outdoor patio where you can enjoy nice evenings – simply a great place to stay.
HI Monterey | Best Hostel in Monterey
If you want affordable accommodations in Monterey, then look no further. The HI Monterey is a five-minute walk from Cannery Row. It is close to great bars, delicious restaurants and plenty of historic landmarks. They offer a large kitchen, spacious common room and a tasty pancake breakfast.
Downtown
Downtown is the neighbourhood at the heart of Monterey. It is the historic centre of the city where you’ll find charming architecture, quaint shops, delicious restaurants and plenty of stunning bay views.
Munras Avenue
Munras Avenue is a neighbourhood located just outside of downtown Monterey. It is one of the city’s main thoroughfares that provides easy access to downtown Monterey and the rest of the county. From your base in Munras Avenue, you can enjoy historic walks around downtown as well as peaceful days exploring the nearby state parks and beaches.
Cannery Row
Cannery Row is located along Monterey’s beautiful waterfront. It’s one of the most popular places in the city and is awash with tourist attractions, delicious restaurants, buzzing bars, and trendy wine tasting rooms.
Pacific Grove
Pacific Grove is a community located five minutes north of Monterey. A small and idyllic town, Pacific Grove has a rich and diverse history. It’s home to one of the oldest continually operating lighthouses in the USA and is where you’ll find beautiful Victorian architecture and plenty of historic charm.
Cannery Row
In addition to being a tourist hotspot and nightlife destination, Cannery Row is also our pick for where to stay in Monterey for families. This bustling and buzzing neighbourhood is packed with family restaurants, kid-friendly attractions, and plenty of activities that will enchant travellers of all ages.
Monterey is a small city bursting with charm.
Located on the central coast of California, Monterey is best known for its beautiful and rugged coastline, its world-class aquarium, and its association with author John Steinbeck, who set many of his novels here.
The original capital of California, Monterey has more historic buildings in its downtown core than any other city in the west. It’s where you’ll find a wide range of shops and restaurants, and where history oozes around every turn.
The city is comprised of 16 neighborhoods that reach more than 20 square kilometres. Each offers diverse attractions and tells a different history, which is why we recommend you explore at least three or four throughout your visit.
In this guide, we’ll take a look at the best places to stay in Monterey.
At the heart of the city is downtown Monterey. It attracts travellers with its alluring historic centre, charming shops and stunning beaches.
Munras Avenue is set south of downtown. It is a convenient base for travellers looking to explore Monterey County and is where you’ll find a fantastic selection of budget and affordable accommodations options.
Head north from downtown and you’ll pass through Cannery Row. A lively and vibrant neighborhood, Cannery Row bursts with energy and exuberance and is where you’ll find a fantastic selection of restaurants, bars, and plenty of tourist attractions for travellers of all ages.
And finally, located north of the city centre is Pacific Grove. A town in its own right, Pacific Grove is an idyllic small town surrounded by nature. It boasts Victorian architecture, lush parks, and plenty of shorelines to explore.
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Monterey’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
In this next section, we’ll take a look at the best neighborhoods to stay in Monterey. Each is a little different from the last, so be sure to reach each section carefully and pick the neighborhood that’s the right fit for you.
1. Downtown – Where to stay in Monterey first time
Downtown is the neighborhood at the heart of Monterey. It is the historic centre of the city where you’ll find charming architecture, quaint shops, delicious restaurants and plenty of stunning bay views. Home to some of the city’s most popular attractions, downtown is our recommendation for where to stay in Monterey if you’re visiting for the first time.
A bustling and buzzing district, downtown Monterey is the perfect place to take a stroll and lap up the sunshine. While making you’re way through the city, prepare to be enchanted by the 19th-century architecture, enthralled by the delightful shop windows, and amazed by the produce on offer at the busy farmer’s market.
The Stevenson Monterey | Best Motel in Downtown
This charming motel is located within walking distance of Monterey’s top tourist attraction. You’ll find the beach, as well as plenty of shops, restaurants and bars right at your doorstep. The modern rooms come complete with en suite bathrooms and free wifi. There’s also a pool and restaurant on-site.
Colton Inn Monterey | Best Hotel in Downtown
The Colton Inn Monterey is a charming three-star hotel located in the downtown core. It provides easy access to popular nightlife destinations, plus the best shops and historic landmarks are just a short walk away. Rooms are well-equipped with modern amenities. There’s also a terrace and BBQ area for guests.
Pacific Hotel Monterey | Best Hotel in Downtown
This is a great place to stay if you’re looking to enjoy the best of Monterey. They provide luxurious four-star accommodations and each room is outfitted with modern amenities. You’ll enjoy free wifi, laundry facilities and an excellent gym. This is our pick for where to stay in downtown Monterey.
Beautiful beachhouse | Best Airbnb in Downtown
When you’re in Monterey for the first time, you want to be close to the main attractions. Luckily, this Airbnb is located within walking distance to everything you need to see. The cottage is beautifully designed with nice beach vibes. It’s a spacious place, with a great kitchen and a massive outdoor patio where you can enjoy nice evenings – simply a great place to stay.
Things to See and Do in Downtown
- Create and play at the Monterey County Youth Museum.
- Dine on delicious dishes at Cibo Ristorante Italiano.
- Eat American fare at Montrio Bistro.
- Enjoy a delicious meal at LouLou’s.
- Explore the gardens of Monterey State Historic Park.
- Feast on fresh seafood at Old Fisherman’s Grotto.
- Sample a selection of beers at Alvarado Street Brewery & Grill.
- See fantastic works of art at The Dali Expo.
- Spend a relaxing day at Monterey Bay Beach.
- View an incredible collection of masterpieces at the Monterey Museum of Art.
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View on Osprey2. Munras Avenue – Where to stay in Monterey on a budget
Munras Avenue is a neighborhood located just outside of downtown Monterey. It is one of the city’s main thoroughfares that provides easy access to downtown Monterey and the rest of the county. From your base in Munras Avenue, you can enjoy historic walks around downtown as well as peaceful days exploring the nearby state parks and beaches.
In addition to being one of the best-connected neighborhoods in the city, Munras Avenue also boasts a high concentration of good value and affordable accommodations. Here you’ll find an array of modern motels and low-cost hotels that offer plenty of awesome amenities and features.
Private cottage | Best Airbnb in Munras Avenue
Staying in Monterey when travelling on a budget can be quite challenging. This Airbnb might be in a quiet area, but it’s definitely affordable and still close to everything. You will have the whole studio to yourself. It’s been newly renovated and accommodates 1 adult. The hosts live on the same property but in a different house, so you can be sure that your privacy is guaranteed.
America’s Best Value Presidents Inn | Best Budget Hotel in Munras Avenue
Located on historic Munras Avenue, this charming hotel is conveniently located in Monterey. It is less than two kilometres from downtown and is within walking distance of Cannery Row and the Aquarium. They offer clean and comfortable rooms with free wifi. This is our favourite budget option on Munras Avenue.
Pelican Inn Monterey | Best Motel in Munras Avenue
This is our pick for where to stay on Munras Avenue thanks to its good location, spotless beds and spacious bathrooms. This motel features a golf course, outdoor tennis courts and a barbecue area for guests to enjoy. You’re also within close proximity to downtown Monterey and Cannery Row.
The Arbor Inn Monterey | Best Motel in Munras Avenue
In addition to its central location on Munras Avenue, this hotel offers modern and clean rooms with free wifi and contemporary amenities. You’ll enjoy access to a heated pool, a relaxing Jacuzzi, as well as an in-house day spa. This motel is ideally situated for exploring Monterey and Pacific Grove.
Things to See and Do in Munras Avenue
- Dine on fresh and delicious Vietnamese fare at Chopstix.
- Explore the scenic Iris Canyon Greenbelt.
- Go for a stroll through the forest at Don Dahvee Park.
- Enjoy the sunshine, sand and stunning views at the Municipal Beach.
- Indulge in incredible steak at seafood at Lalla Grill.
- Pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxing lunch in Whispering Pines Park.
- Rent bikes and go sand biking.
- Satisfy your sweet tooth with a delicious treat from Layers.
- Savour spicy, fresh and flavourful Thai food at KRUA Thai.
- Shop until you drop at the Del Monte Shopping Center.
3. Cannery Row – Best area to stay in Monterey for nightlife
Cannery Row is located along Monterey’s beautiful waterfront. It’s one of the most popular places in the city and is awash with tourist attractions, delicious restaurants, buzzing bars, and trendy wine tasting rooms.
Thanks to the beautiful architecture and historic buildings, Cannery Row is a fun neighborhood to explore on foot. Simply take a stroll along any street and get lost in the history of this great city.
Cannery Row is also where you’ll find the best nightlife in Monterey. This neighborhood has a good selection of bars and pubs where you can enjoy a few beers, a glass of wine and take in the stunning sea views.
Room with private entrance | Best Airbnb in Cannery Row
This room in a guesthouse is perfect for travellers who want to enjoy the nightlife on the Monterey Row. Located in a quiet area, you’ll have a private room, which is accessible through your own entrance. The buzz of the city is in walking distance. The hosts are known for taking great care of their visitors so if you have any questions, they will be happy to help.
Otter Inn Monterey | Best Hotel in Cannery Row
The Otter Inn Monterey is in a fantastic location for walking to the best bars, clubs and restaurants in Monterey – which is why it’s our pick for where to stay in Cannery Row. Rooms are clean and stylish, and each is outfitted with modern amenities. They also provide a ticket service and luggage storage.
The Jabberwock Bed & Breakfast | Best Bed & Breakfast in Cannery Row
This excellent bed and breakfast is located just steps from Cannery Row and Monterey’s top bistros and pubs. Rooms come complete with comfortable beds, showers and bathrobes. They also offer a swimming pool, concierge service, and guest have access to a golf course.
HI Monterey | Best Hostel in Cannery Row
If you’re going to stay in this bustling neighborhood, you’re going to want to say at the best hostel in town. The HI Monterey is a five-minute walk from Cannery Row. It is close to great bars, delicious restaurants and plenty of historic landmarks. They offer a large kitchen, spacious common rooms and a tasty pancake breakfast.
Things to See and Do in Cannery Row
- Choose from a great selection of beers at Cannery Row Brewing Company.
- Dine on regional dishes at Schooner’s Coastal Kitchen and Bar.
- Eat delicious tacos at Hula’s Island Grill.
- Enjoy a night of beer and games at Carbone’s.
- Feast on steak, seafood and more at Chart House.
- Grab a pint and snacks at Duffy’s Tavern & Family Restaurant.
- Indulge in wine and fresh seafood at the Sardine Factory.
- Sample local wines at the Carmel Ridge Winery Tasting Room.
- Savour French fare at Bistro Moulin.
- Sip wine and watch the sunset at A Taste of Monterey.
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Grab an eSIM!4. Pacific Grove – Coolest place to stay in Monterey
Pacific Grove is a community located five minutes north of Monterey. A small and idyllic town, Pacific Grove has a rich and diverse history. It’s home to one of the oldest continually operating lighthouses in the USA and is where you’ll find beautiful Victorian architecture and plenty of historic charm.
An alluring and picturesque area, Pacific Grove is our pick for the coolest neighborhood in Monterey thanks to its access to nature. Here you’ll find a great selection of attractions, including the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary and the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History, as well as beautiful beaches, peaceful points, and plenty of coastal trails.
Charming bungalow near beach | Best Airbnb in Pacific Grove
This Airbnb is perfect to enjoy one of the coolest areas in Monterey. You will have the cottage completely to yourself. Incredibly clean and beautifully designed, you’ll feel comfortable straight away. The beach, Aquarium and central Pacific Grove are all in walking distance. If you want to be more active, there are also a couple of nice bike trails right outside your door.
Clarion Collection Pacific Grove | Best Good-Value Hotel in Pacific Grove
Located at the heart of Pacific Grove, this hotel is in close proximity to top attractions, like the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary. Every room comes with a range of amenities and guests have access to free wifi. You’ll also enjoy easy access to parks, golf courses, and a network of trails.
Monterey Peninsula Inn | Best Hotel in Pacific Grove
This charming three-star hotel is located in Pacific Grove. It’s within a short drive of Monterey and the area’s top tourist attractions. This hotel is comprised of 30 comfortable rooms with modern amenities. There’s also a stunning pool, BBQ area, and free wifi throughout.
Gosby House Inn – A Four Sisters Inn | Best Bed and Breakfast in Pacific Grove
Gosby House Inn is our top choice for where to stay in Pacific Grove. This luxurious bed and breakfast is ideally located in the neighborhood. It is close to great bars, restaurants and Monterey’s most popular attractions. They also offer a satisfying breakfast each morning.
Things to See and Do in Pacific Grove
- Admire the views from Lovers Point Park.
- Hike out to The Kissing Rock.
- Learn all about the animals, plants and minerals of Monterey at the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History.
- Pop in and see beautiful works by local artists at Artisana Gallery.
- See the colourful and quirky Butterfly House.
- Snap a pic at the Lovers Point Mural.
- Stop by the Point Pinos Lighthouse, America’s oldest operating lighthouse.
- Surround yourself with butterflies at the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary.
- Trek the Beach Trail and take in the scenic coastal views.
- Visit the Jameson Classic Motorcycle Museum to see a huge collection of motorcycles and scooter.
5. Cannery Row (FAMILY) – Best neighborhood in Monterey for families
In addition to being a tourist hotspot and nightlife destination, Cannery Row is also our pick for where to stay in Monterey for families.
This bustling and buzzing neighborhood is packed with family restaurants, kid-friendly attractions, and plenty of activities that will enchant travellers of all ages. From fun and games to museums and more, this area is rife with things to see, do, eat and explore.
A must for anyone visiting Cannery Row is a trip to the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Here you’ll see hundreds of your favourite fish, sea creatures, reptiles, and aquatic animals, like penguins, otters, seals and giant octopi. You and your little ones will be absolutely amazed by these fun, fascinating and fantastic underwater animals.
Incredible family house | Best Airbnb in Cannery Row
Super close to Cannery Row but still in a safe and quiet area, this Airbnb is a great choice for you and your family. Accommodating up to 6 people, you can even bring some friends along. The busy part of the city is still in walking distance while a lot of restaurants and cafes are right around the corner. The host also provides you with two passes to the Aquarium.
Best Western Plus Victorian Inn | Best Hotel in Cannery Row
Thanks to its great location, this is one of our favourite hotels in Monterey. It’s well positioned for sightseeing with Cannery Row and the beach just a short walk away. They offer a range of relaxing amenities, including a gym, massage services, a golf course and an on-site spa.
Holiday Inn Express Monterey – Cannery Row | Best Hotel in Cannery Row
This hotel is ideally situated in Monterey. It is close to Cannery Row and there are a variety of shopping, dining and sightseeing options nearby. This hotel boasts contemporary rooms with a variety of features. All of this combined make this our pick for where to stay in Cannery Row for families.
HI Monterey | Best Hostel in Cannery Row
This friendly and social hostel is located within walking distance of Cannery Row and the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Located in a bustling neighborhood, this hotel has everything you need from restaurants and cafes to shops and markets at its front door. The beds are comfortable and they offer a pancake breakfast every morning.
Things to See and Do in Cannery Row
- Dine on delicious seafood at The Fish Hopper.
- Enjoy a refreshing cone of ice cream at Baskin-Robbins.
- Go kayaking and encounter seals, otters and other animals as you glide across the water.
- Grab a quick bite at Johnny Rockets.
- Lounge in the sun at San Carlos Beach Park.
- Rent bikes and explore Monterey on two-wheels.
- Satisfy your sweet tooth at Ghirardelli.
- Snap a fun and unforgettable family photo at Doc Wenzel’s Old Time Portraits.
- Take a peek into marine life at the Monterey Bay Aquarium.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Monterey
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Monterey and where to stay.
What To Pack For Monterey
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
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Monopoly Deal
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Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
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Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Monterey
Monterey is quickly becoming one of the most popular destinations in California. With its rugged coastline, stunning scenery, rich history and incredible food scene, Monterey is a city with something to offer travellers of all styles and budgets.
In this guide, we’ve looked at the best places to stay in Monterey. If after reading this post, you’re still not 100% sure where to stay, here’s a quick recap of our favourite places.
Cannery Row is our number one choice for the best neighborhood. It offers a great variety of restaurants, bars and family-friendly fun and our pick for the best hostel is the HI Monterey.
Our recommendation for the best hotel is Otter Inn Monterey thanks to its stylish décor and spotless rooms. It’s also in the perfect location with dining, shopping and nightlife options at its doorstep.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around USA.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in USA.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in USA instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in USA to plan your trip.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for USA.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
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