Lighthouse District Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Visit Lighthouse District
Popular places to visit
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.
Cannery Row
Renamed after John Steinbeck’s Cannery Row, this historic area has transformed since the gritty industrial days described in the book.
WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca
You can take time to visit WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca during your travels to Monterey. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the seafood restaurants while you're in the area.
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.
Golden State Theatre
Sit back, relax and enjoy the show at Monterey’s legendary movie palace, which has been delighting theatergoers since 1926.
Activities
Scenic 17-Mile Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour
Monterey: Monterey Bay Dolphin and Whale Watching Boat Tour
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
Our pick of the best Lighthouse District Hotel Deals
Cannery Row Inn
Great place to stay because you can walk to everything and leave your car. We paid the parking fee and it was worth it not driving around and around looking for a place to park.
Reviewed on 15 May 2026
Victorian Inn
The staff was very friendly and accommodating. The complimentary breakfast was so good as well as the cheese and wine in the evening. Walking distance to great restaurants as well as CVS and 7/11. Also a great scenic and walking distance to the aquarium. Will definitely choose this place again when ...
Reviewed on 15 May 2026
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa
The adjoining room door was next to the bed. Very poor sound proofing. The next room’s conversations at normal tones sounded like they were in our room. They talked until 2:45AM. The hotel clerk did make note of it the next morning when I reported it. Hopefully they will fix the problem.
Reviewed on 11 May 2026
The Monterey Hotel
No AC room got pretty warm . Otherwise all good
Reviewed on 14 May 2026
Carmel Mission Inn
Nice and clean rooms. The staff was very professional and friendly. We did not use hot tub. Very convenient to shops and restaurants.
Reviewed on 15 May 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Lighthouse District
New Monterey
If you're spending some time in New Monterey, Cannery Row and San Carlos Beach - The Breakwater are top sights worth seeing.
Old Monterey
Old Monterey is a destination visitors seek out for its pristine beaches, ample dining options and popular aquarium. You might also want to check out attractions like Waterfront or Perry House while you're exploring the neighbourhood.
Downtown Monterey
The pristine beaches and popular aquarium are top of the list for many visitors to Downtown Monterey. A stop by Monterey State Beach or Golden State Theatre might round out your trip.
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 Monterey State Beach.
Monterey Vista
While Monterey Vista isn't home to many top sights, Munras Avenue and Golden State Theatre are some notable places to visit nearby.
Alta Mesa
While visiting Alta Mesa, you might make a stop by sights like Munras Avenue and Del Monte Shopping Center.
