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
The towels and bedding were very good quality. Loved the fireplace. The beach is right by it, the best part. Very accessible for the stroller. They were nice enough to let us park there earlier than our check in time for the busy weekend to save us the headache of looking for parking. Will book again ...
Reviewed on 12 May 2026

Victorian Inn
Met our expectations all around.
Reviewed on 12 May 2026

Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
Was very close to the custom house plaza. Had a good amount of stores and food places around it. Very easy to get to and the staff were on top of everything would definitely go back. Room was spacious and clean
Reviewed on 12 May 2026

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

Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa

The Monterey Hotel
Great location, perfect as the Shuttle bus from SFO airport stops opposite. Within walking distance to all downtown shops and restaurants, fishermans wharf, all minutes away. I didn't like that I could hear the guests in the room above walking about throughout the night. The intricately carved wooden ...
Reviewed on 12 May 2026
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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.
