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.
Fisherman's Wharf
Take a whale tour, admire the ocean views from seafood restaurants and browse the souvenirs for sale in this thriving marina.
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.
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: Catamaran Sailing Cruise
Monterey: Whale Watching Tour with A Marine Guide
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
Hotel Pacific
This a great hotel conveniently located in the heart of Monterey. It is walking distance to a bunch of restaurants. I really enjoyed a relaxing time in Monterey at Hotel Pacific.
Reviewed on 14 Jan 2026
Merritt House Hotel
Everything was great and satisfactory.
Reviewed on 5 Jan 2026
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
From desk personnel where A+, room clean and spacious
Reviewed on 11 Jan 2026
The Monterey Hotel
Amazing hotel, staff were super helpful and lovely. Hotel location is right in the middle of town with loads of eating and wine bars next to it.
Reviewed on 8 Jan 2026
Hyatt Carmel Highlands
Gorgeous view and great room!
Reviewed on 10 Jan 2026
Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa
Room was clean. Carpet in hallways look wore out and dirty
Reviewed on 11 Jan 2026
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.
