Old Monterey Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Visit Old Monterey
Popular places to visit
Waterfront
Enjoy a trip to Waterfront and popular activities such as golfing in Monterey. Discover the area's seafood restaurants and its acclaimed art galleries.
Colton Hall Museum
Find out about the early days of Californian state rules via the displays and guides in this historic 19th-century building.
Cannery Row
Renamed after John Steinbeck’s Cannery Row, this historic area has transformed since the gritty industrial days described in the book.
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.
WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca
WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca is one of the more well-known attractions to visit during your trip to Monterey. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the seafood restaurants while you're in the area.
Activities
Monterey: Whale Watching Tour with A Marine Guide
Monterey Bay: Whale Watching Tour
Monterey: Catamaran Sailing Cruise
Monterey Bay: Sunset Catamaran Sailing Cruise
Monterey: Treasure Hunt The Ride - Ticket + Power-Up Combo
Monterey's 17 Mile Drive Guided Electric Bike Tour, 3 hr
Our pick of the best Old Monterey Hotel Deals
Hotel Pacific
"Great central location. Walking distance to a lot of places. We loved it for our family’s quick getaway."
Reviewed on 11 June 2026
Merritt House Hotel
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
"Beautiful property and great location."
Reviewed on 11 June 2026
Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa
"Beautiful hotel with incredible views! The staff was incredibly attentive."
Reviewed on 7 June 2026
Carmel Mission Inn
"It was ok."
Reviewed on 11 June 2026
The Monterey Hotel
"The King Suite rooms with fireplaces are wonderful. Very spacious, we could stay there for a long time. The location is perfect and walking distance to fisherman’s wharf and many good restaurants. The free trolly stop is just around the corner and so easy to use. Only a mile and a half from the Aquarium. ..."
Reviewed on 11 June 2026
Our guide on where to stay in Old Monterey
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.
New Monterey
If you're spending some time in New Monterey, Cannery Row and San Carlos Beach - The Breakwater are top sights worth seeing.
Monterey Vista
While Monterey Vista isn't home to many top sights, Cannery Row 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.
Alta Mesa
While visiting Alta Mesa, you might make a stop by sights like Munras Avenue and Del Monte Shopping Center.
