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.
Cannery Row
Renamed after John Steinbeck’s Cannery Row, this historic area has transformed since the gritty industrial days described in the book.
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.
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.
Activities
Monterey: Whale Watching Tour with A Marine Guide
Monterey Bay: Whale Watching Tour
Monterey: Catamaran Sailing Cruise
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
Merritt House Hotel
It was conveniently located close to downtown. Breakfast is simple, pasties, bagels and coffee. Parking not included.
Reviewed on 29 Nov 2025
Hotel Pacific
I would’ve given a 5 star review but ….we were told to use a certain elevator, possibly the only elevator that takes us to our room on the third floor, but it was “out of service”. My husband is 73 and carried a lot of luggage up 3 flights of stairs. I feel more communication between staff and guests ...
Reviewed on 25 Nov 2025
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
Room was very clean, spacious and had a great harbor view. The staff at the Portola were friendly and professional. Jacks restaurant was a wonderful place to eat dinner and breakfast. We will be back again!
Reviewed on 30 Nov 2025
The Monterey Hotel
Cute hotel, very helpful staff
Reviewed on 26 Nov 2025
Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa
Great location and very nice hotel
Reviewed on 24 Nov 2025
Hyatt Carmel Highlands
View restaurant great
Reviewed on 27 Nov 2025
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 Monterey State Beach or Golden State Theatre 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 Monterey State Beach.
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.
