Old Monterey Travel Guide
Monterey
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.
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
Luxury, leisure and nature come together at this historic sardine-canning district, which is one of Monterey’s most acclaimed recreational areas.
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.
Things to do
Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Big Sur PCH Highway 1
Half Day Private Big Sur Driving Tour in California
Monterey: Monterey Bay Dolphin and Whale Watching Boat Tour
Monterey: Whale Watching Tour with A Marine Guide
Monterey: Treasure Hunt The Ride - Ticket + Power-Up Combo
Monterey Bay: Whale Watching Tour
Top hotels in Old Monterey
Merritt House Hotel
Very cute room, friendly staff, great location
Reviewed on 28 Oct 2025
Hotel Pacific
Ok
Reviewed on 27 Oct 2025
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
The room was spotless and very comfortable. All staff were friendly and welcoming and helpful.
Reviewed on 1 Nov 2025
The Monterey Hotel
Very nice stay.
Reviewed on 25 Oct 2025
Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa
Ideal location along Cannery Row. The rooms were immaculate, spacious, and comfortable. Staff at the hotel were friendly and accommodating. We dined twice at Schooners—once for lunch and once for dinner. The meals were delicious and plentiful. The outdoor setting was very comfortable. I recommend ...
Reviewed on 28 Oct 2025
Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa
Clean, well appointed room, comfortable mattress and pillows, solid WiFi, and large TVs. Vanity space was lacking. Restaurant prices were high but service and food were good. Biggest complaint was the near-$200 in resort fees and parking. This has always been a reputable property in Monterey, but ...
Reviewed on 25 Oct 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.
