Visit Lighthouse District
Popular places to visit
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.
Golden State Theatre
Sit back, relax and enjoy the show at Monterey’s legendary movie palace, which has been delighting theatergoers since 1926.
Things to do
Monterey: Monterey Bay Dolphin and Whale Watching Boat Tour
Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Big Sur PCH Highway 1
Half Day Private Big Sur Driving Tour in California
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 Lighthouse District
Cannery Row Inn
Beautiful room for the price!! Right off Cannery Row and your can’t get much better than that. If I’m being bit-picky, the hotel could use some renovations but I don’t judge based on that. It’s clean, nicely maintained, has covered parking (there is a fee), contactless check in/out, and walkable ...
Reviewed on 14 Nov 2025
Holiday Inn Express Monterey-Cannery Row by IHG
This hotel located in a convenient place. It is also a high quality hotel.
Reviewed on 12 Nov 2025
Wave Street Inn
good location
Reviewed on 19 Nov 2025
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
Clean room, bathroom was a little worn down, staff was great, didn’t get to try their breakfast or bar. Would stay here again.
Reviewed on 20 Nov 2025
The Monterey Hotel
Clean. Good location. Friendly staff
Reviewed on 17 Nov 2025
Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa
Great room with beautiful view of the Monterey Bay! Nothing beats falling asleep to the seals barking :)
Reviewed on 14 Nov 2025
Other neighbourhoods around Lighthouse District
New Monterey
If you're spending some time in New Monterey, Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row 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 Monterey State Historic Park 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.
Alta Mesa
While visiting Alta Mesa, you might make a stop by sights like Munras Avenue and Del Monte Shopping Center.
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.
