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.
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
Luxury, leisure and nature come together at this historic sardine-canning district, which is one of Monterey’s most acclaimed recreational areas.
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: Treasure Hunt The Ride - Ticket + Power-Up Combo
Monterey: Whale Watching Tour with A Marine Guide
Historic Cannery Row: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of John Steinbeck's Monterey
Top hotels in Lighthouse District
Victorian Inn
The breakfast was great and the free wine hour in the evening was extraordinarly unique to my hotel experiences.
Reviewed on 6 Jan 2026
Cannery Row Inn
Great location, easy check in. Fireplace room is nice and love the balcony. Parking is paid but that’s fine as it’s listed on the booking page.
Reviewed on 6 Jan 2026
Wave Street Inn
The location is great, this is close to the Aquarium. We were able to walk everywhere but fora small fee there is a bus to use. Very pleasant staff. Room was clean.
Reviewed on 8 Jan 2026
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
Great staff and a beautiful well priced gem
Reviewed on 6 Jan 2026
The Monterey Hotel
Staff is very friendly and the building is historic. Bathrooms are very good
Reviewed on 2 Jan 2026
Hyatt Carmel Highlands
Absolutely fantastic views. Room was incredible and the staff were outstanding making our stay perfect. Looking forward to a return trip.
Reviewed on 5 Jan 2026
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 Colton Hall Museum 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 Golden State Theatre or Munras Avenue 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 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.
Alta Mesa
While visiting Alta Mesa, you might make a stop by sights like Munras Avenue and Del Monte Shopping Center.
