Lighthouse District Travel Guide
Monterey



Visit Lighthouse District
Popular places to visit

Cannery Row
Luxury, leisure and nature come together at this historic sardine-canning district, which is one of Monterey’s most acclaimed recreational areas.

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
You can take time to visit WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca during your travels to Monterey. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the seafood restaurants while you're in the area.

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

Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Big Sur PCH Highway 1

Monterey: Monterey Bay Dolphin and Whale Watching Boat Tour

Half Day Private Big Sur Driving Tour in California

Monterey: Treasure Hunt The Ride - Ticket + Power-Up Combo

Monterey Bay: Sunset Catamaran Sailing Cruise

Monterey Bay: Whale Watching Tour
Top hotels in Lighthouse District

Victorian Inn
Spacious room with fireplace. Cannery Row and Acquarium walking distance.
Reviewed on 9 Mar 2026

Cannery Row Inn
Yes lots of shops near by, and no the patio was nice but did not have a nice view.
Reviewed on 9 Mar 2026

Wave Street Inn
Nice modern rooms but too small for more than a day's stay. Wish that the pillows were more comfortable though, the pillows in our room was flat and lumpy. Location and view was great. It's an 8 minute walk to the aquarium. Should have read the fine print re: parking because it is not free, you have ...
Reviewed on 8 Mar 2026

Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
I have stayed here a few times...the last 10 years ago. Property is just as lovely with updated rooms and a very kind staff.
Reviewed on 7 Mar 2026

The Monterey Hotel
The hotel is centrally located to restaurants, bars and the Convention center
Reviewed on 9 Mar 2026

Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa
Excellent
Reviewed on 9 Mar 2026
Check Lighthouse District hotel availability
Other neighbourhoods around Lighthouse District

New Monterey
If you're spending some time in New Monterey, Cannery Row and San Carlos Beach - The Breakwater 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 Perry House 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.

Monterey Vista
While Monterey Vista isn't home to many top sights, Munras Avenue and Del Monte Shopping Center 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.
