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
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 Old Monterey
Hotel Pacific
Great room and clean
Reviewed on 13 Nov 2025
Merritt House Hotel
Great rooms, lovely staff, very convenient location particularly for the convention center.
Reviewed on 12 Nov 2025
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
Great staff and very accomodating. Very clean, enjoyed our stay!
Reviewed on 13 Nov 2025
The Monterey Hotel
The hotel was great the beds were comfortable and it was close to the venue and Monterey bay aquarium. Plenty of Restraunts in walking distance from hotel. Mostly peaceful after 11. Just don’t go when they have there marathon you will here noise all night long.
Reviewed on 14 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
Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa
Suite was so great! So large with 2 bathrooms and 2 patios. Great view on the 17th hole. Staff was so welcoming and accommodating. Lobby & bar is beautiful. Pool and hot tub were great temps. Gym was large for a hotel and hand everything you’d need. The free s’mores box and fire pits were such a ...
Reviewed on 14 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.
