Old Monterey Travel Guide
Monterey
Visit Old Monterey
Popular places to visit
Waterfront
Enjoy a trip to Waterfront and popular activities such as golfing in Monterey. Discover the area's seafood restaurants and its acclaimed art galleries.
Colton Hall Museum
Find out about the early days of Californian state rules via the displays and guides in this historic 19th-century building.
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.
Fisherman's Wharf
Take a whale tour, admire the ocean views from seafood restaurants and browse the souvenirs for sale in this thriving marina.
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.
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: Whale Watching Tour with A Marine Guide
Monterey Bay: Whale Watching Tour
Monterey: Treasure Hunt The Ride - Ticket + Power-Up Combo
Top hotels in Old Monterey
Hotel Pacific
"This was a wonderful property in the Monterey area. The room was very spacious and comfortable. Bathroom amenities were very nice. Staff was very helpful with dinner recommendations which were walkable. Free breakfast was generous and typical. Great Stay!"
Reviewed on 21 May 2026
Merritt House Hotel
"Expedia shows a noon check-in but in fact once I arrived the staff informed me that it was actually 3 PM but a room is available and I was allowed in at about 1220. Throughout my stay staff was extremely attentive and helpful. I love being able to have a cozy fire in the evening and the room was ..."
Reviewed on 20 May 2026
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
"Such a great property. Clean, centrally located and the staff was friendly and helpful. Definitely will be coming back!"
Reviewed on 20 May 2026
Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa
"The view from my room was great. The dinner was okay; good but not great. Staff at the restaurant were very friendly and polite. Hotel staff were very professional and polite."
Reviewed on 20 May 2026
The Monterey Hotel
"Was originally put in “historic” side of hotel that had horrible carpets that held a smell. When asked to change rooms the desk put me in another room same side same problem. So after returning to the desk and only asking if there was a room that was updated did she offer to put me in the New/modern ..."
Reviewed on 20 May 2026
Carmel Mission Inn
"No microwave"
Reviewed on 20 May 2026
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.
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, Cannery Row and San Carlos Beach - The Breakwater are top sights worth seeing.
Monterey Vista
While Monterey Vista isn't home to many top sights, Munras Avenue and Golden State Theatre are some notable places to visit nearby.
