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.
Fisherman's Wharf
Take a whale tour, admire the ocean views from seafood restaurants and browse the souvenirs for sale in this thriving marina.
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.
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: Catamaran Sailing Cruise
Monterey Bay: Sunset Catamaran Sailing Cruise
Monterey: Treasure Hunt The Ride - Ticket + Power-Up Combo
Top hotels in Old Monterey
Hotel Pacific
Was a very spacious room and we enjoyed our stay.
Reviewed on 18 Jan 2026
Merritt House Hotel
Parking was tight but a well maintained spot, very walkable to downtown amenities and the fireplace availability was a nice touch in the winter
Reviewed on 14 Jan 2026
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
Excellent service, amazing employees and exemplary guest environment overall.
Reviewed on 19 Jan 2026
The Monterey Hotel
Staff was friendly and very efficient!
Reviewed on 17 Jan 2026
Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa
Spacious rooms, friendly staff, tucked away at the end of Cannery Row so not quite as much traffic. Easy walk to all the shopping and attractions.
Reviewed on 11 Jan 2026
Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa
We had a great stay. Everyone was friendly and the rooms were clean. We will definitely be back.
Reviewed on 18 Jan 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 Golden State Theatre or Munras Avenue 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 Del Monte Golf Course.
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.
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.
