Old Monterey
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.
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.
Things to do
Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Big Sur PCH Highway 1
Monterey: Treasure Hunt The Ride - Ticket + Power-Up Combo
Historic Cannery Row: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of John Steinbeck's Monterey
Monterey: Whale Watching Tour with A Marine Guide
Monterey and 17 Mile Drive: Half-Day Electric Bike Rental
Top hotels in Old Monterey
Hotel Pacific
Hotel Pacific is perfectly situated in downtown Monterey, just a short walk from Fisherman’s Wharf, great restaurants, and whale watching tours—ideal for exploring without needing a car everywhere. We stayed in a Junior Suite, which was very spacious with nice touches like a private outdoor patio, ...
Reviewed on 4 Jan 2026
Merritt House Hotel
Cute place to stay! We loved the fireplace and cozy charm.
Reviewed on 31 Dec 2025
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
We love our stays at the Portola Hotel- close to everything- we can walk to eat, or see the bay or wildlife. We also really like the open area first floor- great place to hang out, work, eat or drink.
Reviewed on 8 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
This hotel has a beautiful scenery. The service was excellent. I would love to come back.
Reviewed on 22 Dec 2025
Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa
Staff courteous Facility clean
Reviewed on 4 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.
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.
