Good to know: Visit and neighborhood recommendations in Monterey Monterey captivates visitors with its dramatic coastal scenery, marine life, and deeply rooted literary and fishing history. Guests can wander past tide pools, spot sea otters in the bay, and enjoy the fresh catch at Old Fisherman’s Wharf. The city has a relaxed yet refined atmosphere shaped by its creative legacy. Monterey invites you to experience California's coast in a meaningful and memorable way. Where to look for an Airbnb in Monterey Cannery Row Cannery Row is Monterey’s most iconic waterfront district, lined with former sardine factories now transformed into shops, galleries, and restaurants. Guests can find vacation rentals and Airbnbs in Cannery Row with bay views, walking access to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, and oceanfront balconies. The area is lively, tourist-friendly, and rich in history and coastal charm. Downtown Monterey Centered around Alvarado Street, Downtown Monterey offers walkable access to local cafés, historic sites, and cultural venues like the Golden State Theatre. Rentals in Downtown Monterey include modern apartments, boutique-style Airbnbs, and short-term flats perfect for business or leisure travelers. The downtown area feels urban yet relaxed, with a mix of old and new architecture. Pacific Grove Just northwest of Monterey, Pacific Grove boasts Victorian homes, quiet neighborhoods, and a scenic stretch of coastline ideal for coastal walks and whale watching. Visitors can stay in seaside cottages, charming Airbnbs, and heritage homes close to Asilomar Beach. This area is more residential and peaceful, offering a slower pace. Pacific Grove is ideal for romantic getaways and nature enthusiasts. Carmel Hill / Skyline Forest Tucked inland with sweeping views of the bay, Carmel Hill and Skyline Forest offer luxury homes, forested trails, and privacy just minutes from downtown. Vacation rentals in Carmel Hill include elegant Airbnbs with decks, fireplaces, and secluded patios surrounded by trees. This area suits travelers looking for tranquility and space. Del Monte Beach Area Just south of the city center, the Del Monte Beach area offers sandy shores, beachfront trails, and relaxed neighborhoods. Guests can find beachside Airbnbs, casual bungalows, and family-friendly homes within walking distance to the surf. The beach is quieter than others nearby and perfect for sunrise strolls. What to do if you spend a vacation in Monterey Monterey Bay Aquarium Renowned worldwide, the Monterey Bay Aquarium sits right on the edge of the ocean and features massive tanks, interactive exhibits, and research-backed marine conservation programs. Visitors can see jellyfish, sea otters, and open-sea displays that mimic natural habitats. The aquarium is a must-see highlight of Monterey. Old Fisherman’s Wharf A hub of restaurants, whale-watching tours, and souvenir shops, Old Fisherman’s Wharf combines seafood delights with stunning ocean views. Guests can dine on clam chowder, book a sailing trip, or watch seals and pelicans from the pier. The atmosphere is lively and classic California. 17-Mile Drive One of the most scenic coastal routes in the country, 17-Mile Drive offers panoramic views of cliffs, beaches, and cypress trees. Visitors can drive, bike, or walk the route with stops at iconic points like the Lone Cypress and Spanish Bay. The road links Monterey with Pebble Beach and Carmel. Lovers Point Park Located in Pacific Grove, Lovers Point Park is a small but picturesque park with picnic lawns, tide pools, and a beach cove perfect for kayaking. The area is popular with families, couples, and sunrise watchers. Visitors often rent bikes to explore the trail linking the park to Cannery Row. Monterey State Historic Park This collection of historic buildings tells the story of early California under Spanish, Mexican, and American rule. Monterey State Historic Park includes adobe homes, gardens, and the Custom House, the oldest government building in California. Guests can take guided tours or walk through at their own pace. Asilomar State Beach A favorite for scenic walks, tide pooling, and sunsets, Asilomar State Beach offers a wide sandy stretch framed by dunes and boardwalks. Visitors can explore marine life at low tide or enjoy the crashing surf from bluffs above. The beach is usually uncrowded and very photogenic. Dennis the Menace Park This large, creative playground is located in El Estero Park and offers bridges, climbing structures, and a real locomotive for kids to explore. Dennis the Menace Park is great for families traveling with children. The park also includes paddle boat rentals and a serene lake nearby. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve Just south of Monterey, Point Lobos is a coastal reserve known for hiking trails, wildflowers, and dramatic ocean views. Guests can spot sea lions, whales, and seabirds along cliffside paths and coves. The reserve is well-maintained with limited parking to preserve its tranquility. Where to find a vacation rental near Monterey Carmel-by-the-Sea, California Just 10 minutes south, Carmel-by-the-Sea is known for its fairy-tale cottages, upscale galleries, and white-sand beaches. Booking a vacation rental in Carmel-by-the-Sea, such as a boutique-style cottage or storybook home, adds luxury and charm. Its walkable streets filled with art and cuisine make it the perfect romantic or arts-focused extension of a Monterey trip. Big Sur, California About an hour south, Big Sur is famed for its rugged coastline, redwoods, and the dramatic Bixby Bridge. Enjoying time in a vacation rental in Big Sur, from cliffside cabins to eco-lodges nestled in nature, brings a sense of retreat and awe. The region adds breathtaking beauty to any coastal itinerary. Santa Cruz, California Just 45 minutes north, Santa Cruz blends surf culture, a vintage boardwalk, and a youthful university-town spirit. Staying in a vacation rental in Santa Cruz, like a beachside bungalow or surf-themed loft, gives travelers energy and fun. The city contrasts Monterey’s quiet elegance with movement and color. Salinas, California Only 30 minutes inland, Salinas combines agricultural heritage with literary significance through its ties to John Steinbeck. Resting in a house in Salinas, perhaps a ranch-style home near vineyards or a historic downtown apartment, adds rustic calm. Salinas offers a thoughtful and rural counterpoint to coastal Monterey. Marina, California Just 20 minutes north, Marina is a quiet town offering beachfront dunes, open skies, and access to Fort Ord Dunes State Park. Choosing a vacation rental in Marina, such as a modern condo or family home by the water, ensures peace and proximity to nature. Marina is a scenic, laid-back companion to the Monterey coastline. Explore coastal charms and marine wonders in the United States This destination offers an incredible opportunity to delve into the mesmerizing world of marine life observation, with its abundant sea creatures and the iconic aquarium that provides an unparalleled glimpse into the local marine ecosystem. To further enrich your experience, consider exploring the Dana Point airbnb options, known for its fantastic whale watching and vibrant harbor life. Not to be missed are the places to stay near Monterey Bay, where the bay’s magnificent views and diverse aquatic life never cease to captivate visitors. For those who cherish the allure of coastal towns, there’s plenty to discover beyond this location. Delve into the charm of the Eastern seaboard with airbnb options in Chincoteague, famed for its wild ponies and tranquil beaches. Down south, the vacation rentals in Georgetown, SC offer a taste of Southern hospitality amid historic streets and scenic waterfronts. Alternatively, head to the Midwest for a unique lakeside experience with vacation rentals in Sheboygan, where you can enjoy the beauty of Lake Michigan’s shores alongside local arts and culinary delights.