Where to Stay in Monterey: Coastal calm, luxurious pampering, and California flavor

Location:

Carmel, CA

Highlights:

Dreaming of a place that feels like its own little world? Carmel Valley Ranch sprawls across 500 scenic acres, blending luxury, adventure, and relaxation for guests of all ages.

We Recommend This For:

Couples, families, wellness seekers, corporate retreats, and anyone looking for an all-suite experience in a natural setting.

What we Love:

All-suite accommodations with private decks and fireplaces, endless activities, treetop spa, farm-to-table cuisine, and artisan experiences galore.

• Stay in spacious studio to four-bedroom suites with fireplaces, deep soaking tubs, private decks, Nespresso machines, plush robes, and aromatherapy amenities.
• Play across the resort with options like golf, tennis, hatchet throwing, bocce, birdwatching, and a full schedule of crafts and demonstrations.
• Relax at Spa Aiyana, perched among the trees and offering signature treatments like HydraFacials and immersive wellness experiences.
• Dine on award-winning local and organic cuisine made with produce grown right on the ranch.
• Discover unique flavors at the Artisans Workbench—sample ranch goat cheese, infused honey, hand-churned ice cream, oysters, and s’mores by the fire.
• Unwind while kids enjoy their own adventures with dedicated children’s programming and summer camps.

Address:

One Old Ranch Road, Carmel, California
Phone: 855-687-7262

Location:

Monterey, CA

Highlights:

Craving coastal luxury with sweeping ocean views and spa indulgence? Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa brings the best of Monterey together with elevated comfort, wellness, and seaside elegance.

We Recommend This For:

Couples, wellness travelers, families, and anyone looking for an upscale oceanfront retreat in the heart of Cannery Row.

What we Love:

Ocean-view suites, rooftop spa with salt therapy, family-friendly terrace with hot tubs, and curated guest experiences led by expert Coastal Curators.

• Stay in refined rooms with pillow-top mattresses, marble bathrooms, Zents spa products, Keurig machines, fiber-optic Wi-Fi, and nightly turndown service. Suites offer balconies, whirlpools, fireplaces, and wet bars.
• Relax at the newly enhanced Vista Blue Spa, featuring Himalayan Salt Halotherapy and couple’s treatments designed for deep restoration.
• Unwind on the rooftop terrace with oversized hot tubs, sun loungers, and breathtaking ocean views—perfect for families or solo time.
• Explore Monterey with personalized itineraries created by the hotel’s Coastal Curators, plus complimentary bikes and shuttle service.
• Enjoy dining at Schooners Coastal Kitchen & Bar, where fresh, sustainable seafood meets panoramic Pacific views.
• Delight in thoughtful extras like complimentary newspapers, shoeshine, dry cleaning, and valet parking with in-and-out privileges.

Address:

400 Cannery Row, Monterey, California
Phone: 831-920-6710

Location:

Carmel, CA

Highlights:

Want a serene California escape with a strong dose of style and zero resort fees? Quail Lodge & Golf Club blends ranch-inspired comfort with championship golf, great food, and luxe amenities—all tucked into the scenic Carmel Valley.

We Recommend This For:

Golfers, couples, wellness travelers, families, and pet owners looking for a peaceful yet activity-rich retreat.

What we Love:

No resort fee, championship golf, California ranch-style suites, heated pool, and elevated dining at Waypoint Bar + Kitchen.

• Stay in spacious rooms and suites featuring fireplaces, balconies, dining areas, or vaulted ceilings—plus mini-fridges, Wi-Fi, iPod docks, and HDTVs.
• Play a round on the award-winning golf course, fine-tune your skills at the golf academy, or relax on the nine-hole putting green.
• Unwind year-round in the heated outdoor pool, book a massage, or refresh in the wellness center’s steam room and fitness area.
• Enjoy games like tennis, pickleball, or bocce, or head out for self-guided hikes, off-road driving adventures, and scenic motoring rallies.
• Dine indoors or out at Waypoint Bar + Kitchen, offering fresh, farm-to-fork dishes and laid-back California hospitality.
• Bring your pet or request extras like a rollaway bed—Quail Lodge is all about flexible comfort without the added fees.

Address:

8205 Valley Greens Drive, Carmel, California
Phone: 866-675-1101

Romantic Monterey Hotels:

Location:

Marina, CA

Highlights:

Want to wake up steps from the sand with ocean views and a fireplace in your room? Sanctuary Beach Resort delivers cozy coastal luxury across 19 acres of shoreline, where relaxation and nature go hand in hand.

We Recommend This For:

Couples, families, pet owners, wellness seekers, and anyone looking for a peaceful oceanfront retreat with thoughtful extras.

What we Love:

Private beach access, sunset bonfires, L’Occitane bath products, ocean-view decks, and weekend artist-led workshops.

• Stay in cottage-style rooms or suites with fireplaces, binoculars for whale watching, Keurig machines, wet bars, and L’Occitane amenities—many with private patios or decks overlooking the ocean.
• Relax with treatments at the on-site spa, swim in the heated outdoor pool, or unwind at nightly wine and cheese tastings.
• Explore the surrounding dunes on a complimentary bike or enjoy a coastal hike right from the resort’s doorstep.
• Dine at Salt Wood Kitchen & Oysterette for seasonal New American cuisine or grab fresh fare from the market.
• Enjoy extras like bocce ball, connecting room options, pay-per-view movies, MP3 docks, and pet-friendly accommodations.
• Discover local culture through artist workshops and weekend demonstrations featured right at the resort.

Address:

3295 Dunes Drive, Marina, California
Phone: 855-693-6583

Location:

Carmel Valley, CA

Highlights:

Want to escape to Wine Country in total luxury? Bernardus Lodge & Spa offers a serene, upscale retreat in the Carmel Valley, where vineyard views, plush suites, and garden-inspired spa treatments await.

We Recommend This For:

Couples, honeymooners, wine lovers, and anyone seeking a luxurious, restorative experience in California's Carmel Valley.

What we Love:

Copper soaking tubs, private patios with hot tubs, two fireplaces per suite, and seasonal cuisine made with ingredients grown onsite.

• Stay in deluxe guest rooms, spacious suites, or full villas—each with king beds, fireplaces, wet bars, double vanities, and soaking tubs. Villas include two bedrooms and expansive layouts perfect for entertaining or relaxing in total privacy.
• Indulge in the Spa’s garden-to-treatment experience, with a eucalyptus steam room, dry sauna, warming pool, and customizable treatments for body and soul.
• Dine at Lucia Restaurant & Bar, where fresh produce from the 28-acre property fuels a rotating seasonal menu.
• Unwind in suites with extras like fire pits, lounge chairs, heated bathroom floors, and balconies with dining tables under the stars.
• Enjoy Bernardus’ warm, refined hospitality in the heart of Wine Country—ideal for romantic weekends, special occasions, or simply reconnecting with nature and luxury.

Address:

415 West Carmel Valley Road, Carmel Valley, California
Phone: 831-658-3400

Unique Monterey Hotels:

Location:

Monterey, CA

Highlights:

Want to wake up to waves and panoramic Pacific views right outside your window? InterContinental The Clement Monterey blends oceanfront elegance with top-tier amenities and coastal charm—perfect for both relaxing getaways and special occasions.

We Recommend This For:

Couples, families, pet travelers, wellness seekers, and business guests looking for a luxurious waterfront stay on Cannery Row.

What we Love:

Ocean-view balconies, deep soaking tubs, tranquil spa treatments, private boardwalk, and unbeatable location along the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail.

• Stay in spacious guest rooms or suites with plasma TVs, Nespresso machines, soaking tubs, and writing desks—many with private balconies and sweeping ocean views.
• Relax at the serene Spa at The Clement with massages, body therapies, and holistic wellness treatments.
• Explore the hotel’s own boardwalk and pier, or walk or bike the scenic coastal trail just outside your door.
• Dine at C Restaurant + Bar, where fresh seafood, local produce, and coastal views create a memorable culinary experience.
• Enjoy thoughtful extras like valet and self-parking, dry cleaning, children’s activities, babysitting, and pet-friendly rooms.
• Host or attend events in expansive, elegant meeting spaces with easy access to local attractions and the water's edge.

Address:

750 Cannery Row, Monterey, California
Phone: 831-375-4500

Location:

Monterey, CA

Highlights:

Want comfort, coastal charm, and warm cookies at check-in? Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay blends eco-luxury with family-friendly perks and a central location—ideal for relaxing or exploring Monterey.

We Recommend This For:

Couples, families, wellness travelers, and pet owners looking for upscale accommodations with personalized touches and resort-style amenities.

What we Love:

Homemade cookies on arrival, eco-friendly details, pet-friendly options, Monterey’s original brewpub, and multiple on-site dining options.

• Stay in beautifully designed rooms with pillow-top mattresses, flat-screen TVs, Keurig coffeemakers, eco-toiletries, ceiling fans, and optional upgrades like connecting rooms or custom pillow selections.
• Unwind by the heated outdoor pool, soak in the whirlpool, or relax in your own private poolside cabana.
• Recharge with spa treatments at the Spa on the Plaza or a workout in the 24-hour fitness center.
• Explore the property’s on-site galleries, shops, wine lounges, and the nearby waterfront, all just steps from your room.
• Dine at The Club Room, Peet’s Coffee, Jacks Monterey, or Peter B’s Brewpub—the first craft brewery in town, known for local brews and fresh fare.
• Enjoy thoughtful extras like concierge service, bike rentals, turn-down service, and hypoallergenic bedding—plus dog beds and accessories upon request.

Address:

Two Portola Plaza, Monterey, California
Phone: 831-649-4511