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The Ultimate Guide to Hotels Near Monterey Bay Aquarium: Top Picks for Every Traveler


Monterey Bay Aquarium


Planning a trip to the stunning Monterey Bay Aquarium? One of the top attractions on California’s central coast, this world-renowned aquarium draws visitors from around the globe with its fascinating marine exhibits and breathtaking ocean views. To make your visit truly memorable, staying at a nearby hotel can offer convenience, comfort, and an array of amenities to enhance your experience. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best hotels near Monterey Bay Aquarium, helping you find the perfect accommodation for your needs.

Why Visit Monterey Bay Aquarium?

The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a must-see destination for ocean enthusiasts and families alike. Here are a few reasons why it should be on your travel list:

  • World-Class Exhibits: Featuring a wide range of marine life, including sea otters, sharks, and the mesmerizing Open Sea exhibit.

  • Interactive Experiences: Hands-on exhibits and educational programs for all ages.

  • Stunning Location: Situated on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, offering beautiful coastal views.

  • Conservation Efforts: Committed to ocean conservation and education, making it a visit that supports a good cause.

Top Luxury Hotels Near Monterey Bay Aquarium

For those seeking an indulgent and luxurious stay, these hotels offer exceptional service, high-end amenities, and close proximity to the aquarium.

Located just a short walk from the aquarium, Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa combines luxury with stunning ocean views. This hotel is perfect for those looking to enjoy a lavish getaway.

  • Elegant Rooms: Featuring ocean or garden views, with plush bedding and modern amenities.

  • Spa: Full-service spa offering a range of treatments.

  • Dining: Two on-site restaurants, including Schooners Coastal Kitchen & Bar with panoramic ocean views.

  • Amenities: Fitness center, rooftop whirlpool tubs, and complimentary Wi-Fi.

  • Proximity to Aquarium: Less than a 10-minute walk to Monterey Bay Aquarium.

2. InterContinental The Clement Monterey

InterContinental The Clement Monterey offers a blend of modern luxury and comfort, located right on Cannery Row, steps away from the aquarium.

  • Luxurious Rooms: Spacious rooms with contemporary decor, some with ocean views and fireplaces.

  • Dining: The C Restaurant + Bar serves fresh, sustainable seafood with an oceanfront setting.

  • Amenities: Outdoor pool, full-service spa, and fitness center.

  • Event Spaces: Ideal for weddings and corporate events with stunning ocean views.

  • Proximity to Aquarium: A 5-minute walk to the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

The Spindrift Inn offers an intimate and romantic experience, with European-style charm and close proximity to the aquarium.

  • Charming Rooms: Elegant rooms with ocean views, fireplaces, and canopy beds.

  • Complimentary Amenities: Continental breakfast delivered to your room, wine and cheese reception.

  • Dining: Close to several dining options along Cannery Row.

  • Activities: Access to nearby biking and walking trails.

  • Proximity to Aquarium: Just a 5-minute walk to Monterey Bay Aquarium.

Best Mid-Range Hotels Near Monterey Bay Aquarium

Balancing comfort and affordability, these mid-range hotels provide excellent value and convenience.

1. Best Western Plus Victorian Inn

Best Western Plus Victorian Inn offers a comfortable stay with Victorian-style charm and modern amenities, just steps away from the aquarium.

  • Comfortable Rooms: Spacious rooms with fireplaces and private patios or balconies.

  • Amenities: Complimentary breakfast, evening wine and cheese reception, and free Wi-Fi.

  • Family-Friendly: Family suites available and pet-friendly rooms.

  • Dining: Within walking distance to numerous restaurants and cafes.

  • Proximity to Aquarium: A 7-minute walk to Monterey Bay Aquarium.

2. Holiday Inn Express Monterey-Cannery Row

Holiday Inn Express Monterey-Cannery Row offers a convenient and budget-friendly stay, perfect for families and business travelers alike.

  • Modern Rooms: Comfortable rooms with modern amenities and free Wi-Fi.

  • Complimentary Breakfast: Hot breakfast included in your stay.

  • Amenities: Business center, fitness room, and complimentary evening reception.

  • Location: Close to Cannery Row shops and restaurants.

  • Proximity to Aquarium: A 6-minute walk to Monterey Bay Aquarium.

Cannery Row Inn provides a budget-friendly option with cozy accommodations and a convenient location near the aquarium.

  • Comfortable Rooms: Simple yet comfortable rooms, some with partial ocean views and balconies.

  • Amenities: Free continental breakfast and parking.

  • Family-Friendly: Rooms available for families and larger groups.

  • Location: Easy access to Cannery Row attractions and dining.

  • Proximity to Aquarium: A 10-minute walk to Monterey Bay Aquarium.

Budget-Friendly Hotels Near Monterey Bay Aquarium

Travelers on a budget can still enjoy the convenience of staying near the aquarium without breaking the bank. These budget-friendly hotels offer great value and comfortable accommodations.

Lone Oak Lodge provides affordable and comfortable accommodations with a variety of room options to suit different needs.

  • Varied Accommodations: Standard rooms, suites, and cottages available.

  • Amenities: Hot tub, sauna, and dive gear rinse area for divers.

  • Family-Friendly: Family suites and pet-friendly rooms.

  • Dining: Close to various dining options in Monterey.

  • Proximity to Aquarium: About a 10-minute drive to Monterey Bay Aquarium.

Monterey Bay Lodge offers comfortable accommodations at a budget-friendly price, just a short drive from the aquarium.

  • Cozy Rooms: Comfortable rooms with modern amenities and free Wi-Fi.

  • Amenities: Outdoor heated pool, hot tub, and complimentary parking.

  • Dining: On-site restaurant, plus nearby dining options.

  • Family-Friendly: Rooms with multiple beds available.

  • Proximity to Aquarium: About a 5-minute drive to Monterey Bay Aquarium.

El Castell Motel offers clean and comfortable accommodations at an affordable rate, perfect for budget-conscious travelers.

  • Simple Rooms: Clean, basic rooms with modern amenities and free Wi-Fi.

  • Amenities: Indoor heated pool, complimentary breakfast, and free parking.

  • Family-Friendly: Rooms with multiple beds and cribs available.

  • Dining: Close to various restaurants and cafes.

  • Proximity to Aquarium: About a 10-minute drive to Monterey Bay Aquarium.

Family-Friendly Hotels Near Monterey Bay Aquarium

Traveling with kids? These family-friendly hotels offer spacious accommodations and kid-friendly amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay offers a luxurious yet family-friendly experience with a range of amenities to keep everyone entertained.

  • Spacious Rooms: Family suites and rooms with bunk beds available.

  • Amenities: Outdoor pool, spa, fitness center, and pet-friendly rooms.

  • Dining: On-site restaurants including Peter B’s Brewpub.

  • Activities: Close to Fisherman’s Wharf and Monterey State Historic Park.

  • Proximity to Aquarium: About a 15-minute walk to Monterey Bay Aquarium.

2. Embassy Suites by Hilton Monterey Bay Seaside

Embassy Suites by Hilton Monterey Bay Seaside offers spacious accommodations and a range of amenities to ensure a fun and comfortable stay for families.

  • Two-Room Suites: Spacious suites with separate living areas and kitchenettes.

  • Complimentary Breakfast: Hot breakfast buffet and evening reception included.

  • Amenities: Indoor pool, fitness center, and pet-friendly rooms.

  • Family-Friendly: Kids’ activities and family packages available.

  • Proximity to Aquarium: About a 10-minute drive to Monterey Bay Aquarium.

3. Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa

Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa offers a family-friendly atmosphere with a range of amenities to suit all ages.

  • Comfortable Rooms: Spacious rooms and suites, some with balconies and golf course views.

  • Amenities: Outdoor pools, tennis courts, fitness center, and pet-friendly rooms.

  • Dining: Several on-site dining options, including TusCA Ristorante.

  • Activities: Access to Del Monte Golf Course and close to Dennis the Menace Park.

  • Proximity to Aquarium: About a 10-minute drive to Monterey Bay Aquarium.

Romantic Hotels Near Monterey Bay Aquarium

For couples seeking a romantic escape, these hotels offer intimate settings, luxurious amenities, and beautiful views.

Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa offers a charming and romantic retreat with Spanish-style architecture and beautiful gardens.

  • Elegant Rooms: Stylish rooms with fireplaces and garden views.

  • Spa: Full-service spa offering couples’ treatments.

  • Dining: Estéban Restaurant offers Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.

  • Activities: Close to Old Fisherman’s Wharf and downtown Monterey.

  • Proximity to Aquarium: About a 20-minute walk to Monterey Bay Aquarium.

Hotel Pacific provides a romantic and intimate atmosphere with spacious suites and beautiful views.

  • Spacious Suites: Luxurious suites with fireplaces, private balconies, and soaking tubs.

  • Complimentary Amenities: Continental breakfast, afternoon refreshments, and Wi-Fi.

  • Activities: Close to downtown Monterey attractions and beaches.

  • Proximity to Aquarium: About a 15-minute walk to Monterey Bay Aquarium. Please note that parking in the hotel garage costs extra.

The Jabberwock Inn offers a whimsical and romantic bed-and-breakfast experience with personalized service and charming decor.

  • Unique Rooms: Individually decorated rooms with private baths and garden views.

  • Amenities: Afternoon wine and hors d'oeuvres, homemade cookies, and gourmet breakfast.

  • Garden: Beautiful garden with koi pond and seating areas.

  • Activities: Close to Cannery Row and Lovers Point.

  • Proximity to Aquarium: About a 10-minute walk to Monterey Bay Aquarium.

Eco-Friendly Hotels Near Monterey Bay Aquarium

Environmentally conscious travelers will appreciate these eco-friendly hotels that prioritize sustainability and green practices.

Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay is committed to sustainability, offering eco-friendly accommodations and practices.

  • Eco-Friendly Practices: LEED® Certified, energy-efficient lighting, and water conservation programs.

  • Amenities: Outdoor pool, spa, fitness center, and pet-friendly rooms.

  • Dining: On-site restaurants serving locally sourced ingredients.

  • Activities: Close to Fisherman’s Wharf and Monterey State Historic Park.

  • Proximity to Aquarium: About a 15-minute walk to Monterey Bay Aquarium.

2. Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa

Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa emphasizes sustainability with various eco-friendly initiatives.

  • Green Practices: Energy-efficient lighting, recycling programs, and water conservation.

  • Amenities: Outdoor pools, tennis courts, fitness center, and pet-friendly rooms.

  • Dining: Several on-site dining options, including TusCA Ristorante.

  • Activities: Access to Del Monte Golf Course and close to Dennis the Menace Park.

  • Proximity to Aquarium: About a 10-minute drive to Monterey Bay Aquarium.

Hotel Abrego offers comfortable and eco-friendly accommodations with a focus on sustainability and green practices.

  • Eco-Friendly Initiatives: Energy-efficient lighting, recycling programs, and water-saving fixtures.

  • Comfortable Rooms: Stylish rooms with modern amenities and free Wi-Fi.

  • Amenities: Outdoor pool, hot tub, and fitness center.

  • Dining: Bistro Abrego offers locally sourced cuisine.

  • Activities: Close to downtown Monterey attractions and beaches.

  • Proximity to Aquarium: About a 15-minute walk to Monterey Bay Aquarium.

Tips for Booking Hotels Near Monterey Bay Aquarium

To make the most of your stay, consider these tips when booking hotels near Monterey Bay Aquarium:

  • Book Early: Hotels near the aquarium can fill up quickly, especially during peak travel seasons. Book early to secure the best rates and availability.

  • Check for Packages: Look for hotel packages that include aquarium tickets or dining vouchers to save money.

  • Read Reviews: Check online reviews to get a sense of the hotel’s quality and service.

  • Consider Location: Choose a hotel that offers easy access to the aquarium and other attractions you plan to visit.

  • Seasonal Considerations: Visit during the off-season for fewer crowds and potentially lower rates.

Conclusion

Whether you're looking for luxury, affordability, family-friendly accommodations, or eco-friendly options, the hotels near Monterey Bay Aquarium offer a variety of choices to suit every traveler's needs. By choosing the right accommodation, you'll enhance your visit to this iconic attraction, making your stay in Monterey truly memorable. Book your stay today and get ready to explore the wonders of the Monterey Bay Aquarium and the beautiful surrounding area. Like this article? Check Out Best Hotels!


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