Lighthouse District Travel Guide
Monterey
Visit Lighthouse District
Popular places to visit
Cannery Row
Luxury, leisure and nature come together at this historic sardine-canning district, which is one of Monterey’s most acclaimed recreational areas.
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.
WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca
You can take time to visit WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca during your travels to Monterey. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the seafood restaurants while you're in the area.
Munras Avenue
Take the family on an outing to Munras Avenue during your trip to Monterey. Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
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
Historic Cannery Row: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of John Steinbeck's Monterey
Monterey: Catamaran Sailing Cruise
Monterey Bay: Sunset Catamaran Sailing Cruise
Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Big Sur PCH Highway 1
Top hotels in Lighthouse District
Victorian Inn
"It was a cozy inn."
Reviewed on 22 Jun 2026
Cannery Row Inn
"The hotel is a little older, and they've tried to update it, but its still slightly dated. The staff was super helpful when we checked in. They also have an amazing coffee machine in the lobby. You cannot beat the area as well. 15 min walk to the warf and 15 minutes walk to the aquarium. The best ..."
Reviewed on 24 Jun 2026
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
"Good food, clean room"
Reviewed on 24 Jun 2026
Carmel Mission Inn
"Beautiful hotel and very well maintained. The decoration is very nice!"
Reviewed on 24 Jun 2026
Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa
"Great hotel, really enjoyed our stay. The room was huge and very comfortable. Quick walk to the Aquarium. The onsite restaurant was very good, tables right on the water. They have live music every night in the lounge, with a counter service bar. It was a nice way to end the day. Would definitely ..."
Reviewed on 24 Jun 2026
Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa
"I loved purified water and ice machine on each floor. Simple, but so useful."
Reviewed on 24 Jun 2026
Check Lighthouse District hotel availability
Where to stay in Lighthouse District
Downtown Monterey
The pristine beaches and popular aquarium are top of the list for many visitors to Downtown Monterey. A stop by Monterey State Beach or Dennis the Menace Playground might round out your trip.
New Monterey
If you're spending some time in New Monterey, Cannery Row and San Carlos Beach - The Breakwater are top sights worth seeing.
Monterey Vista
While Monterey Vista isn't home to many top sights, Fisherman's Wharf and Cannery Row are some notable places to visit nearby.
Old Monterey
Old Monterey is a destination visitors seek out for its pristine beaches, ample dining options and popular aquarium. You might also want to check out attractions like Waterfront or Monterey State Historic Park while you're exploring the neighbourhood.
Alta Mesa
While visiting Alta Mesa, you might make a stop by sights like Munras Avenue and Del Monte Shopping Center.
