Monterey Monterey Bay Aquarium Hotels

Top reasons to visit Monterey Bay Aquarium

• Thrilling Wildlife Encounters: Experience close interactions with marine life, including opportunities for animal feedings.
• Stunning Coastal Scenery: Enjoy breathtaking views and picturesque beaches that highlight Monterey's natural beauty.
• Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in local history with visits to vineyards and historic sites nearby.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Engage in a variety of activities suitable for visitors of all ages, ensuring fun for the whole family.
• Diverse Accommodation Options: Choose from a range of lodgings, from cosy motels to upscale hotels, catering to all preferences.

Find great hotels near Monterey Bay Aquarium

Monterey Bay offers an impressive selection of accommodation options, from cosy motels to well-appointed hotels, catering to adventurous travellers, business guests, and pet owners alike. With accessible bathrooms and proximity to the stunning Monterey Bay Aquarium, you'll find the perfect base for your explorations. Whether you prefer lodging in Monterey or nearby Pacific Grove, there's something to suit every need and preference.

• Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa: This 4.5-star resort embodies a serene spa-themed retreat perfect for relaxation enthusiasts and golf lovers alike. Located 3.2km from the Monterey Bay Aquarium, the hotel offers an array of amenities designed for ultimate comfort. Guests can indulge in a full-service spa featuring massages and a hot tub, or unwind by the resort-style pool. The property is pet-friendly, allowing for a more inclusive stay with your furry companions, with various amenities tailored for pets. Enjoy the lush golf course onsite, making it ideal for those seeking an active yet tranquil getaway.
• Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay: Located just 1.6km from the aquarium, this 4-star resort is a gateway to adventure and exploration in the heart of Monterey. With its city-themed and nature-inspired design, guests can partake in thrilling activities such as kayaking, windsurfing, and snorkelling, all conveniently nearby. The hotel is situated in the city centre, providing easy access to local attractions, dining, and shopping. The spa offers rejuvenating treatments to unwind after a day of adventure, making it a fantastic choice for those looking to immerse themselves in the vibrant surroundings.
• Stargazer Inn and Suites: This charming motel, situated 3.2km from the Monterey Bay Aquarium, offers a cozy and affordable stay for budget-conscious travellers. The Stargazer Inn features modern amenities, including flat-screen and cable televisions to ensure entertainment during your stay. With its straightforward accommodations and friendly atmosphere, guests appreciate the comfortable rooms and convenient location that allows for easy exploration of the coastal beauty. Ideal for families or those looking for a simple base, this inn is a great option for a relaxed Monterey experience.

Where to stay near Monterey Bay Aquarium

Your visit to Monterey Bay Aquarium promises a delightful blend of experiences. Immerse yourself in the charm of nearby cities, where acclaimed vineyards and historic adobe buildings await. Enjoy friendly locals and a family-friendly atmosphere, perfect for creating lasting memories. Explore the stunning coastal views and embark on exciting adventures on the bay, all while soaking in the romantic vibe that defines this captivating region.

• Monterey: Nestled along California's stunning coastline, Monterey is renowned for its picturesque bay and vibrant marine life, with the famed Monterey Bay Aquarium as its crown jewel. The city offers an array of outdoor experiences, from scenic beach walks to exploring the charming Cannery Row lined with shops and restaurants. The summer months see a surge in visitors, making it an ideal time to enjoy the lively atmosphere, while the cooler winter months provide a quieter retreat to explore the local attractions, including the historic Fisherman's Wharf and beautiful coastal scenery.
• Pacific Grove: Just 1.4km from the aquarium, Pacific Grove exudes a charming coastal vibe with its stunning Victorian architecture and tranquil beaches. This quaint city is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, offering numerous parks and recreational areas, including the scenic Lovers Point Park. Peak visitor seasons occur in the spring and summer, when the area's natural beauty is in full bloom. Don't miss the chance to explore the nearby Asilomar State Beach and the breathtaking coastal trails, making Pacific Grove a serene escape for those seeking relaxation and scenic views.
• Seaside: Located 4.8km from the aquarium, Seaside is a vibrant coastal city known for its beautiful beaches and family-friendly attractions. Visitors flock here in the spring and summer months to enjoy outdoor activities like motor racing and leisurely shopping. The city's fairground provides entertainment for all ages, while the nearby beach offers sun-soaked relaxation. With its lively atmosphere and proximity to Monterey, Seaside is an excellent spot for those looking to blend adventure and leisure during their vacation.

Things to do near Monterey Bay Aquarium

Monterey Bay Aquarium offers a plethora of activities for visitors, including thrilling wildlife encounters and the chance to partake in animal feedings. For those seeking an adrenaline fix, there are various adventure tours available that showcase the natural beauty of Monterey. Additionally, nearby golf courses provide a leisurely escape, making it a perfect destination for both adventure seekers and those looking to relax amidst stunning coastal scenery.

Shopping

The nearest shopping centre is Steinbeck Plaza, only 322m from the aquarium, offering a lively mix of shops and entertainment. Just 161m away, the American Tin Cannery features a variety of stores. If you're up for a drive, explore further options at nearby locations.

Recreation

Lovers Point, a serene recreational area 1.6km from Monterey Bay Aquarium, offers a tranquil environment for relaxation. Del Monte Golf Course, located 3.2km away, invites sports enthusiasts to enjoy outdoor activities. For family fun, Dennis the Menace Playground, also 3.2km distant, provides a lively atmosphere for children.

Adventure

At WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, enjoy thrilling motor racing experiences located 12.9km from the aquarium. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Waterfront, situated 1.6km away, offers stunning views and activities. Additionally, the Monterey Tennis Center, also 1.6km away, provides exciting tennis adventures for all skill levels.

Nightlife

Experience the enchanting nightlife near Monterey Bay Aquarium with a romantic evening at the Golden State Theatre or Bruce Ariss Wharf Theater, both offering cultural performances. For a thrilling adventure, visit the Monterey Mirror Maze & Lazer Challenge, just a short stroll away, for an unforgettable night out.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Monterey Bay Aquarium

To save money during your visit to Monterey Bay Aquarium, consider travelling in March or December to January when accommodation prices are lower, especially on Tuesdays. Avoid Saturdays for the best rates. Use Expedia’s search tool to compare hotel prices and refine your choices, including eco-friendly options. Look for package deals that combine flights and hotel reservations for additional savings. While exploring the area, take advantage of affordable public transport and free activities, ensuring a memorable experience without breaking the bank.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Monterey Bay Aquarium are March and December to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to September, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Monterey Bay Aquarium is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Monterey Bay Aquarium is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels at a glance. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly accommodation options available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially reduce your expenses by combining your hotel reservation for the Monterey Bay Aquarium with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Monterey Bay Aquarium

Monterey Bay Aquarium offers a delightful array of attractions for tourists, including stunning beaches, picturesque jetties, and serene nature reserves. Visitors can immerse themselves in cultural experiences, enjoy family-friendly activities, and explore the natural beauty of the area. Whether you seek relaxation by the beach or wish to engage in enriching experiences, Monterey Bay Aquarium and its surroundings have something for everyone.

• Cannery Row: A vibrant street steeped in history, Cannery Row is famous for its charming shops, restaurants, and art galleries. Once the centre of the sardine-canning industry, it now offers a lively atmosphere with stunning views of the bay, making it a perfect spot for strolls and dining.
• Fisherman's Wharf: This bustling jetty features a delightful mix of seafood restaurants, shops, and scenic views of boats bobbing in the water. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, watch sea lions basking in the sun, or embark on whale-watching tours, offering a taste of Monterey's maritime culture.
• Carmel Beach: An exquisite stretch of sand, Carmel Beach is renowned for its picturesque beauty and tranquil vibes. With stunning sunsets and the iconic Pebble Beach nearby, it’s an ideal spot for leisurely walks, picnics, or simply soaking in the serene coastal atmosphere.

Best time to go to Monterey Bay Aquarium

The best time to visit Monterey Bay Aquarium is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. September is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	52.3°F (11.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	52.0°F (11.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
March	52.9°F (11.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	54.5°F (12.5°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
May	56.7°F (13.7°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
June	60.4°F (15.8°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
July	63.0°F (17.2°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	63.9°F (17.7°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	64.0°F (17.8°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
October	61.3°F (16.3°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
November	55.9°F (13.3°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
December	51.8°F (11.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Monterey Bay Aquarium

Monterey Bay Aquarium is conveniently accessible from several major airports. San Jose International Airport (SJC) is situated 83.7km away, with nearby hotels like the 5-star Shashi Hotel Mountain View and the 4.5-star Santa Clara Marriott, both offering easy access to the airport. Monterey Peninsula Airport (MRY) is only 4.8km from the aquarium, featuring excellent accommodation options such as the 4.5-star Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa and the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa. Additionally, Salinas Municipal Airport (SNS) is located 25.7km away, with options like the Residence Inn by Marriott Salinas Monterey providing comfortable stays for visitors.