Monterey, along Central California’s rugged Pacific coast, is the perfect haven for a seaside stopover and close to another popular vacation spot, Carmel-by-the-Sea . Monterey enjoys a mild climate with cool summers averaging 70°F (21°C), which is largely due to the coastal fog that often blankets the area. Some might find the foggy weather, commonly called that “June Gloom,” a downer while others find it calming and soothing. And for top Monterey boutique hotels to calm and soothe, you can’t go wrong with these five.
Top Monterey Boutique Hotels in CA
Fantastic Value at Mariposa Inn & Suites
You’ll enjoy a pleasant experience at one of the top Monterey boutique hotels with luxury linens and amenities that include a jet hot tub, outdoor heated pool, fire pit patios, and gas log fireplaces to ward off the chill. Summer rates range between $150 to $220, which includes breakfast and parking. Monterey is a renowned spot for whale-watching , and whales can even be spotted from the shore. Check with the Mariposa Inn & Suites about their whale-watching package. You might also inquire about the Monterey Golf Package and Monterey Aquarium Package.
The Historic Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa
One of a few historic hotels in town, the Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa was the first hotel in Monterey, dating back to 1824. The property originally belonged to Spanish diplomat Don Estéban Munras and became a garden hotel in 1941. It has retained the Spanish heritage in its hacienda-inspired style, and guests can still see parts of the original adobe walls in the hotel’s Marbella Meeting Room. Dinner at the award-winning Estéban Restaurant is a must, especially if you love Spanish cuisine and Mediterranean-style tapas.
Conveniently Located Colton Inn
If you don’t need all the bells and whistles, the Colton Inn will suit your needs. This is an affordable option in a quiet area near downtown Monterey. It’s a comfortable walk to restaurants and a 15-minute walk to Fisherman’s Wharf. Avoid standing in lines at the Monterey Bay Aquarium when you buy your ticket from the Inn. Rooms, while fairly basic, are clean, provide what you need, and have been updated with down comforters and 400+ thread sheets. The Colton Inn offers free parking and continental breakfast.
Visit a Bygone Era at Merritt House Inn
If simple and unassuming with a historic touch is what you looking for, then head to the Merritt House Inn . This is a charming country-style inn with a gorgeous garden filled with magnolia, pepper, holly, olive trees, and roses. With only three suites and 22 rooms, this adobe-style accommodation is quaint and intimate with decor that will transport you to a bygone era. The Merritt House was built in 1830 and is on the National Register of Historic Places. It’s also part of the Monterey History and Art Association Adobe Tour held every April.
Monterey Bay Lodge: A Lovely Garden Hotel
Monterey Bay Lodge is across from Dennis the Menace Park and a hop, skip, and a jump away from Del Monte Beach. This affordable no-frills accommodation has 46 rooms, two family rooms, and one bedroom suite. Rooms are neat and comfortable with high-speed Wi-Fi, cable TV, and free local calls. This hotel is nicely landscaped with well-tended lawns, a garden courtyard, and lots of flowers. Guests can enjoy the outdoor heated pool with fountain and spa.
* This post on the top Monterey boutique hotels is part of Hipmunk’s Boutique Hotels Campaign
