Visit Lighthouse District
Popular places to visit
Monterey Bay Aquarium
Perched on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, you’ll find a spectacular window into life both above and below the waves.
Cannery Row
Luxury, leisure and nature come together at this historic sardine-canning district, which is one of Monterey’s most acclaimed recreational areas.
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.
Fisherman's Wharf
Take a whale tour, admire the ocean views from seafood restaurants and browse the souvenirs for sale in this thriving marina.
Del Monte Beach
Relax in this tranquil sandy bay hidden behind quaint coastal villas among the sand dunes and choppy waves of Monterey Bay.
Golden State Theatre
Sit back, relax and enjoy the show at Monterey’s legendary movie palace, which has been delighting theatergoers since 1926.
Things to do
Monterey Bay: Whale Watching Tour
Monterey: Monterey Bay Dolphin and Whale Watching Boat Tour
Monterey: Whale Watching Tour with A Marine Guide
Monterey: Treasure Hunt The Ride - Ticket + Power-Up Combo
Monterey: Catamaran Sailing Cruise
Top hotels in Lighthouse District
Cannery Row Inn
Cute little room with a heater fireplace. Clean and staff was helpful. Very nice having the text feature to check in.
Reviewed on Dec 17, 2025
Wave Street Inn
Check-in was quick. Room is very clean and is located close to Cannery Row. Will stay here again.
Reviewed on Dec 12, 2025
Holiday Inn Express Monterey-Cannery Row by IHG
The receptionist at check-in wasn't very friendly. Breakfast could be better with more options. The rooms were clean and I loved that you can have coffee/tea available 24/7.
Reviewed on Dec 12, 2025
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
Front desk staff, while friendly, were not terribly efficient. I had trouble getting a wake up call. The last day, it never came. Luckily I had a back up or I might have missed my flight. This is what brought down the rating. Valet staff was excellent. Did not eat there. Loved that they had a Christmas ...
Reviewed on Dec 15, 2025
The Monterey Hotel
Good rooms, clean and just what you need. Excellent location! Walk downtown and or to the Fisherman’s Warf.
Reviewed on Dec 12, 2025
Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa
Friendly staff
Reviewed on Dec 9, 2025
Other neighbourhoods around Lighthouse District
New Monterey
If you're spending some time in New Monterey, Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row are top sights worth seeing.
Old Monterey
Old Monterey is a destination visitors seek out for is 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 neighborhood.
Downtown Monterey
The beaches and seaside views are top of the list for many visitors to Downtown Monterey. A stop by Golden State Theatre or Munras Avenue might round out your trip.
Oak Grove
While there might not be top attractions in Oak Grove, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Monterey Bay Aquarium and Del Monte Golf Course.
Monterey Vista
While Monterey Vista might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Monterey Bay Aquarium and Munras Avenue.
Alta Mesa
If you're spending some time in Alta Mesa, Munras Avenue and Del Monte Shopping Center are top sights worth seeing.
