Vacation rentals in Monterey
Start comparing over 56 rentals in Monterey and book at the best price!
Find offers
Vacation rentals in Monterey
Monterey, known for its exquisite seafood and diverse marine life, is a gorgeous bay and peninsula combining beautiful wildlife with rich history. Travelers searching for a serene destination where they can be close to nature yet still enjoy gorgeous beaches, historical buildings and nightlife, will not be disappointed in Monterey. Of course, you will also find plenty of fun activities to keep you busy during your trip. Our vacation properties are located right in the best areas of Monterey near the ocean, so you won’t miss anything.
Cozy independent rentalsPerfect for couples and families, most of these elegant, spacious rentals come fully equipped to ensure you have a comfortable stay in Monterey. A few of them provide breakfast and have unique amenities such as a jacuzzi, fireplace and garden. Perfect for a romantic getaway or a vacation with family. The stylish interior and photo-worthy exterior is just what you need to kick off your vacation. Have breakfast in the garden as you plan your itinerary for the day.
Vacations in Monterey
The area and getting around
Monterey County is uniquely both a bay and peninsula. Visitors love coming here for its scenic walks, historical cathedrals, heritage villages and vivid marine life. Monterey Coast Guard Pier is a great place to observe Monterey’s diverse sea life. You will likely see coastal birds, sea lions, otters, and harbor seals. If you venture inland, you might see the hills dotted with wildflowers, hear the sound of birds, and spot other wild animals. Perfect for a relaxing stroll. San Francisco is just north of Monterey.
An area full of food and wineHead down to downtown Monterey for unique shopping, wine tasting and restaurants. For a taste of some of the best local eats in the area, go to A Taste of Monterey Wine and Market Bistro. Monterey is chiefly known for its fresh seafood and clam chowder. The downtown is also a great place to sample California wines. Monterey is a great stepping stone to the many excellent wineries in nearby Carmel Valley. Some of the wineries in Carmel Valley are so close to each other that you can reach them by foot.
Travelers and activities
Outdoor lovers will find plenty to do in Monterey including kayaking, paddleboarding and golfing. Moss Landing, located on Monterey Bay, is a great place for viewing whales and marine life. Along with its many attractions, it also has a sandy beach. For a cruise tour of the largest wetlands in California, check out Elkhorn Slough Safari Nature Tours. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is perfect for hiking, scuba diving, and much more. Often referred to as the "the crown jewel of the State Park System", it rewards visitors with incredibly rich flora and fauna, archaeological sites, and precious geological formations.
Monterey for Art aficionadosThe Monterey Museum of Art, featuring American and California works, has several unique programs and exhibitions every year, ensuring visitors always have something new and exciting to see. For a full Monterey Art Museum experience, be sure to visit both locations on Pacific Street and Via Miranda. Art fans will appreciate the Monterey History & Art Association’s permanent El Salvador Dali exhibition. Thanks to the Piterman family, who donated the art, the collection hosts 580 of Dali’s iconic works. Also, be sure to capture photos of Monterey’s street art scattered across the Peninsula.
Monterey’s huge aquarium helps preserve over 35,000 species of animals including many rare, threatened fish.
Top 5 travel tips in Monterey
Whale watching can be an inspiring, life-changing event as you watch these marine giants gracefully breach the surface. One of the best ways to experience this awe-inspiring event is to book a tour. However, whales can also be spotted from the shore, as well as dolphins and porpoises.
2. Marvel at the aquariumWhile in Monterey, one of the things you must do is visit the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium. You will learn about marine environments, see amazing sea animals as well as fascinating exhibits like the aviary and penguin exhibits. This incredible aquarium will amaze both adults and children alike.
3. Take a scenic stroll at Pacific GroveLocated on the Northernmost tip of Monterey’s Peninsula, visitors will want to check out the historical town of Pacific Grove. Here you will find monarch butterflies, historical homes, beautiful coastline and the iconic Point Pinos Lighthouse. Perfect for a quiet stroll away from city life. Beach lovers will enjoy spending time at Asilomar Beach.
4. Spend the day at Carmel by the SeaLocated on Monterey’s southern peninsula, Carmel By the Sea is a gorgeous, charming historical village. Here, visitors will find unique sights such as fairy tale cottages, the Carmel Mission, European-style village architecture and some of the most beautiful beaches in California.
5. Take a walk in Cannery RowBefore it became popular with tourists for its waterfront shops and restaurants, Cannery Row once served as the center of Monterey’s sardine canning industry. The area went through a revival in the 1960s and now is a must-see for visitors to the area. Come and check out the views of the bay, wine tasting rooms, boutiques, small gardens, art galleries and more.