Vacation rentals in Monterey
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Top-rated vacation rentals in Monterey
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Santa Cruz A-Frame
This unique A-Frame cabin, in a quiet mountain neighborhood with private creek access, was handbuilt in 1965 and remodeled in the summer of 2024. Now a little slice of heaven on the creek in the redwoods. *5-10 min to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, Roaring Camp Railroad, Loch Lomond Recreation Area, the Trout Farm Inn, Quail Hollow Ranch + Felton stores. *20 min to Santa Cruz, beach + Boardwalk. *1 min to Zayante Creek Market (EV charger) Find us on social: Insta @SantaCruzAFrame
Carmel By the Canyon
Our studio is located in Carmel, less than a mile from the town center. The house faces out over Hatton Canyon and affords a private rural setting yet close to Big Sur, Pebble Beach, Monterey, etc. 15 Minute walk to Carmel downtown. A hub to explore Big Sur and all the Monterey Peninsula has to offer. Due to certain regulatory changes regarding minimum stay, the dates you are requesting may not be available. While we prefer longer stays, do make an inquiry to us about the dates you want.
Cozy Coastal Redwood Cabin
Rest and connect in this warm, cozy, and private cabin that is nestled in the redwoods. Only minutes away from Henry Cowell State Park, where you can enjoy world class mountain biking trails, hiking, or swimming in the river. Or, enjoy the beach 15 minutes away. This is a perfect place to refresh in the magic of the Coastal Redwoods. Music fills most nights either from the Felton Music Hall or from the chorus of frogs. And wake up in the mornings to the mist in the trees when the fog rolls in.
Copper Nest beach retreat with stunning views
The Copper Nest is an ideal getaway located steps from the beach in the gated community of Pajaro Dunes where the Pajaro River meets the Pacific Ocean. This newly designed three bedroom home is customized to create a serene beach retreat for you and your guests. This newly designed three bedroom home has a well equipped kitchen and outdoor seating, game, and BBQ areas. There are stunning ocean and agricultural views from every room. Close to California's popular food and travel regions.
Serene Redwood Retreat w/Modern Comfort
At our Modern cabin nestled among 150 year old redwoods, we invite you to embark on a unique adventure of embracing the outdoors while only minutes from town. Wine tasting in downtown Carmel, World Class Golf at Pebble Beach or Hiking trails of Point Lobos and Big Sur. "Magical", "Amazing", "A True Sanctuary" are just a few words used by our guest to describe their stay with us. Get away and unplug in the stillness and solitude of our Serene Redwood Retreat. Please see property description.
Private romantic 1 br homestay love dogs
Dog friendly! Private entrance to 2 rm studio overlooking the forest w/ floor to ceiling windows. Queen memory-foam bed, bathroom w/shower & amenities, kitchenette w/ dishes, microwave/convection oven, burner, toaster, coffee.Far ocean view, sunsets, deck, gas grill. wood burning fireplace, complimentary wood, free internet, TV, DVDs, LPS, All amenities. Beach towels/mats, ottoman/cot, free parking. note: ceilings are low in spots & there are some steps. Let us know about dogs when booking.
Beautiful Farm in Carmel Valley
Our 2 bedroom guest house in beautiful Carmel Valley is close to Monterey, Big Sur, Pebble Beach and Carmel by the Sea. Sight see all day and escape to a pastoral setting five minutes from Carmel Valley Village with quaint shops, restaurants and over 20 wine tasting rooms. Visit with our alpacas, horses, giant tortoises, goats, sheep, donkey and more! Wake up to sunshine, fresh air and the donkey braying for breakfast! (Due to the nature of our farm we have a strict "No Pets" policy).
Beach Cottage - walk to beach and restaurants
This 1,100 sq. ft. single level cottage is one block to Lovers Point beach, downtown Pacific Grove and the AT&T Pro-Am Golf shuttle. Comfortably sleeps five in the peaceful town of Pacific Grove California. Close to Monterey Bay Aquarium, Fisherman's Wharf, Pebble Beach, 17-Mile Drive, and all Monterey Peninsula activities. Cottage includes a family room and living room to watch a movie, play board games or read a book. Private backyard with comfortable seating. City license #0479
Artist's Cottage on the Hill
An Artist's cozy cottage on the hill overlooking Monterey Bay. 1 Mile from the beach, minutes from Old Monterey, Fisherman's Wharf, Cannery Row, The Monterey Bay Aquarium. A short drive to Pebble Beach, Carmel-by-the-Sea, Point Lobos, Big Sur, CSUMB, Laguna Seca. Enjoy a relaxing cup of coffee in the morning on the patio with a view of beautiful Monterey Bay, or a gorgeous sunset before heading out for an evening on the town in Old Monterey, or Carmel-by-the-Sea.
The Sleeper: cozy private suite, entrance & bath.
A comfortable space with private entrance and bathroom. Light & airy with high ceilings and garden view through a large picture window. Queen size bed, ceiling fan, gas heater\fireplace, 35" flat screen swivel TV, Keurig coffee maker, and a large roll-in shower. Mini fridge, microwave, spacious patio & fenced yard right outside the door. There is NO KITCHEN. Dogs welcome with pre approval. $25.00 dog fee per stay. Due to extreme allergies cats are not allowed.
Pacific Suite (PG License # 0420)
Welcome to Pacific Suite. Located on Lighthouse Ave. in Pacific Grove. Two blocks from the ocean. Suite offers a slight ocean view with hardwood floors, spacious living room, gas fireplace, kitchen, 2 balconies, one large bedroom with a queen size bed, a full bathroom, and flat screen cable TV. The kitchen has electric stove/oven, microwave, refrigerator, and Keurig coffee maker. There is a pull out double bed in the living room.
Charming Carmel Cottage - Close to Downtown!
Step into this charming, quintessential Carmel Cottage located close to downtown Carmel. Easily accessible and set back on a corner lot, you'll be centrally located to all Monterey Bay has to offer. You're a short walk to all the shops and restaurants in downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea, as well as within walking distance to the beach. Truly a zen-like experience, we can't wait for you to stay in our beautiful home.
Popular amenities for Monterey vacation rentals
Home rentals in Monterey
Oceanfront beach house with private hot tub
Monterey Home with a Secret Garden!
Boutique Home near Monterey, Carmel STR25-00020
Cozy Top-Rated Home Near Carmel/PB ~Putting Green
3 Bedroom Vacation Home - The Hummingbird
Visit Monterey's Beaches from a Charming Home in Seaside
Serenity Getaway - Near MRY Aquarium and downtown
Now and Zen - Tranquility (Luxury Rental)
Other great vacation rentals in Monterey
Magical & Romantic Beachfront Home at Pajaro Dunes
Outback Bungalow
Home in Monterey Bay w/2 King Beds + 1 Twin
Mountain Top Yurt in the Redwoods
Carmel Rustic Cabin Like a Treehouse + Dog
Clean & Cozy 2br House
Miller Suite: Mid Century Modern in the Forest
Pacific Grove Willis House, Walk to Town and Beach
When is the best time to visit Monterey?
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg. price | $191 | $190 | $200 | $224 | $237 | $235 | $262 | $312 | $240 | $215 | $221 | $211 |
| Avg. temp | 52°F | 53°F | 55°F | 57°F | 59°F | 62°F | 63°F | 64°F | 64°F | 62°F | 56°F | 51°F |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best places to stay in Monterey?
Monterey has a mix of neighborhoods, with Cannery Row and downtown known for walkable access to galleries, dining, and the waterfront. Pacific Grove, nearby, often features lodging close to parks and the ocean.
What are the best things to do in Monterey with kids?
Families frequently explore the Monterey Bay Aquarium, picnic along Del Monte Beach, and enjoy interactive exhibits at the local children's museum. Trails near Lovers Point often draw cycling and walking enthusiasts.
What are some of the best things to do in Monterey?
Explore Cannery Row’s shops and history, discover marine life at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, or walk scenic trails near Pacific Grove. The coastal paths, galleries, and local markets are frequently suggested.
How is the weather in Monterey?
Monterey experiences cool, foggy mornings and mild afternoons, with temperatures generally ranging from 41–74°F (5–24°C) across the year. Rain is more common in winter, while summer and fall are typically drier and brighter.
What are the best places to visit in Monterey?
The Monterey Bay Aquarium, Cannery Row, and Pacific Grove are frequently suggested for culture and coastal scenery. Old Fisherman’s Wharf and local nature reserves also draw visitors interested in wildlife and history.
What are some hiking trails in Monterey?
Try the coastal path at Asilomar State Beach, the forested loop in Jacks Peak Park, or easy walking trails around Pacific Grove. These areas blend ocean views, local flora, and birdwatching opportunities.
What are some family activities we can do in Monterey?
Families can explore the Monterey Bay Aquarium, bike or stroll the coastal trail, and enjoy beach picnics around Lovers Point. Seasonal whale watching cruises are also frequently suggested.
What are some of the best day trip ideas from Monterey?
Explore Carmel-by-the-Sea’s art galleries and sandy beach, visit Big Sur’s dramatic coast, or experience historic missions around the region. Wine tasting and hiking in nearby valleys are also often recommended.
Are there any pet friendly accommodations available in Monterey?
Monterey has pet-friendly options in neighborhoods like Pacific Grove and around Asilomar Beach. Local parks and many outdoor spaces welcome leashed pets, making it easier to travel with your companion.
What are some local tips for visiting Monterey?
Layer clothing for shifting coastal weather and bring comfortable shoes for walking. Consider enjoying local seafood, exploring morning markets, and visiting nature reserves during quieter hours for a relaxed experience.
What is Monterey known for?
Monterey is known for its marine wildlife, historic Cannery Row, and the renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium, which highlights ocean conservation. The city’s coastal scenery and early fisheries heritage shape its character.
What are the best hidden gems to explore in Monterey?
Visitors often discover quiet spots like the Pacific Grove Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary, small beaches near Asilomar, and historic adobes dotted around downtown. Local galleries sometimes host art walks that highlight resident artists.
What are the best foods to try in Monterey?
Monterey has seafood dishes featuring locally caught sand dabs and calamari, plus creamy clam chowder often served along Cannery Row. You can also explore area produce at markets, and many cafes feature locally roasted coffee and baked breads.
What should I bring for a trip to Monterey?
Pack layers for cool mornings and sunny afternoons, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and a windbreaker for breezy coastal walks. A reusable water bottle and camera are also helpful for outdoor days.
What is the nightlife in Monterey like?
Monterey has laid-back nightlife, with wine bars and live music venues clustered around downtown and Cannery Row. Some spots host jazz nights, local brews, and casual gatherings until late evening.
What are the most popular events or festivals in Monterey?
Monterey Jazz Festival draws music enthusiasts in late summer, and Car Week brings classic vehicles and related celebrations. The city’s waterfront is often energized by seafood and cultural festivals throughout the year.
Are there family friendly vacation rentals in Monterey?
Family friendly stays are available in neighborhoods like Pacific Grove and near Cannery Row, often with easy access to parks and the coast. Many hosts welcome children and provide amenities for all ages.
When is the best time to visit Monterey?
Late spring through early fall is often recommended for clearer skies and pleasant temperatures around 55–74°F (13–24°C). Winter brings cooler weather and more rain, while spring and autumn have moderate conditions.
All about Monterey
Follow the scenic coastal Highway 1 two hours south of San Francisco and you’ll land in Monterey, a beach town on California’s Central Coast teeming with sea life and rolling sand dunes that hosts a number of historic sites. Visit Cannery Row, named for its focus as a sardine-canning hub, which houses colorful repurposed warehouses filled with art galleries and boutique shops. Pop over to Fisherman’s Wharf, a wooden pier with delicious seafood and chowder restaurants, where local outfitters can take you out on whale-watching, fishing and sailing trips, and cruises along the Monterey Bay. Follow Alvarado Street, and you’ll reach the central historic downtown district of Old Monterey with wide pedestrian walkways that connect to hundreds of shops and restaurants like Japanese tea shops, maritime pubs, and historic coffee houses.
More than just a maritime town, Monterey has drawn music lovers to its shores since the ‘60s when it hosted a historic international music festival, and golf lovers flock to its world-renowned courses.
On the city’s protected beaches, you can watch sea otters, sea lions, dolphins, and seals in their natural habitat. Just down the highway, the stunning Point Lobos State Natural Reserve offers incredible views of kelp forests, unusual rock formations, and forest and marine life.
What are the top things to do in Monterey?
Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail
Where the tracks of the Southern Pacific Railroad once ran now lies an 18-mile paved pedestrian trail with unobstructed views of the ocean. There are a number of rental shops along the trail that offer bikes, in-line skates, and kayaks. Along the path, you’ll find restaurants and cafes where you can stop to catch your breath and grab some food. If you’d rather bring your own snacks, you can picnic in the designated green areas and watch the sea otters — the city’s unofficial mascot — play in the waters below.
Old Monterey
In the center of town, you’ll find Old Monterey. Restored brick and adobe buildings from the city’s Spanish and Mexican periods line a two-mile stretch known as the Path of HIstory. The small Monterey State Historic Park serves as the anchor for this district with adobe buildings and cactus gardens, and its Pacific House Museum exhibits artifacts from Indigenous, Mexican, and Spanish communities who have impacted the city. You’ll find houses of important literary and artistic figures in Old Monterey, as well as breweries, cafes tucked inside historical buildings with inviting back gardens, upscale boutiques, and candle lit fine-dining restaurants serving sustainably-caught seafood.
Monterey State Beach
This protected beach lies inside the boundaries of a state park shared with the neighboring town of Seaside, and its sand dunes topped with native scrub grasses, succulents, and wildflowers make it a stand-out in the peninsula. Beachcombers arrive early to lay their claim to a wealth of shells, and swimming, surfing, kayaking, and kite-flying are popular throughout the day. Rocky outcrops on the beach’s far side shelter a small series of tide pools teeming with wildlife like sea stars and sea cucumbers. Dogs are welcome, but only on the south side of the beach.
Quick stats about vacation rentals in Monterey
Total vacation rentals
Explore 890 vacation rentals in Monterey
Verified guest reviews
Over 88,450 verified reviews to help you choose
Family-friendly vacation rentals
450 properties offer extra space & kid-friendly amenities
Pet-friendly vacation rentals
Find 290 rentals that welcome pets
Vacation rentals with a pool
80 properties feature pools
Rentals with dedicated workspaces
460 properties have a dedicated workspace
Wi-Fi availability
880 of Monterey vacation rentals include wi-fi access
Popular amenities for guests
Guests love Self check-in, Gym, and BBQ grill across Monterey rentals
4.8 Average rating
Monterey stays are highly rated by guests—averaging 4.8 out of 5!
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