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.
Fisherman's Wharf
Take a whale tour, admire the ocean views from seafood restaurants and browse the souvenirs for sale in this thriving marina.
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.
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.
Activities
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
Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Big Sur PCH Highway 1
Our pick of the best Lighthouse District Hotel Deals
Victorian Inn
Afternoon wine and cheese great
Reviewed on 25 Dec 2025
Cannery Row Inn
Felt safe and easy. Great location. Parking was a big plus.
Reviewed on 27 Dec 2025
Wave Street Inn
Nice place to stay
Reviewed on 20 Dec 2025
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
Beautiful hotel. Welcoming, friendly staff. Clean rooms. Convenient location. We look forward to coming back.
Reviewed on 24 Dec 2025
The Monterey Hotel
It was an average experience. The first room we got (a standard room) wasn’t great—the carpet felt old, and the room didn’t feel very comfortable. After upgrading for $20, we received a much nicer room for the price, and we were happy to stay one night at the Monterey Hotel.
Reviewed on 25 Dec 2025
Hyatt Carmel Highlands
This hotel has a beautiful scenery. The service was excellent. I would love to come back.
Reviewed on 22 Dec 2025
Check Lighthouse District hotel availability
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 its pristine beaches, ample dining options and popular aquarium. You might also want to check out attractions like Waterfront or Colton Hall Museum while you're exploring the neighbourhood.
Downtown Monterey
The pristine beaches and popular aquarium 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 Oak Grove may 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 Del Monte Golf Course.
Monterey Vista
While Monterey Vista isn't home to many top sights, Monterey Bay Aquarium and Munras Avenue are some notable places to visit nearby.
Alta Mesa
While visiting Alta Mesa, you might make a stop by sights like Munras Avenue and Del Monte Shopping Center.
