The Monterey Tides Hotel is the perfect place for a weekend of oceanfront relaxation. Sitting right on the beach with stunning views of the Pacific, this hotel offers an unbeatable location for those who want to fall asleep to the sound of waves and wake up to breathtaking sunrises over the water.
If you’re a fan of HBO’s Big Little Lies, you might recognize some of the surroundings—parts of the show were filmed here. The moment we arrived, the theme song played in my head on repeat, and I half-expected to see the Monterey Five walking along the shore.
When to Visit Monterey
Monterey is a fantastic destination year-round, but the best time to visit depends on what you’re looking for. Summer brings warmer temperatures, but also more tourists and higher prices. Spring and fall offer milder weather with fewer crowds, making it ideal for a more peaceful getaway. Winter can be chilly and foggy, but if you’re a fan of moody coastal vibes, it’s a great time to cozy up by a bonfire and enjoy discounted hotel rates.
How to Get There
Monterey Tides Hotel is easily accessible by car, located just off Highway 1. If you’re driving from San Francisco, expect a scenic two-hour coastal drive down the Pacific Coast Highway. If flying, the Monterey Regional Airport is just 10 minutes away, offering quick access to your beachside retreat. Alternatively, you can fly into San Jose International Airport (about an hour and a half drive) for more flight options.
A Beachfront Stay at Monterey Tides Hotel
We were in town for a bachelorette weekend, and Monterey Tides Hotel made for the perfect setting. Between sipping wine, relaxing at the spa, and spending time at the beach, we couldn’t have picked a better spot to celebrate.
The hotel itself has a bit of a worn exterior, thanks to years of salty sea air exposure. Originally built in 1969 and last renovated in 2017, it still retains some dated elements, but the ocean views more than make up for it.
From our room, we had a front-row seat to the vast Pacific Ocean. The view alone elevated the entire experience—there’s something magical about watching the waves roll in, breathing in the crisp sea air, and feeling completely at peace. At night, the rhythmic crashing of the waves lulled us to sleep, and every morning, we woke up to a picture-perfect view that instantly put a smile on my face.
For a hotel with such a prime location, I was pleasantly surprised by how affordable the dining options were. Breakfast plates ranged from $12-15, while dinner entrees were about $22-28. The lobby bar and restaurant were stylish and inviting, making it a great place to enjoy a meal or sip cocktails while watching the sunset.
Beach Access & Outdoor Activities
One of the best perks of staying at Monterey Tides Hotel is the direct beach access. Just step outside, walk down a short flight of stairs, and you’re on the sand. We were incredibly lucky to visit on an 80-degree weekend, which is rare for Monterey, as it’s often foggy and cool. We spent our late afternoons soaking up the sunshine, toes in the sand, with the soothing sound of the waves in the background.
The hotel also has a pool, though it’s located on the backside of the building—likely to shield it from the ocean breeze on colder days. While it’s a nice amenity, the real highlight is the beach itself.
Beach Bonfires: A Must-Do Experience
One of my favorite aspects of staying at Monterey Tides was the ability to have a beach bonfire. Unlike many California beaches where fires are restricted, it’s completely legal here. At night, we dug a small pit in the sand, lit a fire, and spent the evening under the starry sky, enjoying the salty sea air, the warmth of the flames, and glasses of Chardonnay. It was the perfect setting for deep conversations and laughter, a true highlight of our trip.
A quick tip: The Monterey Tides Hotel sells firewood bundles at the front desk, so you don’t have to worry about bringing your own. Just be mindful of the ash left behind in the sand—watch your step during the day!
Final Thoughts
Despite its slightly weathered appearance, Monterey Tides Hotel offers an unbeatable beachfront experience. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a relaxing solo retreat, or a fun weekend with friends, this hotel is a fantastic choice. The combination of oceanfront views, direct beach access, and the charm of Monterey’s nearby attractions makes it a place worth visiting again and again.
So pack your bags, grab a bottle of wine, and get ready to enjoy the coastal magic of Monterey Tides!
Nearby Attractions
One of the best things about Monterey Tides is its prime location. It’s just a short drive to Cannery Row, where you can explore waterfront restaurants, visit the renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium, or pop into quirky boutiques. Downtown Carmel is also nearby, offering charming streets lined with art galleries, wine-tasting rooms, and boutique shops.
For those looking to unwind in a truly serene setting, Refuge—a thermal spa experience in nearby Carmel Valley—offers hot and cold plunge pools, saunas, and a silent relaxation zone. A friend of mine aptly described it as “aggressive relaxation” because you’re expected to remain completely silent. It was definitely an interesting experience, but also incredibly rejuvenating.
Cannery Row: This downtown area of Monterey was once a thriving sardine cannery that collapsed after World War II. It was revived from ruin in 1976 and transformed into a beautiful historical destination with shops and restaurants.
Monterey Bay Aquarium: This aquarium is a window to marine life. It’s home to sea otters, penguins, sharks, jellies and thousands of other marine animals and plants. A great place for adults and kids alike.
Point Lobos State National Reserve: This beautiful National Reserve is populated with rare plant communities, endangered archeological sites, unique geological formations, and incredibly rich flora and fauna of both land and sea.
I would happily stay at Monterey Tides Hotel again and explore more of what Monterey has to offer!
Do you have more tips on Monterey? Leave them in the comments below.
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