Thanks to their spectacular natural surroundings, nearly any hotel in the vicinity of Monterey, Carmel or Big Sur can suffice for a romantic getaway. Still, some seem particularly suited for those looking for quality time with their cutie. Without further ado, here are our picks for romantic hotels in Monterey, selected by our editors. We’re pretty sure that they, along with your sweetheart, merit a splurge.
Featured photo: Courtesy of Casa Palmero by Scott Campbell
Casa Palmero
Like the much larger Lodge at Pebble Beach, with which it shares a spot on our best luxury hotels list, the more intimate, Mediterranean-style Casa Palmero gives guests preferred access to Pebble Beach tee times and a pass to use Pebble Beach’s exclusive Beach and Tennis Club. But the vibe is more sensual, thanks to the highly lauded Spa at Pebble Beach, yoga and other wellness classes; the sunny pool where sunbathers receive spa water, sunscreen and amuse-bouches; and gas fireplaces and soaking tubs in the 24 rooms.
HIGHLIGHT: The breakfast basket delivered to your door provides a good reason to cocoon in the morning. Even if you don’t have golf plans to get you out of bed later, you’ll want to take advantage of the divine spa, pool and Lexus sedan car service waiting to take you to Carmel.
Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa
If your ideal couples’ getaway involves shopping, dining, spa treatments and sightseeing, then Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa should be on your list. On the quiet end of Cannery Row, but close to everything, the upscale hotel offers 290 recently renovated rooms and suites. Many feature dazzling Monterey Bay views, and some have fireplaces, whirlpool tubs on private outdoor patios, or even balconies so close to the water that you and your sweetie might think you’re staying aboard a yacht — one reason this also makes our best waterfront hotels list. Dining at the new fine-dining Coastal Kitchen or the lively Schooners Monterey on the patio overlooking the bay make date night feel even more special.
HIGHLIGHT: What could possibly feel more romantic than taking in the view of Monterey Bay from side-by-side soaking tubs in the private spa suite at onsite Vista Blue Spa? Find out by adding on a couples’ massage, charcuterie platter, chocolate covered strawberries and a bottle of champagne.
Spindrift Inn
On the golden sand of Cannery Row’s compact McAbee Beach, the Spindrift Inn showcases European flair and a sense of romance in its three-story building, built in 1927 by an enterprising Chinese-American hotelier on the site of a historic Chinese settlement. While his hotel didn’t survive the industrial era of sardine canning, the modern establishment (opened in 1984) has won a loyal following among lovebirds for endearing touches like window seats, gas fireplaces, canopy beds with matching drapery, and seating areas with cozy armchairs.
HIGHLIGHT: As the day winds down, enjoy the Spindrift Inn’s daily wine and cheese reception, and then head to Lalla Grill with your dinner date to savor clam chowder, blue point oysters, and linguini and clams while watching the sun go down over McAbee Beach.
Monterey Tides
The exposed corridors are about the only remnant of the Monterey Tides’ past incarnation as a Best Western motel near Seaside on Monterey’s northern border. A stylish overhaul in 2016 brought in a boutique sensibility, but still relatively moderate prices, making it a hit with couples looking for a chic yet affordable getaway. All of its 196 guest rooms and public areas were refreshed, including a lobby-level lounge and penthouse restaurant with dazzling views across Monterey Bay. In an unusual arrangement, the hotel actually owns much of the broad sands (part of Monterey State Beach) in front of it, which means that come evening, you and your sweetie can cozy up beside a bonfire with one of the hotel’s signature s’mores kits.
HIGHLIGHT: Active couples will enjoy spending the day out on the water with either the hotel’s kayaking and sailing packages, both of which include an upgrade to an Ocean View room.
Portola Hotel & Spa
In the heart of Old Monterey, Portola Hotel & Spa is steps to the historic Custom House Plaza, the shops and restaurants on Old Fisherman’s Wharf, quaint adobes and intriguing museums, making it easy for couples to enjoy all the region has to offer on a romantic getaway. Its recently renovated 379 rooms and suites, some with harbor views, boast a bright and light coastal palette with modern, streamlined furnishings. Dining options are tasty and convenient: clubby Jacks Monterey and the acclaimed indoor-outdoor Peter B’s Brewpub. There’s also a lushly landscaped plunge pool and hot tub at the property, where lovebirds can enjoy relaxing in one of the private cabanas.
HIGHLIGHT: The serene on-site spa offers a number of treatments especially for couples. Make the experience even more romantic by adding on sparkling wine for two and chocolate covered strawberries.
InterContinental The Clement Monterey
One of the newest structures in historic Cannery Row is the 220-room InterContinental The Clement Monterey, which spreads its rooms and facilities between a waterfront building and one across the street, connected by a second-story bridge. Both are an easy walk to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, shops and dining. The hotel’s luxurious accommodations are primed for romance, with gas fireplaces (perfect for foggy nights), soaking tubs, and plump beds with Frette linens. The street-side building hosts the small but well-regarded spa and the more commodious fitness center, both of which overlook a courtyard with modest heated pool.
HIGHLIGHT: The onsite spa offers a special menu of services just for couples, including an aromatherapy massage and sugar scrub treatment. At the end of the day, soak in the sea air and watch the sun go down over the bay with your special someone from the expansive deck with firepits.
Did we miss your favorite hotel?
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