The Best Cheap Hotels to Book in Monterey, California

Just over a mile (1.6km) from Fisherman’s Wharf and 2mi (3.2km) from the renowned local aquarium, Best Western Plus Monterey Inn offers comfortable rooms on the outskirts of downtown Monterey. Beyond the usuals like free wifi, some rooms come equipped with upgrades like fireplaces, balconies and even ocean views. What’s more, guests have access to complimentary parking and hot breakfast, a definite plus for budget travelers.

With its charming, bright exterior accented with beachy colors, the Arbor Inn Monterey puts travelers in the perfect position to explore the greater Monterey Peninsula. Not only is the hotel located on Munras Avenue right across the street from Monterey State Historic Park, it is also just off the ramp to Highway 1. It’s oh-so-simple to take a day trip to nearby destinations such as Carmel, Pebble Beach and Big Sur, or just head out on the open road for a scenic drive along the coast from here.

Guests at the Stevenson Monterey can flaunt extra perks that include special pricing from Monterey Bay Sailing and advanced tickets for the Monterey Bay Aquarium. The prime location in the middle of downtown also puts you within steps of the best seafood restaurants and specialty shops in the city. Paired with the added convenience of free parking and a complimentary continental breakfast to start your day, this retro-style property is hands down one of the best hotel deals in Monterey.

Although guests will have to drive to most of the main attractions from this cheap hotel in Monterey, they’ll only have to walk about five minutes between the airport and the comfortable, updated rooms at the Comfort Inn. You’ll have all the basics, plus a plush armchair and footstool to kick back on. Lovely landscaping surrounds the motel with Californian foliage, from pines to climbing plants.

In the center of the main strip of budget hotels in Monterey, the Inn at 1252 Monterey has some of the lowest prices around. Find plush, clean bedding in the simple guest rooms – some boasting whirlpool bathtubs – and free breakfast with granola and cereal bars in the lobby. There’s also a substantial shopping center across the way and an outdoor seating area to soak in that California sun.

Howard Johnson by Wyndham Marina is a place to rest your head after a long day at Marina State Beach, a family-friendly stretch of sand 2mi (3.2km) west of the hotel. The value doesn’t end there, as you’ll get a free light breakfast item every morning, and hot drinks and fruit juices are on tap. Want to have another guest join the fun? No problem – rollaways are available on request.

Colton Inn gives visitors the opportunity to explore a lesser-known slice of Monterey filled with classic adobe buildings, yet still walkable from downtown. Inside, the decor is chic, the bedding is soft and some rooms come with fireplaces or jacuzzis to add a touch of ambiance. Free morning breakfast is definitely a plus, but there’s also a vending machine to curb any late night cravings, or to stock up on S’mores supplies to use in the outdoor grill area.

Wondering where you can sign up for a cheap hotel in Monterey with ocean views? It doesn’t get much better than a two-minute walk from historic Cannery Row, which is exactly what you’ll get at the Cannery Row Inn – so close to the water that it’s literally on Foam Street. Every guest room here is cosy, but if you want to get some fresh air, the heated patio is also rather toasty. Don’t forget to show your Triple AAA card for an added discount.