Hey, dreamer! Planning a trip to Monterey, California, but worried about blowing your budget on a place to stay? You’re in luck! Monterey is bursting with cheap hotels that don’t skimp on comfort, location, or charm. Whether you’re craving a weekend by the ocean, a visit to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, or a stroll along Cannery Row, this guide is your ticket to finding affordable hotels in Monterey, CA that fit your wallet.
We’re talking low prices, killer deals, guest reviews, ratings, and insider tips to make your trip unforgettable. Plus, with “cheap hotels in Monterey, CA” trending on Google, now’s the perfect time to plan your getaway. Let’s dive into the best budget-friendly stays, complete with pricing, packages, and everything you need to know!
Why Monterey, CA, Is a Must-Visit Destination
Monterey is like that perfect playlist—something for everyone. Picture this: rugged coastlines, sea otters bobbing in the bay, fresh clam chowder at Fisherman’s Wharf, and the iconic Monterey Bay Aquarium drawing over 2 million visitors annually. Add in historic Cannery Row, whale-watching tours, and the jaw-dropping 17-Mile Drive, and you’ve got a destination that’s pure magic. The best part? You don’t need a five-star budget to enjoy it. Cheap hotels in Monterey, CA, start at just $70/night, making it easy to soak up the coastal vibes without emptying your savings.
Top 5 Cheap Hotels in Monterey, CA: Affordable Comfort Awaits
Here’s the lowdown on the best budget hotels in Monterey, CA, handpicked for their value, location, and guest feedback. I’ve included pricing, ratings, amenities, and links to official websites for hassle-free booking. These hotels are perfect for solo travelers, families, or couples looking to save.
1 :- Monterey Surf Inn
- Price Range: $70–$120/night
- Location: 1200 Munras Ave, Monterey, CA 93940 (6 minutes from Cannery Row)
- Official Website :- Monterey Surf Inn
- Rating: 7.5/10 (1,000+ reviews on Booking.com)
- Why Stay Here?: This cozy motel is a budget traveler’s dream, offering clean rooms, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary parking. Guests love the no-fuss vibe and proximity to downtown. One reviewer raved, “Spotless rooms, friendly staff, and unbeatable prices for Monterey!”
- Deals & Packages: Book 60–90 days in advance for rates as low as $70. Check for seasonal discounts on Monterey Surf Inn’s official site.
- Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, parking, coffee/tea in the lobby, and pet-friendly rooms (call to confirm).
2 :- Ramada by Wyndham Monterey
- Price Range: $100–$150/night
- Location: 2050 N Fremont St, Monterey, CA 93940 (near Fisherman’s Wharf)
- Official Website :- Ramada by Wyndham Monterey
- Rating: 8.0/10 (1,500+ reviews on Expedia)
- Why Stay Here?: This hotel blends affordability with convenience, offering spacious rooms, a seasonal outdoor pool, and free continental breakfast. Guests say, “Perfect location for exploring Monterey, and the breakfast saved us money!”
- Deals & Packages: Look for bundles on Expedia or Kayak that include breakfast or aquarium tickets. Visit Ramada by Wyndham Monterey for exclusive offers.
- Amenities: Free breakfast, Wi-Fi, parking, and a business center.
3 :- Padre Oaks
- Price Range: $85–$130/night
- Location: 1278 Munras Ave, Monterey, CA 93940 (4 minutes from downtown)
- Official Website :- Padre Oaks
- Rating: 7.8/10 (800+ reviews on Tripadvisor)
- Why Stay Here?: This charming inn offers a homey feel with free Wi-Fi, parking, and attentive staff. A guest noted, “Quiet, clean, and close to everything. The staff made us feel right at home.”
- Deals & Packages: Booking.com often has flash sales dropping rates to $80/night in the off-season. Check Padre Oaks’ official site for direct booking discounts.
- Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, parking, and pet-friendly options (fees may apply).
4 :- Motel 6 Monterey North Fremont Street
- Price Range: $80–$110/night
- Location: 2042 N Fremont St, Monterey, CA 93940 (2 miles from Monterey State Beach)
- Official Website :- Motel 6 Monterey North Fremont Street
- Rating: 6.8/10 (1,200+ reviews on Hotels.com)
- Why Stay Here?: A budget staple, this Motel 6 offers an outdoor pool, free local calls, and Wi-Fi (for a small fee). Reviewers say, “Great for a quick stay, super affordable, and close to the beach.”
- Deals & Packages: Last-minute bookings can drop to $75/night. Visit Motel 6 Monterey for the latest rates.
- Amenities: Outdoor pool, pet-friendly (no extra charge), and laundry facilities.
5 :- Days Inn by Wyndham Monterey-Fisherman’s Wharf Aquarium
- Price Range: $95–$140/night
- Location: 1288 Munras Ave, Monterey, CA 93940 (1.3 miles from Window on the Bay Beach)
- Official Website :- Days Inn by Wyndham Monterey-Fisherman’s Wharf Aquarium
- Rating: 7.9/10 (1,000+ reviews on Kayak)
- Why Stay Here?: This hotel is a family favorite, with free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and a prime location near top attractions. A guest shared, “Walking distance to the wharf and aquarium—perfect for our family vacation!”
- Deals & Packages: Check for family packages with aquarium tickets on Days Inn by Wyndham.
- Amenities: Free breakfast, Wi-Fi, parking, and accessible rooms.
How to Score the Best Hotel Deals in Monterey
Want to save even more? Here are some pro tips to find the best deals on cheap hotels in Monterey, CA:
- Book Smart: Reserve 60–90 days in advance for the lowest rates (as low as $70/night). Last-minute deals can also pop up on sites like HotelTonight or Priceline, especially for 2-star hotels.
- Travel Off-Peak: February and March are the cheapest months, with rates averaging $70–$120/night. August is the priciest, with prices hitting $250–$350/night.
- Compare Platforms: Check Expedia, Kayak, Booking.com, and Hotels.com for exclusive deals. For example, Expedia’s “pay later” option lets you secure a room without upfront costs.
- Look for Packages: Hotels like Ramada by Wyndham and Days Inn offer bundles with free breakfast, parking, or discounted tickets to the Monterey Bay Aquarium (official site).
- Join Loyalty Programs: Wyndham Rewards or IHG One Rewards can save you 10–20% on bookings. Sign up for free on their websites.
- Stay Midweek: Sunday and Monday nights are the cheapest (up to 30% less than Saturday). Tuesday–Thursday stays are also budget-friendly.
What Guests Are Saying: Reviews and Ratings
Real traveler feedback is gold when choosing a hotel. Here’s what guests are saying about cheap hotels in Monterey, CA:
- Value for Money: Budget hotels like Monterey Surf Inn and Motel 6 score high for affordability. A guest at Monterey Surf Inn said, “Amazing value for Monterey—clean, comfy, and close to everything.”
- Location: Proximity to Cannery Row, Fisherman’s Wharf, and the aquarium is a huge plus. A reviewer at Days Inn noted, “We walked to the wharf in 10 minutes. Perfect spot!”
- Cleanliness: Hotels like Padre Oaks and Ramada by Wyndham get consistent praise for spotless rooms. One guest raved, “The room was immaculate, and the staff went above and beyond.”
- Amenities: Free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and parking are crowd-pleasers. However, some budget hotels lack air conditioning or have smaller rooms, so check reviews on Tripadvisor or Hotels.com for specifics.
Pro tip: Cross-reference reviews across multiple platforms to get a balanced view. For example, Booking.com and Expedia often highlight different guest experiences.
Best Times to Visit and Book Monterey Hotels
Timing can make or break your budget. Here’s when to visit and book for the best deals:
- Low Season (January–March): Rates start at $70/night, and the weather is mild (average high: 60°F/16°C). Perfect for budget travelers who don’t mind a light jacket.
- Shoulder Season (April–June, October–December): Prices range from $120–$200/night, with pleasant weather (65–70°F/18–21°C). Spring and fall are ideal for fewer crowds.
- High Season (July–September): Expect rates of $250–$350/night, especially in August when Monterey hosts events like the Monterey Car Week. Book 3–6 months in advance to secure deals.
- Weekdays vs. Weekends: Sunday nights are the cheapest (up to 30% less than Saturday). Midweek stays (Tuesday–Thursday) offer good value and availability.
Must-Have Amenities and Packages
Even budget hotels in Monterey come with perks to sweeten the deal. Here’s what to look for:
- Free Breakfast: Save $10–$20 per person with complimentary breakfast at hotels like Days Inn by Wyndham or Spindrift Inn.
- Free Parking: Parking in Monterey can cost $15–$30/day, so opt for hotels like Super 8 by Wyndham Monterey or Munras Inn with free parking.
- Attraction Bundles: Hotels like Ramada by Wyndham partner with the Monterey Bay Aquarium for discounted tickets (adult tickets: $49.95). Check Monterey Bay Aquarium for package details.
- Pet-Friendly Stays: The Monterey Hotel and Portola Hotel & Spa welcome pets, with fees starting at $25/night. Confirm policies on their websites.
- Pools and Spas: Budget hotels like Mariposa Inn and Suites offer outdoor pools, while some include spa discounts for a touch of luxury.
Budget-Friendly Things to Do in Monterey
Your hotel savings mean more cash for exploring Monterey’s attractions. Here are some affordable activities:
- Cannery Row: Wander this historic district for free, or grab a bowl of clam chowder at Old Fisherman’s Grotto for ~$15.
- Monterey Bay Aquarium: Tickets start at $49.95 for adults, but hotel packages can save you 10–15%. Book via Monterey Bay Aquarium.
- 17-Mile Drive: This scenic Pebble Beach drive costs $11.25 per vehicle. Pack a picnic to keep it budget-friendly.
- Asilomar State Beach: Free to visit, perfect for sunset walks or tidepooling.
- Monterey Bay Coastal Trail: Rent a bike (~$10/hour) or walk this 18-mile trail to explore the coast for free.
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FAQs About Cheap Hotels in Monterey, CA
Q :- What’s the cheapest month to stay in Monterey, CA?
Ans :- February and March offer the lowest hotel rates, starting at $70/night. Book 60–90 days in advance for the best deals.
Q :- Are there pet-friendly budget hotels in Monterey?
Ans :- Yes, hotels like The Monterey Hotel and Motel 6 Monterey North Fremont Street are pet-friendly. Motel 6 doesn’t charge extra for pets, but always confirm policies on their official site.
Q :- Do cheap hotels in Monterey include free breakfast?
Ans :- Many do, including Days Inn by Wyndham and Ramada by Wyndham. Check Days Inn’s website for breakfast details.
Q :- How can I find last-minute hotel deals in Monterey?
Ans :- Sites like HotelTonight, Priceline, and Booking.com offer last-minute discounts, with rates as low as $70/night. Check hotel websites like Monterey Surf Inn for flash sales.
Q :- Which budget hotels are closest to Monterey Bay Aquarium?
Ans :- Padre Oaks, Days Inn by Wyndham, and InterContinental The Clement Monterey are within 1–2 miles, with rates starting at $85/night and ratings up to 8.8/10.
Q :- Are there family-friendly cheap hotels in Monterey?
Ans :- Absolutely! Mariposa Inn and Suites and Days Inn by Wyndham offer family perks like pools and free breakfast. Look for aquarium ticket bundles on Days Inn’s site.
Q :- What’s the average price for a budget hotel in Monterey?
Ans :- 2-star hotels average $70–$150/night, while 3-star options range from $120–$200/night, depending on the season and day of the week.
Why This Topic Is Hot Right Now
Searches for cheap hotels in Monterey, CA are spiking on Google Trends, and it’s easy to see why. With travel rebounding in 2025, budget-conscious travelers are flocking to Monterey for its unbeatable mix of natural beauty and attractions. This guide is crafted to capture that traffic with SEO-optimized keywords (like “affordable hotels in Monterey, CA,” “budget Monterey stays,” and “Monterey hotel deals”), structured headings, and reader-focused content. By offering genuine, detailed information, we’re helping you plan a trip that’s both affordable and unforgettable.
Ready to Book Your Monterey Adventure?
Monterey, CA, is calling, and you don’t need to spend a fortune to answer. From cheap hotels like Monterey Surf Inn to family-friendly gems like Days Inn by Wyndham, there’s a budget stay for every traveler. Use our tips to snag the best hotel deals in Monterey, explore iconic spots like Cannery Row, and make memories without breaking the bank. Start your search now on Expedia, Booking.com, or directly on hotel websites like Ramada by Wyndham Monterey. Have a favorite Monterey hotel or deal? Drop a comment below—we’d love to hear your tips!
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Disclaimer: Information is accurate as of July 2025 but subject to change. Always check with the hotel or booking platforms for the latest details.
