Casa Munras Garden Hotel and Spa

Casa Munras Garden Hotel and Spa is Monterey's historic-meets-comfortable choice: a garden-style hotel that grew around an adobe home dating to the 1820s, the former residence of Esteban Munras, an early Californian figure. The property is organized around courtyards, a pool and landscaped gardens, with a spa and on-site dining, and it sits on Munras Avenue within walking distance of Old Monterey's adobes and downtown restaurants. It is a good base for travelers who want character, a quiet courtyard and an easy walk to the historic district, at a price below the waterfront hotels.

Monterey was California's Spanish and Mexican capital, and its adobe buildings are the region's calling card. Casa Munras is one of the few hotels to be built around one: the original adobe, from the 1820s, anchors the property, and the garden wings and courtyards were added around it over time. The effect is of a small hacienda complex, with brick paths, mature trees, flowers and a pool in the middle, rather than a monolithic hotel block. It feels residential and calm, a few minutes from the busiest streets.

Rooms are arranged in the garden wings, most with views onto courtyards or gardens, and they are comfortable and updated, with a mix of room types for couples, families and small groups. The hotel includes a spa, a pool and a restaurant and bar, and the courtyard fire pits and gardens are pleasant places to end the day. The adobe building itself is a point of interest, giving the stay a sense of place that newer hotels lack.

The location is the practical highlight. Casa Munras is on Munras Avenue, a short walk from Old Monterey's historic adobes, Alvarado Street's restaurants and the Monterey State Historic Park, and a short drive or longer walk from Cannery Row, the aquarium and Fisherman's Wharf. The hotel is a good value compared with oceanfront properties, though it is not on the water and you will want a car or rideshare for some outings.

Check the current parking and resort fee details before booking, and book ahead for summer and event weekends. Fit: couples, history lovers, families and travelers who want a walkable, characterful base at a more moderate price.