Things to Do Near Portola Hotel & Spa: The Best Luxury Hotel in Downtown Monterey

Stay at the Most Convenient Hotel in Downtown Monterey

Choosing your hotel when planning your vacation is important not only for comfort, but for convenience and location. There is so much to do and explore near the Portola Hotel & Spa in Downtown Monterey, so in this week's blog, we're giving you a tour of all the things to do and see right here in our backyard. Explore these attractions and locations all within walking distance of the best luxury hotel in downtown Monterey!

Old Fisherman's Wharf (2-minute walk)

One of Monterey's most popular places is just outside our backdoors! Enjoy fresh seafood, whale-watching tours, sailing, and souvenir shopping at Old Fisherman's Wharf. This attraction is just a 2-minute stroll from our hotel and is filled with kid-friendly activities. It also has stunning views of the harbor with boats coming in and out. It's very common to see marine life like sea lions, seals, sea otters, and jellyfish in and around the water. All in all, it's a fun place to to explore with a nostalgic feel and much to do.

Monterey Bay Coastal Recreational Trail (2-minute walk):

This scenic 18-mile path is perfect for walking or jogging along with gorgeous views of the coastline. It connects Castroville in the north to Pacific Grove in the south, and you can choose to explore either direction with access just outside our backdoors. You can also access the trail via bike! Electric, standard, and surrey rentals are available just outside our hotel at Adventures by the Sea.

Cannery Row (5-minute drive):

Explore the history of the sardine industry in Monterey and the legacy of novelist, John Steinbeck on Cannery Row. This popular attraction is about an 18-minute walk or 5-minute drive and bike ride from the Portola Hotel & Spa. There you can check out the ocean views, go shopping for souvenirs, enjoy wine tasting, and savor delicious seafood.

Monterey Bay Aquarium (5-minute drive):

The world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium is right at the end of Cannery Row, and has a variety of marine life exhibits, from playful sea otters to beautiful jellyfish. This educational and fun attraction is another wonderful thing to explore that's so close to our hotel. It's also family-friendly, so you can expect all members of your group to have fun!

Del Monte Beach (7-minute walk):

Enjoy a day at the beach without even packing up the car! Del Monte Beach is only a 7-minute walk from our hotel, and it's complete with volleyball courts and picnic tables. This beach is even dog-friendly so feel free to enjoy some quality time with your pup while you're here!

Alvarado Street (0-minute walk):

Explore a variety of local restaurants, shops, bars, and cafes on Alvarado Street. This bustling street is the heartbeat of downtown Monterey, and the best part is that it's right across the street from us! On Tuesdays, there is a wonderful farmers' market full of food vendors, produce farmers, and local artisans. The Farmers Market at Old Monterey is open rain or shine every Tuesday from 4pm-7pm October to April, and 4pm- 8pm from May to September. 

Book Your Stay

The Portola Hotel & Spa is centrally located to everything happening in downtown Monterey. Once you're done exploring for the day, come back, and relax in one of our coastal-inspired guest rooms. We can't wait to welcome you to our hotel in downtown Monterey! To book your getaway at the Portola Hotel & Spa, visit our website, or call us at (888)-222-5851.