Two Days in Monterey: The Perfect Itinerary

Short on time this summer? You can still have your dream Monterey getaway in only two days! While you could spend forever here, in two days you can still get to see some of what Monterey has to offer including breathtaking views, delicious food and unique experiences to give you memories that will last a lifetime. Here is our perfect itinerary for two days in Monterey!

Day One

4pm Check in at Portola Hotel and Spa

After a long day of travel, check in to your coastal-inspired guest room before getting ready for dinner. The Portola Hotel & Spa has several room types to fit your needs during your time in Monterey. View our accommodations hereLearn More about Portola Accommodations.

5pm Get Dinner at Jacks Monterey

Head downstairs to our atrium lobby with live trees for a delicious meal at Jacks Monterey! With globally-inspired traditions of California Cultural Cuisine you'll savor every minute of  your meal. We can't wait to welcome you in with our sophisticated atmosphere that's never pretentious, local produce and quality ingredients.

7pm Sunset Bay Cruise 

After dinner, head to Fisherman's Wharf to see the setting sun while on the water with Princess Monterey Whale Watching on their Sunset Bay Cruise. You'll see the sun fade away with different marine life swimming alongside you in this 1.5-hour tour. This experience is the perfect start to your trip, taking in the best views Monterey has to offer while on the water! Keep in mind that departure times vary during the summer so check the website and book your tickets ahead of time!

9pm Late Night Happy Hour at Peter B's

Before heading back to your room, stop by for an award-winning beer at Peter B's, the Portola Hotel & Spa's newly renovated on-site craft brewery. Enjoy Late Night Happy Hour from 9pm - 10pm on our heated patio or inside the restaurant.

10pm Head Back to your Guest Room

After a long day head back to your comfortable accommodations and get some much-needed rest for a fun day of activities ahead!

Day Two

8am Breakfast on Alvarado Street

Since the Portola Hotel & Spa is centrally located, there are many restaurants nearby for breakfast, lunch and dinner.  Just across from our hotel is Alvarado Street which is lined with some of the best breakfast spots in Monterey! With cafés like Old Monterey Café and bakeries like Bagel Bakery, Carmel Bakery (with access from our lobby), Ad Astra Bread Co. you will have many options to choose from! 

10am Monterey Bay Aquarium

Only 1.5 miles away from the Portola Hotel & Spa is the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium. With 550 different kinds of species, this incredible aquarium boasts over 35,000 animals including jellyfish, penguins, sea otters, sting rays and more! You will be transported to the depths of the sea with their floor length sea-tanks that make this a must-not-miss attraction! Get more information and purchase tickets on their website.

1pm Lunch and shopping at Cannery Row

The Monterey Bay Aquarium is located right on Cannery Row, so head down this street for a quick bite and souvenir shopping. This historic area of Monterey has grown from  sardine canneries in the 1910s-1940s into a booming tourist area beginning in the 1960s. With a wide variety of shops and restaurants, you'll have no trouble finding exactly what you're craving!

3pm Sea Car Tours

Get to see some of Monterey's most famous spots in style on a Sea Car! Hop into these yellow GoCars and let your hair down while you enjoy the thrill of driving around Monterey in the open air. This talking car fits two people and is the best way to explore Monterey while it tells stories and facts about our destination. Check out their website to learn more!

5pm Get Dinner at Old Fisherman's Wharf

Old Fisherman's Wharf is less than a 5-minute walk from Portola Hotel & Spa, and has several wonderful restaurants serving up fresh local seafood. Old Fisherman's Grotto, Rockfish Harbor Grill, and Domenico's on the Wharf are great options for dinner.

7pm Head to Lover's Point to watch the Sunset 

It wouldn't be a complete Monterey trip if we didn't include at least one beach. Head out to Lover's Point Beach to enjoy some incredible views while the sunset sets. Take a walk on the beach in the moonlight and enjoy your last night in Monterey! Make sure to bring layers as it can get chilly even in the summer!

Day Three

9am Breakfast at Jacks Monterey

Before checking out, make sure to stop by Jacks for one last delicious breakfast.  We have plenty of breakfast items on the menu like savory omelets and sweet cinnamon French toast. You'll be leaving Monterey on a full stomach and a good note!

11am Kayak Tour of Harbor 

Keep your bags in the car for one final activity before heading home. See the bay up close by kayaking through the harbor with Monterey Bay Kayaks. Witness barking harbor seals, sea otters swimming nearby, and more as you kayak through the bay.

Plan Your Two Days in Monterey

Even with just two days in Monterey you can still enjoy a variety of experiences that will leave you with lifelong memories! Whether you're visiting for relaxation or adventure, you'll be able to fit a Monterey getaway in one weekend. To book your upcoming stay, visit our website or call us at (888)-222-5851.