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Portola Hotel & Spa front entrance.

Monterey History

DISCOVER THE HISTORY OF MONTEREY, CA

Nestled amidst the seaside charm of Monterey Bay, Portola Hotel & Spa is a luxurious escape on the Central California coast. From beautiful coastal-inspired rooms and suites to an award-winning craft brewery, Portola Hotel & Spa is a gem among Monterey Bay hotels. Discover Monterey's culture, history, and character, dating back to the town's humble beginnings, right outside our hotel.


Portola Hotel & Spa signage.

THE NAME “PORTOLA”

The name Portola was selected due to its significance to the beautiful Monterey Peninsula. Gaspar de Portola was a soldier in the Spanish Army before being appointed as the Governor of Las Californias in 1768.

  • Portola served as Governor for two years and was born of noble birth in Catalonia. He was an able organizer and a notable leader who volunteered to lead an expedition up the California coast with stops in Monterey and San Diego.
  • Portola arrived in Monterey on May 24, 1770, when the European settlers started to colonize the area.
  • Portola eventually became Governor of Puebla, Mexico, and in 1784, he returned to Spain.
Ariel View from downtown.

A BRIEF HISTORY OF MONTEREY

Monterey's beginnings go back thousands of years with the native Rumsien tribe attracted to the area's abundance of fish, wildlife, natural resources, and mild weather. The Rumsien lived throughout the county, as evidenced by a number of sites found along the Monterey Peninsula, from Carmel to the present-day site of Fisherman's Wharf.

LEARN MORE about A BRIEF HISTORY OF MONTEREY
Point Pinos lighthouse.

MONTEREY FUN FACTS

  • Monterey was the first capital of the State of California
  • Monterey has the largest collection of historic buildings in public ownership west of Williamsburg, with many historic buildings open for public tours
  • Monterey is home to the Del Monte Golf Course, the oldest golf course west of the Mississippi River
  • Monterey has the oldest lighthouse on the West Coast
  • Monterey holds the first theater in the State of California