Best Pool Hotels in Monterey

Guests gush over the gorgeous landscapes (spanning across 500 acres) that surround the Carmel Valley Ranch, not to mention the stunning golf course, the massive fitness center and the sensual Spa Aiyana. But back to the great outdoors: While here, don't miss the chance to roam the ranch's wide lavender fields to learn about beekeeping. Guests recommend eating at the Valley Kitchen for fresh, locally sourced dishes and outstanding customer service, or head to the River Ranch Café for a more casual vibe. And then there are the suites, where you can spread out in anywhere from 650 to 1,200 square feet of space, which all include 42-inch flat-screens with Blu-ray players, Travertine fireplaces and free wireless internet.

Away from the shore and downtown Monterey, the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa isn't the most convenient choice in terms of location. But this Hyatt outpost makes up for that in size: It's one of the largest luxury properties in Monterey with 550 guestrooms, ample conference facilities, 12,000 square feet of relaxation at the Marilyn Monroe Spa and a huge fitness center. Guests also have access to two pools, two restaurants (and a bar) and the greens of the Del Monte Golf Course. The Hyatt Regency's guest rooms and suites come equipped with flat-screen TVs, iHome stereos and high-speed internet access, not to mention minifridges and marble bathrooms. But as pleased as they were with the resort's offerings, some guests lament having to pay the daily $25 resort fee here. But, members of Hyatt's loyalty program can offset costs by redeeming points here.

Unlike many of its Monterey Peninsula competitors, the Bernardus Lodge is situated away from the beach in the rugged hills and vineyards of Carmel Valley, California. With Nespresso coffee makers and a complimentary wine bar stocked with Bernardus wines, the guest rooms at this property aspire to a homey atmosphere that encourages you to indulge. Guests also appreciate the large tubs and the private balconies or terraces overlooking the property's gardens and the nearby mountains. The boutique resort's romantic side can be found at its restaurant and in the spa, which offers couples treatments. And despite the availability of wireless internet, guests find this the perfect place to disconnect from the outside world. Lastly, guests should not neglect exploring the Bernardus Winery, which offers daily tastings. Though this hotel charges a daily resort fee, it includes free parking and a 24-hour concierge service, among other amenities. 

The smallest and most intimate of the Pebble Beach Resorts, Casa Palmero is an exquisite, 24-room property along the fairways of Pebble Beach Golf Links. The attention to detail is evident throughout this Italian villa-inspired property: Guests claim that staff members bend over backward to make guests comfortable, including delivering breakfast baskets to your room each morning and replenishing flowers in your room daily. Not to mention, there are complimentary cocktails served at the hotel every evening. Should you want to explore beyond the premises, guests are allowed access to the Pebble Beach resort's Beach & Tennis Club, as well as the spa. Keep in mind that you need to stay at least two nights here, at The Inn at Spanish Bay or at The Lodge at Pebble Beach to get a reserved tee time on the course. And be sure to book the tee time when you reserve your room to ensure your spot. As a member of the Preferred portfolio, iPrefer members can earn and use points here.

Guests loved the location of the Monterey Marriott, which is situated in downtown Monterey, California, across the street from the Monterey Conference Center and about a mile from Cannery Row. The Monterey Regional Airport is also less than 4 miles away from this Marriott property, though those that arrive with a vehicle must pay for parking. Some guests felt the property could use an update, but it does offer a variety of amenities, including a fitness center, an outdoor pool, a whirlpool, a business center, coin laundry services and electric car charging stations (available for a fee). Guest rooms feature either city or bay views, and they include coffee makers and flat-screen TVs with Netflix access, though there is a fee for in-room Wi-Fi access. For dining, Fin + Field Restaurant and Bar serves California fare for breakfast, lunch and dinner. What's more, Marriott Rewards members may earn and redeem points with a stay at this property.

For golf fans, a stay at The Lodge at Pebble Beach – which sits on the 18th hole of the historic Pebble Beach Golf Links – is a dream come true. You won't regret requesting a room that overlooks the fairway and the Pacific Ocean. Aside from the outstanding views, recent visitors rave about the staff, calling them professional and attentive. There are five exceptional bars and restaurants on-site, as well as multiple shops. Access to the Beach & Tennis Club is also free for guests. Just keep in mind that you must stay at least two nights at the Lodge (or The Inn at Spanish Bay or Casa Palmero) to get a reserved tee time on the course, and you'll have better luck securing a spot if you book your tee time when you reserve your hotel room.

The InterContinental The Clement Monterey's location on Cannery Row is hard to beat. Guests appreciate the hotel's proximity to shopping, restaurants and attractions like the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Described as a home-away-from-home by some, this InterContinental property also features a health club, pool and oceanfront patio. Guest rooms here are spacious and well-lit, boasting excellent views of Monterey Bay and housing such amenities as plasma TVs, minibars and spa-style bathrooms. But before you retire for the evening, grab a bite to eat at the C restaurant, which garners good reviews for its seafood entrees. Because of its family ties, this hotel participates in the IHG Rewards Club, allowing members to earn points that can be used to cover stays in the future.

All of the 48 guest rooms in this exceptional oceanfront property boast spectacular views, plush furnishings and modern amenities such as iHome stereos, wireless internet access and flat-screen TVs. But those who stay here are even more impressed with the Pacific's Edge Restaurant for its jaw-dropping vistas seen outside its floor-to-ceiling windows. Although the setting is intimate, there's plenty to do on-site and nearby to keep you from getting cabin fever. This Hyatt property offers an outdoor pool, in-room spa services, complimentary mountain bikes and two lounges. Guests are also impressed by the staff's hospitality and available babysitting services. You'll find this Hyatt in the picturesque town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, California. And because of its brand connections, this hotel participates in the rewards program.

Like its sister properties, The Lodge at Pebble Beach and Casa Palmero, the Inn at Spanish Bay caters mostly to avid golfers and luxury travelers. Guests praise the staff for their exceptional service and friendly dispositions. The rooms, many of which face the ocean, are spacious, with flat-screen TVs, complimentary internet access and minibars – some accommodations even come with fireplaces and balconies. There are many restaurants and bars that reside in the Pebble Beach complex, but Pèppoli and Roy's are the true culinary standouts. Just keep in mind that you must stay at least two nights at the Inn at Spanish Bay, Casa Palmero or The Lodge at Pebble Beach to reserve a tee time on the Pebble Beach Golf Links. Located along 17-Mile Drive, closer to Monterey than Pebble Beach, the hotel allows guests to enjoy easy access to all the shops and eateries near Cannery Row.