Best Spa Hotels in Monterey

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. 

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 Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa occupies coveted real estate that overlooks Monterey Bay from Cannery Row. Recent visitors raved about the hotel's proximity to the aquarium and local shops, adding that future lodgers should consult the concierge about area activities as there's much to do nearby. Guests also highly suggest paying a slightly higher rate to get an oceanfront room. But no matter where you're sleeping, you'll find amenities like flat-screen TVs, marble bathrooms, Keurig coffee makers and microfiber beds. The Vista Blue Spa, located on the top floor of the hotel, gets rave reviews from guests for its outdoor hot tubs and long list of services. And while the Helmsman Lounge offers live music, cocktails and light bites, the indoor terrace restaurant, Schooners Coastal Kitchen & Bar, is not to be missed, either.

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.

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.

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.