Spindrift Inn

The hotel's tan exterior faces busy Cannery Row and has white wood balconies along the second floor, as well as an arched mural on the first meant to look like a window to the ocean. Once inside, the lobby has green leather chairs surrounding a wooden table, next to high-backed armchairs in front of a fireplace. A grandfather clock and interesting sculptures of figures holding candelabras round out the space. There are few public spaces, aside from the lobby and rooftop deck, so most guests hole up in their room or explore the surrounding area. The hotel has a very prominent feminine vibe and primarily attracts couples looking for a romantic getaway.

The hotel is a bit pricey, but that's due to its central touristy location. It's situated on Cannery Row, a waterfront street made more famous by John Steinbeck's novel of the same name. Lined with restaurants and bars, it's the busiest part of Monterey, with merriment and music going well into the night. The oceanside setting provides gorgeous views from sea-facing rooms and the rooftop. Guests can find street parking or use the hotel's valet service for a daily fee. It's a quick five-minute walk to the Monterey Bay Aquarium and a 20-minute walk to Fisherman's Wharf. The Monterey Regional Airport is a 15-minute drive away.

Rooms at the Spindrift Inn are very romantic and feminine with light pink walls and beds with drapery above the headboards or full canopies. Feather bedding includes pink bedspreads with roses, matching headboards, and green throw pillows. Plush green and pink armchairs and ottoman are placed on wood floors in front of a cozy fireplace (in most rooms). A traditional wooden work desk and large flat-screen TV are standard. Ocean-facing rooms have window seating and binoculars to watch animals in the ocean like dolphins and sea lions. A minibar, in-room safe, and Keurig machine are provided. Marble bathrooms have shower/tub combos, Aveda toiletries, and bathrobes. Note that some rooms don't have air-conditioning but there are oscillating fans. Some guests have complained that street-facing rooms get a lot of noise, so it may be worth the upgrade to face the ocean.

With no on-site restaurant, spa or pool, there are very few features at the property. However, the hotel does deliver a simple but sufficient continental breakfast to each room on a silver tray. Think yogurt, cereal, fruit, muffins, and coffee. There's a daily wine and cheese reception in the lobby (common at Monterey hotels), and guests can also take items to their room or to the rooftop garden. The rooftop is industrial but does have several plants, limited seating, and gorgeous panoramic views. In-room massages are available, as is turndown service.