| set in cannery row along monterey bay, this polished boutique hotel on mcabee beach dates from 1927, and is a 4-minute walk from the monterey bay aquarium and downtown shops, galleries and eateries. there are complimentary wine-and-cheese nights, and a hidden rooftop garden offering ocean views. plush rooms and suites with high-end furnishings, vividly patterned fabrics and hardwood floors feature canopy beds, coffeemakers and minibars; some have balconies, wood-burning or gas fireplaces, window seats and/or scenic views. check-in time: 4:00 pmcheck-out time: 12:00 pm. free in-room perks include wi-fi, and breakfast served on a silver tray; room service is available (limited)
Norman
Carmel Beach (18 min)
White sandy beach backed by a trail & cypress trees popular for dog walking, volleyball & surfing. Lone Cypress (21 min)
Fenced viewpoint for a landmark single cypress tree overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Carmel River State Beach (21 min)
This mile-long beach offers bird watching opportunities & a popular scuba diving entry point. Point Pinos Lighthouse (10 min)
Oldest continually operating lighthouse on the Pacific, offering tours of Victorian-era building. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve (19 min)
Scenic coastal area features a variety of sea animals & wildlife, hiking, diving & a whaling museum. Del Monte Beach (7 min)
Strip of beach with boardwalk pathways through sand dunes, plus wildlife & picnic areas. Pebble Beach Golf Links (17 min)
Famed & highly touted 18-hole coastline public golf course with dramatic sea views & a clubhouse. Monterey State Beach (13 min)
Miles of scenic coastline offer beachgoers recreational activities ranging from surfing to fishing. Carmel Mission Basilica Museum (16 min)
Venerable, circa-1771 church featuring 5 on-site museums, a serene courtyard, tours & more. Old Fisherman's Wharf (18 min)
Iconic waterside complex & event site featuring seafood eateries, shops & water-sports activities. Dennis The Menace Playground (7 min)
Spacious kids' playground & park featuring activities such as a maze & a rock climbing wall. Lovers Point Park (7 min)
Petite beach park with swimming, surfing & other water recreation, plus kayak & bike rentals & more. Asilomar State Beach (10 min)
Tranquil place featuring a 1-mi. stretch of sandy beach & rocky coves, along with a walking trail. Point Lobos (21 min)
Rocky, shoreline nature preserve featuring trails to hidden coves, sea lions & dramatic ocean views. Monterey Bay Aquarium (4 min)
Well-known aquarium on a rocky coastline with exhibits ranging from otter habitats to touch pools. | 
