Complete your ESTA application and start your holiday to Monterey

Holidays in Monterey with your ESTA application and ESTA USA

ESTA USA travel – Welcome to our ESTA travel guide for Monterey. ESTA stands for “Electronic System for Travel Authorisation”. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security manages the VWP which issues the ESTA. You can complete your ESTA application here on this website in minutes, and receive your ESTA Visa by email. Your ESTA Visa USA will be valid for 2 years and allow for multiple entries into the United States. Obtaining your ESTA Visa is much faster than obtaining a conventional US Visa. The latter must be obtained by visiting a U.S. Embassy by appointment. An ESTA Visa, on the other hand, maybe obtained in minutes through the online application available on this website. So, complete your ESTA Visa application here and within hours you receive your ESTA Travel authorization and can be on your way to Monterey.

 

ESTA USA travel. Monterey is the perfect place to take a break. Picture yourself wearing shorts, sandals and a summer shirt in the California sunshine of December. A slight breeze carries fresh sea air up through beautiful green foliage and across your warming skin. Enjoy the breathtaking natural beauty and world-class attractions while savoring the small town charm. There is always something to do. Locals love to slow down, spend time outside, and enjoy the day. We invite you to do the same during your holiday in Monterey.

Your ESTA application will only take minutes and you’ll receive your ESTA visa within hours
ESTA USA travel

There’s an occasional ruffle on the surface as a whale or dolphin breaks the plane. And once in a while, a boat or distant ship glides by. The best way to explore Monterey is by taking the time to stop when something catches your eye. There are so many locally-owned businesses that are worth a look. Start with these suggestions but follow your feet and imagination while exploring. You never know what you will find!

 

Flying from the UK to Monterey on Holiday

There are no direct flights from the UK to Monterey. The connecting flights from London to Monterey with the lowest duration have a stopover at either Phoenix or Los Angeles. United Airlines, British Airways, and American Airlines are usually the most favored options. The round-trip fare for the economy class starts from $1129 if you book 2-3 weeks in advance. If you plan to travel in business class, it will set you back by at least $8,848.

 

ESTA comment; There are no lounges at the Monterey Airport.

 

Your ESTA application will only take minutes and you’ll receive your ESTA visa within hours
ESTA USA travel

 

ESTA USA travel and Monterey Holiday Accommodation

 

Accommodations in Monterey are abundant and diverse, including resorts, waterfront inns, and lovely bed-and-breakfasts. Munras Avenue and Fremont Street are the Peninsula’s motel rows. In recent years, most bargain motels have upgraded both in quality and price. June to October is the high season in Monterey. Rates on weekends, especially Saturday nights, are generally significantly higher than during weekdays year-round.

 

During a special event, weekends, some lodgings that are typically affordable (especially on Fremont Street) charge exorbitant rates. Many hotels require you to stay for a minimum two or three days during peak times. 

 

If you haven’t booked your accommodation in Monterey, here are a few suggestions to help you out.

 

Best Western Plus Victorian Inn (3 Stars)

 

All of Cannery Row is a leisurely walk from this contemporary three-story hotel. Features include underground parking, complimentary expanded continental breakfast and evening wine-and-cheese reception. Each well-furnished room has some combination of a raised gas fireplace, private patio, balcony, window seat, and they all have a refrigerator.

 

Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa (3 Stars)

 

Casa Munras is Monterey’s classic garden court resort hotel. It is one of Monterey’s oldest motor hotels with an idyllic location adjacent to, but quieter than, downtown. The hotel has evolved into a prominent romantic getaway resort. Amenities include dramatic landscaping, spa, an expansive grotto garden pool and whirlpool, gym, complimentary afternoon cookies, and a comfy lounge. Rental bicycles are also available. The whole facility was upgraded and contemporized while retaining the Monterey style and charm in 2016.

 

Monterey Marriott (4 Stars)

 

Monterey’s tallest landmark is a modern ten-story convention-oriented hotel in the heart of downtown and near the waterfront. Amenities include an outdoor pool, whirlpool, 24/7 fitness room, parking, and sports bar. The restaurant offers healthy dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The top three floors have floor-to-ceiling windows that provide appealing views of the marina and wharf.

 

Hyatt Regency – Monterey (4 Stars)

Monterey’s largest hotel, Hyatt Regency is a well-landscaped four-story resort with a scenic 18-hole golf course. The hotel features six tennis courts, rental bicycles, two pools, a fully-equipped fitness center, and an entertainment lounge. Experience the culinary fusion of Tuscany and California at the TusCa Restaurant or head to Knuckles Sports Bar for a fun, casual evening. The Market is the perfect place to grab a quick bite while the Fireplace Lounge offers a more relaxing ambiance.

 

Jabberwock Inn (3 Stars)

 

A couple from New Orleans has transformed a convent above Cannery Row into a bed-and-breakfast inn. A museum-load of quality antique furnishings adorns Jabberwock Inn. Enjoy a hearty breakfast and evening tea, cookies, wine, and appetizers. Half an acre of lovely gardens including a waterfall surround the 100-year-old property. Sit on the sunny porch listening to hummingbirds, participate in a game of Bocce, or watch out for a family of raccoons. Jabberwock Inn is an experience in itself.

Your ESTA application will only take minutes and you’ll receive your ESTA visa within hours

ESTA USA travel and sightseeing in Monterey

 

Monterey is a treasury of impressive history and geography. It is located by Monterey Bay in one of America’s most picturesque natural amphitheaters. Its seaport has played a significant role in the development of the West Coast for well over two centuries. Today, the town is an ingenious, fun-loving transformation from an earlier hard-working era. Here are some of the best places to see in Monterey:

Monterey Bay Aquarium

 

If you can only see one thing in Monterey, make sure that it is the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Housed in the original canning factories at Cannery Row, the Monterey Bay Aquarium boasts world-class exhibits. Make sure to visit the Open Sea exhibit, one of the most popular daily events at the Aquarium. Kids will enjoy the Splash Zone where they can touch and explore all kinds of sea creatures. Conservation and research are a few of the Aquarium’s top priorities, so you’ll be happy to know that your admission goes towards preserving and protecting coastal wildlife. While you are there, pick up a copy of Seafood Watch Guides, which can help you make informed decisions about sustainable seafood. They are available at kiosks around the aquarium.

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

 

Monterey is known for its beautiful coastal landscape, and there is no better way to see it than on your own two feet. Start with a visit to Point Lobos State Natural Reserve just a few miles south of the town of Monterey. Point Lobos has more than ten trails, four of which are ADA compliant with guided walking tours. It has a way for everyone to get out and enjoy the area’s natural beauty. If you are a scuba diving enthusiast, you can participate in some exciting dives at two of the coves. Make sure to book in advance. It’s worth the extra effort, as you will most likely catch sight of amazing wildlife. Parking is available in the park for a fee.

If you are up for a little extra walking, save on the parking fees and use the shortcut to Highway 1. Stop by Monastery Beach on your way back towards Monterey for some beautiful views of the Reserve.

 

Cannery Row

 

Cannery Row started as a center for industrial fishing and canning at the beginning of the 20th Century. While you are perusing souvenir shops, enjoying an ice cream at the Ghirardelli shop, and taking in the view, make sure to keep an eye out for exhibits and artifacts that tell its history. Stop in for some food and wine at Taste of Monterey. It’s a bistro with a fantastic wine selection and wall-to-wall window view overlooking the bay. Steinbeck Plaza is a great place to take a break and rest your feet. John Steinbeck grew up in the Monterey area and drew inspiration from its residents and workers for his books. Don’t forget to buy your copy of Cannery Row, his 1945 novel about this famous street and the people who worked there.

 

Pebble Beach

 

Golf enthusiasts will most likely want to spend their entire day at the courses in Pebble Beach. There are five courses on Pebble Beach, with the most iconic being the Pebble Beach Golf Links. The views from all are amazing, situated along the rugged coast between Pacific Grove and Carmel. Even if you are not a golfer, you can’t overlook the hotel accommodations, restaurants, and spas in the area. Be prepared to spend a nice portion of your budget, but for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, why not splurge? Make sure to check the event calendars before you visit. Pebble Beach hosts professional tournaments, such as the Pro-Am Tournament every February.

17-Mile Drive

 

For only $10 entrance fee, you can follow the red dashed line on the road to see the golf courses, beaches, and coast. You will also get a map that outlines the best places to stop. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of your stops. One of the most popular points on the drive is Spanish Bay. There are numerous picnic tables to eat at and a long, ambling boardwalk along the beach to get some exercise. The Lone Cypress is another must-see. As the official emblem of Pebble Beach, it is one of the most iconic symbols of the area. Bird Rock is a fun place, appropriately named for the birds and sea lions that call it home.

Old Monterey Marketplace Farmers’ Market

 

California’s Central Coast is famous as the salad bowl of the United States and for a good reason. Visit one of the area’s many farmers’ markets, and you’ll see how fruits and vegetables are grown. Old Monterey Marketplace Farmers’ Market on Alvarado Street opens every Tuesday. You can find produce stands, local food vendors, and live music. If you’re looking for something more substantial, enjoy outdoor dining at one of the restaurants on Alvarado Street. Top it up with a fresh piece of fruit from one of the market’s vendors. The Farm located near Salinas is a more permanent market that has fresh produce and crafts for sale every day. They also host special events, such as apple picking, children’s storytime, and a Fall Festival.

Lover’s Point

 

Lover’s Point sits at the end of a long recreational walking trail. The park has a lovely view, ample grassy spaces for picnics and a small beach to enjoy on sunny days. Stormy days are not as great for picnics but still have a lot to see. Surfers love the point for the predictable waves and kayakers like the easy entry to the bay. You may even see some local artists setting up their easels and canvas. Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy a coffee or acai bowl from the Lover’s Point Beach Café. When you finish your snack, climb over the rocky point to spot wild animals. Look for dense brown spots in the kelp forests; you might most likely spot an otter!

Carmel Valley

 

Napa Valley may be famous throughout the world as California’s premier wine region, but Carmel Valley can hold its own. Home to smaller, more intimate tasting rooms, the wineries in Carmel Valley take great pride in their craft. Many are close enough to walk from one to another, so wine enthusiasts can feel free to enjoy their tastings without worrying about driving from location to location. An even better option is to visit the Monterey Wine Trolley. It leaves from Monterey, close to several hotels, and offers unique insights as you travel and taste. Folktale Winery is one of the most notable. They have delicious food, expertly paired with their wines, and welcome kids and pets to their tasting area. Check their calendar before your visit to book a tour, enjoy live music, or join in a yoga class in the vineyard.

Your ESTA application will only take minutes and you’ll receive your ESTA visa within hours

Best Restaurants in Monterey

 

Gourmet and seaside restaurants are plentiful in Monterey. From hidden sushi places to upscale bars, from tourist-friendly joints on Cannery Row to locals’ favorites, Monterey has it all. We compiled a list of five must-try restaurants in Monterey to fit every budget. 

 

Alvarado Street Brewery & Grill (Medium Level)

 

Alvarado Street Brewery and Grill is a traditional and updated California pub grub. Some of the favorite dishes on offer are Manhattan clam chowder, truffle crawfish, mac ’n cheese, Vietnamese lamb burger, chicken pot pie, and fried Brussels sprouts. The snazzy post-modern bar and dining hall overlook views of brewing kettles in the back. The restaurant also sports lots of giant-size colorful beer ad posters and an outdoor wooden dining area.

The Breakfast Club (Medium Level)

 

The Breakfast Club, aptly named, is a pleasant surprise in an unassuming little shopping center. The menu offers a full range of morning dishes. Consider Crabcake benedict or chile Verde omelet with avocado and sour cream or cinnamon roll pancakes. Bananas foster french toast and homemade corned beef hash are also worth trying. Later in the day, the restaurant offers a wide range of California comfort foods for lunch and dinner. Wooden tables and chairs fill the large cheerful coffee shop and small adjoining lounge.

Crystal Fish (Medium Level)

 

Monterey’s best Japanese restaurant is this simple and comfortable dining room and sushi bar. They do it all, from tempting sushi specialties to skillfully prepared classic dishes such as teriyaki and tempura. For lunch, the two or three-specialty bento boxes are an outstanding treat. Save room for heart-warming desserts like tasty banana tempura with green tea ice cream or mango pudding.

Domenico’s on the Wharf (Top Level)

 

For more than a third of a century, the owner has paid meticulous attention to his cuisine and restaurant’s atmosphere. Mirror walls of the Wharf offer splendid views of the marina and Monterey Pine-shrouded mountains behind it. The specialties include Monterey Bay sardines marinated and grilled Sicilian style and Point Reyes blue cheese iceberg wedge. For entrees, you can go for whole Dungeness crab prepared five ways, or cedar-planked wild salmon. Housemade desserts include the family’s outstanding traditional tiramisu. Dining tables are draped with full linen, and candles and flowers overlook the boats in the adjoining harbor.

Sardine Factory

 

Fresh local seafood and cosmopolitan ambiance have distinguished the Peninsula’s longest-established gourmet dinner house for nearly fifty years. The stellar quality of the cuisine has endured, and the gifted chefs continue to delight patrons with creative treatments of fresh ingredients. Traditional and contemporary specialties include peerless abalone bisque, pan-seared local sand dabs, and lobster ravioli. Locally sourced iceberg lettuce from Salinas Valley stars in a salad with pecan-smoked bacon. There are also artichoke hearts, tomato, as well as blue cheese dressing. Beef and lamb selections are also worth trying. Save room for a choice from a long list of desserts like the Italian trio of cannoli, tiramisu, and spumoni.

 

Monterey is not as big and loud as its older Californian brothers like Los Angeles and San Francisco. But it offers a pure, pleasant, and wholesome experience. You rush against the wind down the narrow, winding trail onto the warm sand. The sensation is exhilarating, to say the least: the sun, sea, fresh air, and great feeling of true freedom.

 

Your ESTA application will only take minutes and you’ll receive your ESTA visa within hours
ESTA USA travel

 

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