Monterey Plaza Hotel and Spa adds new meaning to the phrase waterfront lodging.
You’re not near the water, or even next to the water. You are on the water. It’s like being in a ship, but without all the uneasy wave action.
This is especially true for the Presidential Suite, which offers space, luxury, comfort and spectacular views.
“There is no other suite in Monterey like it,” says General Manager, John Narigi. “It is 2500 sq. feet, and built literally over Monterey Bay. It has a beautiful sundeck with a private hot tub, and furnishings that one would find in a million-dollar home. It is the ultimate luxury experience.”
In addition to the large deck and outdoor hot tub, the suite boasts an indoor soaking tub, living room with fireplace and a 180 degree view of Monterey Bay. Sure, there’s an entertainment center and high speed internet – but why would you ever look away from the Monterey Bay?
The Presidential Suite is one of several luxury suites, including the Grand Bay, Cannery Row and Spa Terrace. Each one offers impressive luxury and, of course, gorgeous vistas. You may not want to leave, as their Forbes 4-Star Service is guaranteed to pamper you throughout your stay.
But there’s a lot more to do, both in the hotel and around Monterey.
You are perfectly situated to visit the world famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, tour Pebble Beach and Carmel via the 17-Mile Drive or take in the beauty around Big Sur. There’s hiking, ocean kayaking, whale watching, shopping, fine dining and some incredible wineries – I particularly recommend Talbott Vineyards, known worldwide for their fine Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs.
Rejuvenate
In between excursions, be sure to visit Monterey Plaza’s Vista Blue Spa, it raises the comfort quotient, delivering all the pampering you deserve. Try the Head to Toe massage or their seasonal Coastal Creation featuring a Cinnamon Vanilla Brown Sugar Scrub, a KuKui Nut and Coconut Oil Massage and Warm Bourbon Country Pedicure. Guests can also enjoy beauty treatments like the Oxygen Infusion Facial. “This unique facial uses 96% pure oxygen to provide a more penetrating delivery system to skin cells for an immediate and noticeable change; it is often noted to last up to two weeks,” says Spa Director Heidi Clark.
After spa time, enjoy a “nosh”. The Monterey Plaza offers exceptional casual dining at Schooners Coastal Kitchen and Bar or sandwiches, pastries and great coffee at the Café La Strada. “I believe you must eat well and never settle for less,” says their Executive Chef James Waller. “The Poke Tacos are delicious; the tuna is always fresh and is complimented by soy and sriracha. For those longing for a truly exquisite dining experience, our sustainably-caught swordfish cannot be beat. It is a local favorite and definitely worth experiencing first-hand.”
Now is a great time to visit, as the hotel recently renovated a number of areas: new stonework on the Vista Blue sundeck; a wooden wall bar in the Grand Bay Suite and luxurious upgrades to the lobby. “The lobby has completely transformed. It is now a place that exemplifies our coastal
feel, while portraying a touch of our classic elegance. It is warm, inviting and a place for our guests to truly experience the majestic Monterey Bay”, says Narigi.
If you enjoy the coastline or any outdoor recreational activity, Monterey has an abundance of both. It is perfect for families or couples looking to get away - offering attractions everyone can enjoy.
It is absolutely worth a trip, especially around the holiday.
Jennifer Boden is a 10News travel contributor. She is the founder and publisher of Dine and Travel. Jennifer, a former news anchor, lives and plays in Northern California’s Wine Country.
