Lodging in Monterey/Surrounding Areas - on a budget

Question

My 20-year old son and I are traveling up the PCH from our home in Los Angeles to Monterey next week for a last-minute trip. He's been struggling with depression, and I wanted to get him "away from it all," and show him the California coastline, but I'm also on a fairly tight budget right now so I'd love your suggestions on lodging.

Hotels or Cabins/AirBnbs: any suggestions for lodging under $225/night near Monterey, that are also clean and have nice views? Since he's feeling depressed, I don't want to stay somewhere dark/depressing if I can avoid it. It doesn't have to be super close to Monterey - just within a 30-minute drive or so (I'm flexible).

Things to do: It looks like there are some good places to rent bikes, so if you have any tips/suggestions on bike routes / rental companies, I'd love to hear them.

Any other suggestions for fun things to do that are not super expensive up there? I'm planning to take him to Hearst Castle on the way up the coast, and maybe the Aquarium, but those are my two splurges right now. We'll also walk around in nature, etc., of course, but if you have any other suggestions, please let me know.

OR - if you think there's a better, less expensive area to visit nearby - let me know! I've been to Monterey before, but he hasn't - he hasn't been past San Simeon, so I'm open anything north of there.

Thank you!

Answer

Monterey and the surrounding areas along the Pacific Coast are wonderful for a short getaway, especially if you're looking to lift spirits and enjoy fresh air and beautiful scenery. Since you're aiming for lodging under $225/night, there are several options both in Monterey itself and nearby towns like Seaside, Pacific Grove, and Carmel-by-the-Sea that balance affordability, cleanliness, and nice views.

Budget lodging options near Monterey:

Seaside Inn Monterey: Simple, clean rooms with some ocean-view options. Walking distance to the beach and easy drive to downtown Monterey. Budget-friendly and basic amenities.
Monterey Surf Inn: Small, cozy inn with ocean views in Pacific Grove. Rooms are light and airy, perfect for a bright, uplifting stay.
Airbnb cabins or cottages in Pacific Grove or Carmel Valley: Often provide ocean or valley views, private entrances, and a homey atmosphere. Many listings under $225/night if booked last minute, especially in Pacific Grove or Carmel Valley rather than central Carmel.
Economy motels along the PCH near Marina or Moss Landing: Affordable, clean, and often have easy access to beaches and nature trails. Not luxurious but functional for a short stay.

Activities and things to do with your son:

Bike rentals and routes: Monterey Bay Coastal Bike Trail is excellent for scenic rides. Companies like Monterey Bay Bike Rentals in downtown Monterey offer hourly or daily rentals. Riding along the coast is safe, scenic, and uplifting.
Nature walks and state parks: Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is beautiful, with trails offering coastal views and wildlife sightings. Garrapata State Park is another option slightly north along the PCH.
Affordable sightseeing: Walking along Cannery Row, exploring Pacific Grove’s coastline, or strolling the beaches is free and refreshing. Lovers Point Park in Pacific Grove is a calm, scenic spot.
Optional splurges: Monterey Bay Aquarium and Hearst Castle are excellent choices; the aquarium has a calming effect with beautiful marine life, and Hearst Castle is unique and awe-inspiring.

If you want to save even more money, staying a bit north in Moss Landing or Marina can reduce nightly rates while still being within 30 minutes of Monterey and the main coastal attractions. These areas are quieter, less touristy, and often offer small inns or motels with decent views of the ocean or wetlands.

Overall, for a positive, uplifting experience: prioritize accommodations with natural light, views, and access to outdoor activities, and plan your days around easy, scenic walks, biking, and stops at beaches or coastal parks. Avoid staying in heavy traffic areas or in places that feel cramped or dark, as the goal is a restorative environment for your son.

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