Every romantic getaway at Old Monterey Inn begins a little differently. Some come for the scenery, while others come for the Monterey beaches. Time along the beach shapes the pace of a stay, making it truly unique.
The sand underneath your feet, the sound of the tides shifting, and quiet corners along the shoreline. The peaceful space allows you to slow down or keep moving. Some visits turn into long walks between neighboring beaches, while others stay in one place, watching the water and taking in your surroundings.
Our Go-To Beaches for a First Walk
Del Monte Beach is often our first choice. Locals know it well, and it still feels tucked away. The beach sits behind a coastal neighborhood, away from busy streets. That hidden detail makes it appealing for couples who like privacy.
Getting there adds to the fun of your visit. Turn toward the ocean from Del Monte Avenue at Casa Verde Avenue. Follow Surf Way to Tide Avenue and park beside the dunes. A boardwalk trail leads through the sand, which makes it feel like your own adventure.
Del Monte Beach also connects easily to nearby beaches. Window on the Bay Beach sits within walking distance to the south. Houghton M. Roberts Beach is a short walk to the north. Since they’re all so close, the layout gives couples space to keep moving without losing the calm.
Lovers Point also earns a place on every list. Its east-facing location makes sunrise the highlight, because nothing says romance like a beautiful sunrise.
If you do visit Lovers Point, you might spot sea otters sometimes drifting nearby. Painters set up easels along the grass to capture the changing light. Just beyond them, couples climb the rocks for a better view of the bay. Monterey Bay beaches are beautiful, but Lovers Point brings personality and history to every moment
Where the Coastline Feels Most Alive
San Carlos Beach shifts the mood in the best way, while the Monterey Peninsula Recreation Trail goes beyond the beach. That easy access makes a coastal walk feel like you’re exploring.
Take a short drive south for a change in tone to Carmel Beach, where the sand looks bright and soft under the sun. A gravel path runs along the shoreline beneath Monterey cypress, giving couples an easy, scenic route to follow together.
This beach brings weddings, honeymooners, and dog lovers year-round, yet it rarely feels crowded. Leashed dogs add playful sounds, and the long shoreline gives everyone space to enjoy the setting.
Farther down the coast, Monastery Beach introduces a dramatic landscape. Strong surf calls for caution near the water, but the views alone make the stop worthwhile. This is one of the Monterey beaches that feels raw, powerful, and unforgettable.
A Midday Pause Worth Savoring
Beach days always call for a good lunch, and we have a few options to make that decision easy. At Piccolo, the menu goes well beyond sandwiches, offering handcrafted pizzas, fresh soups, and more. Piccolo also has a rotating seasonal specials that keep things interesting.
Grab a picnic from there and take it down to the beach, paired with some wine, and the day will be perfect.
When you’re ready for a more elevated setting, Schooners Monterey offers a natural next stop along the coast. The restaurant sits over the water at the Monterey Plaza Hotel, where the terrace places you right above the waves. Seafood takes center stage, and the atmosphere is lively yet elegant.
Back in town, Stokes Adobe introduces a mood entirely different, grounded in Monterey’s layered history. The restaurant is housed in an adobe home from the 1830s, which adds depth to the experience. Dishes like pappardelle Bolognese and scallops with caviar reflect that same thoughtful approach.
A well-timed meal like this adds dimension to the day and enhances your romantic getaway.
When the Water Becomes Part of Your Day
After a beach day, certain details stick with us in ways we don’t expect. Walk down the boardwalk and catch glimpses of the warm afternoon light in a beautiful, unique way. Listen to the waves hitting the rocks, creating a beautiful soundtrack of relaxation. Views of the marine sanctuary give the entire stretch a strong sense of place.
Just beyond the sand, Cannery Row adds another layer to the day with its lively waterfront setting. A walk there feels engaging without becoming overwhelming, thanks to the mix of shops and restaurants along the water. Many couples continue on to Carmel Valley for wine tasting,
Evenings That Lead Back to Something Beautiful
Returning to Old Monterey Inn always feels like the perfect ending, especially after a day along Monterey beaches. And the inn brings comfort, warmth, and quiet elegance to your stay.
Every room and suite was designed as a romantic retreat, reflecting the charm and architectural detail of the English Tudor mansion. Carved woodwork, copper accents, and stained glass create a setting that feels both refined and inviting.
Each accommodation includes a private bath and thoughtfully chosen amenities, including lavender soaps that add a soft, relaxing touch. Sitting areas rest beside private fireplaces, ready for a quiet evening, while candles help create a more intimate atmosphere.
Guests wrap themselves in down duvets, fine linens, robes, and slippers, with bath salts and thick Turkish cotton towels adding to the comfort. Gourmet breakfast enhances each stay, whether enjoyed in the garden or by the fireplace.
All of these details come together to create a stay that feels complete from beginning to end. Time spent on Monterey beaches pairs naturally with evenings here, and that balance leaves a timeless impression.
A stay like this is worth booking ahead, especially during the most beautiful seasons along the coast.
Photo Credit: © Luis Becerra Fotógrafo from Pexels via canva.com, © Truecreatives from TrueCreatives via canva.com