A coastal landscape with a prominent rock formation, a sandy beach, and a clear view of the ocean.

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Our top choices for Pajaro Dunes hotels

1. Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay

Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
Downtown Monterey
United States
Carlos
CA $304
CA $361 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay

2. Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa

Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa
New Monterey
United States
marie
CA $470
CA $542 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 25 - Oct 26
Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa

3. Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa

Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa
Monterey
United States
Humberto J
CA $287
CA $390 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa

4. Carmel Mission Inn

Carmel Mission Inn
Carmel
United States
Micah
CA $214
CA $263 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Carmel Mission Inn

5. Seacliff Inn Aptos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Seacliff Inn Aptos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Aptos
United States
John
CA $150
CA $174 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Seacliff Inn Aptos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

6. Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa

Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa
Downtown Monterey
Canada
Steven
CA $277
CA $323 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 26 - Oct 27
Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa

7. La Bahia Hotel and Spa

La Bahia Hotel and Spa
Westside Santa Cruz
United States
Devin
CA $444
CA $578 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 19 - Oct 20
La Bahia Hotel and Spa

8. Monterey Beach Hotel, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel

Monterey Beach Hotel, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel
Monterey
United States
Katherine
CA $307
CA $405 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 2 - Nov 3
Monterey Beach Hotel, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel

9. Seascape Beach Resort

Seascape Beach Resort
Rio del Mar
United States
Ryan
CA $266
CA $411 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 25 - Oct 26
Seascape Beach Resort

10. The Monterey Hotel

The Monterey Hotel
Downtown Monterey
United States
Barbara
CA $130
CA $149 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
The Monterey Hotel

11. Embassy Suites by Hilton Monterey Bay Seaside

Embassy Suites by Hilton Monterey Bay Seaside
Seaside
United States
Shannon
CA $266
CA $326 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 11 - Nov 12
Embassy Suites by Hilton Monterey Bay Seaside

12. Hampton Inn & Suites Watsonville

Hampton Inn & Suites Watsonville
Watsonville
United States
Russell
CA $173
CA $200 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Hampton Inn & Suites Watsonville

13. InterContinental the Clement Monterey by IHG

InterContinental the Clement Monterey by IHG
New Monterey
United States
FABIAN
CA $310
CA $360 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 15 - Nov 16
InterContinental the Clement Monterey by IHG

14. Hotel Pacific

Hotel Pacific
Downtown Monterey
Canada
Alexis
CA $182
CA $214 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 15 - Nov 16
Hotel Pacific

15. Pacific Inn

Pacific Inn
Casanova Oak Knoll
United States
Sean
CA $117
CA $134 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 9 - Nov 10
Pacific Inn

16. Highlands Inn, a Destination By Hyatt

Highlands Inn, a Destination By Hyatt
Carmel Highlands
United States
Kelli
CA $511
CA $652 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 18 - Nov 19
Highlands Inn, a Destination By Hyatt

17. Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey

Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey
Marina
United States
Karissa
CA $99
CA $115 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 21 - Oct 22
Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey

18. Captain's Inn at Moss Landing

Captain's Inn at Moss Landing
Moss Landing
United States
Wei
CA $200
CA $224 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 18 - Nov 19
Captain's Inn at Moss Landing

19. Inn At Moss Landing Point

Inn At Moss Landing Point
Moss Landing
United States
Tiffany
CA $138
CA $167 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 21 - Oct 22
Inn At Moss Landing Point

20. El Castell Hotel

El Castell Hotel
Casanova Oak Knoll
United States
David
CA $107
CA $123 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
El Castell Hotel
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Learn more about Pajaro Dunes

Secluded beach houses line the pristine shoreline where you can spot dolphins and collect sand dollars at low tide. Families gather on uncrowded beaches for birdwatching, while nearby Monterey offers world-class aquarium visits and scenic coastal drives.

See all hotels in Pajaro Dunes
A sandy beach with footprints, a dune, and a row of beach chairs.

Top Pajaro Dunes Hotel Reviews

El Castell Motel

El Castell Motel

8/10 Good
"Good to stay"
Shoujie 1-night trip
Posted 1 hour ago
El Castell Motel
 Stargazer Hotel

Stargazer Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"The hotel was very nice and was in the condition expected for being a renovated motel. The room was clean, but there were a few cosmetic things left undone or missed during renovations. This being said, it didn't affect our stay, and I don't think it'll affect yours either. I'd definitely recommend this place for a nostalgic stay while in the Moterey Bay Area."
Josh 2-night trip
Posted 3 hours ago
Stargazer Hotel
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay

Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay

10/10 Excellent
"Nice trip, beautiful hotel,"
John 2-night trip
Posted 3 hours ago
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
Monarch Resort

Monarch Resort

8/10 Good
"Accessible and near to most tourist and beautiful spots. Nice and supportive hotel ztaff"
Melanie 1-night trip
Posted 5 hours ago
Monarch Resort
The Monterey Hotel

The Monterey Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"The staff was very helpful and friendly. The hotel, though old was well maintain and very clean. Loved the staff"
Gail 2-night trip
Posted 14 hours ago
The Monterey Hotel
Pacific Inn

Pacific Inn

10/10 Excellent
"Great location and a good price! The hotel was clean and quiet for being on a main road. Easy check in and out….highly recommend!"
Deana 2-night trip
Posted 16 hours ago
Pacific Inn
Marea Sol Hotel

Marea Sol Hotel

8/10 Good
"The location of this hotel, across from the Santa Cruz beach, is ideal. The walk ability to the Boardwalk is great. Our room was clean, quiet & comfortable. Would recommend staying here."
Kellie 2-night trip
Posted 17 hours ago
Marea Sol Hotel
Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa

Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa

8/10 Good
"This is a really great hotel if you are staying in Monterey. The rooms are spacious so you can actually but a kid or two in the room with you without feeling you are on top of each other. And you can walk to the aquarium and all the kid-friendly activities."
Margaret 3-night trip
Posted 19 hours ago
Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa
Hotel Abrego

Hotel Abrego

10/10 Excellent
"We were pleasantly surprised at the lovely room, courteous staff and great location. We don't drink wine, but the wine vouchers were a nice touch. (We gifted them to some other travellers) My only issue was the fireplace worked intermittently and there was not enough counter space in the bathroom. All in all we would stay there the next time we are in Monterey and definitely will recommend the Abrego!"
Anne 3-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Hotel Abrego

More cheap stays in Pajaro Dunes

Seaside Inn & Suites

Seaside Inn & Suites

525 Ocean St Santa Cruz CA
CA $76
CA $112 total
Nov 8 - Nov 9
includes taxes & fees
Seaside Inn & Suites
Lone Oak Lodge

Lone Oak Lodge

2221 N. Fremont St. Monterey CA
CA $100
CA $115 total
Nov 1 - Nov 2
includes taxes & fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,037 reviews)
Lone Oak Lodge
 Stargazer Hotel

Stargazer Hotel

1046 Munras Ave Monterey CA
CA $102
CA $117 total
Nov 9 - Nov 10
includes taxes & fees
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,885 reviews)
Stargazer Hotel
Lovers Point Inn

Lovers Point Inn

625 Ocean View Blvd Pacific Grove CA
CA $124
CA $143 total
Nov 10 - Nov 11
includes taxes & fees
Lovers Point Inn
The Stevenson Monterey

The Stevenson Monterey

675 Munras Ave Monterey CA
CA $125
CA $143 total
Nov 1 - Nov 2
includes taxes & fees
The Stevenson Monterey
Monarch Resort

Monarch Resort

1111 Lighthouse Ave Pacific Grove CA
CA $151
CA $173 total
Nov 9 - Nov 10
includes taxes & fees
Monarch Resort

Hotels in Pajaro Dunes with star rating

Find out more about Pajaro Dunes

Top reasons to visit Pajaro Dunes

  • Stunning Beaches: Pajaro Dunes boasts pristine beaches and breathtaking ocean views, ideal for relaxation and beach activities.
  • Outdoor Adventures: The area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for exploring beautiful sand dunes and nearby coastal attractions.
  • Local Wineries: Visitors can enjoy excursions to nearby coastal wineries to savour local flavours and enhance their culinary experience.
  • Charming Accommodations: A wide range of lodging options, from beachfront hotels to cozy resorts, cater to various tastes and budgets.
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Amusement parks and recreational areas provide fun for all ages, making it a great family destination.

Find great hotels near Pajaro Dunes

Discover a variety of accommodations in Pajaro Dunes, California, perfect for adventurous travellers and those seeking a relaxing beach getaway. From charming resorts to beachfront hotels, you’ll find options that cater to both business and leisure needs. Whether you’re looking for a vacation rental or a luxurious resort experience, Pajaro Dunes offers a delightful selection to make your stay memorable.

  • Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey: Ideal for pet lovers, Motel 6 Marina offers a warm and welcoming environment just 19.3km from Pajaro Dunes. This budget-friendly motel embraces a pet-friendly policy, allowing dogs and cats with certain restrictions. Guests appreciate the no-cost accommodation for pets and the convenient location near the scenic coastal attractions. With basic yet comfortable amenities, this motel is perfect for travellers seeking a laid-back stay while enjoying the beauty of California's coastline.
  • Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Monterey Beachfront-Marina, CA: Featuring a business-friendly atmosphere, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson offers a sophisticated experience just 19.3km from Pajaro Dunes. This hotel caters to business travellers with well-equipped meeting facilities and complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property. Guests enjoy spacious rooms with modern amenities, a complimentary breakfast, and a welcoming lobby that encourages relaxation and networking. Its proximity to Monterey's bustling business district makes it a smart choice for those combining work with leisure.
  • Motel 6 Watsonville, CA - Monterey Area: Just 6.4km from Pajaro Dunes, Motel 6 Watsonville is another excellent option for pet owners seeking a budget-friendly stay. This motel allows pets with a focus on comfort and convenience, offering free accommodation for pets and a pet-friendly atmosphere. Guests can enjoy simple yet comfortable rooms as well as easy access to nearby attractions. With its welcoming vibe and close-knit community feel, this motel provides a delightful retreat for those exploring the stunning California coastline.

Where to stay in Pajaro Dunes

Pajaro Dunes, California, offers an idyllic getaway for outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers alike. With its stunning sand dunes, pristine beaches, and breathtaking ocean views, visitors can enjoy a relaxing atmosphere perfect for families and couples. Explore nearby coastal wineries for a taste of local flavours or embark on excursions to discover the charm of nearby towns. Whether you're seeking adventure or a peaceful retreat, Pajaro Dunes promises a memorable vacation experience.

  • Santa Cruz: Nestled 22.5km from Pajaro Dunes, Santa Cruz is a vibrant coastal city renowned for its outdoor adventures and family-friendly atmosphere. The city attracts visitors year-round, with peak seasons in the summer months of June to August. Here, you can enjoy thrilling rides at the iconic amusement park, unwind at the picturesque boardwalk, or explore the stunning beaches and scenic bays. Don’t miss the local landmarks, which include the famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and the breathtaking coastal views along West Cliff Drive.
  • Watsonville: Situated in Watsonville, Pajaro Dunes offers a rich tapestry of outdoor experiences, scenic beauty, and beach activities. This city sees a steady influx of travellers, especially from June to July and in September. Watsonville is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature, with its beautiful beaches and access to national and state parks. Enjoy leisurely strolls along the coastline or partake in recreational activities at local parks, making it a great destination for families and nature enthusiasts alike.
  • Moss Landing: Located a mere 8.0km from Pajaro Dunes, Moss Landing is a charming coastal town that draws visitors for its scenic landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities. The best times to visit are in April and during the summer months from June to July. Here, you can explore the picturesque bay, relax on pristine beaches, or venture into the nearby national state park. With its quaint atmosphere and access to adventure, Moss Landing is an ideal spot for those seeking a blend of relaxation and exploration.

Things to do near Pajaro Dunes

Pajaro Dunes offers a perfect getaway for outdoor enthusiasts seeking stunning scenery and beach relaxation. Popular activities include exploring the beautiful dunes, visiting nearby amusement parks, and enjoying the lively boardwalk and recreational areas. Whether you're looking to unwind by the shore or partake in exciting adventures, Pajaro Dunes has something for everyone.

Shopping

Pajaro Dunes offers delightful shopping opportunities. Watsonville Square Shopping Center, 6.4km away, features a vibrant mix of entertainment and family-friendly shops. If you're up for a drive, Capitola Mercantile, located 16.1km away, also provides a charming selection of gifts and souvenirs amidst a lively atmosphere.

Recreation

Seascape Golf Club offers a stunning coastal backdrop for golf enthusiasts, perfect for both relaxation and sport. Pinto Lake Park provides a tranquil setting for leisurely strolls and picnics, while Salinas Sports Complex caters to those seeking energetic sports activities, ensuring a well-rounded wellness experience.

Adventure

At WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, experience the thrill of motor racing 32.2km from Pajaro Dunes, surrounded by an exhilarating atmosphere. Enjoy a treetop adventure at the Zip Line, located 29.0km away, or explore the stunning outdoor scenery at Waterfront, situated 30.6km from your base.

Nightlife

Pajaro Dunes offers nearby nightlife options like Boardwalk Bowl, 20.9km away, for an adventurous arcade experience. Sky Glider, also 20.9km away, provides thrilling rides, while Cinemark Century Northridge Mall 14, 22.5km away, sets the mood for romantic movie nights.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Pajaro Dunes

To save money during your visit to Pajaro Dunes, consider travelling from November to January when accommodation prices are lower. Tuesdays are the most affordable days to stay, while Saturdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter based on your budget and preferences, and look for eco-certified hotels to save on costs. Bundling your hotel, flights, and activities into an Expedia package can also yield significant discounts. Additionally, explore free activities in the area to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Pajaro Dunes are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Pajaro Dunes is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Pajaro Dunes is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from low to high.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy savings by combining your Pajaro Dunes hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Pajaro Dunes

Pajaro Dunes offers a delightful blend of outdoor activities and scenic beauty, making it an ideal beach vacation spot. Visitors can enjoy the stunning coastline, explore nearby amusement parks, and take in the charming seaside houses. For a memorable experience, consider trips to local attractions that showcase the area's culture and outdoor opportunities. Don't forget to look for signs leading you to Pajaro Dunes for a smooth journey to this picturesque destination.

  • Monterey Bay: Located 12.9km from Pajaro Dunes, Monterey Bay offers stunning coastal scenery and vibrant marine life. Enjoy relaxing beach vibes while exploring tide pools and taking in breathtaking ocean views. Perfect for nature enthusiasts and beach lovers alike.
  • Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Just 20.9km away, this iconic amusement park is a family-friendly destination filled with thrilling rides and carnival games. Experience the excitement of outdoor adventures while enjoying the lively atmosphere and delicious boardwalk treats.
  • Capitola Beach: Only 16.1km from Pajaro Dunes, Capitola Beach is a charming spot to unwind. With its colourful beachside cottages and gentle waves, it's a picturesque place for sunbathing, swimming, or simply enjoying the coastal ambiance.

Best time to go to Pajaro Dunes

The best time to visit Pajaro Dunes is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. September is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January50.9°F (10.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February50.9°F (10.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
March52.0°F (11.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April54.5°F (12.5°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May57.2°F (14.0°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
June61.7°F (16.5°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
July64.0°F (17.8°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August64.8°F (18.2°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September64.9°F (18.3°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
October61.5°F (16.4°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
November55.0°F (12.8°C)Light RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low
December50.2°F (10.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Pajaro Dunes

Visiting Pajaro Dunes is convenient with three major airports nearby. San Jose International Airport (SJC) is 56.3km away, with notable hotels such as the 5-star Shashi Hotel Mountain View Palo Alto and the 4.5-star Santa Clara Marriott located within 3 to 14.5km. Monterey Peninsula Airport (MRY) is 114.5km from Pajaro Dunes, offering excellent accommodations like the 5-star Quail and the 4.5-star Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa, both close by. Lastly, Salinas Municipal Airport (SNS) is 29.0km away, featuring hotels such as the Residence Inn by Marriott and Holiday Inn Express & Suites, both a short drive from the airport.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in Pajaro Dunes?
The best area to stay in Pajaro Dunes is within the private, gated community of Pajaro Dunes Resort itself, as it offers direct beach access and a range of accommodation options.This resort community is situated directly on the Monterey Bay coastline, known for its long, sandy beach. It's a collection of privately owned homes, townhouses, and condominiums, all managed by the resort, ensuring consistent quality and amenities. The layout is designed to maximise ocean views and beach access, with properties often just a short stroll from the sand.Families will find this area particularly suitable due to the self-catering accommodation options and the direct access to the beach. Many properties come with fully equipped kitchens, multiple bedrooms, and living spaces, providing plenty of room for everyone. The beach itself is wide and uncrowded, superb for building sandcastles, flying kites, or simply relaxing by the ocean. There are also walking and cycling paths within the community.Couples looking for a quiet, relaxing getaway will also appreciate Pajaro Dunes. The peaceful setting and the sound of the ocean make it an ideal spot for unwinding. Many rooms offer private balconies or patios with ocean views, superb for enjoying a sunrise or sunset.
When is the best time to go to Pajaro Dunes?
The best time to go to Pajaro Dunes is generally during the late spring and early autumn months, from May to June and September to October, for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.During these periods, you'll find the weather to be comfortably mild, often with clear skies, which is ideal for enjoying the beach and outdoor activities without the intense heat or the cooler, foggier conditions sometimes experienced in mid-summer. The sea breeze is usually gentler, making walks along the shoreline particularly enjoyable.For families, visiting in May or early June is often a great choice. The school holidays haven't fully begun, so the beaches and local attractions are less crowded, offering a more relaxed experience. The weather is warm enough for children to play on the sand and paddle in the ocean.Couples looking for a peaceful escape might prefer September and October. The summer crowds have dispersed, leading to a more tranquil atmosphere.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, though it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if canceled within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to "My Trips", and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by "Fully refundable property" for hotels in Pajaro Dunes.
How much is the nightly rate at a Pajaro Dunes hotel?
Prices for hotels in Pajaro Dunes often vary, but you can find a great deal from CA $112 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for the cheapest rate.

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