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. The Monterey Hotel

The Monterey Hotel
Downtown Monterey
United States
Jason
CA $162
CA $185 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 13 - Sep 14
The Monterey Hotel

2. Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay

Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
Downtown Monterey
United States
Leslie
CA $366
CA $433 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 16 - Sep 17
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay

3. Seacliff Inn Aptos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Seacliff Inn Aptos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Aptos
United States
Lee
CA $179
CA $206 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 22 - Sep 23
Seacliff Inn Aptos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

4. Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa

Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa
Downtown Monterey
United States
Fabian
CA $249
CA $290 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 2 - Sep 3
Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa

5. Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa

Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa
New Monterey
United States
Abraham
CA $471
CA $543 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 17 - Sep 18
Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa

6. InterContinental the Clement Monterey by IHG

InterContinental the Clement Monterey by IHG
New Monterey
United States
John E
CA $366
CA $423 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 17 - Sep 18
InterContinental the Clement Monterey by IHG

7. Best Western Rose Garden Inn

Best Western Rose Garden Inn
Watsonville
United States
Syria
CA $195
CA $223 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 9 - Sep 10
Best Western Rose Garden Inn

8. Hampton Inn & Suites Watsonville

Hampton Inn & Suites Watsonville
Watsonville
United States
Leonel
CA $184
CA $212 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 1 - Oct 2
Hampton Inn & Suites Watsonville

9. Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa

Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa
Monterey
Canada
Lucas
CA $328
CA $436 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 20 - Sep 21
Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa

10. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Watsonville by IHG

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Watsonville by IHG
Watsonville
United States
Joel
CA $182
CA $209 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 1 - Oct 2
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Watsonville by IHG

11. Hyatt Carmel Highlands

Hyatt Carmel Highlands
Carmel Highlands
United States
Nitesh
CA $548
CA $693 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 28 - Sep 29
Hyatt Carmel Highlands

12. Seascape Beach Resort

Seascape Beach Resort
Rio del Mar
United States
Emma
CA $395
CA $553 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 27 - Sep 28
Seascape Beach Resort

13. Captain's Inn at Moss Landing

Captain's Inn at Moss Landing
Moss Landing
United States
Nathan
CA $174
CA $195 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 3 - Sep 4
Captain's Inn at Moss Landing

14. Inn At Moss Landing Point

Inn At Moss Landing Point
Moss Landing
United States
Renato
CA $169
CA $202 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 15 - Sep 16
Inn At Moss Landing Point

15. The Quail

The Quail
Carmel
United States
William
CA $438
CA $554 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 30 - Oct 1
The Quail

16. Hyatt Vacation Club at Highlands Inn

Hyatt Vacation Club at Highlands Inn
Carmel Highlands
United States
Baljit
CA $589
CA $736 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 27 - Sep 28
Hyatt Vacation Club at Highlands Inn

17. Monterey Bay Inn

Monterey Bay Inn
New Monterey
United States
Keven
CA $409
CA $465 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 2 - Sep 3
Monterey Bay Inn

18. Monterey Marriott

Monterey Marriott
Downtown Monterey
United States
Justin
CA $353
CA $453 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 21 - Sep 22
Monterey Marriott

19. Hotel Carmel

Hotel Carmel
Northwest Carmel
United States
Clara
CA $555
CA $689 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 20 - Sep 21
Hotel Carmel

20. Embassy Suites by Hilton Monterey Bay Seaside

Embassy Suites by Hilton Monterey Bay Seaside
Seaside
United States
William
CA $316
CA $389 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 30 - Oct 1
Embassy Suites by Hilton Monterey Bay Seaside
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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

Monarch Resort

Monarch Resort

8/10 Good
"Large clean room with fireplace, hotel provided duraflame log,basic breakfast with waffle machine, Heated pool and hot tub. Good location near beach and downtown. Quiet"
Julia 2-night trip
Posted less than an hour ago
Monarch Resort
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay

Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay

10/10 Excellent
"Good hotel reception area. Room are dated."
Cecil 2-night trip
Posted less than an hour ago
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa

Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa

8/10 Good
"This is a nice play to stay with reasonable rates in Monterey. Our room was pretty big and we slept comfortably all three nights. It was super quiet in the evenings. The in-room refrigerator was not cooling when we arrived, but was fine a few hours later. I noticed right after checking in that the room was missing a hair dryer, but staff brought one up immediately after I requested it. Our room had a ceiling fan and AC unit, which isn't the case for all properties in the area. Even though the evenings in Monterey are cool, rooms can get stuffy so it was nice to have both. We had breakfast at the hotel restaurant one morning of our stay and it was good. There is also a good coffee shop across the street, as well as a Peet's and a Trader Joe's within walking distance. The property is a little dated, but overall it was a great stay."
Becky 3-night trip
Posted 1 hour ago
Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa
Pacific Inn

Pacific Inn

8/10 Good
"The room (King bed) was spacious and always clean. No problem with the parking and the hotel was full the weekend we stayed. The mini fridge worked perfectly. The microwave too. No noise from the nearby airport only a little from the Fremont blvd but if you’re tired you don’t care about it. The location is pretty close to Monterey downtown and Monterey state beach but being the hotel close to the PCH (1) you can go easily and fast to the beaches north and south of Monterey."
Cristina 2-night trip
Posted 4 hours ago
Pacific Inn
La Bahia Hotel and Spa

La Bahia Hotel and Spa

10/10 Excellent
"La Bahía reminded us of Grand Wailea in Maui (minus all the pools and waterslides). Very tastefully done, excellent food, excellent customer service, beautiful atmosphere, great amenities. We would love to stay again."
Christiana 1-night trip
Posted 5 hours ago
La Bahia Hotel and Spa
Seacliff Inn Aptos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Seacliff Inn Aptos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

10/10 Excellent
"We had the Garden facing room which was wonderful. Great to sit on the patio and look at the greens cape. The room was quiet and comfortable."
Rebecca 3-night trip
Posted 6 hours ago
Seacliff Inn Aptos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Chaminade Resort & Spa

Chaminade Resort & Spa

10/10 Excellent
"Clean room. A bit small but that’s ok. Attentive staff easy check in and out. Only issue was A/C did not work. Room was at 73-75 during our stay"
Brad 1-night trip
Posted 6 hours ago
Chaminade Resort & Spa
Bay Breeze Inn

Bay Breeze Inn

8/10 Good
"The stay was good. Clean rooms. Tight parking. Staff was great. Great location."
Benny 1-night trip
Posted 12 hours ago
Bay Breeze Inn
Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey

Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey

10/10 Excellent
"Great stay at Motel 6. Close to CSUMB and Walmart. Dennys is next door. Bed was comfortable and check in staff was friendly and fast at 12 am."
Jewel 1-night trip
Posted 22 hours ago
Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey

More cheap stays in Pajaro Dunes

Bay Breeze Inn

Bay Breeze Inn

2049 Fremont Blvd Seaside CA
CA $78
CA $90 total
Sep 7 - Sep 8
includes taxes & fees
Bay Breeze Inn
Sand Castle Inn

Sand Castle Inn

1011 La Salle Ave Seaside CA
CA $104
CA $118 total
Sep 8 - Sep 9
includes taxes & fees
Sand Castle Inn
Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey

Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey

100 Reservation Rd Marina CA
CA $104
CA $121 total
Sep 7 - Sep 8
includes taxes & fees
8/10 Very good! (2,206 reviews)
Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey
Vagabond Inn Monterey

Vagabond Inn Monterey

2124 N Fremont St Monterey Monterey CA
CA $107
CA $127 total
Sep 27 - Sep 28
includes taxes & fees
Vagabond Inn Monterey
 Stargazer Hotel

Stargazer Hotel

1046 Munras Ave Monterey CA
CA $150
CA $171 total
Sep 30 - Oct 1
includes taxes & fees
Stargazer Hotel
Monarch Resort

Monarch Resort

1111 Lighthouse Ave Pacific Grove CA
CA $161
CA $184 total
Sep 7 - Sep 8
includes taxes & fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,011 reviews)
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 $90 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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