Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa

My family and I just got back from a two night stay at the Monterey Plaza Hotel and Spa. Everything up until the last interaction we had at the hotel was 5 stars. Here’s why I’m giving the hotel 2 stars. Prior to meeting the valet for my truck, I went to the front desk and checked out. She informed me my card on file hadn’t gone through and that’s when I realized I must have used my card for the online check-in that expired during our visit. It was a non-issue. I simply gave her my new card, paid and that was it. The valet drove up shortly after with my truck and proceeded to question us about our payment and ask me THREE times if I had paid. To which I repeated myself THREE times that yes I had paid our bill. Each time he asked, he looked at me like he did not believe me and his tone became more questioning. “Did you speak to the front desk bc there is an issue with your billing?” “Yes I just paid.” “You paid?” “Yes I paid.” “So you paid the full bill?” “Yes I paid the bill.” At this point I was getting very frustrated and embarrassed. He’s discussing this openly in front of everyone else that was around and treating us like we were about to ditch out on our bill. I didn’t realize the valet at Monterey Plaza Hotel and Spa were also accounts receivable or front desk management. Why was he even questioning me? Why was he questioning me repeatedly? Is it because I drive a Toyota Tundra and not a more luxurious vehicle? Sure felt like it. It felt completely inappropriate. Especially since we walked out the front lobby right next to the front desk to get our truck so that should have been an indicator that we just wrapped up our bill. It felt snobby and made us feel like we didn’t belong. Even though we tipped every time the valet picked up and dropped off our truck and we tip housekeeping. Even after my husband got the keys, he brought it up AGAIN that there was a note on our account. Unbelievable. Aside from that interaction, the hotel is lovely, very comfortable, very clean and it is in a great location.

I usually shun hotels, but this one on the water called to me. The location can't be beat; you can walk to the world-famous Aquarium, Cannery Row, sea lion rock (Cannery Divers Memorial), and many tasty eateries. We had just stayed at a rustic facility in Carmel Valley, so Monterey Plaza Hotel was a HUGE step up. All three of our rooms at the rustic spot could fit into one Plaza room with a king bed, a desk, coffee maker, small frig, table, chairs and product-filled bathroom. Rooms are super spacious with many amenities, including a pair of binoculars to watch otters, seals, swimmers, waves and birds. What made this visit memorable was the staff, every one of whom was lovely. Giana at the front desk checked us in, made an extra room key, recommended a delicious place for lunch, and was so kind and attentive. Jessica and Teigen, hostesses of the on-site restaurant, recognized us after we passed by once and shared tips about Monterey with us. Carlos the valet set up airport transportation. Steven drove me to the airport, and since I was the only passenger, I got to ride up front in the leather-seated luxury BMW SUV. He was an excellent tour guide and conversationalist too. This hotel offers old-school charm, many spa services, and a special staff. I would definitely stay here again!

Great location. Awesome service. Clean although dated… would benefit from a bit of an update and modernization… must also note that it probably provided the most luxury and updates when compared to other nearby choices. Overall very satisfied and will definitely return the next time we swing by Monterey. Schooner’s restaurant was fantastic in both food and service quality. Slept well …. Rooms well-enough appointed for the type of market. Great views (bay and ocean).

This is a lovely hotel at the end of Cannery Row . Lovely sitting out on your balcony watching the Otters, Seals & Sea Lions. Staff very friendly and helpful and Valet parking so easy. The Hotel kindly provided a fridge for the room. This was our second visit and would always recommend.

We had such an amazing time at the Monterey plaza spa. We were lucky enough to be able to celebrate our 6 year anniversary here. Someone who stood out to us was a gentleman named Zach. Zach is very kind, and accommodating. During the live music he remembered our anniversary and then went above and beyond to get us each a glass of champagne. Our experience very was memorable thanks to Zach and his wonderful hospitality. Thank you so much. We will definitely be back soon! -Isaac & Marissa