Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay – Coastal Romance in the Heart of Monterey

A Four Diamond Romantic Escape by the Harbor

Set steps from Old Fisherman’s Wharf and the sparkling waters of Monterey Bay, Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay is a AAA Four Diamond retreat designed for couples who want coastal romance without giving up urban convenience. Frequently recognized among Northern California’s top hotels, it combines a calm, resort‑like atmosphere with a walkable downtown location.

The mood is relaxed and upscale: many guests remark on the peaceful ambience, inviting lobby, and memorable evenings in the Jacuzzi, even under the coastal mist or rain.

Coastal‑Inspired Rooms & Suites for Two

Portola’s 379 rooms and suites are styled in warm coastal tones, blending Spanish‑inspired craftsmanship with driftwood‑hued flooring, leather details, and patterned textiles that echo the bay outside.

Romantic Room Types

• Harbor View & Executive King Rooms – King beds dressed in 300‑thread‑count linens, sustainable mattresses, shuttered windows, and sweeping harbor views. Executive Kings feature sloped ceilings, window seating, and upgraded spa‑style bathrooms with marble and brass accents, plus spacious showers.
• Studios & Courtyard Rooms – Larger layouts with patios or balconies overlooking garden terraces, perfect for morning coffee or an evening glass of local wine.
• Hospitality, Executive & Presidential Suites – Generous living areas, wet bars, dining tables for two to six, and multiple balconies with Monterey Bay views. The Presidential Suite adds a soaking tub and up to five outdoor terraces, ideal for special occasions or mini‑moons.

All accommodations feature complimentary Wi‑Fi, flat‑screen TVs, Keurig coffee makers, organic bath amenities, plush robes, ceiling fans, air conditioning, and double‑pane windows that keep interiors quiet and cocoon‑like. The property is also pet‑friendly, so couples can bring a four‑legged companion along.

Spa on the Plaza – A True Wellness & Spa Getaway

For couples seeking relaxation, Spa on the Plaza is one of Monterey County’s standout attractions and a key reason this property fits perfectly as a Wellness and Spa Getaway.

• 6,000 square feet of serene space
• 11 private treatment rooms
• Steam rooms and a tranquil relaxation lounge
• Pool and Jacuzzi access

The spa offers more than 40 signature treatments, from aromatherapy facials to indulgent coconut balm massages, as well as curated spa packages tailored for couples’ retreats. VIP Premier Guest options add romantic touches like champagne, cookies, and chocolate, making celebrations and anniversaries feel more personal.

Dining & Drinks: Ocean‑Friendly, Locally Inspired

Portola is Monterey County’s first hotel approved by the Blue Zones Project®, and its on‑site dining follows sustainable, ocean‑friendly practices in line with Surfrider Foundation and Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch guidance.

• Jacks Monterey – A dramatic atrium setting serving globally inspired California cuisine, seasonal menus, and an award‑winning wine list. It’s a natural choice for romantic dinners or lingering breakfasts.
• Peter B’s Craft Brewery – Monterey’s original craft brewery offers award‑winning beers, comfort food, and a casual atmosphere; a fun stop for couples who enjoy great brews after a day on the water.

Healthy, locally sourced options, artisan cocktails, and Central Coast wines make it easy to pair spa time with mindful dining.

Pool, Fitness & Relaxation

The hotel’s pool and Jacuzzi area, flanked by loungers and cabana‑style seating, is a favorite among couples. Guests highlight late‑night soaks in the hot tub as especially memorable and romantic.

A well‑equipped fitness center lets active couples start the day with a workout before heading out to explore.

Steps from the Best of Monterey

As an Urban Escape in Monterey’s compact downtown, Portola places couples within an easy stroll of:

• Old Fisherman’s Wharf for seafood, boat tours, and sunset strolls
• Cannery Row and Monterey Bay Aquarium
• Wine‑tasting rooms and Carmel Valley excursions
• The Monterey Bay Coastal Recreational Trail for walking, biking, and ocean views
• Kayaking, paddle boarding, whale‑watching, and the scenic 17‑Mile Drive

The hotel’s calm interior contrasts with the lively surroundings, so couples can slip from bustling wharf to quiet harbor‑view room in minutes.

Service & Atmosphere

With a high rating from thousands of reviews, Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay earns praise for its friendly, attentive staff and warm, reassuring reservation support, which often makes planning feel effortless. The overall vibe here is welcoming and polished rather than stuffy, with just enough glamour for special occasions.