Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa
400 Cannery Row, Monterey
(800) 334-3999, (831) 646-1700
Readers love the Plaza. Let us count the ways: 1. Binoculars in your hotel room to spot seals, sea otters and the glistening moon over the Monterey Bay. 2. Beach access adjacent to the fountain plaza and terrace. 3. Rooftop fireplace and ocean-view Jacuzzi, hot-stone couples’ massage, oxygen-infused facial, or the live, jazz-piano melody including the crackle from the flames and ocean waves. 4. Surprise gifts like chocolate-covered strawberries, possibly a free breakfast, or discounts to a romantic dinner at the Schooners Coastal Kitchen and Bar, where Executive Chef James Waller accommodates food allergies and dishes up Seafood Watch guide servings. 4. Outdoor fire pits. 5. Legendary pampered turndown service. 6. Café La Strada Peet’s coffee-and-pastry goodies. 7. Personalized service with a friendly staff notorious for greeting hotel guests by name.