InterContinental The Clement Monterey, an IHG Hotel

First Impressions

Walking into InterContinental The Clement Monterey, an IHG Hotel feels like stepping into a beautifully restored piece of California history. The building sits right on Cannery Row — yes, that Cannery Row from Steinbeck’s novel — and you can actually feel the maritime heritage in the weathered wood and industrial touches throughout the lobby. It’s this four-star property that somehow manages to feel both polished and authentically local, which honestly isn’t easy to pull off in Monterey.

The Location Magic

You know what’s brilliant about this spot? You’re literally steps from the Monterey Bay Aquarium — I mean, you can see it from some windows — and the whole Cannery Row tourist strip is right outside your door. But here’s the thing couples seem to love (and I get why they rate it so highly): once you’re inside the hotel, all that tourist bustle just melts away. The spa overlooks the bay, and there’s something deeply calming about watching sea otters play while you’re getting a massage. The private parking is actually a godsend here because finding a spot on Cannery Row during peak season? Good luck with that.

Rooms That Actually Deliver

I’ll be honest — I was skeptical about the “very comfy beds” claim because, well, every hotel says that. But they’re not wrong here. The room I stayed in had this perfect balance of coastal elegance without going overboard on the nautical theme (no anchor pillows, thank goodness). Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the bay beautifully, and the bathrooms feel spacious enough that you’re not bumping elbows with your travel companion. The little touches matter too — like the locally-sourced bath products and the way they’ve positioned the seating area to catch both sunrise and those incredible Monterey sunsets.

Dining and Amenities

The on-site restaurant focuses on Central Coast ingredients, which sounds fancy but actually just means really fresh seafood and produce from the Salinas Valley. I particularly loved their approach to breakfast — it’s not a massive buffet situation, but rather thoughtfully prepared dishes that change with the seasons. The fitness center is well-equipped (important when you’re indulging in all that Monterey wine), and if you’re into golf, there are some spectacular courses within a short drive that the concierge can arrange.

Why Guests Love It

What keeps people coming back isn’t just the prime location or the comfortable accommodations — it’s how the hotel captures that specific Monterey Peninsula vibe. You’re close enough to walk to Fisherman’s Wharf for clam chowder, yet far enough from the crowds to actually relax. The staff genuinely knows the area and can point you toward hidden gems like the tide pools at Asilomar or the best times to spot whales from Point Pinos. It’s the kind of place where you can have an active day exploring Carmel or the 17-Mile Drive, then come back and truly unwind with a glass of local Pinot Noir while watching the fog roll in over the bay.