Monterey Motel

Room 302 needs updating, and the mold smell was so strong that even the sheets had picked it up. Apart from the room, it was a nice place for families with kids, with a good ocean view and a nice pool.

We had a blast staying here several years in a row and will return. The units were modern, updated, and clean, and the whole property was immaculate and well kept. The staff were very friendly and took care of anything we needed right away. Timmy was one of the hardest-working young men we've seen at a resort. He helped people to and from their cars and unloaded all our belongings. Great job, Timmy, keep it up!

The motel's location is great and it was nice enough, but we won't be back. There are other motels nearby with vacancy signs, and we'll try one next year. I came with my adult siblings and all our kids, so we were a large, excited group. I told the manager at check-in that I had an extra child and expected a fee, which I was fine paying. Her reaction was as if I'd kicked her dog. When we spent a few hours on the patio, she watched us like an angry, bitter hall monitor. The rest of the staff seemed nice, but she was rude to them too. She acted like she was doing us a huge favor by letting us rent rooms.

Room 301 is oceanfront on the top floor, and that view is what sells it. You can see past the first two boardwalk piers all the way to Diamond Beach, from the kitchen table or couch. Step onto the oversized deck and there's sea air and beach views in every direction. The floor-to-ceiling windows fill the room with natural light. The room was beautiful, with calming colors and updated furniture. It's comfortable for a family of four, and the new pull-out couch sleeps two more. The bathroom is clean and updated, and the oversized shower has a little window facing the ocean. The kitchen is just the right size for cooking a few meals, with good utensils, pots, pans, and plates. There's also a first-floor grilling area, though watch out for seagulls, they like hot dogs. The Monterey is right on the beach and a quick bike ride of about ten minutes or five-minute drive from the boardwalk. It's quiet at night because it's away from the boardwalk. Lisa and Fran are welcoming, and management has changed for the better since before 2020. Fran, or Mr. Bingo, hosts Friday bingo with prizes, and Saturdays have live music and “Monterey has talent,” a variety show featuring guests. They say there's more to come. During the main season, bell service brings your bags up at check-in and down at checkout. Timmy works hard at it. Housekeeping is impeccable, rooms are clean and stocked, and the staff are always smiling. Parking is free and assigned by room number, so your car is nearby. We always enjoy our time here and look forward to coming back. We'll book Room 301 again and can't wait to yell BINGO!