A Historic Hotel with a Spooky Twist
Monterey is celebrated for its stunning coastal beauty, rich cultural history, and vibrant downtown. Nestled in the heart of the city, The Monterey Hotel, built in 1904, is known not only for its Victorian charm but also for its haunted reputation. Step into history and perhaps cross paths with a spirit or two when you book your getaway.
Ghostly Residents of The Monterey Hotel
Over the years, guests and staff have shared eerie stories of unexplained encounters within the hotel’s walls. Among the most famous tales are:
- Fred – Affectionately known to staff as the "Maintenance Ghost." Fred was once a real maintenance worker at the hotel in the 1950s, dedicated to keeping things running smoothly—until the day he passed away on the job. Even after death, Fred’s work isn’t done. Guests and employees alike have witnessed his lingering spirit, especially near the “Employees-Only” section of the hotel. In one unsettling incident, a bellman quit on the spot after seeing Fred's ghostly figure walking down the hallway in a mirror, only to vanish behind a closed door. Fred, with his never-ending dedication, is also known for playful antics, like meddling with TVs and clock radios in Room 217, and mysteriously making guests’ cell phones display eerie sequences of 7s and 5s.
- The Little Girl – Housekeepers, especially those who are mothers, have reported feeling a small, unseen hand gently holding theirs as they walk down the hallway, as if the girl is searching for comfort. Her presence is tender, but it leaves an unmistakable chill of mystery.
- The Edwardian Gentleman – Always dressed in high-hatted finery, who occasionally appears in the mirror facing the front desk. Many believe this ghostly figure is the hotel's original architect, who passed away in 1936, but seems to still keep a watchful eye over his creation.
These stories have given The Monterey Hotel its reputation as a haunted destination. Whether you’re a believer or just curious, the whispers of its past add a fun, spooky element to your stay.
Halloween at The Monterey Hotel
October is the perfect time to experience The Monterey Hotel’s haunted charm. By day, you can explore Monterey’s famous attractions - Cannery Row, Fisherman’s Wharf, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium. By night, you can return to the hotel’s cozy guest rooms and Victorian halls where history and legend intertwine.
Why Stay at The Monterey Hotel This October
- Historic Ambiance: Victorian architecture and timeless charm.
- Haunted Reputation: Ghost stories that make every stay unforgettable.
- Perfect Location: Steps away from Monterey’s dining, shops, and waterfront attractions.
- Halloween Vibes: The ideal mix of spooky and cozy for a fall getaway.
Things to Do Near The Monterey Hotel
One advantage of planning a haunted getaway at The Monterey Hotel is that the ghosts are optional. Monterey’s best-known attractions are waiting just outside.
Walk to Old Fisherman’s Wharf for waterfront views, restaurants and whale-watching excursions. Continue toward Cannery Row and spend a few hours exploring the shops and waterfront before visiting the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium.
If you’re staying on a Tuesday, you’ll find the Old Monterey Marketplace along Alvarado Street in downtown Monterey. Or take a short drive to Pacific Grove, Carmel-by-the-Sea or the scenic 17-Mile Drive to turn your spooky overnight stay into a full Central Coast weekend.
Then, when evening arrives, head back downtown.
Stay Somewhere With a Story
You don’t have to believe in ghosts to appreciate The Monterey Hotel.
Stay for the downtown location. Stay for the Victorian details. Stay because you’d rather sleep inside a piece of Monterey history than another ordinary hotel room.
But if you happen to hear an unexplained noise in the hallway? Well, now you know a few of the names associated with it.
Explore The Monterey Hotel and plan your historic Monterey getaway. And if you’re particularly curious about the hotel’s supernatural side, an October stay might be just the time to see whether any of its longtime “residents” decide to say hello.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Monterey Hotel & Haunted Monterey
Is The Monterey Hotel haunted?
The Monterey Hotel has a longstanding reputation for paranormal activity based on stories shared by guests and employees over the years. Reported encounters include mysterious figures, unexplained touches, moving objects and unusual electronic activity.
What ghosts are said to haunt The Monterey Hotel?
Three of the best-known stories involve Fred, the “Maintenance Ghost”; a mysterious little girl; and The Edwardian Gentleman who has reportedly appeared in a mirror near the front desk. Staff and guests have also reported other unexplained experiences throughout the historic property.
Who is Fred, the Maintenance Ghost?
According to hotel lore, Fred worked in maintenance at The Monterey Hotel during the 1950s and died while he worked for the hotel. Stories of his spirit have persisted among staff and guests, including sightings of a mysterious male figure and unusual electronic activity.
How old is The Monterey Hotel?
The Monterey Hotel was built in 1904, giving the historic downtown Monterey property more than 120 years of history. Its Victorian architecture and period-inspired details remain an important part of the hotel today.
Where is The Monterey Hotel?
The Monterey Hotel is located at 407 Calle Principal in downtown Monterey, California. Its central location puts guests within walking distance of Old Fisherman’s Wharf and close to Cannery Row, the Monterey Bay Aquarium and other popular Monterey attractions.
Are there other haunted places in Monterey?
Monterey is one of California’s most historic cities, and ghost stories have become associated with several older buildings and landmarks around the area. Stokes Adobe is among the historic downtown locations frequently connected with local paranormal lore. Visitors interested in the city’s documented history can also explore Monterey State Historic Park and its collection of historic buildings.
Can I stay in Room 217 at The Monterey Hotel?
Room 217 appears in one of the hotel’s best-known ghost stories, with reports of unusual activity involving electronics. Specific room availability varies, so guests interested in a particular room should contact The Monterey Hotel directly before their stay.
Is The Monterey Hotel close to Cannery Row and the Monterey Bay Aquarium?
Yes. The Monterey Hotel is located in downtown Monterey, with Old Fisherman’s Wharf within walking distance and Cannery Row and the Monterey Bay Aquarium nearby. Its location makes it easy to combine a historic hotel stay with Monterey’s major waterfront attractions.
When is the best time to plan a haunted Monterey getaway?
The ghost stories can be enjoyed any time of year, but September and October are especially fun for travelers looking for a spooky fall getaway. Cooler evenings, Monterey’s historic surroundings and the approach of Halloween add to the atmosphere. Because the story isn’t limited to Halloween, however, history and paranormal enthusiasts can plan a stay throughout the year.