Where to stay in Monterey

[norcalocal]

So I'm trapped in a conundrum between two polar pussies. We're going down to dive Monterey this weekend. Since we're staying overnight on Saturday so we can dive Saturday & Sunday. Problem is the partners I'm going with both have opposing views on where to stay.

One guy is adamant about sleeping in a hotel in the greater surrounding area of Monterey, and the other is VERY adamant about camping "for free" in the greater Monterey area. I don't care what we do; I just want to get in the water.

So could you guys provide some cheap hotels, or camping within 45 min. of Monterey?

[matt mattison]

The loan oak lodge they give diver discounts and have rinsing a station and a place to hang and dry you gear
2221 Fremont Street
Monterey, CA 93940-5499
(831) 372-4924

[norcalocal]

Thanks Matt, I just called them, they're booked...

I'm actually going with Chad, I think you dove with him up near Mendencino this year.

[scootz]

Within 45 minutes of Monterey is a huge area. I live in Gilroy and it's well under 40 minutes on a good day. Add to that the number of secluded spots for "free" camping and your options are almost limitless. (unless they're already booked) From Big Sur north along the coast all the way to Santa Cruz. Then inland in an arch connecting the two. Gilroy, Salinas, are the big towns inland that would have cheap accommodations. Having the convenience of being able to rinse your gear in the tub/shower would be worth the $40 split three ways IMO. Camping is a little more tricky in that respect. Pull up Google Earth, overlay hotels and pick one.


Scott

[Sean E]

there is a hotel (best western i thinkkkkkkk) on the dunes towards marina. it's off reservation road. and there is a campground right near there too. should be cheap, and its cool cause its out on the dunes so its away from a lot, but right in front the beach.

try and google it and you might get more info. i ahvent been there in a while.

[matt mattison]

Originally Posted by norcalocal

Thanks Matt, I just called them, they're booked...

I'm actually going with Chad, I think you dove with him up near Mendencino this year.

chad lathe ? yea we turned him onto a 10 1/4 at our dive spot in the water for 15min and pulls a trophy ! but hey we all did that day !

[norcalocal]

Originally Posted by matt mattison

chad lathe ? yea we turned him onto a 10 1/4 at our dive spot in the water for 15min and pulls a trophy ! but hey we all did that day !

So I hear... I'm still trying to pry that place out of him. Maybe I'll see you there during the tritonX

[matt mattison]

Originally Posted by norcalocal

So I hear... I'm still trying to pry that place out of him. Maybe I'll see you there during the tritonX

He better keep his mouth shut ! that is my little honey hole ! I told him to forget how to get there ! unless he checks with me !

[Ron S]

There's also the Veteran's Memorial park campground up on (I think) Skyline Drive above Monterey. Last time I stayed there it was $20/night for a site and the showers were free.
I'm spoiled however and I always stay at the Lone Oak, but I noticed they're getting busier these days.
Ron.

[lettersmooth]

Go camping.

Rooms are filled up everywhere due to the Concours d'Elegance going on, traffic is horrible this weekend.

[SC Short Stick]

move to Santa Cruz

[norcalocal]

Originally Posted by lettersmooth

Go camping.

Rooms are filled up everywhere due to the Concours d'Elegance going on, traffic is horrible this weekend.

So are the campgrounds

[BEEK]

Go to Half Moon Bay. WSB are wide open bud.

[norcalocal]

Originally Posted by BEEK

Go to Half Moon Bay. WSB are wide open bud.

Sounds fun, but until I get some cash together, all I've got is a 80cm gun. Not sure if it's powerful enough to take down a WSB.