OK, will be driving through the Carmel area and don't have a hotel yet. I may stay in Carmel but may go to Monterey, not sure. Convince me. FYI...I am young 40ish, travel well and will be there on a Saturday night.

I would like to find a place where I can find a hotel room, WALK to a restaurant for dinner and then hit a few watering holes afterwards and be able to walk back. I could cab it and I guess that would be OK but would rather walk. (short walk, not miles)
Or would I be better off going to Monterey or somewhere else in the area.

I am open for anything, just somewhere fun !!

I find Carmel much more charming than Monterrey. There are plenty of hotels within walking distance of town. You might look at Cypress Inn, Lobos Lodge (if on a budget), or Cobblestone Inn. annieladd

I agree w/annieladd re: Carmel v. Monterey.

I might also suggest Pacific Grove, which is less commercial than Carmel, very charming, and fits your specs. Quieter than Carmel, though -- if that's not your thing, stick w/Carmel.

Another nod on the village. Here’s a few to look at in Carmel Village.
http://www.carmelaccommodations.com/

The Pine Inn has a nice pub that attracts a 40’ish crowd along with a nice Italian restaurant.

Little Napoli Italian restaurant is not far from there either. There are a number of fine restaurants and pubs all within walking distance.

I agree that Carmel has more character and charm than Monterey. Quite a few fine restaurants and the village is no more than a mile square. Not really a bar scene, but the restaurants all have bars and will be active on Saturday night. All Carmel hotels are local, not chains. You can find anything from $100 to $500 and up per night.

Monterey does have a Marriott and a Doubletree downtown if you want to stay in a brand name. Likewise many acceptable restaurants. All should have some bar action on a Saturday.

Another vote for Carmel over Monterey. However it is best to check beforehand as many Carmel properties require a 2 night minimum on the weekends.

Definitely Carmel. Stay in the heart of the village and walk to everything. Pine Inn and Cypress Inn are nice small hotels in the middle of everything.

The Best Western Bay View Inn is a reasonable (for Carmel) option. Also we liked the B&B/ Inn:
http://www.carmelgardencourtinn.com/

Choose Carmel for walking to restaurants & watering holes from your hotel! Everything is close by.

We love Carmel and visit the area several times a year. There are many nice inns on Ocean Ave. that you can check out. Normandy, Lamp Lighter, Pine Inn are a few.

Monterey is just a short drive away from Carmel, spend some time there walking the wharf, visiting Cannery Row and the aquarium there is really amazing. Enjoy your travels! ***kim***