We're landing at Monterey Airport at 11:30 p.m., which means car rental places will be closed, which means a taxi to lodging at midnight and then back to the airport the next morning to pick up the car. That's the first night. The other four nights we'll be at Seven Gables and then Green Gables Inn in Pacific Grove.

So for you Monterey Peninsula experts, what's a decent place not far (5-10 minutes) from the airport? Decent for me is courteous, clean, reliable. Have read too many reviews of places with screaming clerks and airport/highway/teenagers in parking lot noise. Was initially looking at motels, but after reading those reviews, Holiday Inn Express is looking better. Is that really my safest bet or does anybody have a tried-and-true recommendation??

We stayed at the Seven Gables a few years ago. One of the best places by the ocean we have ever stayed! Great Choice. Have you called them and told them your dilemma? They were so wonderful and helpful when we stayed there. I'm sure they can give you better suggestions. Holiday Inn Express' are usually pretty good and will include your breakfast the next morning along with a ride back to the airport to pick up your rental car. Good Luck!

Shuttle service, huh? Sounds even better. I notice there are two Holiday Inn Expresses---HIE Monterey and HIE Monterey Bay, the latter considerably cheaper. Anybody know the pros/cons?

The HIE at Monterey Bay is actually in the town of Seaside. I don't know where that is in relation to the airport. The other HIE is on Cannery Row in Monterey. We stay there sometimes when we visit Monterey and like the hotel. It's right behind the bike path and in a very convenient location to visit Cannery Row and the Aquarium. Have a great visit!

If you like oceanviews, the Monterey Beach Hotel can't be beat. We have stayed there many, many times. It's right on the beach, so an oceanview room would be your best bet. The hotel staff is friendly, there is a very nice pool, jacuzzi and restaurant on-site. It's about a five minute drive to Monterey. Have fun! www.montereybeachresort.com ***kim***