We are going to Pebble Beach area during Concours d'Elegance and of course the prices are sky high and selection is limited.

We are willing to drive a bit to possible stay around $300 a night for hotel. Would like to be near coast, but that may not be possible. Not sure if staying south of PB is better [traffic wise] as I know it will be simply awful driving to PB which we will have to do for at least 3 days of the showings. We would stay about 45 minutes [normal drive time] away, figuring it would take twice that during the CdE.I have gotten a room in Pacific Grove for 2 nights, but need 4 more nights, right during the thick of the CdE.

So, what towns besides Carmel, Pacific Grove and Monterey can I try?

Thanks~

In the past, for Concours weekend, I find all room prices are severely jacked up, and extremely limited.

The furthest I've had to stay was in Seaside, just north of Monterey.

Worse comes to worst, there's always Salinas. The main problem with Salinas is that you have to go on Highway 68, which is the main road passing Laguna Seca, where the Historic Races are held the same weekend.

You could also try Marina.

Is Carmel Valley too far or too hot??

Carmel Valley will not be cheap either. Over priced for what you get.

Found a vrbo for $275/night, a deal by comparison to what I am finding in closer.

Any other comments on Carmel Valley area??

Did you try Seven Gables B&B in Pacific Grove?

LOL! I did; it's my go to place. We got our first 2 nights there, at good price. Then no go for the other 4 nights - they told me they book a year in advance for the CdE. I asked if they had a waiting list, I could hear them giggle [almost]. No list, cancellations are rare, with stiff penalties etc. I doubt we could even afford it for the other 4 nights, I am guessing $600 or more per night for even the lowest priced rooms. At least we got 2 nights

EEK Debit! I thought the spring prices were bad!

America's best suites is $395.

Carmel Valley is a convenient, uncrowded, and beautiful area to stay in. See if you can get a good price.

We booked the cottage in Carmel Valley as there was nothing anywhere near reasonable any closer in. I think $275 is a fair price, all things considered. Now we just have to cross our fingers that the auction goes well and we get a good price on our motorcycle!

Carmel Valley is OK. It's in a dip in the landscape (as its name "valley" implies). I always thought that Carmel Valley is a bedroom community that lacked character - maybe because everything else around it has so much character!

If you don't mind driving a bit, look into hotels in Seaside, Marina (already mentioned), and Sand City. There are any number of lodgings in these towns immediately north of Monterey, they used to service Fort Ord. Further , on the inland side, is Salinas. Don't know if there's anything in Prunedale.

southbound, there are the expensive places ike the Ventana Inn. Or, even further south are the cabins at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park.

There are also campgrounds. You could rent an RV for the price that you're paying for those hotel rooms and find yourself a parking space, like at a KOA or at one of the state beaches.

You will be glad you got the cottage once you see how pretty Carmel Valley is. A great dinner place there is Cafe Rustica. And excellent breakfasts can be had at Jeffrey's.

I checked every little community, Seaside, Marina etc and the going rate for dumpy roadside motels is far above what we are paying. Seriously, prices over $300 a night. Check it out if you don't believe me -- 8/16 to 8/20.

http://www.vrbo.com/272645

Bummer, Debi!

If you want to be by the ocean, then maybe look at the other end of the crescent Monterey Bay to Santa Cruz.

In the middle of the crescent is Moss Landing, where there's something, but I can't remember what it is, because that power plant makes me not want to recommend Moss Landing except for its great seafood restaurants.

If you want to go further inland, there's the Ridgemark in Hollister, where the rates are VERY reasonable and not that far a drive from Monterey.

http://www.ridgemark.com/

Baja Cantina in Carmel Valley is a hoppin' place on weekends with margaritas, music. Very fun.

Having a bridal shower there next month - wooo whoooo!

I agree with Michelle. Baja Cantina is a blast.

We live in Aptos, it takes us about 35/45 min. drive to PB depending on traffic. If you are interested, Seascape Resort or maybe cheaper yet is a Best Western in Aptos. Aptos is directly across the bay from Pacific Grove.