Hotels in Salinas, CA

As the seat of Monterey County, Salinas is a worthy stop on any West Coast tour, and a treasure trove of cultural offerings, unique things to do, and indelible eats to enjoy. Known as the "Salad Bowl of the World" for its extensive and equally as vibrant agriculture industry, you’ll find miles of farmland, busy workers, and a cornucopia of fresh produce to enjoy just outside top Salinas hotels. Salinas is also the proud birthplace and hometown of world-famous novelist John Steinbeck, who set many of his stories in the Salinas Valley and Monterey. While touring around town, be sure to check out the many major attractions offered in this seaside city, including the National Steinbeck Center and the annual Steinbeck Festival, the California Rodeo, and the California International Airshow. Salinas is a wonderful combination of great weather, interesting attractions and entertainment, and friendly locals, making your next West Coast wander a trip to remember.

For anyone interested in history, but especially for avid readers and fans of Steinbeck, you can’t miss the chance to tour the incredible National Steinbeck Center located at California State University, Monterey Bay. This museum and memorial are dedicated to American author and Salinas local, John Steinbeck. While here, you’ll be able to see the largest collection of Steinbeck archives in the United States, with various exhibits on his body of work and personal philosophy, plus educational programs provided for the public, students, and teachers, and a multimedia experience. And after a few hours of exploring the center, you can pop over to the John Steinbeck House, Steinbeck's childhood home located near the museum.

Located just two blocks west of the National Steinbeck Center, you can see the birthplace and childhood home of John Steinbeck—a beautiful Queen Anne-style Victorian home built in 1897. The home has since been converted into a charming restaurant, where you can enjoy a nice lunch Tuesday through Saturday and before heading back to the best Salinas hotels for the evening, shop for mementos and trinkets from the on-site gift shop, The Best Cellar.

While in town, spend a riveting afternoon at the famous Laguna Seca Raceway, home to both auto and motorcycle racing, near Monterey and not far from Salinas hotels. At 2.238 miles long with a 180-foot elevation change, this racetrack stands out for its 11 turns and an iconic signature curve, the downhill-plunging "Corkscrew.” Not only is this track used for car and motorcycle racing, but also a wealth of other exhibitions, racing, and entertainment events are held at Laguna—ranging from superkarts to buzzing music festivals. Spend a fun day here under the sun and watch some real racing take place right in front of you!

Have a wonderful seaside stay in Salinas, and don’t forget to check out our other hotels nearby in Fresno, Burbank, and Bakersfield.