Preferred - accommodation in Salinas

Steinbeck Lodge is a classic American motel and a very practical choice if you are visiting Salinas, Monterey, or Big Sur by car. I stayed here during a solo road trip in June 2026 and found it to be excellent value for money, especially compared with the much more expensive hotels in Monterey, which is only about 17 miles away. The room had been recently renovated and was spacious, clean, and comfortable, with good air conditioning, a fridge, microwave, coffee maker, desk, and television. There was plenty of on-site parking, which made it easy for a road trip stop, and laundry facilities were also available. There is no on-site restaurant, but the motel is close to downtown Salinas, with plenty of food options nearby. This is not a luxury stay, but it delivers exactly what a good road trip motel should: clean rooms, convenient parking, useful facilities, and strong value. I would stay here again.

Beautiful lobby and love that there is Carmel Bakery on site. Standard rooms are pretty basic. The rest of the hotel looks dated, but clean. Friendly staff. Good for family with little kids.

Great location — very close and convenient to everything we needed. Check-in was smooth, though we did have to pay a deposit on the spot which we weren’t expecting. Heads-up to future guests to be prepared for that. Room was quiet and comfortable. Continental breakfast was a nice perk and everything else about the stay was great. Would stay here again!