Montara(United States) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Montara, the top-rated hotel is Lake Montara Resort, nestled beside Lake Montara with stunning views and modern-California design. Each room features a private balcony overlooking the water, and guests enjoy access to kayaking, fishing, and scenic hiking trails. The resort also hosts local art exhibitions at the nearby Montara Art Gallery, blending nature and culture. For a more intimate stay, consider Seabreeze Inn, a boutique property known for its cozy ambiance and personalized service.

The downtown Montara district offers the best accommodation options, with easy access to Montara City Hall, Central Park, and numerous gourmet restaurants. The historic Montara Heritage District features well-preserved Victorian homes, creating a charming atmosphere, especially at night. Stay near the San Maria River for peaceful mornings with bird songs and evening sunsets—ideal for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty.

Montara hosts the annual Montara Music Festival, featuring indie bands and folk artists from Northern California, drawing music lovers from across the region. The Montara Natural History Museum offers family-friendly guided tours and ecology lectures, perfect for learning about coastal ecosystems. Art enthusiasts should visit the Montara Ceramics Workshop, where visitors can create their own handmade pottery—a memorable keepsake of their trip.

Absolutely, Montara is ideal for families. Central Park has playgrounds, picnic areas, and a small animal exhibit. Families can enjoy safe kayaking and floating on Lake Montara. The Greenfield Family Lodge provides spacious suites with childcare services. The Montara Coastal Trail is perfect for biking or walking with kids, offering scenic ocean views and opportunities to spot sea lions and seabirds along the way.

Must-see landmarks include the Montara Lighthouse, a historic structure dating back to 1850, offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. The San Maria Bluff Trail is a 2.5-kilometer scenic hike with wildlife sightings including seals and rare birds. Montara Beach is another highlight—known for its clear waters and soft sand, it’s perfect for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing.

Montara’s cuisine centers around fresh seafood and organic ingredients. Try the grilled salmon burger and lobster plate at SeaBreeze Fish House, a local favorite. Every Saturday, the Montara Farmers Market brings together local producers selling organic produce, artisanal cheese, and raw honey. For a sweet treat, visit Old Town Café for a California-style muffin with house-made jam and a cup of specialty coffee—perfect for a relaxed morning break.

Montara enjoys a Mediterranean climate: warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The best time to visit is May through September, when sunshine is abundant and ideal for beach activities. Be aware that afternoon fog is common during summer months—bring a light jacket. Winter brings fewer crowds and occasional rain, but most outdoor attractions remain accessible. Average temperatures range from 12°C to 20°C year-round, making it great for hiking and photography.

Traveling from San Francisco to Montara takes about 1 hour by car via Highway 1, offering breathtaking coastal views. Alternatively, take the Caltrain to South San Francisco Station, then transfer to Muni Bus Line 367, which runs directly into downtown Montara (approx. 1.5 hours). For convenience, several tour operators offer guided day trips with round-trip transportation and expert commentary, ideal for first-time visitors.

Couples will love Montara’s romantic charm. Dine privately at the Montara Lighthouse with candlelit seaside dinners at select restaurants. Book a stay at the Lovers’ Suite at Lake Montara Resort, complete with a private terrace and hot tub under the stars. Take a sunset walk along the San Maria Bluff Trail, hand-in-hand, and capture the moment. For a lasting memory, commission a custom couple’s portrait at the Montara Art Gallery.

Nighttime in Montara is magical. Join the Montara Lighthouse Night Tour to learn about its history and the life of lighthouse keepers. Head to Montara Beach for stargazing—its low light pollution reveals a brilliant Milky Way. Some hotels offer star-gazing camping packages with telescopes and expert guides. At Old Town Café, enjoy live acoustic guitar sets every evening, creating a cozy, intimate atmosphere perfect for quiet conversations.