Want to explore Monterey while being kind to the planet? Here are five easy ways to lower your carbon footprint during your trip, including choosing green hotels, walking more, supporting local businesses, and staying at Inns of Monterey, where sustainability comes standard.
Introduction
Travel opens our eyes to new places, people, and experiences. But while you're making memories, it's also important to consider the impact your trip has on the environment. The good news? Reducing your carbon footprint while traveling doesn't require drastic changes. Even small adjustments—like where you stay and how you get around—can make a meaningful difference.
At the Inns of Monterey, we're proud to be part of the solution. Our boutique hotels are committed to sustainability, offering eco-conscious amenities and a walkable location in the heart of Monterey. Whether you're here for a romantic getaway or a coastal adventure, you can enjoy your stay while treading lightly on the planet.
1. Choose Eco-Friendly Accommodations
Why Green Hotels Matter
Where you stay plays a big role in how much energy and water you consume during your trip. Eco-friendly accommodations reduce their environmental impact through efficient operations and sustainable practices.
What to Look For
When booking your stay, check if the hotel uses energy-efficient lighting and appliances, low-flow faucets and showers, and green cleaning supplies. Bonus points if they've invested in sustainable building materials or renewable energy.
How Inns of Monterey Leads the Way
Each of our five boutique properties—including Spindrift Inn, Monterey Bay Inn, and Victorian Inn—incorporates energy-efficient appliances, eco-friendly amenities, and comprehensive recycling programs. Our properties are designed with sustainability in mind, so you can rest easy knowing your stay supports green initiatives.
2. Park Your Car and Walk
Walking Is the New Driving
One of the simplest ways to reduce your carbon footprint is to avoid driving altogether. Walking or biking reduces emissions, lowers noise pollution, and allows you to explore at a more relaxed pace.
You Don't Need a Car in Monterey
Here's the best part: When you stay at the Inns of Monterey, you can park your car and forget about it. Our locations are all centrally situated—just steps from top attractions like Cannery Row, the Monterey Bay Aquarium, and local beaches. Many incredible restaurants, galleries, and shops are right around the corner.
Getting Here Without a Car
Traveling from out of town? Skip the rental. You can take a shuttle from San Jose or San Francisco airports or use a taxi or rideshare from Monterey Regional Airport. Once you arrive, walking is truly the best way to get around.
3. Fly Smarter
Rethink Your Flights
Air travel is one of the biggest contributors to global carbon emissions. While it's not always avoidable, there are ways to fly more sustainably.
How to Make Better Choices
Choose direct flights whenever possible—takeoffs and landings use the most fuel. Some airlines also invest in fuel-efficient planes or use alternative fuels. Look for carriers with a track record of sustainability and consider offsetting your carbon emissions when you book.
Stay Close, Travel Less
Monterey is a short flight or drive from several major cities in California. By choosing a destination like Monterey, which is closer and easier to reach than many international destinations, you're already lowering your travel-related emissions. Inns of Monterey is just minutes from the local airport, helping reduce your overall impact.
4. Support Local and Sustainable Businesses
Why It Matters
Buying local isn't just good for the economy—it's great for the planet. Locally sourced goods don't have to travel far, which cuts down on transportation emissions and packaging waste.
How to Shop and Dine Sustainably
Eat at restaurants that serve seasonal, local ingredients like Estéban Restaurant. Choose tour companies that respect wildlife and support conservation. Look for handmade goods or souvenirs that reflect the region's culture and craftsmanship.
What We Support at Inns of Monterey
We're proud to recommend a variety of local, eco-conscious partners—whether it's a seafood spot that follows sustainable fishing practices, or a farmer's market brimming with organic produce. Our front desk teams are happy to guide you to experiences that are both memorable and meaningful.
5. Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle
Small Habits, Big Impact
Travel can create a lot of waste—but it doesn't have to. By packing reusable items and following simple waste-reduction tips, you can help keep your footprint small.
Travel Tips for Eco-Minded Guests
Bring a reusable water bottle and refill it throughout your trip.
Pack light—heavier bags mean higher fuel consumption during transit.
Say no to single-use plastics and bring your own tote for shopping.
Take advantage of recycling bins when available.
How Inns of Monterey Helps You Stay Green
All of our hotels are equipped with recycling bins in guest rooms and common areas. We also provide eco-friendly bath amenities and encourage towel and linen reuse programs. Our waste reduction efforts are designed to align with the habits of environmentally conscious travelers like you.
Every journey leaves a mark—but with a few thoughtful choices, that mark can be a positive one. Traveling sustainably doesn't mean giving up comfort or convenience. It means choosing experiences that are better for the earth and more connected to the places you visit. From energy-efficient lighting and water-saving programs to supporting local partners and providing walkable access to all of Monterey's top attractions, we make it easy for guests to reduce their environmental impact without sacrificing quality or hospitality.
So, the next time you visit, bring your walking shoes, your reusable water bottle, and your love for the planet—and let's explore Monterey the eco-friendly way.
Stay with us at any of our Inns of Monterey collection properties, where we keep sustainability in mind.