Lake El Estero is an excellent place to take a break from the bustle of daily life. See if any water activities are on offer here, or simply enjoy the calming ambiance.

When you've spent a bit of time at this body of water in Downtown Monterey, why not check out Monterey Bay Aquarium, Fisherman's Wharf, and California State University Monterey Bay? They're near Lake El Estero and also a favorite with many tourists.

Plan a trip to see Lake El Estero

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.

Bay Landing San Francisco Airport Hotel

Save 100% on your flight

$333

per person

Dec 31 - Jan 4

found 19 hours ago

Roundtrip flight included

Burbank (BUR) to San Francisco (SFO)

9/10 Wonderful! (4,600 reviews)

Staff is always pleasant and the rooms are comfortable and clean.

Reviewed on Oct 28, 2025

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott San Francisco San Carlos

$732

per person

Nov 27 - Nov 30

found 3 hours ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

New York (NYC) to San Francisco (SFO)

8.4/10 Very Good! (980 reviews)

I stayed here for a wedding. Everything was clean and people were friendly. There was also a decent continental breakfast. One thing that stuck out, my boyfriend forgot his key while I fell asleep and he went to the parking lot. He called and knocked but I slept through it so he had no choice but to talk to the desk. They were worried about my safety so when they did let him in, they insisted they speak to me directly to make sure I was okay and he wasn’t a stranger. Although it was an inconvenience for my boyfriend, I am happy they make sure all their guests are safe.

Reviewed on Aug 31, 2025

Marbella Lane Top Coastline Views, Family Friendly

Edgemar - Pacific Manor

Save 100% on your flight

$1,018

per person

Jan 12 - Jan 16

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip flight included

Seattle (SEA) to San Francisco (SFO)

9/10 Wonderful! (14 reviews)

Browse tours and tickets to explore Lake El Estero

Tours & day trips

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Monterey, Carmel & Pacific Coast Highway - Full Day Tour

Free cancellation available

Private & custom tours

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Carmel-by-the-Sea's Fairytale Houses: A Self-Guided Walking Tour

Adventure & outdoor

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Monterey and 17 Mile Drive: Half-Day Electric Bike Rental

Free cancellation available

Food, drink & nightlife

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Monterey: Treasure Hunt The Ride - Ticket + Power-Up Combo

Free cancellation available

Classes & workshops

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Monterey Bay: Sunset Catamaran Sailing Cruise

Free cancellation available

Popular places to visit

Dennis the Menace Park showing a playground as well as children

Dennis the Menace Playground

4.5/5(289 reviews)

Set up a picnic on the tranquil shore of Lake El Estero and let the kids run free in this sandy playground.

Monterey State Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Monterey State Beach during your trip to Sand City? Wander the beaches and seaside while you're in the area.

Cathedral of San Carlos Borromeo featuring flowers, religious elements and a monument

San Carlos Cathedral

Admire ecclesiastical relics on display in the heritage center to learn about this cathedral, which is California’s oldest stone building.

Monterey Museum of Art-La Mirada

You can spend time browsing the exhibits at Monterey Museum of Art-La Mirada during your travels in Monterey. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the seafood restaurants while you're in the area.