Ain't Life Grand? - Pacific Grove

Wonderful stay

My friends and I had a wonderful stay at your place in Pacific Grove. The location is terrific. The unit and its furnishings are very nice. The only drawback was to have only one shower that we had to share. It would have been better... more if the unit had two showers. Thanks! less

— Monty, Stayed 06/27/2022

In Love With This Place!!

We’ve stayed in the Monterey area many times over the last few years visiting our children who were stationed there. Ain’t Life Grand is HANDS DOWN our favorite! The home is immaculate and beautiful and the location cannot be best! The home is completely updated... more and is absolutely stunning! We walked around Pacific Grove to all of the cute little shops, walked to breakfasts and dinners, walked to the beach, etc. Check in/check out was a breeze and we had absolutely zero issues our entire 4 day stay. 15/10 recommend this home! We will be back!!! less

— Rory, Stayed 05/17/2022

Life is Grand in Pacific Grove

My husband and adult daughter enjoyed 5 days at this location. Everything about it was wonderful. At the top of the list is the view every time we stepped out of the doorway - the ocean, beckoning to us. Three minutes to the ocean and... more endless walking paths. This location allows you to pretend to be a local and enjoy so many amenities within walking distance. Personally, we were able to walk to restaurants, a spa and (my favorite) the fabric store across the street. When we return to Pacific Grove in the future, we plan to indulge in "Ain't Life Grand". less

— Lydia, Stayed 05/09/2022

As great as expected

Everything about our stay in Pacific Grove at "Ain't Life Grand?" mirrors all of the other 5 star reviews. The rental was clean, cozy, comfortable and convenient. Parking is easily accessible. The rental is close to so many different attractions and conveniences. We walked to... more coffee every morning, the walk to Lover's Point beach was very doable (we drove most days as we had kiddos with all sorts of beach gear). There is a great market just around the corner where you can get everything you need to cook at home. I loved the personal touch from the owner's notebook with all sorts of recommendations. The neighbors are great - you are in a mix of retail/business environment so not a lot of residential neighbors which is nice because there are no sounds coming from the side buildings after business hours. During the day the music lesson shop next door offers soft sounds of piano through the walls (we enjoyed it). If you are a light sleeper, you will want to bring a sleeping mask as the sun comes right in through the windows in the morning and the window coverings do not block out the light. We had plenty of room to relax and enjoy our evenings in with our family of four. A few things that we felt would be an added bonus for the property to have available include: a small cooler so that guests can pack food down to the beach, a couple of beach towels (the property provides two chairs which were great but we had no extra towels for the beach), a couple of throw blankets for the sofa or even just extra blankets for the bed, a few extra cooking utensils (tongs, measuring cups/spoons), additional dinnerware (we had to run the dishwasher multiple times when it wasn't near full just so we could have enough plates, glassware and flatware) access to a small vacuum to keep floors clean during the stay. I agree with other reviewers - some salt and pepper (even just individual serving packets) and coffee filters or leave a few coffee pods for the Keurig to start the stay would be great. Other than that, there were no surprises or issues. The property management team was great, their communication was clear and concise. We did not have to reach out to them but we felt that if we needed too, they would be available to help with anything. We would definitely stay here again and we would recommend it to family and friends. less

— Jennifer, Stayed 04/13/2022

Great place to stay!

Centrally located, quiet, very central to most attractions. Reserved parking spot. Highly recommended.

— Janet, Stayed 02/06/2022

Mr.

We found the place to be very clean with lots of natural sunlight. It’s an old store front turned into a two bedroom townhome. Very cool. Great location as everything you need is within walking distance. We definitely would choose this place again!!

— Michael Dransfield, Stayed 02/01/2022

Spacious, clean, and well-located

My wife, my mom, and I spent several days at Ain't Life Grand. The location is perfect, and the row-house is quite spacious. It was immaculately clean and well-provisioned, and all the appliances worked well. We did a fair amount of cooking while there, and... more the kitchen was very usable. less

— David, Stayed 12/06/2021

WONDERFUL!

Loved our stay at Ain't Life Grand! Ever so clean, well decorated and the location was perfect for us! We would happily return!

— Susan, Stayed 11/11/2021

Walk to the Water

We so enjoyed our daily walk to the water! Restaurants are steps away (or you can cook in a very nice kitchen). Many walking or biking paths in the Pacific Grove area, and the Farmer's Market on Monday afternoons is nice. The home is very... more comfortable, clean, and spacious with great natural lighting. Having a laundry room was a plus. Look forward to getting back there! less

— Brendan and Summer, Stayed 09/13/2021

Wonderful Stay; Would Return

Perfect location in lovely PG. Everything was nearby. The owners and property management team made our stay super easy and enjoyable. A++

— Tim, Stayed 07/12/2021

Great stay!

We had one of the best experiences in Pacific Grove. This place was in a great location. It was a block from the small, quaint downtown. It is in walking distance to shops, a small theater, the Aquarium in Cannery Row and many restaurants. We... more loved the fact that it had 2 bedrooms, a washer and dryer, a great kitchen and a parking spot. The front sun room was an added bonus. It fit our needs perfectly and it was the perfect place to relax. less

— Mario, Stayed 07/04/2021

Quaint little town & home

Rental was everything the description said it would be. Beautiful views, friendly neighbors and the cutest little town.

— Kristie, Stayed 05/26/2021

Cute and Superb Location

We stayed for four nights and the townhouse was perfect. Two nice sized bedrooms, roomy bathrooms and a great living room / kitchen area. The building is 1902 and has so much character. Beautifully maintained. The location is so convenient. You truly could walk almost... more anywhere you want to go in Monterey. Would stay here again! less

— Kelli, Stayed 05/04/2021

A fun stay

We had a great time, and enjoyed this house. Being right down town and in walking distance from the beach made our stay very fun and enjoyable. We even befriended a neighbor across the street. The house was very comfortable, though with 2 young kids... more I did notice that sound travels easily between the bedrooms (the fans we found in the closets were a big help!). The house has a light and open feel. The one thing I wished for were a few basics in the kitchen. We brought and cooked a lot of our own food, but I didn’t think to bring things like salt and pepper or coffee filters - there was nothing at all, food wise, provided. Things we would’ve appreciated would include salt and pepper, cooking oil, coffee filters, maybe some foil for leftovers, and a pencil and paper. I’m not sure if these things are normally present during non-covid times, but if not, a few basics like this would go a long way to making the stay more convenient. Still, we really enjoyed ourselves. And our kids thought the keyless entry system was the coolest thing ever! less

— Katie, Stayed 04/25/2021

Loved the area and place itself!

I really loved the place and the area we were in. Everything was really nice. I honestly want to rate it 5 stars but was a little disappointed that it wasn't a place for 5 people. If you are a party of 4, this place... more is perfect! However, our 5th person had to sleep on the couch, used a face towel as a body towel since there was only 4 body towels, and there were only 2 rolls of toilet paper. Which might not seem too bad but we all have the worst bladder lol! But it was little sad since we did have to pay extra for the 5th person. The upstairs bathroom was locked when we got there and we had to use a bobby pin to get in but it was no worries at all! However, the store front vibes were really unique and we were able to get so many photo ops in the house and around the neighborhood! Overall, I really do love this place and if everything is adjusted I would absolutely love to stay here again! Despite our little problems, the overall place and little details was very much appreciated! :) less

— Bailey, Stayed 03/31/2021

Weekend stay in Pacific Grove

We really enjoyed our stay at "Ain't Life Grand" last weekend. The place is very charming and centrally located. Perfect for 4 people. However, it says it fits 5 and we were 5 and we had problems understanding where our 3rd was going to sleep... more and finding linens for him. Should have been better outlined. Otherwise, we certainly recommend this place. less

— Allan, Stayed 03/17/2021

second stay

This was our second stay at this property. It a good location, in downtown Pacific Grove and 4 blocks from the coast. It is quiet generally and especially at night. There are restaurants and shops in PG. It is near Cannery Row in Monterey and... more a bit farther from Carmel, but only a short drive. It is adequately furnished. The TV selection is very good. We had a problem with TV reception when we checked in, and the management was quick to fix it. All in all, it was a very good stay (again). less

— Thomas, Stayed 11/14/2020

Loved it!

We loved our stay here and will be back again! One of my many favorite things about our weekend was the 2 minute walk to great food and the short walk to the beach. Love Pacific Grove, loved this home and loved reading the story... more behind it! less

— Andrea, Stayed 10/15/2020

A weekend to remember

This property is in the middle of everything you might need to enjoy your vacation. The structure outside doesn't look like a house but once you come in, it's very nice, homey, comfortable and clean. Overall, what a great experience. We might come back soon.

— Pia, Stayed 09/24/2020

Ain’t life grand

Fantastic location and adorable fantastic place

— Michelle, Stayed 09/19/2020

Life is Grand

Love this place. Quiet and safe. Convenient, walk to so many places in minutes or less. Lovers Point, Monterey Trail, and many outdoor dining-restaurants. The bay is the most calming view I know. Living area is very spacious. Bedrooms, nicely separated and very clean. Enjoyed... more the key code entry. Washer & Dryer downstairs extra plus. Always a great stay! less

— Susan, Stayed 08/17/2020

Very Nice Stay

We really enjoyed our stay in Pacific Grove and at Ain't Life Grand. It was a quirky, fun, and comfortable place to hang out. We loved walking the area and coming back to such a great place. There are a few items that could make... more it even better: - water was leaking around washer and dryer (we reported it on our first night) - only one shower was a negative; if you could add one upstairs that would be fantastic - the shower head was way too weak - the low flush toilet was frustrating - kitchen supplies could improve a bit less

— Rachael, Stayed 01/07/2020

Life IS Grand

Our family had a 4 day early Christmas retreat here and loved it! The location is perfect----each morning I was able to walk to Lover's Point to see the sunrise. We also walked to the Aquarium and were then able to take the free trolley... more to Fisherman's Wharf and downtown Monterey. Nearby is a grocery store and an amazing bakery and all kinds of great restaurants. Among the 5 of us we had 3 cars so had to park two of them up the street where there were no restrictions. The house had everything we needed to cook meals (although we would've liked a dining table) The fifth guest has to sleep on the sofa, which could be hard for some. Overall very quiet, charming and well located. We would stay here again! less

— Kathryn , Stayed 11/22/2019

Vacation

Pacific Grove is a lovely town. Lots of restaurants to chose from. Rental is just a block away from the beach. The home was cozy and in a secure neighborhood with one assigned parking spot. Kitchen fully stocked with the essentials. The only issue we... more had was with the bed in the upstairs bedroom. Not sure if housekeeping changes the bedding that often. We stripped the sheet to help housekeeping with turning the place around for the next guests. Found hair and yellow stains on the mattress cover. Was grossed out that our daughter slept on the bed for four days unaware of what was under the sheets. less

— Elizabeth S., Stayed 10/17/2019

Beautiful Home!

Beautiful home, great location!

— C, Stayed 09/22/2019

Hidden Gem

This is quite a hidden gem in Pacific Grove. I stayed here at the end of July with my daughter and it was perfect spot for a fabulous mother / daughter vacation! The home itself feels like HOME the minute you walk in - incredibly... more charming, comfortable, warm vibe, and beautifully decorated. It is a delightfully spacious character home, but newly renovated, modern appliances, and stylish wooden stools to eat and drink wine at the kitchen bar before heading out for even more wine! The location was perfect, with a glimpse of the ocean as soon as you walk out. Walk down about 5-10 minutes, and you're right at the ocean. The views are incredible as you walk along the ocean, there's a path there that you can walk along to just clear your mind and be grateful for the beauty! Right outside the door are great restaurants, quaint coffee shops, a market, health food store, - really anything you need. I highly recommend staying here! less

— Joan, Stayed 07/27/19

LOVED IT!

I stayed at "Ain't Life Grand" in July and I LOVED this place! It was quite a luxurious experience - the home was so well decorated, with the perfect balance of cozy and modern. Everything was super clean and new. It was so nice to... more be able to walk out the door just a few blocks to the ocean, where you can find a spot to sit on a rock high above the water and just gaze at the waves. Also just outside the door are charming restaurants, coffee shops, and my favorite - a tiny organic juice bar. If you are up for a long walk (or drive), you can go through pebble beach and stop at the Inn at Spanish Bay - a beautiful hotel right on the ocean where a mysterious bagpiper arises from the hills and plays - every night at 5:45. So much fun to drink wine with family or friends while experiencing this! Overall the trip was amazing due largely to the comfort of our stay here. If I could give it a bonus star I would! less

— Rachel, Stayed 07/23/19

Location, Location, Location!

Location, location, location! This rental is absolutely in the middle of all the places you want to walk or ride a bike to. Clean, spacious, and great amenities. Great restaurants, market, bakeries, beach, and Monterey bike/walk trail. This is paradise! We’ll be back to stay... more at this perfect rental. less

— John C., Stayed 07/20/2019

Perfect place

This is a perfect rental for exploring the surrounding areas of Pacific Grove and Monterey. It was easy to find and well equipped. Perfectly clean and set up. Lots of useful information and recommendations. A real home from home. We didn’t want to leave !!

— Ian, Stayed 07/08/2019

PERFECT

Great location! Fun place! Neat & clean! Wonderful restaurants! Great notebook of ideas and favorite spots from owner. Safe and quiet! Loved loved loved being there.

— pamela, Stayed 05/22/2019

Comfortable and Amazing location

We had the opportunity to stay at Ain't Life Grand for the Big Sur marathon and we loved it. Highlights: location for sure, It is close to various places to eat, shop, and it is close to the beach without feeling crowded or noisy. The... more accommodations are comfortable, we had three people and that was perfect with only one shower to share. All of the appliances are new, it could use a blue tooth speaker to hook up some music to but I had brought my own anyway! The only other thing I wish the kitchen had was more options of pots, pans, cookie sheets, etc. with which to cook with. Aside from that, it was perfect. less

— Elizabeth, Stayed 05/05/2019

Exceptionally clean, everything you need, good location

Ain't Life Grand?, is a cute townhouse with all you need to enjoy Pacific Grove and many other close towns/attractions. The reservation process and info leading up to our stay was easy and thorough. The neighborhood was quaint and quiet. The townhouse was spotless. The... more laundry was great. Everything worked and we had all we needed. I would stay again and would recommend this to others. Easy drive to Big Sur and surrounding hikes. less

— Lisa, Stayed 05/01/2019

ain't life grand

It is convenient to downtown Pacific Grove and the coast, and a short drive to Carmel and Monterey. It is well equipped, comfortable, and quiet. As someone who likes to return in the evening and watch television, the selection is very good. We fully enjoyed... more the stay and have already booked for next year. less

— Thomas, Stayed 04/01/2019

Enjoyed ringing in the New Year at Ain't Life Grand!

House was perfect for 2 couples with plenty of space. Kitchen was well stocked for cooking meals. Washer/Dryer handy. Large living room with comfy couches and TV. A second shower would have been ideal but manageable without. Quiet location in Pacific Grove. Walking distance to... more Lover's Point Beach, restaurants, grocery store, bookstore, coffee shops, wine tasting, biking and hiking. Short drive to Monterey, Carmel, Point Lobos and Big Sur. Monterey Bay rentals was easy to work with and price was very reasonable for location. less

— Sangeeta, Stayed 01/13/2019

Fabulous

This rental was beyond our expectations. Furnished with everything you could possibly need, and then some. The beds were so comfy you didn't want to get out. Restaurants, shopping, and the beach all within walking distance. Very tech friendly. It was paradise for us, and... more we didn't want to leave. less

— Michele, Stayed 10/26/2018

Truly grand!

My wife and I stayed at "Ain't Life Grand" the week of September 17th. It was super clean and roomy with a comfortable bed, DVRs on the TVs and supplied with everything we needed...they even have 2 beach chairs, a cooler and beach towels. On... more top of it all, it is perfectly conveniently situated to everything in the Monterey and Pacific Grove areas. If we ever come back to the area we would DEFINITELY chose to stay at "Ain't Life Grand" again! The one change we'd suggest is to use electronic locks so that we wouldn't have to drive to another location to pick-up and drop-off the keys. less

— Mariano, Stayed 09/28/2018

Life is grand!

Loved, loved, loved it! Instructions were clear, directions were clear and the property clean and inviting. As we were older ladies we appreciated the extra security door between us and the street. There was also a welcoming book at the property as well as from... more Monterey rentals.we felt well taken care of. less

— Terri, Stayed 09/23/2018

Great place!

Charming place to stay. Away from the big crowds of Monterey. Location was great. Restaurants, shopping and grocery close by. We’d definitely stay here again.

— William, Stayed 09/09/2018

Coming Back Next Year!

Fantastic place! Wonderful location! Plenty of room. Step out the front to view the ocean, and the Monterey trail is a few blocks away. Just steps away from movie theater, grocery, restaurants, bakery, wine and drink. All with their own enjoyable character. This home is... more beautiful yet cozy, with high-end kitchen and bathrooms. Enjoyed having a full washer/dryer. We plan on coming back every year! less

— Jon and Susan, Stayed 08/21/18

Ain't Life Grand in Pacific Grove made for a great stay

My family of 4 had a 3 night stay at Ain't Life Grand from July 20 - July 23. We arrived late and getting our keys and into our place was a breeze. The 2BR unit was spacious, clean and comfortable with everything that we... more needed for our short stay. Decor was cozy and extras included a Keurig, washer/ dryer & fans to keep us comfortable. Location was amazing with a view of the ocean as soon as you walked out the door and close proximity (basically around the corner) to downtown PG and it's quaint stores & restaurants and only a short drive or walk to Monterey. The Monterey Bay Rentals staff was quick to respond to any questions or inquiries before and during our stay. I would highly recommend them and "Ain't Life Grand" to anyone!! less

— Debra Schumacher, Stayed 08/01/2018

25th

This location is beautiful and centrally located so you can walk to dinner. My husband I celebrated 25 years married and had a wonderful time. Another full bath would’ve been nice,but we really enjoyed our stay! 2 1/2 blocks from the beach, grocery store around... more the corner, and a bakery that has a line out the door with beautiful tasty bake goods! We will definitely be back again. less

— Teri, Stayed 07/13/2018

Comfortable and great location

Quiet location, large bedrooms, well-equipped kitchen, beach chairs and towels, walk to restaurants, bakery, coffee, grocery store, and anything else you might need. We stayed for almost 2 weeks without a car. We walked or biked everywhere! Our favorite coffee spot was Crema. We loved... more the pastries and bread Pavel's bakery. Both just a couple blocks away. The Monterey Bay Coastal Trail begins a few blocks away at Lover's Point. The unit has laundry, but access to the laundry area is in the basement and little tight. Not a big deal, but wanted to mention. We had a wonderful time in Pacific Grove! less

— Nicole, Stayed 06/14/2018

Great stay for family of 4, including 2 kids

My family of 4 (husband, 1 year old, and 3 year old) had a great time in Monterey/Pacific Grove. The home was beautifully furnished and had all we needed for our short 2 night stay. The beds were super comfy, kitchen fully stocked, the location... more is perfect for dining out, and everything was in perfect working order. Kyle was great to work with, sending us reminders of our upcoming stay, and even helped arrange to return some items to us that we had left behind. We will def recommend to our friends. Thanks again! less

— Amy, Stayed 05/30/2018

Great Location

My husband, son and I recently spent 6 nights at Ain’t Life Grand and loved it. Great location in downtown Pacific Grove. Within walking distance to a variety of restaurants, coffee shops, a small grocery store and boutique shopping. The unit was as presented in... more the photos. All new appliances and VERY CLEAN. It was equipped with everything you needed. Being downtown we thought it might be a little noisy but was very quiet. The reservation process, communications, check in, check out was excellent. We would definitely stay here again. less

— Valerie, Stayed 05/27/2018

Fun space, close to the water!

This fun, well appointed rental gets all 5 stars! Great location, charming space, and love the amenities. Full cable, brand new everything, a quick stroll to the water to watch a sunrise. Notes for other travelers: This space worked well for us as a nuclear... more family traveling. Be aware that the only full bathroom is within the master, and the only other 1/2 bath is upstairs, within the second bedroom. less

— Kenneth, Stayed 04/12/2018

Extremely Pleased With my Stay

I was in Monterey for family business recently and stayed at the Ain't Life Grand? location. It was lovely. I was very impressed with the cleanliness and welcoming atmosphere of the rental. The open concept in the living room/kitchen area allowed for people to interact... more with each other easily. There is a comfy couch, love seat and large coffee table. The great skylight above brought in beautiful California sunshine. The kitchen area has full size appliances which were clean and in excellent working order. There are pans, plates, silverware and glasses, etc. to use for meals. The beds were comfortable with clean bedding and comfortable pillows. I was impressed with the large closets in the bedrooms. Having the laundry room on the lower level was wonderful. One thing that really impressed me was the quietness of the neighborhood. I slept so well because of this. The rental is just a few steps away from shopping and eating establishments. Working with Kyle was so easy. He got back to me right away when I asked questions and was very respectful. I highly recommend this "Grand" vacation rental! I will certainly stay here in the future! less

— Joan, Stayed 04/03/2018

Great stay!

We absolutely loved our stay at Ain't Life Grand. It was exactly like the pictures - beautiful house, plenty of space, and very quiet. Great location also. Wish we could have stayed longer - would definitely stay here again!

— Maura, Stayed 03/23/2018

Already Looking Forward to Coming Back!

This home is truly a hidden gem. It's super cute, spotlessly clean, and very well maintained (everything seemed new!). My group consisted of 3 adults and we had zero complaints--linens, towels, beds were all comfy...everything we needed in the kitchen was there...it was perfect! And,... more not only is the home amazing, but the location can't be beat! The beach, restaurants, and shops are all just steps away from the front door. We loved strolling down to Lover's Point to catch the sunset, eat dinner at one of the local restaurants, and then walk back home. Despite being in downtown Pacific Grove, it's very peaceful, relaxing, and quiet. I highly recommend others to stay here and we're already trying to figure out our next trip back to the Pacific Grove/Monterey area! less

— Lisa W., Stayed 12/15/17

Wonderful!

I stayed for the entire month of November with my (young) daughter and it was amazing! The house is very clean and spacious and has amenities that make it very comfortable for short trips or extended visits. I'm not sure what type of mattress is... more in the master bedroom but I haven't slept that great on a vacation ever! I was able to cook in the gorgeous kitchen thanks to all the cookware and enjoy coffee with the Keurig. When I didn't cook, my daughter and I were able to walk to the nearby restaurants since this house in located in downtown PG! That in itself is so WONDERFUL! Our favorite was Crema - breakfast and brunch food... There is also a movie theater less than a block away - use the back door and you're literally steps away... The house has a front sitting area where you can relax and sit at a bistro-type table and people watch...and you can see the ocean when you walk out the front door! There is one parking spot right across that belongs to the house - if you have more than one vehicle, you will have to move your vehicle during the week (every three hours). Not a pain though as there is an abundance of parking. Long story, but I wanted to accurately portray how much I enjoyed staying here! Already booked for next summer! less

— Tabitha G, Stayed 12/1/2017

A Satisfied Customer from Alabama!

We absolutely loved our stay at “Ain’t Life Grand!” It was a great deal! We visited in October, and the weather was perfect in Pacific Grove. Location, location, location!! The house was conveniently located in downtown PG! Every day we walked to a different restaurant,... more coffee shop, or store! It was only a short walk to Lover’s Point, Cannery Row, and the Aquarium. The house was very clean and had everything we needed for our stay. The beds were also very comfortable. The kitchen is updated and had everything if we wanted to cook. The master bedroom had a small TV and the living room had a larger one. Direct TV was available with a good cable package. Parking during the day was just fine. There was a designated parking spot right across the street, so make sure you ask about that if you can’t find it. At night, you can park right out front. We loved our stay and will definitely visit again! less

— Marsha D., Stayed Oct. 10, 2017