Famous for the legendary Corkscrew turn, this 2.238-mile road course in Monterey County hosts IMSA, IndyCar, and the Monterey Motorsports Reunion during Car Week.
Laguna Seca is short, hilly and unforgiving, with around 55 metres of elevation change packed into just over 3.6 kilometres of dry, dusty California hillside. The Corkscrew is its signature and one of the most distinctive corners anywhere: a blind crest at the top followed by an immediate plunging left-right that drops roughly 18 metres between apexes. Rainey Curve follows immediately and catches out anyone who compromised the exit; the Andretti Hairpin at Turn 2 is a patient, technical double-apex.
The circuit is built into a natural bowl, so spectator sightlines are excellent and the walk up to the Corkscrew is worth doing at least once. General admission parking is free during major events, and Monterey-Salinas Transit Line 38 runs from the Monterey Conference Center. Monterey and Carmel are the obvious bases, and Car Week in August turns the whole peninsula into an event.
The circuit was built in 1957 on part of what was then the US Army's Fort Ord, after the Pebble Beach Road Races through the Del Monte Forest were abandoned as too dangerous for the speeds cars had reached. Around $1.5 million was raised from local businesses and individuals, and the track was constructed in about 60 days.
The first event, the eighth running of the Pebble Beach Road Races, was held on 9 November 1957 and won by Pete Lovely in a Ferrari 500 TR. Local folklore holds that the Corkscrew's layout was improvised: the construction crew were heading to lunch and the foreman told the bulldozer driver to get down the hill any way he could.
4 curated properties, sorted by distance from the circuit
RESORT · $$$ · 12.6 km from circuit
Vineyard luxury in Carmel Valley with Michelin-calibre dining, the premier Car Week retreat. The drive to WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca takes about 16 minutes (7.8 miles). Facilities include spa and pool.
Visit websiteHOTEL · $$ · 13.8 km from circuit
Beachfront hotel with fire pits on the sand, ideal for unwinding after a day at the Corkscrew. The drive to WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca takes about 18 minutes (8.6 miles). Facilities include pool and restaurant.
Visit websiteHOTEL · $$ · 17.1 km from circuit
Waterfront hotel on Monterey's Fisherman's Wharf, closest full-service option to the track. The drive to WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca takes about 22 minutes (10.6 miles). Facilities include spa, restaurant, and pool.
Visit websiteRESORT · $$$ · 25.6 km from circuit
Iconic Pebble Beach resort with sunset bagpiper, just 27 minutes from Laguna Seca. Facilities include golf and spa.
Visit websiteNearest Airport: Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) — approximately 11 km from the circuit
Monterey-Salinas Transit Line 38 runs from the Monterey Conference Center and Transit Plaza out to the raceway. General admission parking is free during major events. The circuit sits about 10 miles inland from Monterey.
Hotels near WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca typically sell out 2-4 months before major race weekends, including the race weekend. For the best rates and widest selection, book as soon as race dates are officially confirmed. Early bookers can save 30-50% compared to last-minute rates.
Expect to pay $100-300 per night during race weekends, compared to $60-150 during off-peak periods. Properties within 5km of the circuit command the highest premiums. Consider hotels in Salinas centre for better value — the slightly longer commute is offset by lower rates, more dining options, and a livelier atmosphere in the evenings.
Flexible cancellation policies are worth the small premium — race weekends can be rescheduled. Many hotels near WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca offer free cancellation up to 48-72 hours before check-in during race weekends.
Visiting WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca for a race weekend? Here are essential tips to make the most of your trip to Salinas, California. The circuit holds up to 40,000 spectators, so plan for large crowds on race day.
WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca is located in Salinas, California. The nearest airport (MRY) is approximately 11 km away. Most hotels near the circuit are within a 5-30 minute drive.
We recommend browsing all 4 curated properties above to find the best match for your budget, travel style, and race weekend plans. Each property has been selected for its proximity to the circuit and quality of service.
Expect to pay $100-300 per night during major race weekends at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, compared to $60-150 during off-peak periods. Booking 2-4 months in advance typically secures the best rates.
Yes, WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca provides parking facilities for race weekend visitors. Parking fills up quickly on race day — arriving before 8am is recommended. Many visitors prefer to book hotels with parking included.
For the best rates and availability, book your accommodation 2-4 months before the race weekend at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. Hotels within 10km of the circuit sell out first.