Lighthouse Books — Local services in Monterey

Very disappointed. Drove a good distance just to go to this bookstore during open hours and I even called (went to voice-mail where it stated the open hours) prior to my arrival. The store was closed, during stated business hours, no note on the door, just a clock of return the next day. I am sure business is hard enough but why, when a book lover, takes the time to go to your bookstore during stated business's hours are you NOT open?? Very upsetting. So, be aware that this business will close at anytime during business hours without notice or note or anything BEFORE you take the time and money in gas to get there. I am more than willing to turn this frown upside down by giving this place another opportunity in the future with another visit and a better review, but right now I'll have to save up the enthusiasm and money to do it. Please be open during your stated business hours so another person doesn't have to go through this! Even if it was and emergency, leave a note or something, please state you are closed on your voice message, we can understand that. At least we would have known not to waste the enthusiasm, time and money trekking the distance over...

A Real Bookstore for Real Book Lovers

Stepping into this bookstore feels like entering a different world—the kind of place that reminds you why you fell in love with books in the first place. Unlike the big chains where everything feels shiny and soulless, this shop is full of character, charm, and quiet stories waiting to be found.

I’ve been back several times over the past few months, and each visit has been a treasure hunt. From Tibetan poetry to women’s wisdom collections to timeless classics, every book I’ve found here has felt like it was waiting just for me. These are the kinds of books with a history, and I’m always willing to pay more for something with that kind of soul and care behind it, and prices are incredible/unbeatable.

The owner/front storekeeper is always so kind—to both me and my boyfriend—which makes shopping here all the more personal.

If you’re someone who loves the smell of pages, the feel of timeworn covers, and the thrill of discovering something rare or meaningful, this is your place. I’ll absolutely keep...

Unhelpful, unfriendly employee. Didn't greet as we walked in. Showed indifference towards my struggle to find a book. Seriously? You guys don't keep track of what books you have? No catalogue or anything? This might not be an issue--after all, not all used book stores catalogue their books--BUT their shelves are an organizational nightmare. Labels on shelves and book separators are sloppily written and fading/torn off. Books are in random places. Took me almost a full fifteen minutes to find a single section in the front of the store. Left in disgust. Never going here again. Maybe if you like wasting your time staring at disorganized old books this place might be great, but otherwise,...