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Practical Wanderlust

Responsible Travel on a Budget

41 Marvelous Things to Do in Monterey, California

By Lia Garcia | Updated on: August 9, 2023

Otters. Wine tasting. Whale watching. Clam chowder. Monterey is one of the most beautiful towns along the California coast – and the most historically important! Famous for its incredible aquarium – part interactive museum, part animal conservation facility, part research lab – Monterey has loads to offer as a weekend trip from San Francisco. Which is why we visit Monterey several times a year!

Just two hours down the Pacific Coast Highway from San Francisco, Monterey’s world-class aquarium, fascinating history, fresh seafood, rich arts scene, and some of the country’s best wines make this coastal paradise a must-visit destination. Ours lays out all the best things to do in Monterey to help you plan your trip!

Table of Contents

Psst: Planning a California coast road trip? We’ve got a few other posts you’ll want to take a look at, or click here to see all of our California travel guides.

• Highway One Road Trip Itinerary & also The Best Pacific Coast Highway Stops
• 8 Charming Towns to Visit on California’s Central Coast , as well as specific travel guides for Cayucos , Morro Bay , and Paso Robles
• 14 Beautiful Big Sur Campgrounds: The Best Camping in Big Sur, California

Psst Looking for more California tips? Sign up and we’ll send you travel tips for our favorite spots in California!

Monterey At-a-Glance 🐋

Here’s a bite-sized snapshot of everything you need to know to plan your trip!

• When to Go: March and April for great weather, spring flowers, monarch butterflies and gray whales.
• Where to Stay: The fabulous InterContinental The Clement Monterey is the best-located hotel in Monterey, right off the water in the center of Cannery Row and a 3-minute walk to the Monterey Bay Aquarium and the beach. Plus, even standard rooms come with a fireplace and a huge bathtub – it’s heaven.
• How to Get Around : Within town, you can walk or bike everywhere. But to see the nearby attractions along the Monterey Peninsula and California coast, you’ll want a car. Use Kayak to browse rental car deals.
• Top 3 Highlights: The world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium , kayaking through kelp forests and next to otters in the waters of Monterey Bay, and taking a whale watching tour from Fisherman’s Wharf.
• Before You Go: Read John Steinbeck’s novella Cannery Row to learn about the area’s rich history. And watch Big Little Lies to see Monterey on the silver screen!

Monterey FAQ’s

• Where is Monterey? Monterey is located on the California coast, about two hours south of San Francisco and just under an hour north of Big Sur. If you’re driving the Pacific Coast Highway, you’ll pass right through town – and it’s one of our favorite stops on Highway One!
• Wait, is Monterey a town or a county? It’s both! While the town of Monterey is the county’s biggest city center, Monterey county encompasses coastal towns like Carmel-by-the-Sea, Pacific Grove , Moss Landing , and Big Sur , and stretches inland to encompass the Salinas Valley , Los Padres National Forest, and Pinnacles National Park. But for the sake of this post, we’re focusing on things to do in the town of Monterey, as well as the surrounding areas on the Monterey peninsula.
• Where have I heard of Monterey before? If you’re a John Steinbeck fan, there’s a good chance you’ve heard of Monterey – he grew up in nearby Salinas, and much of his writing was about this area, including the novella Cannery Row. I strongly recommend reading Cannery Row before your trip, as it will really enhance your visit! Or perhaps you recognize Monterey as the setting of the TV show Big Little Lies. The show was filmed all over town (although, for no good reason, there were a LOT of unnecessary shots driving over the Bixby Bridge… which is actually 45 minutes south of Monterey!) And if that doesn’t ring a bell, then you’ve probably heard of the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, which is arguably the best in the country, and possibly the world. (I’m ready to argue about it, anyway.)
• When is the best time to visit Monterey? The best time of year to visit Monterey is in spring between March and April. California’s springtime will be in full bloom, and this time of year also overlaps with the monarch butterfly migration, grey whale migrations, and the ice plant bloom in Pacific Grove. The second best time of year to visit Monterey is in the fall between September and October: the weather is perfect and it’s more likely to be clear and sunny. The worst time to visit Monterey is between May and August, when the entire coast is shrouded in “June gloom” and cold, foggy days are the norm. Yes, this is one of those weird northern California coastal quirks – summer is the worst time of year here! We visited in November, and the weather was clear, sunny and warm.

Things to Do in Monterey

History, culture, arts, and outdoors are just the beginning of Monterey things to do. Throw in some wine-tasting, marine critters, and fresh seafood, and you’re all set for an incredible coastal getaway! 

A world-class aquarium, fascinating history, a rich arts scene, and some of the country’s best wines make this small town a must-visit destination.  Here are the best things to do in Monterey.

Explore Cannery Row

Once lined with sardine canneries ( which I’m sure smelled … great… ), this central stretch of town is now home to Monterey’s world-famous aquarium, a few beaches, the InterContinental The Clement Monterey , and many other shops, and is the bustling epicenter of Monterey.

In between the shops and restaurants, you’ll see evidence of Monterey’s storied past. Walkways criss-cross overhead, which once housed industrial equipment to shuttle sardines from the ocean into the canning facilities, and a charming walking path has replaced what was once a bustling railway which transported cans of sardines and passengers up and down the California coast. 

Murals portraying the area’s diverse population of workers appear in between storefronts, and the small, well-preserved homes that once housed those workers interrupt and otherwise modern stretch. Keep an eye out for signs explaining the historical significance of these landmarks or you might miss them!

If you’ve read John Steinbeck’s novella Cannery Row , then you’re already familiar with this street and its history. And if you’ve never read his novel, then pick up a copy before heading out on your adventure in Monterey! It will add a fascinating layer of depth to this bustling area and the people who lived there in decades past.

Other than popping into every shop that strikes your fancy, here are a few highlights along Cannery Row:

• See the real-life inspiration behind Steinbeck’s Cannery Row : Steinbeck’s influences can be seen everywhere along this stretch, and I’m not just referring to Cannery Row Monument on Steinbeck Plaza. The real-life inspiration for his novella and all of the historical places and people which were immortalized as characters from his book can be seen here. For instance, the original, still-preserved Pacific Biological Laboratories building (aka Doc’s Lab) still sits at 800 Cannery Row, where it was once inhabited by famed marine biologist and BFF of Steinbeck Ed Ricketts. To see it all and connect real life to the book, take this self-guided walking tour !
• Take a Guided Tour : This tour brings Steinbeck’s characters to life as you explore Cannery Row on foot. Learn about the history of Cannery Row, its significance in Monterey, and its role in Steinbeck’s literature.
• McAbee Beach is the perfect escape from town. Steps from Cannery Row – literally, down a set of stairs right off Steinbeck Plaza – this sandy expanse ( at low tide, at least ) is an ideal spot for picnicking, kayaking, or just taking in the view. In contrast to some of the more wild and pristine beaches in the area, McAbee is lined with old concrete walls reminiscent of Monterey’s industrial past.

Stroll the Boardwalk at Fisherman’s Wharf

Old Fisherman’s Wharf was first built in the mid-1800s for passengers and freight arriving in Monterey. The Wharf, run by the Monterey City Council beginning in 1913, supported the different industries and populations that used the waters of Monterey Bay. Chinese fishermen came for abalone and squid, Portuguese whalers came for the blubber of resident gray and humpback whales, Japanese fisherman came for salmon and abalone, and the Italian fisherman ignited the boom in the sardine industry. 

In 1923, at the height of the sardine explosion in Monterey, the largest shipment of sardines was about to depart Fisherman’s Wharf. A ship that was about to be loaded with 20,000 cases of sardines tipped onto the wharf due to rough weather, and more than one hundred feet of the wharf collapsed. Needless to say, a lot of sardines were returned to the bay that day. (In hindsight, this incident definitely should have been taken as a sign of the impending collapse of the sardine industry, but ya know … there was money to be made!)

The Wharf was reconstructed and expanded, and the sardine industry continued to boom right up until it completely crashed after World War II, when the population of sardines was depleted thanks to overfishing ( whoops ). And like the rest of Monterey, Fisherman’s Wharf became a tourist attraction instead of a center of fishy industry!

Today, this pier is full of shops, restaurants, confectioneries, and whale-watching tours. On the weekends, you’ll often find the plaza out front stuffed with local vendors selling handicrafts and artwork or performing live music or magic tricks. It’s Monterey’s very own beach boardwalk!

• Carousel Candies : There’s no shortage of candy stores, taffy pullers, and fudge makers along Fisherman’s Wharf, so it’s hard to pick a favorite, but Carousel Candies is at the top of our list. Pick up all the fudge, chocolates, saltwater taffies, and dipped apples you can eat ( plus more to take home) at this heavenly-smelling, bright pink establishment. We recommend the penuche fudge — oh, and if you buy two pieces of fudge, you get one free!
• Take a self-guided walking tour : This tour highlights the history of Fisherman’s Wharf, Portola Plaza, Custom House Plaza, the Pacific House Museum, the First Brick House Museum, and other historic Monterey buildings. This tour is a must for history lovers — or fans of the HBO miniseries Big Little Lies (you can see places where some scenes were filmed!).
• Water and Leaves : If all the walking, shopping, and fudge have got you dragging, perk up with a cup of tea or mug of coffee at Water and Leaves. This hip and trendy cafe features a local and sustainable menu of carefully crafted drinks and fresh pastries. You’ve also never sweetened your tea like they do it here — with six ( yes, six ) flavors of honey on tap. Plus, you can’t beat the view.

Learn About Monterey’s Rich History

Monterey played a critical role in the history of not just California, but also Spain, Mexico, and the USA. You see, Monterey was the capital of Alta California, a massive Spanish and later Mexican territory that included most of modern-day California, Nevada, and Utah, and parts of Arizona, Wyoming, Colorado, and New Mexico. 

So yeah: it was kind of a big deal. Of course, just because Spain and Mexico claimed the area as their own didn’t necessarily mean much – much of Alta California was still fully under Indigenous control! Before Spain arrived to colonize the area, Monterey was part of the territory of the Ohlone tribe, who also lived in modern-day San Francisco and Oakland ( and still do to this day) . 

When California was taken over by the United States in the mid-1800’s, Monterey welcomed groups of immigrants from Japan and China, joining the Mexican residents still living in the area. Monterey quickly became a center for industry, with a diverse population of workers to fuel its rapid growth and expansion.

In the mid-1800’s, shortly after being claimed by the United States, Monterey quickly became a hub for the bloody, booming whaling industry. Monterey Bay is a stop along the annual migration for Grey Whales ( and many other whales), which meant it was also a fantastic place to hunt and kill whales to use their blubber as fuel. 

Unfortunately, killing animals en masse is a great way to destroy their population and ruin your own industry, a fact that Monterey, unfortunately, had to learn twice. You can learn more about Monterey’s whaling history at the Old Whaling Station on Heritage Harbor.

Not to be deterred by the collapse of the whaling industry, in the early 1900’s Monterey soon re-emerged as a center for sardine fishing and canning. The sardine canning industry transformed Monterey, as new canneries popped up overnight along today’s Cannery Row. Sardines were fished from Monterey Bay by the boatload, transported across the street (along walkways that can still be seen today ) to be canned or turned into fertilizer, and dropped off onto waiting railroad cars directly behind the canneries. Business was booming, and Monterey was soon known as the sardine capital of the world!

But as the sardine canning industry grew, the sardine population declined. And during WWII, even as soldiers all over the world relied on cans of sardines for their rations, the industry ground to a sudden, screeching halt. Monterey learned its second lesson in destroying animal populations for profit, and the industrial era of Monterey ended. 

You’ll see evidence of Monterey’s sardine canning history all over Cannery Row, in converted and abandoned canneries still dotting the shoreline. Our hotel, InterContinental The Clement Monterey , was once a cannery, as was the Monterey Bay Aquarium and many other buildings along the town’s central strip. Be sure to read all the signs along the waterfront as you explore!

Today, Monterey’s economy relies on tourism rather than industry, and it is best known for its pioneering approach to marine conservation and research.

Here are a few spots in town to dive deeper into Monterey’s fascinating history: 

• Monterey State Historic Park : A great place to start learning about Monterey’s history, the Monterey State Historic Park is a collection of historic buildings and gardens, including the site where the Spanish first arrived in the early 17th century. Join a guided tour or take a self-guided tour along the Monterey Walking Path of History to see old whalebone sidewalks, historic homes, and delightful gardens.
• Pacific House Museum :  On a self-guided walk through the Pacific House Museum and Memory Garden, you’ll trace a piece of California’s rich history, spanning its Native American origins through Spanish, Mexican, and American arrival in Monterey. The museum is housed in a 1847 building first used as a U.S. Navy storage facility. Before becoming a museum, the building served as a courthouse, pub, church, and more, so you’ll literally be experiencing a piece of Monterey’s past!
• San Carlos Cathedral : The oldest church and first stone building in California, the San Carlos Cathedral dates back to 1794. It’s now a working parish and was recently restored, but the architectural beauty is still something visitors can appreciate today. Next door there’s a museum, where you can find old photos and drawings of the chapel and pieces of the church’s historic whale-bone sidewalk. You can also take a docent-led tour to enrich your experience of this historic landmark. 

Take a Self Guided Walking Tour

This walking tour covers most of the Cannery Row area, beginning and ending right by InterContinental The Clement Monterey, where we stayed. 

You’ll stroll past beaches, under cypress trees, and past historic canneries on this lovely 2-hour self-guided walking tour. You’ll also learn all about Monterey’s history of sardine fishing, as well as the landmarks and people who inspired John Steinbeck’s novella Cannery Row .

Even if you don’t follow the tour exactly, I recommend reading through it to get some context for this area! We saw most of the landmarks on our walk from the hotel to get breakfast at Tidal Coffee , and knowing that history made the murals, statues, paths and buildings come alive as we explored the streets of Monterey.

Hit the Beach

Monterey is a coastal town, and that means one thing: beaches! There are beaches all over Monterey and the Monterey Peninsula, from right in the center of town at McAbee Beach ( steps from our hotel) to Del Monte Beach, Monterey State Beach, and Sand City beach just up the road. 

That said, take it from a Northern Californian: some beaches are, er, better than others. ( Although don’t worry, none of the beaches in Monterey are as miserable as our own home beach, Ocean Beach in San Francisco, which is essentially the Arctic tundra.) 

Here are the best beaches in Monterey and the surrounding areas:

• Carmel Beach : Beaches aren’t scarce in California, but Carmel beach is something special. Soft, white sand, excellent surf, and perfect sunsets make this stop worth your time. Bring an evening picnic, take a long walk on the scenic path, or just sit and listen to the waves crashing onto the beach. This beach is also dog friendly, so you just might make a few furry friends. (Oh, and keep an eye out for Mulan! She’s a big fan.)
• Lover’s Point Beach: Lover’s Point Beach is in the neighboring town of Pacific Grove and is a hotspot for boating, kayaking, and surfing. Because of the orientation of the Monterey Peninsula, it actually faces east — so you can count on a beautiful beach sunrise if you wake up early enough! A breakwall makes for calmer waters, so if you can bear the cold, it’s a good place to take a dip. (Just in case, though, bring a wetsuit. The Pacific is freezing!)
• Asilomar State Beach : This gorgeous beach, just west of Pacific Grove, is a mix of beautiful sandy shores and hidden, rocky coves. The Asilomar Coastal Trail takes you along the length of the beach, making it easy to explore the dunes, tidepools, and coves.

​​Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium

The world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the world – and one of the best! Located in a converted sardine cannery (of course), the non-profit aquarium is centered around research and marine conservation and is home to thousands of marine species, including many that are found only here in Monterey Bay.

In the aquarium’s 35 exhibits, you’ll see playful otters, marvel at mesmerizing jellyfish, learn about cephalopods and meet the great Pacific Octopus. You’ll experience the inside of a wave as it crashes over you, see divers feeding stingrays and sharks, and meet penguins, puffins, and coastal seabirds. 

In one of my favorite exhibits, you’ll also find out what makes Monterey Bay’s waters so special: its enchanting kelp forests! Filled with teeming marine life, the kelp grows 100 feet tall and gently waves back and forth – and you’ll get to see it all up close, as if you were scuba diving in the waters just outside the aquarium’s back doors (which is also on our bucket list) . 

It’s truly incredible, and you’ll gain a new appreciation for the kelp forests that are home to Monterey Bay’s unique marine ecosystem – the perfect context for going kayaking, diving, or boating through the Bay.

But my favorite attraction at the aquarium is the sea otter habitat , where the world’s cutest marine mammals frolic and play. Monterey Bay Aquarium is known for its role in rescuing and rehabilitating sea otters. In the early 1990s, there were only 50 southern sea otters left in California. The situation became so dire that many people thought these animals would go extinct within just a few years. But thanks to the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s careful efforts, that didn’t happen.

You’ll see tons of otters playing in the water around Monterey, and if you look closely, you might see little tags on many of them, identifying otters that spent some time at the aquarium before being released back into the wild! 

Today, nearly all the sea otters in California live near Monterey Bay (you’ll also see many of them in Morro Bay , Jeremy’s hometown). The aquarium’s rescue program has played a key role in this success story, and these animals continue to be ambassadors for the habitat restoration that is crucial if we want to protect our oceans! You can even meet the sea otters before your trip on the live Sea Otter cam. 

Be sure to purchase a ticket for the aquarium before your trip.

Go Whale Watching 

Whale-watching in Monterey is a bucket list experience. Monterey offers some of the best whale watching in California, which in turn is some of the best in the country ( yeah, we’re pretty awesome ). Oh, and it was also the first: whale watching as an organized activity dates back to 1950 when the Cabrillo National Monument in San Diego was declared a public spot for the observation of Gray Whales.

Monterey Bay is one of the best places to see gray whales in Northern California. There are two seasons for whale watching in Monterey Bay. Visit from mid-December through mid-April to see gray whales, dolphins and orcas as they migrate south, or visit f rom mid-April through mid-December to see humpback whales, blue whales, dolphins, and orcas. (Psst: for more details, we’ve got an entire post about whale watching in California! )

You can get a good view of the whales from shore as they come to feed in the Monterey Submarine Canyon , which is where most whale watching tours embark from, as well as at Point Lobos Natural State Preserve . You can also see whales offshore at Garrapata State Park , especially if you do the hike to Sobrantes Point & Whale Peak .

But for the best whale watching experience and to really get up close and personal with these giant, majestic creatures, take a Whale Watching Tour . Departing from Old Fisherman’s Wharf, this tour will also give you a great point to spot sea lions as you go in and out of the harbor. The tour takes you into the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, where whales are spotted almost every day. The tour lasts 3-4 hours and is hosted by a marine biologist who explains conservation efforts in place to protect the whales and other wildlife in the area. Travel Tip: Are you as fascinated by whaling history as I am?? Pay a visit to the Whalers Cabin & Museum in Point Lobos and the Old Whaling Station near Fisherman’s Wharf to learn about California’s whaling history. And for more information about what whales frequent California’s coast and when, head to our whale watching in California guide !

Go Kayaking in Monterey Bay

Kayaking in Monterey Bay is the best way to explore the stunning coastline and experience Monterey’s phenomenal marine wildlife. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary is home to an incredible amount of marine life (including more than 30 species of whales and dolphins) , rich kelp forests, salt marshes, mudflats, deep-sea corals, and much more. And the area has some of the best kayaking in all of California!

From your kayak, you’ll see seals and otters swimming right next to you as they frolic in the kelp beds, between boats in the harbor, and along beaches like Lovers Point Park. You’ll also likely see (and hear) sea lions swimming and barking.

We go kayaking every time we visit Monterey ( Mulan is a huge fan, and has her very own lifejacket ) and we’ve seen dozens of otters and sea lions each and every time.We recommend renting kayaks in Monterey from Adventures by the Sea and heading out on a self-guided trip. Or if you’re new to sea kayaking, take one of their guided tours.

Eat Fresh Seafood

If there’s one type of food Monterey is known for and does really, really well, it’s seafood. And no wonder, since fresh seafood is swimming right outside town. 

In addition to being super fresh, you can count on eating some sustainably caught seafood. The Monterey Bay Aquarium runs a Seafood Watch program, which helps guide consumers and restaurants in buying and serving sustainable seafood. The program isn’t just local: it serves as a global leader in the sustainable seafood movement and works directly with producers, governments, and organizations to improve their fishing practices.  

Many local restaurants serve up fresh-as-can-be seafood in adherence to the Seafood Watch program, so you can enjoy sustainable (and delicious) sea-to-table dining. 

Monterey is known for a few local specialties. There’s a specific Monterey Bay style clam chowder , which is made with bacon to add a rich, umami flavor that perfectly compliments the cream, potato, and seafood chowder. You’ll see clam chowder on just about every menu, often in an accompanying sourdough bread bowl (t hank San Francisco for that delicious addition – you’re welcome, everyone!) . 

Cioppino , a rich mariner’s stew made with a wide variety of fresh seafood in a tomato saffron broth – sometimes served with pasta – appears on the menus of almost every restaurant in Fisherman’s Wharf. The dish reflects Monterey’s Italian immigrant history, and it’s definitely a local favorite (and Jeremy’s favorite, too).

And of course, local seafood is always the star in Monterey: try an order of fresh oysters, sweet dungeness crab, fried sand dabs, and whatever the “catch of the day” is.

• Old Fisherman’s Grotto : from the outside, it might not look like much. But inside, the restaurant has that old money feel as though Dean Martin or Frank Sinatra were going to be seated in the cushy booth behind you. But the real draw here isn’t the fancy interior – it’s the food. You see, Jeremy grew up eating clam chowder in a bread bowl with seemingly every single meal. He can identify the age of clams by smell – ok, not really, but you get the idea. The point is, the clam chowder here is next level – it’s even won the local “best clam chowder” award for the last 16 years. Their “ Monterey Style Chowder” has a slight hit of smoky bacon that adds depth and flavor – try it in a garlic butter toasted sourdough bread bowl. Oh, and don’t skip the crab: we ordered a fresh crab cocktail which features approximately fourteen crabs worth of sweet, flaky deliciousness. ( Top your chowder with it for maximum Northern California-ness!)
• Cafe Fina : This small restaurant in Fisherman’s Wharf served, to our surprise, the best Cioppino we’ve ever eaten. The tomato and saffron broth was flavorful and rich, and the seafood – I mean, they must empty the bay for every bowl judging by how much seafood they cram onto it: calamari, fresh fish, shrimp, mussels, clams… mmm. The stew was served on a bed of delicious linguini, which is an addition I can’t believe isn’t standard. Pretty much every restaurant in Fisherman’s Wharf has a Cioppino, but in our opinion, Cafe Fina is the best place to try it!
• The C at the InterContinental The Clement Monterey : Located right on the boardwalk in Cannery Row, the floor-to-ceiling windows and charming outdoor patio have some of the best ocean views on Cannery Row – perfect for watching the sunset! The C restaurant sits directly on the ocean, so if you’re seated outside, you’ll hear the sound of the waves pounding the shore as you eat. If you’re lucky, you can even see otters playing in the kelp forests just offshore! The menu features a sustainable sea-to-table selection of local seafood fare. Everything on the menu is a standout, like the Prawns & Dungeness Crab Pappardelle with oven-roasted tomatoes, capers, and lobster crème fraȋche. Come here to watch the sunset and relax with a glass of wine!
• Schooners : This restaurant in the Monterey Plaza hotel has a heated terrace that basically hangs over the ocean! Schooners serves American cuisine – with a focus on seafood, of course. Relax with a classic burger and beer or live it up in luxury with a decadent seafood tower.

Go Tide-Pooling at Point Lobos

Point Lobos is a state park known for its abundant marine life and beautiful hiking paths. But that really doesn’t capture the magic of Point Lobos, so I’m going to quote the master California writer himself, John Steinbeck, with this beautiful excerpt from Cannery Row :

“It is a fabulous place: when the tide is in, a wave-churned basin, creamy with foam, whipped by the combers that roll in from the whistling buoy on the reef. But when the tide goes out the little water world becomes quiet and lovely. The sea is very clear and the bottom becomes fantastic with hurrying, fighting, feeding, breeding animals. Crabs rush from frond to frond of the waving algae. Starfish squat over mussels and limpets, attach their million little suckers and then slowly lift with incredible power until the prey is broken from the rock. And then the starfish stomach comes out and envelops its food. Orange and speckled and fluted nudibranchs slide gracefully over the rocks, their skirts waving like the dresses of Spanish dancers. And black eels poke their heads out of crevices and wait for prey. The snapping shrimps with their trigger claws pop loudly. The lovely, colored world is glassed over. Hermit crabs like frantic children camper on the bottom sand. And now one, finding an empty snail shell he likes better than his own, creeps out, exposing his soft body to the enemy for a moment, and then pops into the new shell. A wave breaks over the barrier, and churns the glassy water for a moment and mixes bubbles into the pool, and then it clears and is tranquil and lovely and murderous again…” John Steinbeck, Cannery Row

So yeah. And at the risk of sounding like a broken record, you must read Cannery Row before/during/after your trip!

Anyway, Point Lobos is wonderful , and the tidepools are tiny, enchanted pools filled with entire miniature universes of marine life. Ugh, now I’m just embarrassing myself trying to describe it after that Steinbeck quote. Ignore me. 

Head to Weston Beach in Point Lobos for tide pooling. Travel Tip: You’ll want to arrive 90 minutes before low tide – check the tide tables to find out when low tide is. At true low tide, critters hide and hunker down waiting for the tide to rise. But arrive a little before and the water will be just shallow enough to see them before they hide!

During our trip, low tide fell right before sunset, which meant we were hunting for bright orange starfish and waving sea anemones in the tidepools during golden hour. We climbed to the top of the rocky boulders bordering the tidal basin and watched the sun sink low behind the horizon. It was magical.

Explore the Monterey Bay Recreation Trail

Stretching 18 miles down the coast, the Monterey Bay Recreation Trail traces what was once a railroad line running from San Francisco right up to the loading docks of the canneries of Monterey. Today, it is a beautiful and well-maintained walking and biking trail that cuts right through town and along the coast!

The trail passes by the colorful piers of Fisherman’s Wharf, sandy beaches filled with lounging harbor seals, blooming pink ice plant fields (nicknamed “the magic carpet”), and colorful and ornate Victorian homes along Pacific Grove. 

Bike, rent a surrey, or walk the trail south for as long as you like before turning around and heading back to Monterey. You can pick up a bike, e-bike ( y’all, they’re SO fun) or a 4-person surrey bike at Adventures by the Sea just off of Cannery Row.

Take a Hike

With near-perfect weather, ocean views, and beautiful forests, Monterey and the surrounding peninsula make for some amazing hiking — and you don’t have to go far (or climb high) to enjoy it. 

When hiking near Monterey, you can expect sweeping views of the Pacific coast and trails that wind through enchanting redwoods and Monterey pines. 

And with many of the trails tracing the coastline, you may even catch a glimpse of marine wildlife and seabirds. Lace up your boots and get your camera ready!

• Asilomar Trail : This one-mile trail extends the length of the sandy and rocky Asilomar State Beach, south of Pacific Grove and on the western edge of the Monterey Peninsula. The trail itself is amix of packed sand and boardwalk and is wonderfully flat — perfect for running or strolling. Plus, it’s a great way to explore Asilomar Beach — just hop off the boardwalk wherever you want.
• Soberanes Point and Whale Peak : This 2-mile loop — with a spur to Whale Peak — circles Soberanes Point in Garrapata State Park . This park, south of Carmel-by-the-Sea, includes everything from ocean beaches to redwood forests, with rocky headlands in between. The Soberanes and Whale Peak Trails provide epic ocean views with a chance to see some of the park’s resident wildlife — sea otters, sea lions, harbor seals, and even migrating gray whales! Head to our whale watching guide for more information on what you might see at different times of the year.
• Jacks Peak and Skyline Trail : This short .8-mile loop at Jack’s Peak Park is a great bang for your buck if you’re short on time. You’ll hike through one of the three remaining natural stands of Monterey Pine, see a waterfall and, in springtime, plenty of colorful California wildflowers. There are more than eight miles of trails to choose from in this park, but hiking on the Skyline trail gives you impressive ocean views from the top of a ridgeline and a chance to see Miocene-epoch fossils. 
• Point Lobos State Reserve : South of Carmel Bay, Point Lobos State Reserve is an absolute gem on the Central Coast. The geology, plants, and animals are unique — and downright gorgeous. Part of the state park system, this “reserve” has a higher level of protection than other parks, so it’s really important to stay on trails and leave everything how you found it. There are lots of trails to choose from based on how much time you want to spend, but the 6.5 mile Point Lobos Loop Trail takes you all over the reserve for a taste of everything the park has to offer!

Patronize the Arts

It doesn’t take much time in Monterey and the surrounding communities to notice the abundance of art. Northern California has a well-deserved reputation for quirkiness and artistic expression, and this area is no exception! Galleries, murals, and museums abound. 

Here are a few places to patronize Monterey’s local art scene:

• Monterey Museum of Art : For a mix of new and old California art, head to the Monterey Museum of Art. Works date from the end of the nineteenth century to present day, and the museum emphasizes the diversity of California’s “past, present, and future.” Permanent collections include works by a range of California painters as well as the famous photographs of Ansel Adams (of Yosemite fame ). The museum itself is beautiful, too, with expansive windows and exposed beams. 
• Salvador Dalí Exhibition : The Salvador Dalí Exhibition houses the largest privately-owned collection of Dalí work on the West Coast. This exhibition celebrates Dalí’s love of and connection to Monterey, where he lived in the 1940s after fleeing the war in Europe. The collection includes more than 580 pieces, including etchings, tapestries, sculptures and lithographs! Things might get a little weird… and if you really want to, uh, enhance your visit, perhaps partake in one of California’s perfectly legal herbal crops before your visit. (When in California, right?)
• National Steinbeck Center : Okay, so the Steinbeck center isn’t technically in Monterey — it’s in Steinbeck’s hometown of nearby Salinas — but with Steinbeck’s significant presence in the history of Monterey and Cannery Row, we had to include this spot. If you’re a fan of any Steinbeck novel ( or if a visit to Monterey garners your interest – AND IT SHOULD) you can’t miss a visit to the National Steinbeck Center. With first edition books, artifacts, interactive exhibits, and themed theaters based on his novels, this museum brings to life both Steinbeck and his intimate connection to his home. If we’ve been too subtle in this post, allow me to come right out and say it: Steinbeck is one of the greatest American authors, and you need to read some Steinbeck!! Start with Cannery Row for your trip, but after that, we recommend Grapes of Wrath , East of Eden , or Of Mice and Men . Oh, and while you’re in Salinas, head to Mangia , a delicious husband-and-wife owned Italian restaurant right on charming main street in Oldtown Salinas. Be sure to order the Bruschetta di Nonna, topped with generous dollops of housemade ricotta, pesto, chopped pistachios and a honey drizzle with a chili kick.

Enjoy the Scenery on the “17 Mile Drive”

The 17 Mile Drive features a pretty — and ritzy — stretch of California coastline. This exclusive drive has some can’t-miss sights, but to access them, you’ll need pay $10.50.

Why is there a fee to drive this particular stretch of coast, you ask? It’s owned and maintained by the Pebble Beach Company . The road accesses Pebble Beach Resorts , including the famous Pebble Beach Golf Links. Which, if you’re into golf, is a pretty big deal. 

You can, however, get your fee reimbursed if you stop to dine at one of the resort restaurants (and pay $35). Which we do recommend at sunset – more on that below!

But there’s a lot more than… golf that makes this a spectacular drive. Picture-perfect Pacific beaches, forests, and oceanside mansions will give you a thrill, plus there are some particular landmarks that you’ll want to stop for.

The Lone Cypress stands proudly on a craggy rock outcropping, framed by the foaming Pacific Ocean. This tree – which is also the logo for the Pebble Beach Company – is probably somewhere around 250 years old, so while it’s not ancient , it’s been around longer than our country. 

This cypress tree and its neighbors — other Monterey Cypress — are also rare. They only grow in two places in the world: in Pebble Beach, and at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

The entire drive is scenic and beautiful, but make sure to also pull over for some of our favorite stops: Spanish Bay Beach , Restless Sea , Seal Rock , and Crocker Grove . You can also stop at the Pebble Beach Visitor Center if you want to learn more about the area’s history, or Pebble Beach Golf Links if you have any interest in golf.

If you want to get even more out of this drive, you can get this self-guided audio tour . Get detailed information and history about all of the stops along the drive so you can enjoy it to the fullest.If you still want the benefit of a guide but you’d prefer a more active tour of 17-mile drive, you can take an e-bike tour instead. This 3.5-hour tour lets you explore the drive at a slightly slower pace, plus you can enjoy the wind in your hair as you bike along the coast.

• Travel Tip: There are several stunning scenic drives in this area! Here’s a list of a few more.

Go Wine Tasting

Although Monterey isn’t one of California’s many wine countries, it’s still in California, so … that means wine. And when in California, wine tasting is a must. 

Wine growing isn’t a new industry in this area: the first grapes were planted by Spaniards in the late 1700s. Since then, the wine industry in the Monterey area has exploded. Diverse growing conditions and microclimates allow growers to produce a wide variety of wines, including well-known Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays. 

But with the nearby beaches and idyllic ocean views, wine tasting in Monterey is about more than just the wine. There are tons of tasting rooms and wineries in the area, but here are a few of our favorites: 

• Tasting rooms on Cannery Row : A Taste of Monterey is located near McAbee Beach and offers more than 90 local wines and has a great view.  Bargetto Winery has two locations: one on Cannery Row and one at the base of the Santa Cruz Mountains. At the Cannery Row location, you can enjoy a tasting on the patio with ocean views.
• Blue Fox Cellars : Located in Carmel Valley, this small, family-owned winery provides a hands-on tasting with the winemaker himself. You can sample wine and revel in the lovely mountain views from the outdoor patio, or take a break for some bocce ball in the courtyard. It’s a bit of a schlep to get there, but so worth the effort!
• The Wine Experience : Located on Cannery Row, the Wine Experience is “more than just a wine bar”: in addition to wine tasting, they offer classes, personalized wine labels, and custom blending. Whether you’re a wine novice or a connoisseur, this is the place to learn a thing or two. Blend your own bottle of wine or take a tasting class to develop your now-sophisticated palate! 
• Pierce Ranch Vineyards : With a tasting room in Monterey, Pierce Ranch Vineyards is located in southern Monterey County and specializes in Portuguese and Spanish varieties. The tasting room is housed in a charming Victorian house just a block from Cannery Row. While wandering town, stop by for a tasting on the quaint front porch.

Want some more wine tasting options? Nearby Carmel-by-Sea has its own array of top-notch tasting rooms worth a visit. Here’s a list to help you choose what you’ll love, or browse a full directory of Carmel wineries . And speaking of…

Visit Carmel-by-the-Sea

With a name like Carmel-by-the-Sea, you know this little town has to be some kind of coastal fairytale town, and it is! Monterey’s next door neighbor – just a few minutes down Highway One – is a charming little town perched on a bluff overlooking the sea. 

Carmel has a quaint, walkable “downtown” area filled with cafes and galleries and beautiful, storybook homes perched on hills rising above the ocean. 

One of its claims to fame is that this is the home of none other than Clint Eastwood, who once served as town Mayor. (Clint Eastwood would go on to serve on the California State Park and Recreation Commission underneath  Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. We, uh, kind of have a thing for electing actors as politicians here…)

The best way to experience Carmel during your trip to Monterey is to pop over for the afternoon and take a walk. Just one square mile in area, you can see most of this charming town by foot!

• Take a walking tour: This walking tour brings to life the architecture and history of Carmel-by-the-Sea . A local guide tells the stories of Carmel’s artists, cottages, and landmarks. We also recommend this local-created downtown Carmel walking tour, which will only take you about an hour ( it’s a small town) . This tour traces a scenic walkway, and this self-guided tour visits the many fairytale style, storybook homes in Carmel!
• Take a food tour: Check out the architecture, wine, and vibrant culinary scene with a Carmel food tour. Sample local dishes and treats like chocolate, olives, pasta, wine, risotto, or truffles. Delicious and informative, you’ll love the architecture and history as much as the food.
• Tour Carmel’s Galleries: Beautiful art often comes from beautiful places, and Carmel-by-the-Sea is no exception. This stunning Pacific coastline attracted an artsy mix of folks from the early days, and the same is true today with almost 100 galleries in one square mile of downtown Carmel. The Carmel Art Association is a great place to see the work of 90 local artists in a one-stop shop. Additionally, it is Carmel’s oldest and only non-profit art gallery.

For dinner, we recommend enjoying the prixe fix menu at Le Souffle , an entire restaurant themed around souffles! At this cozy little French restaurant, you’ll pick from a delicious 3 course menu that includes both entree and dessert souffles. We recommend the steak tartare to start, and for your main, try the the mushroom, gruyere, riesling and caramelized onion entree souffle – the pillowy interior paired with the crispy, cheesy top and luscious mushroom sauce is heavenly .

Visit Pacific G​​rove

Only two miles from the town of Monterey, neighboring town Pacific Grove is well worth a visit. On the northernmost tip of the Monterey Peninsula, Pacific Grove offers a dramatic, rugged, and beautiful coastline along with its own sandy beaches. 

Pacific Grove welcomes more than just ocean-seeking tourists — in fact, it’s known for the seasonal influx of migrating Monarch butterflies ! Visit in the winter to see some of California’s most colorful seasonal residents.

Speaking of color, Pacific Grove puts on a fleeting but gorgeous spectacle in April or May each year — a “magic carpet “ of vibrantly pink blooming ice plant flowers. Planted in the early 1900s, it covers the Pacific Grove Coast in a blanket of magenta each spring. ( Sadly, ice plant is beautiful, but definitely not native and very invasive.)

This beautiful seaside town is also known for its charming Victorian homes, some of which have been turned into quaint bed and breakfasts. There’s definitely a bit of quirkiness to Pacific Grove, too, with sights like the Butterfly House adding to the vibrant colors of this adorable town. 

Soak up Pacific groves colorful, quirky, Victorian charms with some of our favorite things to do: 

• Eat at The Beach House Restaurant : Overlooking beautiful Lover’s Point Beach , The Beach House Restaurant and Bar might have one of the best views in Pacific Grove. Their casual menu features local seafood — try the Seafood Pasta for a taste of fresh salmon, scallops, clams, and grilled prawns in a tomato-caper sauce. The food, the view, and nearby Lover’s Point Beach make this the perfect spot for a romantic sunset dinner!
• Meet the Monarch Butterflies : Nicknamed “Butterfly Town, USA,” Pacific Grove welcomes thousands of monarch butterflies that spend the winters here ( not unlike my mom’s annual retreat to Florida) . From mid-October to mid-February, you can visit the Pacific Grove Monarch Sanctuary to take a tour with a docent. No matter what time of year you visit, you can always check out the Monarch Gallery at the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History to learn about these annual visitors.
• Go Tidepooling at Point Pinos Lighthouse : This historic maritime landmark is the oldest continually operating lighthouse on the Pacific, and still operates today. You can take tours of the old Victorian-era building, which also doubled as a social hub in Pacific Grove’s early days. Combine a visit to the lighthouse with some tidepool explorations — the “Great Tide Pool” at Point Pinos is one of the richest tidepools habitats in the world!

Watch the Sunset at the Inn at Spanish Bay

Monterey is perfectly situated for watching some truly stunning sunsets, and the best place to take it all in as at the Inn at Spanish Bay in Pebble Beach, just 3 miles away from downtown Monterey.

The outdoor patio at the Inn serves delicious food and drinks ( we recommend ordering the ahi chips) , which are best enjoyed on a couch at one of the cozy firepits. But that’s actually not the best part – the real draw? Bagpipes !

Each evening, a bagpiper appears in the mists to melodiously accompany the sunset as the coastal fog rolls in across the moors – er, hills. The bagpiper plays for about half an hour as the sun sets behind the horizon – it’s a truly magical celebration!

Located within the Pebble Beach golf resort and along the stunning 17-mile drive, this spot has some of the most scenic views in Monterey County – and you don’t need to be a guest at the Inn to enjoy their nightly sunset event. ( You do, however, need to pay the standard $10.50 entrance fee, which will be deducted from your $35+ bill.)

• Travel Tip: The best time of year for stunning sunsets in California is during the winter. There’s actual science behind it involving offshore winds and lower humidity and … uh, sciencey stuff. Luckily, late winter is also the best time of year to visit Monterey, so that works out nicely!

Where to Stay in Monterey

On our most recent trip to Monterey, we stayed at beautiful InterContinental The Clement Monterey , which is the best-located hotel in Monterey – and that’s not an exaggeration. 

Smack dab on the center of Cannery Row ( in a converted historic cannery, of course) the hotel is less than a 3-minute walk to the Monterey Bay Aquarium , McAbee Beach , and the rest of the attractions along Cannery Row. 

The hotel sits directly along the water, which meant that even our standard room came with an ocean view through floor-to-ceiling windows. We were treated to stunning sunrise views over the ocean each morning – and I’m not even a morning person!

But y’all, can we talk about the room ? First of all, there was a gas-powered, cozy AF FIREPLACE. Second of all, our bathroom came with a massive bathtub – and a warm, fluffy robe. Which meant that I spent my Saturday night reading Steinbeck in a bubble bath while Jeremy and Mulan relaxed in front of the fire, listening to the rolling waves muffling the call of seagulls and barking sea lions outside.

Listen: we aren’t typically luxury hotel people. But then I got pregnant and well, things changed. Things like my ability to sleep through the night, especially on an uncomfortable mattress . 

And after our stay at the InterContinental The Clement Monterey, I don’t think I can go back.  It was perfect , and made our trip feel incredibly special!

If you’re visiting Monterey for a special weekend, we can’t recommend a stay at the InterContinental The Clement Monterey enough. If you’re on a tighter budget, check off-season and mid-week rates; we’ve seen availability as low as $200 per night, which is a freakin’ steal for a hotel this luxurious! Click the button below to check rates and availability for your dates.

Which of these things to do in Monterey are you most excited about? Is it the wine, the seafood, the tidepooling, the aquarium, or kayaking with otters? Oh, and have you picked up a copy of Cannery Row yet?! Drop us a comment below!

Psst: Planning to explore more of California? …. As California residents we have LOTS of other posts – browse them all or just take a look at these:

• The 10 Best Weekend Trips from San Francisco, California
• 8 Marvelous Things to Do in Mendocino, California on a Weekend Getaway

Psst: Save this post for later on Pinterest!

Disclaimer: Our most recent trip to Monterey was sponsored by IHG Hotels and we were graciously hosted at the fabulous InterContinental The Clement Monterey ! (Y’all, I was very pregnant and it was, honestly, exactly what I needed.) As always, all opinions, bad jokes, poetic descriptions of cioppino, and aggressive suggestions to read Steinbeck are 100% our own and not our sponsor’s fault.

Our Top Travel Tips & Resources

• Booking Flights : To score flight deals, search on Google Flights or Kayak . Money-saving tips: fly mid-week or on the weekend; fly carry-on only on a budget airline; and take red-eyes or early morning flights.
• Accommodations: We usually stay in budget-friendly vacation rentals, boutique hotels or private rooms in hostels. We use Booking.com to book hotels ( we love their flexible cancellation policy ) and Hostelworld to book hostels ( low deposit, easy change/cancellation, and excellent reviews) . For vacation rentals, we prefer to book using VRBO because they've got lower fees and better support than Airbnb, and we're not fans of Airbnb's unethical track record. You can also book vacation rentals on Expedia and Hotels.com . We also use TrustedHousesitters as both hosts (for our home and our fur-child) and travelers!
• Travel Insurance: We always, always, ALWAYS buy travel insurance for international trips, and we STRONGLY suggest it - visit our Travel Insurance Guide to find out why. We recommend either World Nomads or SafetyWing for international travel insurance. SafetyWing is one of the few policies that covers Covid-19, and they have excellent monthly policies that are perfect for Digital Nomads and long term travelers!
• Travel Credit Card: We book all of our trips on our favorite travel credit card. Not only do we earn cash back that we can spend on more travel, but the card offers fantastic travel perks like travel insurance, trip delay and cancellation coverage, lost baggage reimbursement, and rental car coverage, which helps protect us on our travels. Learn more here.
• Vaccines & Meds: We use the travel guides on the CDC website to research recommended medications and vaccines for international trips. We always recommend getting every vaccine recommended by the CDC! You can get them at your primary care doctor's office or a walk-in pharmacy.
• Tours: We love booking guided tours, especially food tours and walking tours, to get a local's perspective and a history lesson while sight-seeing! We book our tours using Viator and GetYourGuide .
• Transportation : We use Rome2Rio to figure out how to get from place to place, and book local transportation online using Bookaway wherever we can. When we book a rental car, we use DiscoverCars to compare rental companies and find the best deal.
• Luggage Storage: Whenever we're checking out early or taking advantage of a long layover, we use LuggageHero to safely store our luggage while we're running around. Use the code PRACTICALW for 2 hours of free luggage storage on us.
• VPN Service: A VPN keeps your digital information (like website login details, bank info, etc) safe, even when you're connected to an unsecured network while traveling. Plus, it lets you use Netflix & other streaming sites abroad! We use NordVPN . Use the code WANDERLUSTPROMO when you sign up!
• What to Pack: Here are the travel essentials that we bring on every trip. We also have packing lists for hot weather , cold weather , and many more. Take a look at all of our packing guides !

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20 TOP Things To Do in Monterey, California (#11 & #18 Are The BEST!)

With 99 miles of coastline in the county, it’s hardly surprising that there are tons of marvelous outdoorsy things to do in Monterey.

This seaside town is blessed with some incredible beaches—but there’s a lot more to do here than just laying on the sand. You can hike along cliffside trails, take a boat out to sea, or hop on a fat tire bike and explore the shoreline.

Add in some marine life watching, great surfing opportunities, historically significant coastal locations, and even some of California’s most gorgeous coastline and you have yourself one epic beach town to explore!

Here are some of the coolest things to do in Monterey…

Table of Contents

1. Wander the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail

2. take a hike, 3. do some whale watching, 4. visit the monterey bay aquarium, 5. escape to fort ord dunes state park, 6. take a sailing cruise, 7. explore cannery row, 8. look for sunbathing sea lions at coast guard pier, 9. discover the history of monterey at its museums, 10. check out old fisherman’s wharf, 11. take a scenic ride on 17-mile drive (one of the best things to do in monterey), 12. stuff yourself with seafood, 13. go wine tasting, asilomar state beach, carmel beach, monterey state beach, lovers point, 15. hang at lovers point for a day, 16. attend an event, 17. explore carmel by the sea (my favorite thing to do near monterey), 18. check out point lobos, 19. wander garapatta state park, 20. head down big sur, where to stay in monterey.

To really see the beaches in all their glory, consider taking the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail, which is pretty long at 13 miles, but you can always pick and choose which parts you want to tackle.

The trail starts around Monterey State Beach/Castroville and ends down in Pacific Grove, hugging the coast the whole way. Much of the trail runs along the tracks of the old Southern Pacific Railway, and it’s paved for easy trailblazing.

The trail will bring you up close and personal with the waves, with unparalleled views of the many fishing piers and sandy beaches. There are plenty of places to grab a bite to eat along the way, so you really can make a whole day of it.

On a weekend, you could see around 2,000 people a day hitting the trail, so head there in the off-peak season if you can.

TIP: If you don’t feel like hiking, you can bike this trail as well!

Even if you’re not up for the massive Monterey Bay Coastal Trail (no judging, it’s a long one), there are some other great trails in Monterey that are worth checking out.

Whether you want a trail that takes you through the highlights of the city, or something with nature as the star of the show, you’ll have plenty of options. Here are some of our favorites:

• Monterey Waterfront City Walk – this paved path is the perfect mix of city and nature, following the waterfront through town and out to Lover’s Point Park.
• Carmel Meadows Trail – A short and easy loop with incredible views over Monterey Bay. A hidden gem and local favorite!
• Point Lobos Loop Trail – Our favorite hike in Monterey! A longer hike that ambles through the stunning scenery of Point Lobos State Park. Known as the ‘Crown Jewel of the California State Parks System’ – need I say more?
• Jacks Peak and Skyline Trail – Incredible mountain views inside the Jacks Peak County Park. Short and easy with great payoffs!

READ MORE: 18 Best Hikes in Monterey to Tackle!

There is something incredibly magical about seeing whales launching themselves out of the water. You can witness these majestic creatures right off the shores, making it one of the best things to do in Monterey.

There are plenty of companies that offer whale watching tours, such as this half-day tour. Along the way, you will likely learn a thing or two about gray, humpback, and blue whales, plus some tidbits about their habitat.

TIP: Keep an eye out for dolphins and sea lions during your cruise!

If you can’t get enough of the wildlife on a whale-watching cruise, you can make a beeline for the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

This public aquarium sits along the ocean in the historic Cannery Row district and offers visitors a look underwater at some of the local flora and fauna that sit off the coast of Monterey.

There are tons of cool exhibits, including a living kelp forest, a giant Pacific octopus, an aviary, and the newest exhibit that showcases life in the deep sea.

NOTE: We RARELY mention aquariums or animal attractions here as we don’t support most of them. However, this aquarium is regarded as one of the top in the world and focuses heavily on rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing animals.

Located just outside the city center, Fort Ord Dunes State Park is a breathtaking swatch of nature that encompasses nearly 1,000 acres and four miles of coastline along Monterey Bay.

This area was once the site of a military training center, but today, it’s better known for its rolling sand dunes, scenic trails, and glorious beaches.

The park is also home to a number of cool critters including sea otters, pelicans, and migrating humpback whales, so keep your eyes peeled as you explore.

There is no better thing to do in Monterey in the evening than sailing around the shores at sunset.

Live the life of luxury for the evening, sipping on a glass of the good stuff while you take in the views. Book your sailing cruise here .

Cannery Row is Monterey’s beating heart and arguably the city’s most well-known street. There is no way you could plan a trip to Monterey without hitting up Cannery Row at least once.

As the name suggests, this part of the city was once the base of its booming sardine trade. The old factories have been revamped and spruced up to more than their former glory and are now used as galleries, shops, and restaurants.

If you don’t care to take the streets yourself, you could also take a guided tour. For a bit of novelty value, why not jump aboard a little yellow sea car. At the very least it makes for some fantastic photo opportunities.

The car is completely GPS-guided and navigates itself, so you can cruise along the coast and into town without a care in the world, listening to fun facts about Monterey’s colorful past and its many attractions.

The Coast Guard Pier juts out around 1700 feet into the bay and, on the first inspection, may not look like much more than a glorified stretch of concrete. But for fishermen, it is nothing short of a dream.

Although the pier is open to the public, it doesn’t really belong to the people. Instead, the pier seems to be owned by hundreds, possibly even thousands, of huge sea lions, taking in the Californian sun.

This is THE place to come if you want some wildlife. It is usually best to visit at low tide when the sea lions have lots of rocks to laze about on.

Monterey has some pretty cool museums, so whether you’re into history, old military installments, or just want to learn a little bit about the city, visiting the museums is one of the best things to do in Monterey.

Colton Hall offers a recreation of the room where the very first California constitution was signed in 1849, plus some cool exhibits on early Monterey.

The Presidio of Monterey Museum offers insight into military development in the area, its indigenous history, the history of the Spanish and Mexican empires that once claimed it, and more.

There’s also the old Monterey Jail, the Monterey Museum of Art, and the Pacific Biological Laboratories —plenty to learn about and keep you busy on rainy days!

No trip to Monterey would be complete without setting foot on Old Fisherman’s Wharf, a feast of dining, shopping, and entertainment. You’ll either love or hate it, but it’s almost a Monterey right of passage.

There are tons of options for eating out, or alternatively, you can browse the many independent shops that line the wharf, with their colorful displays lining the windows.

Take your own tasting tour as you make your way down the pier, sampling endless clam chowders and delicious fresh seafood that the pier is famous for.

Love theater? You can even be entertained during your visit thanks to the Bruce Ariss Wharf Theatre, which sits at the tip of the pier and offers several performances throughout the year.

Skim the edges of the Monterey Bay peninsula on this scenic 17-mile route. As you drive, you’ll hug the coastline and pass a number of incredible attractions. It’s a great thing to do in Monterey and could easily take the whole day.

For a start, the natural elements on this drive are incredible, such as the rugged coastal cliffs, magical forests, and beaches that seem to go on for miles.

Although the list of stops offs along this route are seemingly endless, below are two highlights.

Lone Cypress – The Lone Cypress is exactly as the name suggests—a Cypress standing tall and alone, battered by wind, and often cloaked in a thick fog. Although it is just a tree on a rock, it is a well-known icon of Monterey that needs to have at least one photo snapped of it to prove you’ve been there.

Crocker Grove – Gaze in awe at the trees towering above you when you reach Crocker Grove, home to some of the largest and oldest Cypresses in the world! Take a walk through the mist-shrouded woodlands and be transported to the world of fairytale.

NOTE: Due to its popularity, there is a small fee to take the drive, but it is 100% worth it, so pack a lunch and spend the day on the road.

TIP: Take this tour for a deeper dive into the area, or if you don’t want to take your rig down this road.

When you’re on the coast, you eat seafood. That’s the rule! Monterey is a haven for seafood lovers, with plenty of fresh catches all around town.

There are seriously tons of fab seafood restaurants around Monterey, but if you want the best of the best, try the Off-the-Hook Oysters at Monterey Fish House (as seen on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives) or the clam chowder at Old Fisherman’s Grotto.

You really can’t go wrong anywhere, and fear not, there are plenty of dining options for those who aren’t seafood fans, too. In fact, if you want a bit of everything, try this awesome food tour for a smorgasbord of yummy offerings!

Once you’ve had your fill of seafood, you can wash it all down with some world-famous Monterey County wine.

There are several wineries and tasting rooms in the area (including Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea , Carmel Valley and Pebble Beach) where you can discover the region’s wine-making history, how the grapes are grown, and sample several varieties.

If you don’t feel like drinking and driving (don’t), there are plenty of tours, like this one , available that will shuttle you from place to place.

14. Hit the Surf

You can catch some serious waves in Monterey, so don that wetsuit and hit up some of the best spots. There are options for both beginners and experts, here are a few of the best.

A list of the best surf spots in Monterey would not be complete without mentioning the epic Asilomar State Beach. This incredibly popular stretch of beach has pounding waves most of the year.

Despite the waves, the waters can be full of kayakers and other vessels, so if crowded surfing isn’t for you, you might want to head to one of the lesser-known surfing spots. (Or, at the least, get to this spot EARLY!)

Carmel Beach is another great one and offers perfect surfing conditions day after day, as well as some pretty spectacular sunsets.

The almost direct westerly orientation means the swells can be huge during the fall and winter, so this spot tends to be visited by more experienced surfers. It is a pretty stunning destination, located at the foot of Ocean Avenue.

If you’re a beginner surfer, then Monterey State Beach is a good bet. Be aware that you are not going to be the only one in the water, in fact, far from it.

On peak days the waves are full of kayakers, swimmers, and scuba divers. Its saving grace is that this California beach is huge, so there should be plenty of room for everyone to enjoy the many recreational activities it offers.

Another surfing hot spot with winter swells is Lovers Point. Surfing here is pretty new, but it is certainly growing in popularity, with the many picnickers along the shores settling down to watch the show.

Speaking of Lover’s Point…

When you think of Lovers Point you may be imagining a romantic outcrop where fateful lovers go to propose or gaze out at the stars. It’s not exactly like that but is still a pretty cool place to visit.

The park and beach are actually a hotspot for beach and boat lovers, which is definitely better if you ask me.

Take a picnic, your camera, or even a blank canvas to do some painting as avid artists often do, and make use of the fact that this east-facing part of the West Coast allows you to see the sun rising over the water.

Lovers Point Park is the perfect spot for a bit of sunbathing, and the rocks around the park provide the perfect vantage point for views out over the bay, so add it to your list of things to do in Monterey.

The beach park is also popular with adventurers. If you want to experience some fun water activities, bring your surfboard, snorkeling gear, or kayak. Pacific Grove Adventures can rent out gear for your day out on the water, too.

NOTE: There are tons of cute little squirrels all around the rocks in this area!

RELATED: Seattle to San Francisco West Coast Road Trip!

If you’ve made it through this list and want some more ideas of things to do in Monterey, check out which events are happening during your trip.

Great festivities are available throughout the year, including food and wine festivals, whale-watching fests, annual concerts, low-key happy hours, and karaoke nights.

For the unsuspecting traveler, Carmel by the Sea may seem like just another California beach town, yet its picture-perfect setting makes it a true gem. This definitely should be an add-on to your trip when planning what to do in Monterey.

There are plenty of local restaurants to choose from, be it something a little upscale or something to grab and go to, there is an eatery for even the fussiest eater. Mission Ranch has a real reputation for its delicious brunch, so why not treat yourself?

There is an abundance of hiking trails in the area. If you’re just on a quick visit then the Carmel Meadows Trail is a good option as it is relatively short, yet still packs a lot of punch in terms of beauty.

Point Lobo’s State Reserve is also a cute little spot, and if you are quiet enough you may get a glimpse of some of the playful sea otters that frolic in the shallows around Carmel. Speaking of…

RELATED: 25 Best Things to Do in Carmel-By-The-Sea

The Point Lobos area plays host to some pretty epic trails that will take you to the park’s highlights, taking in the views and scenery along the way. There are way too many to list, so here are just some of the best.

• Sea Lion Point Trail – If you fancy a short and sweet jaunt, Sea Lion Point Trail is less than half a mile. As the name suggests, it offers some of the best views of sea lions rocks, and just incredible ocean views in general, to be honest.
• Bird Island, South Plateau Trail, and Mound Meadow Trail Loop – This loop is a little longer, showcasing the park’s many highlights, including the chance to get up close and personal to the sea lions, and see Bird Island off of the shore.

• Point Lobos Loop Trail – When I say the park gets busy, I mean there is nowhere to park busy, which means you may be forced to find a spot outside the park’s boundary. But that’s okay because it just means you’ll be able to explore the park on foot via the Point Lobos Loop Trail, which basically takes you around the entire park, with incredible ocean views around each corner.

READ MORE: Point Lobos Hike

Deep within the beauty of the Big Sur area, you’ll find stunning Garapatta State Park , a relatively unknown stretch of paradise, where the fact that you may have it all to yourself makes it all the more appealing.

The miles of hiking trails allow you to explore the coast without bumping into endless hoards of tourists and dog walkers, while secret paths twist their way into groves of mighty Redwoods.

The Soberanes Canyon Trail is not to be missed, taking you away from the coast and offering views instead of the impressive Santa Lucia Mountain Range.

During the winter migration, whales regularly pass this section of shoreline, you won’t even need binoculars from the lofty elevation of Soberanes Point.

Monterey is essentially the last or first stop on an epic Big Sur road trip ! While you couldn’t do the entire trip in a single day (well, not if you actually want to get out of your car and enjoy it), you can definitely dip down.

Garapatta State Park is just the start. Keep heading down, and you’ll cross over the famous Bixby Bridge, tons of vista points, pass Point Sur Lighthouse and, wander Andrew Molera State Park.

Head to Pfeiffer Beach to sun your buns or hike to Partington Cove and McWay Falls . This is a whole day affair and just a one hour’s trip from Monterey!

READ MORE: Things To Do in Big Sur : 16 Best Stops on a Big Sur Drive

• Laguna Seca – Yes, this is a raceway and a campground in one! While this is a bit of a weird spot with nonpotable water and a raceway surrounding it, it also happens to have great views of Monterey and is one of the cheapest spots in town.
• Veteran’s Memorial Park Camping – Just a mile from downtown Monterey you’ll find 50 acres of park with 40 campsites – 30 of them suitable for trailers.
• Ocean Wave – The famous Cannery Row will be at your doorstep with this bright and modern condo.
• Pacific Grove Retreat – Groups or families will love this three-bedroom home that offers ocean views from most rooms, and is just a short walk from downtown Pacific Grove.
• Little Jewel Box – Beautifully renovated cottage in the heart of Monterey with a private terraced garden.

👉 More Accommodation in Monterey

We hope this helped you find some of the best things to do in Monterey for your visit!

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I've been perpetually traveling and living around the world for years but it's hard to beat California and the PNW. After years of road-tripping the area, I guess you can say I know it pretty well! When I'm not writing guides for you, you can catch me somewhere petting a dog, attempting to surf, hiking a volcano, or stuffing my face with bread and cheese.

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52 Things to do in Monterey, California (Ultimate 2024 Bucket List) 

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The best things to do in Monterey, from sightseeing and whale watching to where to find the best restaurants for a romantic sunset dinner.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic beach weekend, an active outdoorsy trip, or a fun family day out at the aquarium, the California Central Coast city of Monterey has something for everyone.

Monterey has a wild history as a military stronghold, sardine canning empire, surfing Mecca, and leader in marine life research. 

The rich waters of the bay initially brought Monterey riches, but overfishing of the sardines almost brought the city to catastrophe. The city rallied by pivoting to eco-tourism, building a world-class aquarium and marine research program.

But there’s more to Monterey than whale watching, kayaking, or the Monterey Bay Aquarium. 

This is the place where you can relax in a spa, discover secret gardens, trace the footsteps of literary legends, and hike in one of California’s most beautiful state parks.

I never get tired of this city of fresh ocean breezes, amazing food, and a surprise around every corner. I’m excited to share my favorite spots so you can discover Monterey for yourself!

Note: this post contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you so I can keep providing free travel advice and tips.

Get your FREE California Travel Planner – including printable checklists and my favorite two-week itinerary for the state. 

Table of Contents

Top Things to do in Monterey

Visit the monterey bay aquarium.

The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a one-of-a-kind destination and one of the best things to do in Monterey. 

From luminous jellyfish to shoals of swirling silver sardines, the exhibitions offer an immersive oceanic experience without getting wet (unless you dip into the touch pool).

The biggest exhibit is a million-gallon tank full of small sharks, sunfish, and tuna. You can sit in the darkened room on benches, feeling as though you have descended to the ocean floor.

My favorite is the jellyfish gallery, where the colorful creatures drift gracefully through illuminated tanks.

Plan to spend a whole day at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, or at least an entire afternoon. 

You can take your own food as long as you eat on the benches outside, but the cafe’s food is excellent as well. I always feel weird about ordering the fish and chips though.

Walk Along Cannery Row & Old Fisherman’s Wharf

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Cannery Row is the heart of Monterey, where historic warehouses have transformed into chic hotels, boutiques, and enticing restaurants. Taking a stroll down Cannery Row is an absolute must when you’re looking for things to do in Monterey.

At one end, you’ll find the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium. Keep walking and you’ll find 20 oceanfront restaurants, a Ghirardelli store, art galleries, jewelry stores, and many boutiques to browse. As you explore, look out for local landmarks on this historic street.

Follow the waterfront to find Old Fisherman’s Wharf, another iconic Monterey destination. This is where you can find amazing clam chowder, see sunbathing sea lions, and hop on a whale watching tour.

Here are a few must-see sights in and around the Cannery Row area: 

Cannery Row Monument

The Cannery Row Monument is a bronze sculpture dedicated to the people who contributed to Monterey’s famous sardine canning district. Sitting right at the top is John Steinbeck, the famous American author who wrote Cannery Row.

Below Steinbeck sits Ed Ricketts, a pioneer in marine biology, and other local characters immortalized in his novel. A Chinese fisherman is also represented, recognizing the city’s origins as a Chinese fishing village.

Steinbeck Plaza

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This small but beautifully landscaped space by the waterfront is a great spot to sit and people watch. Several restaurants ring Steinbeck Plaza, with a statue of namesake John Steinbeck presiding over the center.

Old Fisherman’s Wharf

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A visit to Monterey wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Old Fisherman’s Wharf, the former fishing hub turned tourist attraction.

This is where you’ll find restaurants, shops, and wildlife cruises. You can also go on a fishing trip, charter a sailboat, or explore Monterey Bay in a glass-bottomed boat.

You can also check out Monterey’s Custom House, the oldest standing public building in California, built in 1827. In 1846, this is where the American flag was raised, claiming California for the United States.

Enjoy a Fresh Seafood Dinner at Sunset

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Local and sustainable are the watchwords in Monterey, a city committed to healthy oceans for everyone. Enjoying a great meal with an incredible view is one of the best things to do in Monterey at night.

Look out for restaurants working with the Monterey Bay Aquarium that only serve fish caught responsibly, such as The C Restaurant at the InterContinental Clement Monterey. The sweeping ocean views at sunset are an added bonus.

You could also check out Wild Fish in Pacific Grove, which lists the names of the fishing boats alongside the dishes on the menu, so you know everything is locally caught and fresh.

Or visit Old Fisherman’s Grotto , a family-run seafood joint operating since 1950, whose clam chowder is voted best in town year after year.

Visit a Museum

Local artists, California history, wildlife and fun play spaces – Monterey has a variety of cultural hubs with something for everyone. 

Whether this is your first time in the city or a repeat visit, going to a museum is one of the most interesting things to do in Monterey.

Monterey Museum of Art

Located in Old Monterey, the Monterey Museum of Art celebrates Californian artists, showcasing early paintings and photography alongside modern works.

Collections are varied and tackle current social issues as well as a glimpse into the state’s history. Monterey Museum of Art is open Thursday to Saturday, with a $15 admission fee.

Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History

Discover the wildlife of California’s Central Coast at the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History in downtown Pacific Grove. 

Most notably, this is where you can learn more about the famous monarch butterflies who overwinter here.

Aside from monarchs, the museum also has a beautiful native plants garden and an exhibition on the history of Monterey’s origins as a Chinese fishing village.

Colton Hall Museum

California’s 1849 bilingual constitution was drafted in this historic building, which was also one of California’s first dedicated schools. If you’re into history, or your kids are studying California’s beginnings as a state, Colton Hall Museum is the place to visit.

Presidio of Monterey Museum

In addition to fishing, Monterey has a long history as a military base. Find out more about this fascinating side of the city at the Presidio of Monterey Museum . The museum charts 7,000 years of human history on the peninsula.

Located in the Lower Presidio Historic Park, the museum is open Saturday and Sunday, with no entrance fee.

Monterey County Youth Museum

Small children will love Monterey County Youth Museum , which is designed to encourage imaginative play. There are nine interactive galleries, with themes based on the local area, such as farms, golf, and the beach.

Road Trip the 17-Mile Drive

The famous 17-Mile Drive is a winding road running through a gated neighborhood in Carmel with stunning views of the ocean. 

It’s the only route to see the lone 300-year-old Cypress Pine and Pebble Beach. This unique, private toll road is one of the most popular things to do in Monterey County.

If you want to drive this road, you’ll need to pay an entrance fee at the gate. It’s $10.75 per vehicle, which you can get reimbursed if you spend over $35 at one of the luxury hotels. 

Make the most of the drive by downloading an audio tour of the neighborhood, so you don’t miss any of its interesting stops.

Or skip the car, and the entrance fee, by taking an e-bike guided tour of 17-Mile Drive from Pacific Grove. Everything is provided on the tour, including a tandem option for children.

Spend the Day in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a charming seaside village filled with fairytale cottages. Make your way slowly down Main Street, stopping in at art galleries, boutiques, restaurants , and bakeries along the way.

Then, head downhill, past the beautiful homes to the white-sand beach, one of the prettiest on the Central Coast. After a stroll on the beach, stop for lunch at Hog’s Breath Inn, the restaurant once owned by Clint Eastwood. 

At just one square mile in size, you can ditch the car and explore this sunny seaside town on foot. Carmel-by-the-Sea is known for some of its quirky traditions and by-laws. 

There are no addresses or house mail service. Homes have names instead of numbers and locals pick up their mail at the post office. You’ll also need a permit to wear high heels!

Step Back in Time at the Monterey State Historic Park

Monterey is one of California’s oldest cities and was a capital city under Spanish, Mexican, and US military rule. Fortunately, many of its old buildings have been preserved and you can tour them at Monterey State Historic Park .

Check out Robert Louis Stevenson’s 1840s adobe, which is filled with artifacts from the author’s life, or the Larkin house, former consulate, and now museum. This is one of the best places to visit in Monterey if you’re interested in early California history.

Tickets for tours of either building can be bought from Custom House, next to Old Fisherman’s Wharf.

Free Things to do in Monterey

Take the little ones to dennis the menace playground.

Don’t skip this if you’re looking for things to do with kids in Monterey!

Dennis the Menace Playground was designed by the creator of the beloved comic book character, Dennis the Menace. The playground is packed with imaginative and fun structures, including rope bridges, climbing walls, and swings. 

The playground, located near the beach in El Estero Park, has been delighting kids for over 50 years and is one of the best things to do in Monterey for families. In addition to the playground, there’s also a 1924 steam engine to admire and a lake with ducks.

Head to the Beach

Whether you prefer your beach wild and rugged or wine bar adjacent, Monterey has a stretch of sand for you. 

Lovers Point Park

This little cove offers protection from the surf, making Lovers Point Park an ideal spot for a paddle or to watch the sunset. The picnic benches also make this a great snack stop if you’re cycling the coastal trail, which runs right by the beach.

San Carlos Beach

San Carlos Beach is popular with scuba divers, but there are also plenty of picnic benches where you can sit and enjoy views over the bay.

Del Monte Beach

If you were a fan of HBO’s Big Little Lies , you might recognize Del Monte Beach from many of the scenes. It’s beautiful, with plenty of space for running or staring at the water contemplating your life choices, depending on which character you most relate to.

Asilomar State Beach

If beautiful beaches with rocky outcrops, dunes, and wildlife are your thing, head over to Asilomar State Beach. It’s also very accessible – visitors can borrow a beach wheelchair from the Phoebe Hearst Social Hall. 

Opposite the beach is a boardwalk, where you can stroll through the dunes. Asilomar State Beach is especially beautiful at sunset.

McAbee Beach

Located in the heart of Cannery Row, McAbee Beach is a small but pleasant spot to sit and watch the kayakers in the bay. Check out the concrete ruins that point to Monterey’s industrial fishing past.

Monterey State Beach

The long, flat Monterey State Beach is perfect for walking or jogging. It’s also the best beach for tide pooling. On the water, surfers take advantage of the crashing waves, while divers explore the marine sanctuary below.

Carmel River State Beach

If you love bird watching, don’t miss Carmel River State Beach, which has a lagoon located by the river as it meets the ocean. A variety of songbirds and waterfowl hang out here and it has been designated as a bird sanctuary (don’t forget your binoculars ).

Bike the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail

Monterey has a great cycle track following the path of the Old Southern Pacific Railway. There are separate sections for cyclists and pedestrians, which makes for an easier ride.

The Monterey Bay Coastal Trail stretches 18 miles from Pacific Grove to Castroville, with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean along the entire route. 

Spot the Sea Lions at Coast Guard Pier

If you get sea-sick, there’s an easy way to see marine life without setting foot on a boat. The Coast Guard Pier jutting out from San Carlos Beach is a sea lion, seal, cormorant, and sea otter hang-out spot. 

It’s a really easy walk, with great views over the bay and a high chance of encountering cute animals, a win-win. After visiting the sea lions, grab a bite to eat at nearby Old Fisherman’s Wharf.

Go for a Hike at Jacks Peak Park

Hike through a rare Monterey pine forest and enjoy sweeping vistas over Monterey Bay at Jacks Peak Park . Pick up a brochure at the park entrance and take the Skyline Self-Guided Nature Trail to discover more about the area.

If you want to bring a picnic, head to Alta Bakery and Cafe for sandwiches and takeout coffee – it’s one of the best bakeries in Monterey.

Learn the History at San Juan Bautista

It’s a short drive inland to the San Juan Bautista Mission , which was founded in 1797 as the 15th mission in California. The mission is still active as a parish church, but open to tourists every day.

The tiny town of San Juan Bautista has preserved the mission plus hotels, stables, and houses around a grassy square, creating an impressive state historic park. There’s also a preserved stretch of the El Camino Real, the original Spanish route linking California to Mexico.

Do the Self-Guided Path of History Tour

Take a self-guided tour of Monterey’s historic buildings on the two-mile Path of History Tour. Download the brochure or pick up a copy from outside Pacific House next to the Portola Hotel.

Tour highlights include Colton Hall, where the California constitution was drafted, California’s first theater, and Stevenson House in Monterey State Historic Park, where Robert Louis Stevenson lived.

If you’re hoping to learn something about California’s history, this is one of the best things to do in Monterey.

See California’s First Theatre

Monterey has undertaken numerous transformations over the years, and the unassuming adobe on Pacific Street has weathered them all. 

Originally built as a sailors lodge in 1844, it was converted into a theater to entertain the soldiers from New York who were stationed in the town in 1850.

California’s First Theatre was the first place to stage public performances at the birth of the state, but the temptation of the Gold Rush soon lured away the performers. 

The building then became a whaling station, drug store, tea shop, theater again, and museum at various times over the years. It’s currently closed for restorations, but once it opens again, it’s a very cool historic building to go see for yourself. 

Discover the Hidden Gardens

Many of the historic homes also have beautiful gardens to visit. Monterey has a mild climate and flowers bloom all year round, which the city uses to its advantage by planting in every available space.

You can use this map to find the hidden gardens around Monterey. The Memory Garden at Monterey State Historic Park is the most visited (and photographed) due to its graceful arches and peaceful walkways. I like the Sensory Garden, which is planted not only for color but touch and scent too.

Visit John Steinbeck Landmarks

John Steinbeck, a giant in American literature, was born in nearby Salinas and wrote about Monterey in his novel Cannery Row . His work and life are celebrated all over the area.

Visit the author’s childhood home and enjoy a great lunch at Steinbeck House Restaurant in Salinas, open Tuesday to Sunday. While you’re in the neighborhood, check out the National Steinbeck Center , which has a museum dedicated to the author and frequently holds literary events.

Back in Monterey, take a seat at Steinbeck Plaza, where you can soak in the hustle and bustle of Cannery Row. The plaza also has a sculpture dedicated to Steinbeck and other local luminaries.

Enjoy the Seaside Views at Point Lobos

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is one of the most beautiful stretches of coast in California . It’s often called the jewel in the crown of California’s state parks . On sunny weekends, you’ll need to get to the parking lot early because this place draws serious crowds.

Trails take you through meadows of wildflowers, past cypresses, and pine, down to the shoreline where sea lions bask in the sunshine.

The reserve extends out into the water, where kelp forests sustain an aquatic ecosystem. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is popular with scuba divers, as well as hikers , photographers, and nature lovers.

Read our guide to planning the perfect Pacific Coast Highway road trip .

Unique Things to do in Monterey

Enjoy an afternoon of wine tasting.

Visit some of Monterey’s best vineyards without leaving Cannery Row by taking a tasting room tour. Start with A Taste of Monterey on Cannery Row, which showcases 95 Monterey County, winemakers.

The wine bar, bistro, and marketplace are rated as one of the best Monterey Bay attractions. Sample local wines and food while enjoying ocean views from the wall of windows. If you want to tour the wineries themselves, the knowledgeable staff will point you in the right direction and provide maps.

Cannery Row also features Bargetto Winery and Wine Experience , where you can take a class in addition to wine tasting.

Imbibe on the Carmel Wine Walk

Although not as well known as Napa or Sonoma, Monterey’s ocean-breeze-cooled grape fields produce some of the best wines in the country.

Discover some of these vintages for yourself by taking a self-guided tour around Carmel-by-the-Sea on a Carmel Wine Walk. 

Carmel-by-the-Sea has plenty of tasting rooms located downtown, so you can sip and stroll around town. Reservations are recommended, but many welcome drop-ins.

Check out the list of participating wine tasting rooms here .

Play a Round or Two of Golf

Three of the best golf courses in the country are located at Pebble Beach Resorts, the luxury hotel complex on the Monterey peninsula. All three are pretty pricey, but they’re bucket list destinations for golfers.

Pebble Beach is the most famous (and expensive) but two more courses consistently make the top ten best courses in the U.S right next door.

Pebble Beach

Play golf at the number one public golf course in the country, Pebble Beach . The legendary course has hosted the US Open six times, more than any other location. 

Del Monte Golf Course

The oldest golf course in continuous operation west of the Mississippi, Del Monte is considered a classic and tough course. 

Spyglass Hill

Located in the same beautiful area as Pebble Beach, Spyglass Hill has a reputation as a challenging course.

Get Lost in the Monterey Mirror Maze

The trippy Monterey Mirror Maze is one of the more unique, fun things to do in Monterey and is a challenge for all ages. If you can find your way out, the Cannery Row venue also has a Lazer Challenge room, where you can compete for the lowest time through the obstacle course.

Enjoy a Sunset Dinner at Mission Ranch Restaurant

Mission Ranch Carmel is an inn and restaurant owned by Clint Eastwood, one-time mayor of Carmel. The actor rescued the 1800s-era building from demolition and transformed the ranch into a rural retreat.

Book a table at sunset on the patio and watch the sunset over the ocean while sipping a cocktail or local wine. 

Take the Original Monterey Walking Tour

A walking tour is a great way to learn about the history of a city, and Monterey has a lot of history.

The two-hour Original Monterey Walking Tour takes you down Cannery Row, and back to the days of sardine fishing. The tour shows you all the top things to see in Monterey and is perfect if you’re short on time.

Visit the Robert Louis Stevenson House

In 1879, a young writer stayed for a summer at the French Hotel in Monterey, while recovering from illness. As he took rejuvenating walks along the cliffs, an idea about pirates, adventure, and a quest for buried gold took hold.

No one knows for sure if Robert Louis Stevenson found his inspiration for Treasure Island while staying at the two-story rooming house on the Monterey peninsula, but I like to think so. 

Visit the Robert Louis Stevenson House in Monterey, which is now a museum to the author, and decide for yourself.

Go for a Walk in Rip Van Winkle Open Space

Soak up some claiming forest vibes at Rip Van Winkle Open Space , a 20-acre park in the heart of Pacific Grove. This beautiful spot is welcoming to leashed dogs, so it’s ideal if you’re looking for things to do in Monterey with dogs. 

Hop on a Whale Watching Tour

Set sail on a whale watching tour in Monterey Bay, where you can see whales, dolphins, sea otters, sea lions, and seals. 

The migrating and mating seasons overlap in Northern California, so your chances of spotting a whale are high. Humpback and gray whales are most commonly seen between April and November, but you may see a blue whale or orca too.

Take a three-hour or four-hour tour with Discovery Whale Watch from Fisherman’s Wharf. The onboard naturalist offers commentary, points out sightings, and answers your wildlife questions. 

Spend the Afternoon Kayaking

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Kayaking the calm waters of Monterey Bay is one of the most popular Monterey activities and is the perfect way to enjoy the stunning scenery. Rent a kayak from Cannery Row and paddle through the kelp forests, looking out for cute sea otters as you go.

Or head to nearby Elkhorn Slough, one of the last remaining marshlands in California, which is filled with wildlife.

In the springtime, the six miles of waterways are a nursery for seal and otter pups. In summer and early fall, take a guided night tour to experience the magic of bioluminescence, when the algae sparkles in the water.

Adventures by the Sea in Cannery Row rents out kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and bicycles for all your land and sea adventures.

Experience the Bud Allen Hour

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Carmel protects its traditions, rejecting modern developments in favor of its traditional architecture. One local tradition you can benefit from is the Bud Allen Hour, a happy hour like no other.

Turn up to the cozy bar at La Playa , at 5 pm sharp on Sunday for 10 cent drinks – for ten minutes. Bring dimes, because anything other than exact change will be rejected. 

The offer started with hotel owner Howard “Bud” Allen, who wanted to attract drinkers when he opened the bar back in 1968. He reduced the cost of martinis to a dime on Sundays, and a cherished local tradition was born.

Sign Up For Carmel Valley Goat Yoga

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Reconnect with nature through goat yoga in Carmel-by-the-Sea, where cuddly animals join in your practice. Interactions with animals are good for lifting spirits and bringing calm.

Combine that with the positive effects of yoga on your physical and mental wellbeing for an all-around great experience. Check the Carmel Valley Goat Yoga website for a class schedule or to book an event. This is certainly one of the more unique things to do in Monterey County.

Do a Sea Car Tour

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Jump in a banana-yellow three-wheeled scooter and zip around town on a GPS-guided tour with Sea Car Tours . The little cars are perfect for people who like to sightsee independently and feel the wind in their hair, and this is perfect for those looking for unusual things to do in Monterey.

Take a predetermined route around the most popular spots, or choose your own adventure. Whatever you do, Monterey sightseeing is more fun in these cute cars.

Visit the Tor House

Over the years, many artists and authors have been drawn to the Central Coast, inspired by the breathtaking scenery. Follow in their footsteps by visiting the places they called home, such as poet Robinson Jeffers’ Tor House .

The castle-like home and rugged natural surroundings inspired Robinson Jeffers’ work, which celebrated nature and questioned humanity’s place in the world. Visit the stone cottage and learn more about Jeffers’ literary legacy with a tour of the striking Tor House.

Have a Spa Day at Spa at The Refuge

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The Refuge is a day spa with a difference – the retreat has a strict no-cell phone and no-talking policies, so guests can fully immerse themselves in the experience without distraction.

Guests are encouraged to take part in the thermal cycle, which involves alternating a sauna, steam room, or hot tub with the icy plunge pools. Massage services and warm swimming pools are also available to round out the relaxing experience. 

It’s one of the best things to do in Monterey for couples seeking a romantic day together .

Go Paddle Boating on El Estero

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Located in the heart of Monterey, El Estero Park has a small lake next to Dennis the Menace Playground. Rent a little peddle boat and glide around with the ducks.

Swan or regular boats are available and fit up to five people, so this would be a fun activity with kids , especially if you want to get out on the water with children too young for kayaks. 

See the Monarch Butterflies at the Monarch Sanctuary in Pacific Grove

Pacific Grove has one of the largest overwintering populations of monarch butterflies in the world. Between November and February, the bright orange insects gather to rest and refuel on their epic migration south.

The Monarch Sanctuary in Pacific Grove is free to the public year-round and docents are on hand to point out the butterflies during the winter months. Don’t miss this natural phenomenon, it’s one of the best things to do in Monterey Bay during the winter.

Do a Day Trip to Big Sur

Take a road trip through Big Sur, one of the most scenic drives in the world. Instead of attempting to navigate the winding roads yourself and potentially missing the outstanding views, go on a private tour instead.

Your driver guide from California Pacific Excursions can take you to the best stops, and tell you everything you need to know about the area. You’ll get to see landmarks such as Bixby Bridge, Pfeiffer State Park, and Nepenthe. It’s a great way to experience this beautiful stretch of coast.

If you’re looking for an overnight stay, read our guide to Big Sur camping .

Seasonal Events

Monterey jazz festival.

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The Monterey Jazz Festival is the longest-running jazz festival in the world and takes place annually over three days in September.

Old favorites and new talents take to eight stages over the long weekend, and previous headliners have included Chris Botti and Diana Krall.

Brighten the Harbor Lighted Boat Parade

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Celebrate the holiday season with Monterey’s Brighten the Harbor , a lighted boat parade that sails from Coast Guard Pier to Lover’s Point on the first Sunday in December. 

Laguna Seca Races

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Soak up the thrill of motor racing at Laguna Seca Raceway . Races are held throughout the year, culminating in the Firestone Grand Prix of Monterey in September.

Watch a race or take the wheel yourself at the raceway motorsports school on a one, two, or three-day training course.

Carmel Sandcastle Competition

Carmel’s annual sandcastle competition in October is a free event open to the public. Anyone is encouraged to turn up, register, and join in. 

The rules are fairly straightforward – keep it clean, make it creative, and above all, have fun. Food-based bribery of the judges is actively encouraged and all skill levels are welcome.

Festa Italia

The Festa Italia Fisherman’s Festival is three days of Italian cuisine, dancing, and fun in September. The free annual festival takes place in the historic Custom House Plaza and honors Monterey’s fishing heritage.

Monterey Car Show

Monterey Car Week in August is the largest auto show in America, drawing car fans from across the world. Dealers, classic car enthusiasts, and motorsports fans gather to share their love of autos at a variety of events.

From brand new car reveals and supercar parades to beloved rust buckets, there is an event for everyone. 

Pacific Grove Butterfly Days

Celebrate the return of the monarchs with Pacific Grove Butterfly Days held on the first weekend of October. Kids take part in a parade, a local tradition going back decades, which is then followed by the Butterfly Bazaar, a series of butterfly-themed events.

Where to Eat & Drink in Monterey

• Mission Ranch Restaurant
• Acme Coffee
• Louie Linguinis
• Phil’s Fish Market (Moss Landing) – although it gets very crowded
• Papa Chevo’s
• Passionfish
• First Awakenings – for breakfast
• Gianni’s on Lighthouse
• Old Monterey Cafe
• Alvarado Street Brewery
• Fieldwork Brew

For more recommendations, check our our guide to the best restaurants in Monterey .

Where to Stay in Monterey

• Senator’s Cottage at Tickle Pink Inn
• Monterey Tides
• Portola Hotel and Spa
• Monterey Plaza Hotel and Spa
• Intercontinental The Clement Monterey

Staying in a short-term rental is ideal if you are looking for a home away from home when traveling. However, not all cities welcome the model: Monterey and Carmel have banned rentals under 30 days.

However, if you’re looking for an Airbnb in Monterey, check out neighboring Pacific Grove, which is just minutes away from downtown Monterey. 

• Pebble Beach Studio  
• Peaceful Cozy Beach Cottage  
• Award-Winning Two Bed Two Bath
• Veteran’s Memorial Park, Monterey
• Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
• KOA Salinas  

Best Time to Visit Monterey

Monterey is beautiful all year round, with a mild Mediterranean climate. Springtime is the best time for wildflowers and walks at Point Lobos. Summer is warm, and the popular Monterey Car Week takes place in August.

Fall is the Central Coast’s “secret summer” when the fog briefly withdraws. September and October often bring the sunniest days of the year. Winter is California’s rainy season, but it’s also the time when you can catch the monarchs at Pacific Grove.

Tips for Visiting Monterey

• Hotels fill up quickly around Monterey Car Week, so book early if you want to visit during those dates.
• The sun is strong despite the cool coastal breeze, so pack sunscreen.
• Parking is scarce in Monterey’s center but a free bus connects the outer parking lots with the city’s attractions.
• Dress in layers as the temperatures can drop quickly when the fog rolls in.

What to Pack for Monterey

• Light, comfortable layers such as a rain jacket or fleece top
• Warm layers for the evening – like a sweater and jacket  
• Sun hat or beanie depending on the season
• Daypack , wheeled backpack , duffel bag (like the Pakt One ), or crossbody travel purse
• Reusable water bottle
• Good walking shoes  
• Durable phone case
• Downloaded hiking apps or outdoor watch (like a Garmin watch ) if you want to go hiking during your trip (or just want to track your steps).
• Portable charger
• Bathing suit
• Travel insurance

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sarah McDonald

Sarah McDonald is a travel writer based in the Bay Area. She writes for the national parenting website Red Tricycle and on her own family travel blog, Tiny Trailblazers . She loves exploring California’s outdoors and has a weakness for a national park gift shop.

Sarah enjoys sharing her Bay Area expertise with readers curious to try popular restaurants and off-the-beaten-path adventures in California. When she’s not writing reviews and travel guides, you’ll likely find her trying to keep up with her kids on a hiking trail or deciphering the menu at a new restaurant.

Looking for more California travel inspiration? Check out these related posts below!

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Hi, I'm Mimi! I'm an outdoorsy Californian who has spent over 28 years immersed in the incredible natural beauty that California has to offer. My goal is to inspire others to get out and find their next adventure in California. Whether it’s escaping to an alpine lake in the Sierras, finding peace among the giant redwoods, or road tripping down the PCH, there’s always more to explore in this beautiful state.

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59 Fun Things to Do in Monterey, California

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A melting pot of wonder, Monterey has been justifiably labeled the Whale Watching Capital of the World, as well as California’s First City — and those two nicknames should tell you just about everything you need to know about this seaside paradise. It blends history with natural beauty unlike any other city nationwide.

Here, the centuries-old Spanish and Mexican influence fuses brilliantly with the enchanting serenity of sweeping coastlines, mountainous backdrops and natural landmarks, dishing up both indoor and outdoor activities in spades.

With so many things to do in Monterey , from the stunning 17-Mile Drive to a round on the world-famous Pacific Grove Golf Links, mirror mazes, craft breweries and more seafront restaurants than you could feasibly eat at in one trip (not to mention exploring the diverse wildlife ecosystems of what’s dubbed the Serengeti of the Sea), it’s abundantly clear what voyagers need to do next — add Monterey, a shining gem of central California, to your bucket list!

1 – Soak in the fresh air at Lovers Point Park & Beach

A wonderful slice of nature for residents and tourists alike, Lovers Point Park & Beach offers miles of open green space on the edge of Pacific Grove — perfect for picnics, sunbathing (there’s a fantastic playground here too), bird watching, and more.

The park’s namesake lookout point offers stunning views of the Monterey Bay coastline, while the sandy beach is a great place to take a walk, relax and listen to the waves.

Throw in a beach volleyball court, a swimming pool designed for the youngsters, and a charming pier that juts out into the bay, and it’s easy to see why a visit to the foot of 17th Street is one of the essential things to do in Monterey.

2 – Go whale-watching!

Lasting anywhere from two to six hours, Monterey’s vast selection of whale-watching excursions bring you up close and personal with Mother Nature’s gentle giants.

Sitting comfortably on-board one of the area’s many luxurious yachts, you’ll be treated to views like no other as your experienced crew — who’ll share fascinating tidbits about the city, the sea life, and the region’s ecology along the way — takes you out into the Pacific Ocean in search of the majestic humpback whales.

Besides the humpback whales who frequent the Pacific shores year-round, keep your eyes feeling for dolphins, sea otters, and seals; and if venturing out onto the water between December and May, grey whales as well.

• whale watching in Monterey

3 – Admire the stained glass at the Carmel Mission Basilica Museum

One of the most popular tourist-focused things to do in Monterey County, visiting the Carmel Mission Basilica Museum is like stepping back in time. It contains a wealth of art and artifacts detailing California’s early Spanish history.

Founded by Father Junipero Serra in 1797, the mission is one of the 21 original missions founded along the coast of California and presents as what’s widely considered to be the most authentically restored Roman Catholic mission church across the state.

About a 15-minute drive from Monterey in Carmel-by-the-Sea, you’ll find no shortage of charming nearby activities to make a day of the coastal city hop.

4 – Explore beautiful Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Home to a wide variety of plant and animal life, the enchanting Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is one of the most beautiful and diverse spots on California’s Central Coast.

Boasting everything open ocean overlooks to cypress groves and meadows alive with wildflowers, the reserve offers visitors a constantly changing landscape that provides an often-cherished change of pace from the big city life (and even the small-town Monterey life).

Hikers, follow the shoreline to end up at hidden coved; while animal lovers, keep your eyes peeled for the likes of seals, sea lions and sea otters roaming around the rocks — not to mention all kinds of seabirds.

5 – Marvel at they migrate at the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary

Where wonder and wildlife come face to face every year from October through early March, the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary over in Pacific Grove (just 10 minutes down the road from Monterey) is a place of enchantment and intrigue — and, most notably, color — for visitors of all ages.

Home to one of the most diverse butterfly populations in North America, this reserve offers an up-close look at these delicate creatures as they flutter about their natural habitat during their annual migration.

In addition to the butterflies, you can also expect to see plenty of other local fauna, including hummingbirds and dragonflies.

6 – Take a stroll around Old Fisherman’s Wharf

Dating back to 1845, Old Fisherman’s Wharf (they don’t call it old for no reason) is the place for all your seaside dining and shopping needs.

The wharf itself — with plenty of seating, shops and restaurants spilling out onto the boardwalk — offers a bustling hub for locals and tourists alike looking to taste local seafood or pick up some souvenirs.

Meanwhile, the adjacent Monterey Harbor is a great spot for fishing, sailing, live theater shows, whale-watching and more.

Not sure where to start? Some of the locals’ favorite wharf spots include The Chowder House (for all your clam chowder needs), Old Fisherman’s Grotto Restaurant (for fresh seafood cooked to perfection), and more saltwater taffy merchants than you can count!

7 – Take a boat tour of the bay

There’s simply no better way to see Monterey Bay than from the deck of a boat and fortunately, there are plenty of operators in the area who offer just that.

From glass-bottom boats that let you spy on marine life without getting wet, to sailing tours that take you around some of the most picturesque coastlines at sunset (drink in hand), and, of course, the long list of wildlife-viewing excursions that depart daily, you’ll be spoiled for choice.

• boat tours in Monterey

8 – Admire a great author at Steinbeck Plaza

Speaking of John Steinbeck, if you’re looking for an outdoor spot to pay homage to the man who put Monterey on the map, look no further than Steinbeck Plaza — there are actually two, Steinbeck Plaza One and Steinbeck Plaza Two, collectively dishing up a pretty impressive view of the Monterey Bay.

Situated at the crossroads of Cannery Row and Prescott Avenue, this public square is adorned with a statue of Steinbeck, perfectly poised atop a rocky sculpture with characters from the novel scattered beneath.

While you’re in the area, make sure to pop into Steinbeck’s Spirit of Monterey Wax Museum where you can learn all about the writer’s life and work, as well as admire a huge selection of different wax and animatronic figures spanning some 400 diverse years of California history.

Directions in Google Maps

9 – Get lost in the Monterey Mirror Maze

For those who love traditional mazes but want something with a twist, this is your place — where colors run rampant, reflected off mirror-lined archways in every direction, and a sense of fun and adventure beckons from just around the corner.

Navigating through Monterey’s Mirror Maze — complete with lights, mirrors, reflections and optical illusions galore — is an experience that will have you smiling for hours after it’s over.

Hot tip: Nobody wants to walk face-first into a wall, so keep your hands in front of you when wandering around.

10 – Hop on the Monterey Trolley

Stopping at places like Cannery Row, Fisherman’s Wharf, the Monterey Conference Center, the Monterey Bay Aquarium and a host of the quintessential landmarks, a ride on the Monterey Trolley is a great way to get around town without breaking a sweat — or your budget.

Operated by the city of Monterey, this convenient (and free!) transportation service runs daily during the summer, every 15-20 minutes from early morning until late evening, and on the weekends in the off-season, typically leaving from Tyler Street and Del Monte Avenue.

11 – Wander around vibrant Cannery Row

If you’re looking for a taste (quite literally) of Monterey’s history, Cannery Row — made famous by author John Steinbeck — is the place to go.

Formerly (and fittingly) known as Ocean View Avenue, this revamped promenade near Pacific Grove once housed dozens of canneries that produced sardines and other seafood products (the last cannery closed in 1973).

This now-touristy district is home to restaurants, luxurious waterfront hotels, eclectic art galleries, souvenir shops and more — all housed in buildings that date back to the early 20th century.

Families, consider taking a spin on a four-wheeled surrey adventure; thirsty travelers, head to one of the handful of open-air bars; collectors, make a beeline for the Cannery Row Antique Mall ; and if you’re into marine life, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is just a short walk away.

• Cannery Row tours

12 – Meet the giant octopus at the Monterey Bay Aquarium

Home to over 35,000 sea creatures in all shapes and sizes — from otters to jellyfish, starfish to sharks, rays to eels and nearly 550 more species — it’s no wonder the Monterey Bay Aquarium is one of small-town California’s most-visited attractions!

With its insightful exhibits that focus on everything from sustainable seafood solutions and protecting endangered species to climate change and the ocean’s role in our planet’s future, the aquarium fuses education with entertainment for visitors of all ages.

Stroll through the Open Sea exhibit and come face-to-face with hammerhead sharks, or head to the Monterey Bay Habitats where intimidating rays and seven-gilled sharks glide around the 90-foot exhibit.

Watch as penguins dive and play in their icy habitat at the Splash Zone, or say hello to the mysterious giant pacific octopus — as you can see, there’s no shortage of diverse creatures to admire.

Looking for a VIP experience? The beloved, family-friendly aquarium also offers guided tours, educational shows, animal encounters (perfect for a souvenir photo) and feedings.

13 – Be dazzled by McWay Falls in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

As Instagram-worthy a beachy inlet as any — so pristine, in fact, that you’ll think you’re looking at a slice of the Mediterranian — McWay Falls is a must-see stop on any California coastal road trip.

Tucked away in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park , just south of Carmel-by-the-Sea, this 80-foot waterfall cascades over a rocky cliff and down to the ocean below, making for an unforgettable sight (and selfie).

Spend the day wandering the multiple inland and coastal hiking trails; stop by for a picnic quick lunch with a view; or book what is truly one of the most spectacular campsites in the country.

If you do plan on camping, however, you’ll need to book months in advance because the campsite popularity is through the roof.

14 – Step back in time at Monterey State Historic Park

If you’re after a dose of California’s storied past, look no further than Monterey State Historic Park.

Far from your typical grassy field, this Historic Park is more like a neighborhood, home to over a dozen different buildings and sites dating from the 17th century to the early 20th century — all in all, offering offers visitors a fascinating opportunity to explore life in early California.

The highlights include Custom House Plaza, which is officially California’s oldest public building and now houses a visitor center with exhibits on the park’s history. Pacific House’s museum tells the intricate story of Monterey in the era of being the capital of Spanish and Mexican California.

Colton Hall is the site of California’s Constitutional Convention of 1849 and yet another a California Historical Landmark.

Hot tip: Rather than mozy around solo, for a more in-depth analysis of times gone by, join an hour-long, historian-led guided walking tour.

• Monterey State Historic Park tours

15 – Stop into a service at the San Carlos Cathedral (Royal Presidio Chapel aka San Carlos Borromeo)

A notable example of local history and Spanish-influenced architecture, this beautiful building was originally built in 1794 and served as the Royal Presidio Chapel for decades. Nowadays, it boasts the title not only of the oldest stone building in California, but also its oldest continuously operating parish too.

A National Historic Landmark, the iconic landmark features a distinctive design and is one of only a handful of Spanish colonial-era buildings remaining in California.

If you’re lucky enough to be visiting on a Sunday morning, make sure to catch the traditional Catholic mass which still takes place here.

16 – Pop into the 19th-century general store: Casa del Oro

Telling a story that begins back in 1945, Casa del Oro (also called the Joseph Boston Store) wields the title of being one of the first general stores in the Monterey area.

A symbol of bygone centuries, today this historic landmark at the southwest corner of Olivier and Scott streets is run by the Historic Garden League – who have preserved the essence of the building — and sells 19th-century-themed knick-knacks like kids’ toys, decorative antiques, stationery, and candy.

17 – Head to the viewpoints of The California Sea Otter State Game Refuge

If you’re an animal lover, head south down the coast for about an hour to a wildlife oasis unmatched by many: the California Sea Otter State Game Refuge.

Found off the coast between Monterey and Big Sur, this refuge is home to one of the largest populations of sea otters on the west coast, as well as a variety of other marine life including seals, dolphins, and whales; making it a popular spot for nature lovers of all kinds.

You’ll find no shortage of viewpoints in the areas designed to capture some amazing photos: the Sea Otter Refuge View Point, iconic Bixby Creek Bridge and Little Sur River Viewpoint are each awe-inspiring — and you never know where an otter or seal will pop up.

18 – Join a bike tour!

If you’re looking to check off all the main sights – and get a bit of exercise at the same time — then a bike tour, led by in-the-know locals, is an ideal way to do it.

Monterey offers plenty of interesting neighborhoods and historical landmarks just waiting to be explored, so grab a bicycle (or rent one) and hit the pavement for a fresh perspective on the city.

Hot tip: If you’re all about the coastal air, look no further than the famous and aptly-named 17-Mile Drive (made a little easier on e-bikes).

• bike tours in Monterey

19 – Get your culture fix at the Monterey Museum of Art

Tucked away on Pacific Street about a 10-minute walk from the wharf, the Monterey Museum of Art is one of the largest museums on California’s Central Coast. It boasts an impressive collection that includes both historical pieces as well as contemporary works.

Housing a range of permanent exhibits complemented by diverse traveling collections, this local favorite offers visitors a chance to explore everything — from early American settlers paintings to works by key 20th-century artists and more modern artistic takes on Monterey’s scenery and landscapes.

20 – Gaze at the bounty of birds from Bird Rock Vista Point

An essential stop along the 17-Mile Drive, Bird Rock Vista Point — as you might expect from its moniker — dishes up an unobstructed, top-notch view of Bird Rock, where thousands upon thousands of winged beasts take refuge day after day.

Pelicans, seagulls, and the rest of the seabirds aside, the panorama containing everything from the rocky coastline to the crashing waves below is sure to light up any social media feed.

21 – Visit the lighthouse at Point Sur State Historic Park

Small in stature yet mighty in reputation, historical significance, and beauty, the single-domed lighthouse at Point Sur State Historic Park is an attraction worthy of a postcard.

Built in 1889 and still operational, dramatically towering 361 feet above the Pacific Ocean, this picturesque lighthouse has been called one of the “most beautiful lighthouses in America.”

Point Sur Lighthouse aside, however, the Historic Park sits on a giant volcanic rock that protrudes out of the sand, also offering three-hour walking tours full of fascinating things to learn.

22 – Jump in a ‘Sea Car’ for a GPS-self-guided adventure

A three-wheeled adventure with the salty sea breeze running through your hair, a GPS-guided cruise around the Monterey Peninsula is a great way to see all the sights without having to worry about organizing a darn thing.

Available in a range of packages to suit different interests and budgets (although typically lasting for about an hour), these 2-seater convertibles tours take you on an easy-paced drive past world-famous golf courses, picturesque seaside towns, stunning vistas, and even historic Cannery Row.

• GPS self-guided car tours in Monterey

23 – Get to know the wildlife at the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History

If you’re hoping to explore the wildlife that calls Monterey Bay home, the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History is a great place to start.

As the first Pacific Grove museum, dating back to 1883, this exciting locale has continually built and expanded its collection over the decades, now featuring one of the area’s most diverse nature-focused exhibitions.

Throughout its indoor and outdoor sections, you’ll uncover insights into everything from local sea creatures and their habitats to geological features of the area, the Monarch butterfly migration, plant garden, colorful wildflower display and a whole lot more.

24 – Soak in the sun at Del Monte Beach

A prime spot for photographers, sunbathers, surfers and swimmers alike — more broadly, a popular place for all kinds of water sports enthusiasts — sun-drenched Del Monte Beach delivers activities, beauty and fun in equal, sunny portions.

From people-watching to catching some rays on the soft sands while taking in gorgeous views of Monterey Bay and beyond; from swimming lessons for kids (and adults) to surfing classes — this off-beat stretch of sand is perfect whether you’re looking for a quiet picnic by the boardwalk, an action-packed afternoon on the waves, or anything in between.

25 – Embark on an unforgettable quest with Treasure Hunt: The Ride

Awarded the “Best New Attraction” by USA Today and celebrated for its storytelling and craftsmanship with the IAAPA Brass Ring Award, Treasure Hunt: The Ride  is Monterey Bay’s newest gem.

This interactive dark ride promises exciting gameplay, immersive scenery, and lifelike animatronics for an unforgettable family adventure.

Legend tells of the caverns beneath Cannery Row, where Pirate Captain Hippolyte Bouchard hid his treasures and guests, armed with “Treasure Collector” devices, explore these caverns, gather hidden treasures, and encounter the ghost of Captain Bouchard.

Tickets are available for adventurers of all ages, starting at $17.99 for children under 11, and $19.99 for adults.

26 – Take an afternoon (or day) trip to Carmel-by-the-Sea

Less than 10 minutes drive from Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea is a charmer of an oceanside town that’s well worth a visit.

It features white-washed cottages, upscale galleries and boutiques, and world-renowned restaurants and wineries set against the dramatic backdrop of the Pacific. It’s no wonder this place has been a favorite escape for Hollywood A-listers and other notables for decades.

Take a leisurely stroll down its picturesque streets, enjoy some people watching on the beach, or just sit back with a coffee and watch the world go by — you’ll quickly see why Carmel is a favorite escape for both locals and visitors alike.

27 – Take a trip down the 17-Mile Drive

A scenic road that winds through some of the most beautiful coastline available in all of California (and even beyond), 17-Mile Drive links Pacific Grove with Pebble Beach.

It’s chock-full of diverse landscapes along the way from rocky cliffs to Stillwater Cove and the engulfing Del Monte Forest — no wonder that this is one of the most famous drives in the world.

Don’t miss the majestic Lone Cypress in Pebble Beach, which frames the scenery with its solo silhouette on a rocky outcrop; the gorgeous views of Spanish Bay, with its famed golf courses; and the breathtaking natural wonders of Pescadero Point, where lovely footpaths and striking ghost trees perfectly frame the spectacular ocean views.

Just remember to take it slow, stop at the landmarks along the way (especially the famed Pebble Beach golf course and nearby shops), and capture the moment with a few snaps.

• 17-Mile Drive tours

28 – Sign up for a Pacific Biological Laboratories tour

Just a two-minute walk from the popular Monterey Bay Aquarium, if you’re on the hunt for a fascinating (and free) activity that’s perfect for science lovers of all ages, the Pacific Biological Laboratories tour is absolutely one of the essential things to do in Monterey.

Formerly owned and operated by the best friend of John Steinbeck and so-called grandfather of modern Marine Biology, Edward Flanders Robb Ricketts, the lab is open to the public for fascinating hour-long guided tours that offer visitors a look at some of the most cutting-edge oceanographic equipment of the time.

The lab (and house) combines science with history and literature in a truly one-of-a-kind way.

29 – Sample the region’s premier blends with a wine tasting

Feeling thirsty? Luckily, the Monterey Peninsula’s wine scene has been flourishing in recent years thanks to a moderate climate that is perfect for vineyards.

The family-owned Pierce Ranch Vineyards provides some of the best Spanish and Portuguese-style wines this side of Europe, with its cellar door a stone’s throw from the main Monterey haunts.

For a broader range of blends to try, the small yet welcoming Carmel Ridge Winery Tasting Room in the busy Cannery Row area offers up five-wine tasting flights with wonderful ocean views to boot.

If you’re after something more experiential, the aptly-named Wine Experience (also on Cannery Row) provides not only tastings at its bar but wine-making workshops, label-making sessions, and custom blending.

With no less than 95 different wineries in the Monterey region, to sample and browse the widest selection, head to A Taste of Monterey — the wine market meets bistro is the 2nd-largest attraction on Cannery Row, combining variety with ocean views like no other.

• wine tours in Monterey

Read more: 22 Best Wine Regions in California

30 – Soak up the sun at Monterey State Beach

With warm air and beautiful sunshine most days of the year (although the water can get a bit nippy in the wintertime), Monterey State Beach is a magnet for sun-seeking locals and tourists alike (not to mention paragliders and surgery) looking to soak up some sweet Vitamin D.

Located just north of the even more popular Del Monte counterpart, Monterey State Beach usually sees smaller crowds — and even on the busier days, as it stretches for miles long along the sparkling Bay, space is never hard to come by.

And with plenty of amenities including eateries, restrooms, showers, and picnic areas, it’s a must for the summer bucket list.

31 – Wander the gardens of the Cooper Molera Adobe

Perched over on Munras Ave, the nearly-two-century-old Cooper Molera Adobe is an authentic example of Monterey’s early history.

Constructed in 1827 (!), it was one of the first structures built in the area. These days, however, it serves as a tourist hotspot, meeting place and museum, showcasing the life, history and evolution of the city’s former residents — from Mexican and Spanish times to the creation of the state of California and beyond.

While you’re there, don’t miss the bakery for a snack, restaurant for a bigger meal and charming garden for a quiet stroll.

32 – Hear of Monterey’s storied past at the Old Custom House

Presenting as one of the main yet many historic buildings in the Monterey State Historic Park, the Old Custom House boasts a storied past. It was originally constructed in the 1820s as a trade port office on the wharf and was since declared the first California Historical Landmark.

The iconic adobe Custom House is open daily from 10 am to 4 pm, functioning as a tiny museum where you can browse Monterey and marine-themed writings, and pick up some local artisan-crafted souvenirs.

Best of all, entry is free and, on weekends, guided walking tours of the historic park (which meet here) are available for a modest fee.

33 – Explore the city with a scavenger hunt

Far more interactive and exciting than your typical walking tour, bus tour, or a lazy day of solo venturing, a high-speed, thought-provoking scavenger hunt is not only a fantastic way to get out and explore the city, but it’s also an excellent team activity.

Besides hitting up an array of the main attractions (think Fisherman’s Wharf, Cannery Row, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium), these app-led hunts also take you off the beaten track to uncover some rarely-sighted nooks and crannies, solving riddles and challenges along the way.

• scavenger games in Monterey

34 – Escape to the quiet Asilomar State Beach

A secluded slice of paradise just 10 minutes by car from downtown Monterey, Asilomar State Beach is an idyllic getaway that feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

The one-mile stretch of white sand is everything you could want in a seaside retreat: sandy beach, rocky tide pools, climbable dunes, curated boardwalk, and nature-immersed hiking trails, along with an abundance of wildlife.

Despite the convenient location, it remains one of the area’s more secluded and quiet urban beaches.

35 – Take the little one to El Estero Park’s ‘Dennis The Menace’ Playground

Traveling with kids in tow? Look no further than El Estero Park’s “Dennis The Menace” Playground, an expansive park filled with lush gardens, plenty of open space and a fantastic array of family-friendly rides and amenities — sure to keep the youngsters entertained for at least a couple of hours.

Operational since the mid 20th century, the playground dishes up a challenging hedge maze, a rock climbing wall, plenty of large slides, a suspension bridge and — arguably the main attraction — an authentic 1924 Southern Pacific steam engine.

36 – Snorkle at the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary

Thanks to its reputation of being one of the world’s most diverse shoreline ecosystems, this stunning slice of coastal whitewater heaven was designated as a National Marine Sanctuary in 1992 — and ever since it’s become known as central and northern California’s most popular dive and snorkel spots.

Covering hundreds of miles of coastline from the waters north of San Francisco to the Big Sur coast, the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary is home to an impressive array of marine life including whales, dolphins, sea lions, otters, and seals.

All up, some 34 species of marine mammals call this place home, with 180 species of seabirds over 500 different colorful fish to boot.

If snorkeling or diving is a bit too much, simply peek at the tide pools or join a relaxing kayak ride.

37 – Stare up at the Monterey ‘Moon Tree’

Towering over Pacific Street next to the Monterey Museum of Art, the aptly-named Moon Tree is an experimental tree that was grown from a seed taken to the moon and back on Apollo 14.

The foreboding sequoia (aka redwood) was planted back in 1976 to commemorate the Bicentennial of the United States of America and has been growing — and attracting tourists — ever since.

These days, it’s as postcard-worthy a spot as any, and often included in walking and trolley tours around the coastal city.

38 – Venture out on a fishing trip

Whether you rent your own boat or join a pre-organized fishing charter, a Monterey fishing trip doesn’t disappoint.

With the likes of dedicated halibut, salmon, crab, and cod fishing excursions that take you into scenic backwaters or out onto the open ocean, there’s something for every level of fisherman or fisherwoman here in Monterey.

Plus, provided equipment and boat aside, the friendly guides are more than happy to share their knowledge of the waters (and the town as a whole), so you’ll walk away knowing more than when you first arrived.

• fishing trips from Monterey

39 – See it all from above at Jacks Peak Park

For a sweeping view that can only be described as magical, majestic, and mesmerizing all at the same time, make your way to Jacks Peak Park.

One of the highest points in Monterey County, rising over 1,000 feet above the towns and shorelines below, this 525-acre public park is open year-round and welcomes hikers, mountain bikers, archeology enthusiasts (thanks to its Miocene fossils), and horseback riders on its many well-maintained trails.

Picnickers and sunbathers alike can enjoy the expansive, grassy spaces and panoramic views from its peaceful summit.

40 – Let the kids’ imaginations run wild at the Monterey County Youth Museum

A playful oasis that leaves ear-to-ear grins on toddlers and bigger kids alike, the Monterey County Youth Museum is an interactive, colorful and educational wonderland that offers lots of hands-on activities for curious minds.

With dozens of exhibits and galleries to explore across its 8,500 square feet of space, including an arts and crafts section, play farm, play theater and mini-golf zone to name a few — it’s a surefire hit for visiting families.

41 – Step back in time at High Scores Arcade

Home to a massive collection of over 160 games, High Scores Arcade promises a fun journey down memory lane.

From iconic titles like Donkey Kong, Pac-Man, and Galaga to unique additions like the custom-built Oregon Trail and Super Smash Bros., the choices are endless.

Focused on preserving the golden age of arcade gaming, this passion project has grown into one of the West Coast’s premier private video game collections and is sure to deliver a timeless gaming experience.

While the games rotate to keep the offers fresh, the fun remains constant with hourly entry for unlimited play, so dive in and relive the classics!

42 – Hear all about the Monterey of old at the Pacific House Museum

Housed in the beautifully maintained two-story Pacific House, a stone’s throw from the waterfront, this iconic landmark takes a thorough dive into what life was like in Old Monterey — in terms of people, culture, trade, lifestyle and architecture — more than 150 years ago.

The educational walking trail is a crowd favorite, but it’s usually the wonderful display of native American artifacts and crafts on the second floor (the Holman Collection of American Indian artifacts) which steal the show.

43 – Enjoy the thrills (and everything else) at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca

If you have an insatiable need for speed, don’t miss the fun at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca !

With a wide variety of car and bike races taking place throughout the year, this is the perfect spot to see some high-octane sports up close and personal.

And the surrounding Laguna Seca Recreation Area is worth a trip in and of itself; with its beautiful beaches, scenic golf courses, and splendid vineyards, it’s perfect for a vacation that combines the rustic with the luxurious.

You can even camp out in this gorgeous slice of nature before heading to the big race – a perfect combination of tranquility and action!

• WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca tickets

44 – Spot sea lions from Coast Guard Pier

Any ask local nicely and they’ll let you in on a little secret: one of the best sea lion viewing spots is here, at the Monterey Coast Guard Pier.

The pier is open from sunrise to sunset and, though it can be a little windy, offers an uninterrupted view — when the conditions are right — of groups of sea lions (and sometimes harbor seals) lazing on the rocks below.

Even if you’re not a fan of marine mammals — or crowds — it’s worth popping by just to check out the sweeping vistas, which stretch over Monterey Bay toward Carmel-by-the-Sea.

45 – Browse the artwork at MHAA: Salvador Dalí

For all the art aficionados, a visit to the Monterey History & Art Association (MHAA) is quintessential — and even if you’re not, there’s still plenty to enjoy at this top-rated museum.

Tucked away next to the Old Fisherman’s Wharf, the exhibition features no less than 580 works by the notorious artist including not only paintings but lithographs, sculptures, etchings, and tapestries too.

As one of the country’s largest private collections of Salvador Dalí artwork, it’d be remiss of any visitor not to opt for the guided tour option.

46 – The Farmer’s Market at Old Monterey Marketplace

Locals congregate at the Farmers’ Market on Alvarado and Franklin Streets every Tuesday evening from 4 pm to 8 pm to pick up fresh produce, flowers and baked goods from a range of local producers. It’s a great place to mingle with the friendly and diverse community of Old Monterey, not to mention try a handful of local staples.

Featuring everything from organic fruit and vegetables grown in Monterey County to artisanal jams, homemade pies and fresh-baked treats, the market has plenty on offer for everyone at this popular family market.

47 – Practice your drive at the Pebble Beach Golf Links

Up for a swing on the fairways? One of the most famous golf courses in the world and officially the No. 1 Public Course in the Country , this 18-hole championship course is located right on the coast and offers some of the most breathtaking views you’ll ever see.

Designed by Jack Neville and Douglas Grant, who were also the co-founders of the Monterey Peninsula Golf Course , Pebble Beach first opened in 1919 and has since been the host to some of the most prestigious golf tournaments in history.

If you’re not feeling quite so competitive, there’s no need to worry — simply take a leisurely stroll around the course instead and admire all that natural beauty.

48 – Join the festivities at the Monterey County Fairgrounds

Festival heads, listen up. If you’re on the hunt for an event to truly ingrain yourself in the go-slow coastal lifestyle, odds are you’ll find something that tickles your fancy at the famed County Fairgrounds .

A regular fixture on any tourist’s itinerary, this expansive fairground features two outdoor concert venues and both indoor and outdoor showgrounds. It’s home to a seemingly endless stream of events and festivals year-round, from agriculture shows and horse racing to food festivals and car rallies.

The undisputed main event, however, is the annual Monterey County Fair, which is held each September and draws in crowds of tens of thousands of people from near and far.

The rides, live music, and food stalls combine for one hell of a good time. Simply check the website to see what’s on during your stay.

• Monterey County Fairgrounds tickets

49 – Check out the Stevenson House, a homage to a literary icon

While nondescript from the outside, one step inside the Stevenson House at 530 Houston Street and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time into the whimsical lyrical world of none other than the infamous author himself, Robert Louis Stevenson.

Unless you’re a bookworm, this beautifully preserved historic landmark remains one of the underrated things to do in Monterey. Yet, it is both insightful and delightful thanks to its well-stocked display of writings, art and knickknacks from Stevenson’s time in Monterey back in 1879.

50 – Learn a thing or two at the Presidio of Monterey Museum

This insightful museum is home to one of the most diverse collections of military artifacts in the US, spanning the Spanish and Mexican periods up to the present day, so it’s easy to spend an afternoon here lost in history.

Ideal for history buffs, the museum’s walls are lined with displays that dive into the region’s military development over the last 300-or-so years, made all the most interesting by the Year On a Cavalry Post video that showcases life Monterey life back in 1938.

51 – Ride along the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreational Trail

Hikers, listen up! If you’re looking to explore the coastline and natural surroundings of Monterey, taking a walk along the Coastal Recreational Trail should be high on your list.

Hugging the coastline for close to 18 miles, from Castroville in the north to Pacific Grove in the south, the enchanting Trail passes by notable landmarks like Lovers Point, Del Monte Beach Park, the Old Fisherman’s Wharf, and a whole lot more — making it the perfect way to take in all the beauty Monterey Bay has to offer.

52 – Peer into the cells of the Old Monterey Jail

A downright eerie but nonetheless historically intriguing attraction, the Old Monterey Jail is one of those places that’s just begging to be explored.

Now a museum open for tours, the landmark originally opened in 1854 as a government building, but then transitioned to the notorious lockup all the way up until 1956, housing everyone from petty criminals to thieves and Gold Rush names that would send shivers down the spine (such as Bill Roach and Lew Belcher).

Believe it or not, not a single person managed to escape from the thick granite walls during the prison’s operational history (take that, Alcatraz).

53 – Catch a show at the historic Golden State Theatre

Looking for an evening of culture, history, and entertainment? Look no further than the Golden State Theatre .

Originally opened in 1926 as a vaudeville house, this beautifully restored Art Deco theatre is now home to a variety of live performances, including music concerts, dance recitals, stand-up comedy shows, and more — the likes of the Beach Boys, Jay Leno and Tracy Morgan have previously graced the center stage, to give you an idea.

What’s more, with its ornate ceilings, classic red leather seats and gold-plated detailing, the theater holds its own as one of Monterey’s most iconic attractions, regularly selling out its 1,300-seat auditorium.

• Golden State Theatre tickets

54 – Hop around the Monterey breweries

Although wine is the drink of choice for most visitors to the Monterey Peninsula, beer aficionados shouldn’t despair. There are a few humble craft breweries in the area that are worth checking out.

Kickstart your hoppy journey over at the Alvarado Street Brewery — a new kid on the block whose taproom showcases strong IPAs and the simplistic and refreshing Monterey Beer (a can of which makes for a great souvenir).

Over on Franklin street, nautically-themed The Crown & Anchor (C&A) boasts 20 beers on tap including English Ales, Irish Stouts, International Pilsners and Microbrews; while the London Bridge Pub , with its landmark red telephone book out the front, serves up excellent fish and chips to complement its beer selection.

Still thirsty? The Fieldwork Brewing Company in downtown designs its beers specifically for outdoor consumption (originally brewed over in Berkeley). And if you’re up for a little driver, make sure to add the alien-themed Elkhorn Slough Brewing Company to your list of thirst-quenching things to do in Monterey!

55 – Visit the Colton Hall Museum

A simple yet informative museum dedicated to Californian history, this venue is a wonderful way to get yourself acquainted with some of the city and state’s most famous moments.

Featuring a small yet fascinating collection of original artifacts and paintings, you can learn about California from its earliest days as an independent republic right through to the mid-19th century on display here — including a thorough re-creation of the meeting room where California’s first Constitution was drafted in October 1849.

Colton Hall Museum is located at 570 Pacific St as part of the city hall complex, sits adjacent to the historic Old Monterey Jail, and welcomes intrigued visitors on the weekends from 10 am to 4 pm.

56 – Dine at the city’s best restaurants

Is all that sightseeing making you hungry? Fortunately, Monterey is home to some of the most tantalizing restaurants on the west coast, with everything from fresh seafood fare to international cuisine on offer.

Both the Old Fishermen’s Grotto and Crab House are crowd favorites, while the Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. , despite being a chain, is still known for its killer shrimp cocktails. The Whaling Station Steakhouse has been considered Monterey County’s best Steak House for over 50 years.

Meanwhile, the French & Italian Cassanova Carmel serves up authentic and thoughtful dishes that transport you to the Mediterranian coast with every bite — and, if it was good enough for Van Gogh (yes, really), it’s good enough for us.

Of course, not to be overlooked is the area’s array of lip-smacking Mexican restaurants. El Cantaro is vegan, affordable and delicious; La Bahia offers the revered street-style tacos and sizzling fajitas; while El Torito combines excellent dishes with an even more impressive ocean view.

No matter which eaterie you choose, with Mexican influence running deep in the city’s veins, sitting down for an authentic Mexican meal is unquestionably one of the essential things to do in Monterey.

57 – Pamper yourself with a massage (because you deserve it!)

After all that sightseeing (and wine tasting), a good old-fashioned pampering always goes down a treat.

Whether it’s a bit of R&R you’re after, or some TLC for those sore muscles brought on by all that walking, there are plenty of options to choose from in Monterey!

With classic massage options like hot stone, Thai, remedial and deep-tissue massages, as well as alternative beauty treatments like facials and aromatherapy available at a plethora of locales, you’ll be feeling fresh and ready to tackle more activities in no time!

Relax in ocean-view tubs FIX at Vista Blue Spa , or rotate between the unique pools and saunas at Refuge .

Try a salt body scrub or CBD cream massage at The Spa at Pebble Beach , or check out the body treatments and saltwater pool at Spa Aiyana .

Or enjoy the forested surroundings of Spa Alila , which is especially famed for its couples treatments.

Hot tip: Rather than decide on the day, book online in advance to save up to 55% off the original price.

58 – Feel the rhythm of the annual Monterey Jazz Festival

Running and delighting attendees since its debut in 1958, the Monterey Jazz Festival wields the coveted title of not only being the most iconic and longest-running music festival in the US, but also the longest continuously-running jazz festival in the world.

Held every September over three days at the Monterey County Fairgrounds, the festival sees dozens of acclaimed artists from all corners of the jazz spectrum take to stages — with styles ranging from Latin Jazz and Swing to Bebop, Fusion and a whole lot more (including a bit of blues and rock).

Names like Herbie Hancock, George Benson and Regina Carter are just the tip of the iceberg — check the schedule to see who’s playing this year and bag yourself some tickets!

59 – Sink a few shots at the best bars

When it’s time to get a little more festive, grab your drinking buddies and head out to some of the coolest bars in town!

While the aesthetics and specialities of these watering holes vary, they all offer great environments for drinking and socializing.

Relax in the historic surroundings of Duffy’s Tavern & Family Restaurant, or catch up with your favorite sport at Britannia Arms .

You can even indulge in a different sort of vacation aesthetic at Hula’s Island Grill , which offers a great tiki bar setting and equally fabulous cocktails.

Where to stay in Monterey?

From its private beach access to its relaxing wellness treatments, Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa is ideal for travelers that want all the best amenities, while still having easy access to town.

And you can enjoy a similar juxtaposition at Monterey Tides , where you can return from a day of sightseeing to do some laps in the pool or knock back a few cocktails at the bar.

Hotel Pacific provides glamorous, comfortable accommodations within a few miles of the top attractions, as well as a gorgeous Spanish adobe design that will make you feel properly Californian.

And at Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa , you can explore the beautiful surrounding Old Town area, then head back to enjoy the gym, the pool, and the fantastic treatment options.

If downtown’s more your style, head to the Stevenson Monterey , where Fisherman’s Wharf and Cannery Row are just a short stroll away.

• best hotels in Monterey

Where to go next?

Picturesque and charming, Monterey is in good company; there’s no shortage of awesome things to do in California !

From the beach to the big city and everywhere in between, it’s little wonder that the state has been drawing dreamers and adventurers for centuries!

And if you’re having trouble deciding on which part of the Golden State to tackle next, never fear; some of its best scenery and liveliest cultural offerings are just a couple of hours away!

A mere two hours north, you can soak up the city life in San Francisco , where quirky museums, technological wonders, history-packed piers, and brightly colored Victorian mansions make for a thrilling day of sightseeing.

Or you can take things a little slower in Napa Valley , where the famed wineries combine perfectly with cutting-edge galleries and beautiful hiking trails.

And for a true dose of nature, don’t miss Lake Tahoe , home to some of the best hiking, watersports, and skiing in the state… plus a fabulous brewery scene!

Final thoughts

When you’re trying all the fabulous things to do in Monterey, you’ll quickly see why so many have fallen in love with the place over the decades!

With every street packed with history and culture, and the beautiful sea providing an ecological backdrop that few places can rival, it’s ideal for adventurous types, lifelong learners, and luxury seekers alike.

So start planning and packing, because this dynamite town is ready to welcome you!

45 Unique Things to Do in Monterey California

Monterey is filled with a wealth of activities you and your entire family can enjoy. Known for its diverse marine environment and historic Cannery Row, Monterey is the perfect destination for a fun vacation. Besides the prominent attractions, like whale watching, Monterey is filled with scenic walking trails and a rich history that will crave you wanting more.

Exploring Monterey is just a tip of all the stunning attractions you can do along the PCH. If you are debating visiting this charming town, we invite you to look at some of our favorite attractions during your getaway; you won’t regret it.

Always remember to double-check dates, opening times, and weather conditions before traveling.

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Of course, the top of our list will be the aquarium; you can’t go to Monterey and not stop in. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is world-famous and sits at the end of Cannery Row, right along the ocean. Featuring a variety of marine habitats, a kelp forest, and an open view of the ocean and rock shores, you won’t be bored visiting the aquarium.

For visitors who aren’t accustomed to marine life, you can get your full dose of sharks, giant Pacific octopuses and tide pools that invite you to explore and touch all types of sea life. Besides a beautiful jellyfish exhibit that will leave you breathless, the aquarium has an aviary that features a variety of local birds, and of course, you can’t miss out on the penguin exhibit.

The aquarium will get busy during their peak season, so make sure you go during the week if possible or when doors open on the weekends.

Old Fisherman’s Wharf

Built in the mid-1800s, Old Fisherman’s Wharf was created to receive passengers and freight ships coming into the Monterey Bay. In 1919 the first restaurant opened on the Wharf, and from there, the rest is history. In 1923 everything business owners worked towards came crashing down, literally. The largest load of sardines to ever be shipped to Monterey, we’re talking 20,000 cases, was due to load onto the S.S. San Antonio. Between the large load and bad weather, the ship leaned too heavily onto the Wharf and caused 132-feet of the pier to collapse and spill 10,000 cases of sardines into the harbor.

While this damage was costly, it allowed the Wharf to grow an additional 750-feet during reconstruction. After reconstruction, the Wharf still brought in sardines to be canned but turned their focus onto being a tourist destination instead. Today, the historical Wharf houses delicious restaurants, fish markets, tour operations, and souvenir shops.

Walk along the Wharf and find a tour that works best for you; this includes whale watching or glass-bottom boat tours. Their saltwater taffy shop is a must stop in, and if you’re feeling a little hungry, stop into Old Fishermen’s Grotto for some delicious and fresh seafood.

Monterey State Historic Park

If local history is your thing, check out the Monterey State Historic Park. During a guided tour, you will learn about Monterey being California’s capital under three different regimes: Spain, Mexico, and the United States. In the 18th century, Monterey began being colonized by the Spanish, and you can see this with the Presidio and Mission de San Carlos Borromeo de Monterey. Throughout your tour, you will be greeted with tons of historical buildings and adobe homes.

While in the state park, don’t forget to stop at The Larkin House, a National and California Historical Landmark. It was built in 1835 and is reported to be the first two-story house built in California. Prior to entering the park, you can even view exhibits at the Pacific House Museum.

Cannery Row

Known as the heart of Monterey, this historic district has been mentioned in numerous writings by John Steinbeck, and he even has a novel titled Cannery Row that was published in 1945. Cannery Row has been voted one of the best places in the United States to visit and is a popular tourist destination along the Central Coast. Prior to being a tourist hot spot, the area was used for the busting canning industry. Buildings once used for canning and processing are now being used for shops, hotels, and restaurants.

Cannery Row is lined with fun boutique shops, cute local eateries, and stunning hotels that you can stay at, all while getting a gorgeous view of the ocean.

Point Sur Lightstation

Sitting right along the coast on a large chunk of volcanic rock is the Point Sur lightstation. In 1886 the light station was built and had been sitting in the same spot for centuries. The construction began after several ships began colliding into the rocks during the 1800s, and three years after construction, it opened. Getting to the lighthouse wasn’t an easy task either, and it saw few visitors when it first opened. In 1972 the lighthouse turned automated and soon became a loved tourist destination.

Today, the light station is a historic landmark and is California’s only publicly open lighthouse.

Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail

Check out the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail for all outdoor enthusiasts or people who love free things. This trail is one of the most popular spots to hit when visiting Monterey, and it hugs that Southern Pacific Railway route. The trail stretches 18-miles long, starting in Castroville and ending in Pacific Grove; it’s great to visit when you want to get a little exercise and sunshine.

While along the trail, you will be right on the waterfront and while strolling, you will come across parks, beaches, and sometimes a little café. The trail allows skaters, cycling, and you can even rent some water transportation if you’re inclined.

Monterey Museum of Art

In 1959 the Monterey Museum of Art opened to help showcase local art that dated back to the 19th century. The Museum has two separate locations, one on La Mirada and the other on Pacific Street, and between the two locations, there are over 14,000 pieces of art. 

Depending on what you like, Pacific Street offers beautiful art and photography, while La Mirada gives you a stunning mansion and rose garden. The Museum also offers art classes, educational programs, and camps if you’re sticking around Monterey for a bit. 

Colton Hall Museum 

Colton Hall is perfect for history buffs since it was where California achieved status as the 31st state of America. Going to this Museum is free, and it has been around since the 1800s. The first constitution of California was drafted at Colton Hall, and it served as an essential state building during the 1800s. 

In 1949 the Museum was set up to host information and artifacts vital to the state and governance from the past to the present. 

Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary 

You won’t want to miss this stunning protected area of Monterey that offers beautiful views of wildlife while visiting Monterey. This sanctuary is one of the most impressive marine locations in the country and stretches from Cambria to San Francisco. The area is filled with tide pools, wildlife-filled seamounts, and a forest of kelp. 

This location is perfect for the entire family, and you can even spend a day out on the water in a kayak or diving to explore as much of the sanctuary as possible. 

Sloat Monument 

It looks like a giant rock to some, but there is a lot to be said about the Sloat Monument. It was built for Commodore John Drake Sloat, who played a major role in the war between America and Mexico in 1846. Due to the help of Sloat, the U.S. was able to win California as a state from both the British and Mexico. 

The monument was built in 1910 to remember the Commodore who used his intelligence wisely to help the U.S. gain another territory during the war. 

Old Monterey Jail

Sounds creepy right? This jail was used for an entire century, and while it held inmates, no one ever escaped. The prison was built in 1854 to hold criminals as the town grew larger. The jail wasn’t around long, it closed in 1959, and a year later, it was open to the public for tours. 

History buffs will love to see this jail since it was built shortly after winning California as a territory. Be warned; there were very few luxuries and amenities as this prison, so you know guests didn’t have a great time. 

17-Mile Drive

You might be wondering who goes to Monterey for the drive but trust us on this. The 17-mile drive sits along the Monterey Peninsula, allowing you to enjoy the finer things in life. This road allows you to drive and view the beautiful landscapes that the city has to offer. While exploring, you’ll see stunning cliffs, beaches, forests, and historical sports.

There are many areas to stop at to take photos or enjoy a nice lunch, so don’t rush when you’re taking this drive. 

The Old Whaling Station 

Originally constructed as a family home in 1847, this home soon became a headquarters for The Whaling Company in 1855. The Whaling Company wasn’t a company to be proud of, though; they would kill whales at sea and bring them in to be processed for various goods like corsets or umbrellas. 

In 1986 commercial whaling was stopped and today stands the building to show the gruesome industry that once lived. Even though the industry wasn’t the best, the station is a historical landmark today owned by the state. In 1980 it was opened to the public as a free attraction and Museum. 

Casa del Oro 

Also known as the Joseph Boston Store, Casa del Oro was the first-ever general store in Monterey. It was built in 1845 and leased to Joseph Boston, who stocked it with general items like coffee and soap. Later it was used as one of the city’s first banks since there weren’t any other locations in town to put a safe. 

Casa del Oro, translating to House of Gold, became its nickname due to being the first bank in the city, and during California’s gold rush, miners would flock to the area to store their gold. 

The Moon Tree

You might be wondering why we added a tree on here but trust us when we say you’ll enjoy this unique experience. In 1971 Stuart Roosa took off on Apollo 14 and completed a mission to the moon. While in orbit, he brought numerous seeds to germinate and grow while he was in space. 

When he returned to earth, he gave over 400 seeds to the Forest Service, one being The Moon Tree. The tree is a Redwood, and while there were no changes in its germination or growth, it was planted as a memorial to Roosa. 

The Custom House 

Built-in the 1820s by Mexico, this small house collected taxes on merchandise that passed through Monterey going to other parts of America, Russia, and England. After Sloat claimed California, the U.S. flag was raised at the Custom House, and it continued to perform the same duties for Americans instead of Mexico. 

Today the Custom House is open to the public to glance at what it was like in the 1840s when custom officials would expect goods before shipping them out. It’s a great stop for history and to learn a little more about the trades that went through the state and city. 

The Golden State Theater 

Sitting along Alvarado Street, this theater has been redesigned since it was built in 1926. Today the theater is open for several events and can hold 1,000 people on their plush seats. It is one of the biggest theaters in Monterey and is great to view a film festival or concert. If you have the cash, you can even rent it out for a private event. 

If the theater is open without any events, stop in to get a glance at the stunning sky canopy ceilings and beautiful mezzanine. 

Monterey Jazz Festival 

Every September, the Monterey Jazz Festival takes over the town for three days and two nights bring numerous famous artists to the city for performances. This is the longest-running jazz festival ever and is packed with activities and events that anyone can enjoy. 

Across 20 acres of land are seven stages where you can be entertained and enjoy the music around you. Don’t forget to shop for some jazz memorabilia and trinkets while you’re out.

Monterey County Youth Museum

If you brought the entire family along, check out the youth museum. It’s a great museum that allows your children to explore and learn while visiting. There is a variety of interactive and hands-on exhibits that are all aimed at kids under 10. 

The Museum caters to kids learning through discovery, and if you get there at the right time, you can catch one of their special events. 

El Estero Park 

This recreational park wraps around Lake El Estero and has a variety of activities hosted throughout it daily. Visitors can use the path to hike it bike around the lake, plus there are three exercise stations located around it. 

The Dennis the Menace Playground is within the park, where your kids can enjoy play structures, slides, and a climbing wall. They even offer a hedge maze and giant adventure ship for the bigger kids who love adventure. 

The Farmers Market at Old Monterey Marketplace

Jump in and enjoy the local flavors of Monterey at the farmer’s market. The market is filled with community vendors that sell produce, clothing, handmade crafts, and more. You’ll be delighted at the amount of food and flavors the market offers, including Indian, Italian, local BBQ, and Mediterranean. 

The farmer’s market also offers events weekly and has live music, so you’ll never know what will pop up until you visit. 

The Antique Mall 

Located on Cannery Row, the Antique Mall is one of the largest on the Central Coast and has over 100 dealers. The building is from the Steinbeck era and overlooks the bay and ocean to give you stunning scenery while you’re shopping. 

The mall is filled with vintage pieces and ancient gems, so make sure you stop by and take a look. You’ll also be treated to a coffee shop, wine tasting room, and restaurant all in the same location. 

Ag Venture Tours 

If you love touring areas but don’t have the time to make the itinerary yourself, lie AG Venture Tours handle it. This small company specializes in tours from wine tasting to agricultural education and sightseeing. You can spend a full day learning about the history and wonders of Monterey, all with the help of a handy guide. 

While on tour, you’ll visit some of the most beautiful areas of Monterey and explore world-famous valleys that are all led by friendly and professional guides. 

Adventures by the Sea 

For the adventurers at heart, this kayak excursion is for you. Adventures by the Sea offers numerous ways to explore and adventure through Monterey, including kayak rentals and bike rentals. You can rent a kayak and enjoy an adventure watching whales and otters along the Monterey Bay Coastline or mountain bike through the peninsula. 

For the brave at heart, you can rent a paddleboard and get lessons from an expert, but trust us, that water is mighty cold. 

McAbee Beach 

Maybe you just want to visit the beach while visiting Monterey, and McAbee Beach is perfect. It is small but located right off Cannery Row. To get there, all you need to do is walk towards the water on Steinbeck Plaza; once you get to the edge, you’ll see a set of stairs that will lead you down to the beach.

The beach has some rocks that you can sit on, and at night the tide comes in high, so be warned. It is a great area to sit and enjoy the ocean while enjoying a bowl of chowder. If McAbee Beach is too small for you, San Carlos Beach Park and Del Monte Beach are not too far away. 

When you visit Monterey, you’re given more than a quaint little town along the coast. Instead, you’re thrust into a historically rich landmark that will expand your knowledge into the past of Monterey and how it became the historical spot, it is today.

While everyone in your family might not be a fan of the history side of the bay, there is still plenty of fun activities everyone can enjoy while visiting this stunning coastal city.

More things to do in Monterey CA

• Carmel-By-the-Sea (easy to pop over from town)
• Fort Ord Dunes State Park
• Jacks Peak Park
• Kayaking in Monterey Bay
• Lovers Point Park and Beach
• Mission de San Carlos Borromeo de Monterey (San Carlos Cathedral)
• Monterey Bay Coastal Trail
• Monterey Coast Guard Pier 
• Monterey History & Art Association (Dali exhibit is a must!)
• Monterey Mirror Maze
• Monterey Peninsula Recreational Trail
• Monterey Zoo
• Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
• Presidio of Monterey
• San Carlos Royal Chapel (a historic landmark)
• Toro Park (especially during wildflower season)
• Veterans Memorial Park
• WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca (motor raceway)
• Wine tasting through the Carmel Valley

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The 15 Best Things to Do in Monterey, California

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Once the “Sardine Capital of the World,” the Monterey of the 1900s looks quite a bit different from the Monterey we know today. Though writers and artists alike have long called Monterey home, seeking to immortalize its beauty, this seaside city was more known for its fisheries than for its tourism.

But when Monterey’s economy collapsed in the 1950s due to overfishing, this California city adapted, becoming a haven for visitors looking to experience a wonderland of outdoor adventures, fine dining, and wildlife sightings. 

From kayaking alongside otters to hiking surrounded by monarch butterflies, there are so many unique things to do in Monterey and its surrounding areas. You should always keep your eyes peeled in Monterey; you never know what kind of stunning creatures you may find nearby!

With so many incredible things to see and do, it’s hard to know just where to begin. So we’ve compiled our list of the absolute must-do things in Monterey for you. Add these unique activities to your Monterey bucket list, and there’s no doubt you’ll have an amazing time exploring this gorgeous coastal city.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

15 Fun and Unique Things to Do in Monterey

1. spend a day at the monterey bay aquarium.

Considered one of the best aquariums in the world, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is always building new exhibits, so there are constantly interesting creatures to discover. Marvel at the gigantic Japanese spider crabs, spot the ever-elusive and mysterious giant Pacific octopus, and watch the playful tufted puffins splash their way around their exhibit.

The Monterey Bay Aquarium puts a lot of focus on conservation. Built out of the remains of the once-bustling sardine canneries, the aquarium knows the city’s history well and understands the threats humans can pose to the environment. Today, the aquarium leads conservation teams to promote a better relationship between people and Monterey’s natural wildlife.

One of the most prominent ways the aquarium helps its environment is by rehabilitating injured wildlife or young creatures that were separated from their parents. The aquarium is well-known for its history of helping Monterey’s otter population. While you’re watching the aquarium’s otters play, surrogate otter moms are teaching baby otters how to survive on their own behind the scenes!

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Monterey, adults and kids alike will relish a day at the aquarium. You’ll love learning about all the diverse creatures, while your little ones will enjoy the multiple touch tanks that will give them hands-on experience studying sea stars, urchins, and more. 

With interactive exhibits teaching everything from how octopuses camouflage to how plastic particles move up the food chain, there’s so much to learn, but this aquarium makes learning a lot of fun! Easily one of the best Monterey attractions, you shouldn’t end your trip without taking a day to explore the aquarium.

2. Kayak around Monterey Bay

Monterey Bay is teeming with sea critters. Whether you want to bring your own kayak or rent one, you can get out on the water and get a little closer to these majestic creatures. Watch a pod of dolphins jump out of the water, see sea otter mates holding hands as they nap while wrapped in kelp forests, or say hi to sea lions as they pop their heads up to say hello!

While it’s always important to keep a respectful distance from these gorgeous animals, kayaking allows you to get a much closer look than you would otherwise get walking along the shore. Plus, it provides a fun workout. You’ll be “oohing” and “aahing” at the beauty of the bay so much that you’ll hardly notice you’re actually doing some great cardio.

If you’re new to kayaking or a little nervous about getting on the water by yourself, you can also book a guided kayaking tour. If you’re willing to wake up a little early on your vacation, you can even take a tour at sunrise and watch the sky light up in vibrant pinks and oranges over the clear blue waters. This is easily one of the best things to do in Monterey!

3. Walk along the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail

The Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail is one of the best spots for Monterey sightseeing. Located where the Southern Pacific Railroad tracks once ran, this recreation trail spans 18 miles, going from Castroville in the north to Pacific Grove in the south. You can rent bikes, surreys, and even in-line skates from businesses along the trail or simply go for a walk along the shore.

Grab a bite to eat with a beautiful view of the bay, or plan an oceanside picnic. No matter where you stop to rest, you’ll find a gorgeous scene. Don’t forget to pack your binoculars because you’ll likely see sea otters, sea lions, and harbor seals along your journey.

The recreation trail is a great way to see some of Monterey’s best tourist destinations without having to drive. When you take this trail, you’ll reach some of the most iconic Monterey attractions, like the Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row!

4. Take a Hike at Ford Ord

There’s a rich history behind the beauty of Fort Ord National Monument . As many as 1.5 million American troops once trained at Fort Ord, which was a leading training and deployment staging ground during the Vietnam War. 

Today, Fort Ord serves as a prime recreation spot, offering 86 miles of trails that you can hike, bike, or ride your horse through. This former military base is now protected by the Bureau of Land Management, which ensures that the 44 species of rare plants and animals there can continue to call the property home. 

If you’re visiting Monterey in April, you’ll want to stop by Fort Ord to take in the Sea Otter Classic . This four-day event is one of the largest consumer bike expos in the world and brings over 10,000 bikers and 50,000 fans from across the globe into Monterey every year. Cheer on your favorite biker, or sign up yourself to race through Fort Ord!

5. Take in the Sights and Sounds of the Monterey Jazz Festival

The Monterey Jazz Festival , which is the longest-continuously-running jazz festival in the world, typically arrives every September. Started in 1958, the non-profit event has long been celebrating the creativity and culture of American jazz by featuring legendary jazz musicians and young rising stars alike.

Held at the 10-acre Monterey County Fairgrounds, this festival is all about the full experience. In addition to three days of incredible music, you’ll also enjoy a diverse array of local foods and wines. 

With more than 50 artists performing across four stages, you can guarantee that there will always be something to do, see, and hear at the Monterey Jazz Festival! The question is whether or not three days is enough to do it all. But we guess that just means you’ll have to come back next year and do it all over again.

6. Cruise along Picture-Perfect 17-Mile Drive

Considered one of the most scenic drives in California, 17-Mile Drive takes you in and around Monterey, from Pacific Grove to Pebble Beach. Download a self-guided tour and hit the road to get the whole 17-Mile Drive experience.

The drive features plenty of iconic landmarks, like the Ghost Tree, Spanish Bay, and Stillwater Cove. You’ll want to have your camera ready throughout your journey, not just because of the beautiful places but also for the abundant wildlife. You’re bound to see and hear barking sea lions at Bird Rock and deer running through Del Monte Forest. 

Although it’s called 17-Mile Drive, you can also consider hopping on a bike or e-bike instead. While there’s an admission fee for cars to enter this stretch of road, biking is free! It’ll also save you from having to worry about parking at each landmark. Just remember to get an early start, as it’s safer to avoid going later in the day when more cars are on the road.

Get your 17-Mile Drive Self-Guided Audio Tour here!

7. Go Whale Watching from Old Fisherman’s Wharf

Monterey Bay is considered one of the whale watching capitals of the world, and there’s no better place to go whale watching than Old Fisherman’s Wharf. Once an essential part of Monterey’s sardine harvesting industry, the wharf now serves as a top tourist destination and is full of the best sights in Monterey.

While you can often see otters, sea lions, and harbor seals just by standing on the wharf, you can also venture out on the waters on the wharf’s daily whale watching tours. It’s not uncommon for whale watchers to see a variety of creatures on their trip, including humpback whales, killer whales, and dolphins.

These peaceful cruises are often between two and four hours, which may be a little long for younger ones in your group. But if you’d still like to get out on the water, you can hop aboard a glass-bottom boat tour instead to get a look at Monterey Bay’s kelp forests and the critters that call them home.

8. Shop and Dine at Cannery Row

Cannery Row got its name thanks to its important position as a hub for Monterey’s fishing and canning industries. But these days, Cannery Row is home to some of the best dining and shopping in Monterey. If you’re looking to while away a few hours, a trip to Cannery Row is one of the top things to do in Monterey.

Though Monterey had problems with overfishing in the past, strong conservation efforts have brought the fish back and allowed the city to create a more sustainable infrastructure for the fishing industry. Those efforts are why Monterey now has some of the freshest seafood around, and many restaurants on Cannery Row are home to seafood dishes that are unmatched anywhere else.

Grab a table at Lalla Oceanside Grill , take in the view of the bay, and dine on locally-caught sanddabs in a decadent lemon caper sauce. Or head over to Chart House for the best mahi-mahi around. Finish your meal off with a Ghirardelli hot fudge sundae while you sit overlooking the water.

Looking for the perfect gift to take home to your family and friends? You’ll find it on Cannery Row. With art galleries, clothing boutiques, jewelry shops, outdoor adventure gear stores, and even an olive oil-tasting bar, there’s something at Cannery Row to suit everyone.

9. Play at Dennis the Menace Playground

The Dennis the Menace Playground, a part of the El Estero Park Complex in Downtown Monterey, was designed with the help of Hank Ketcham, the creator of the Dennis the Menace comic strip and a resident of nearby Carmel. Ketcham wanted a place for the local kids to just be kids, so he created one filled with fun and play.

This playground features plenty to do to keep the little ones entertained, from a rock wall to a maze. And when your children are done playing with Dennis, there’s even more to do in the El Estero Park Complex. 

This 45-acre recreation complex includes a dance studio, an exercise course, and a skate park. It also has Lake El Estero, where you can take a paddleboat adorably designed as a swan or a rubber ducky out on the water. It’s a fun time for the whole family that will give you a peaceful tour of the park.

10. Walk among the butterflies at the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary

Every year, thousands of monarchs fly south for the winter. And along their route, they end up in nearby Pacific Grove. From mid-October to mid-March, you can get an up-close look at these beautiful creatures at Pacific Grove’s Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary .

The busy sanctuary is easily one of the best sights in Monterey County, especially from November to January. The time of day also affects what you might see. Visiting early in the morning will show you clusters of butterflies, while coming in the afternoon will allow you to view the monarchs in flight.

The Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary offers several trails for you to take on your butterfly-viewing journey. Remember to always stay on the path, as it’s essential not to disturb these fascinating insects. If you want to learn more about the migration of monarchs, head over to the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History , where its monarch exhibit is open year-round.

11. Grab a Beer with Your Pup at a Brewery

Napa may be known for its wines, but we’d argue that Monterey is known for its local brews. Many of the city’s breweries feature relaxed, often dog-friendly environments where you can drink up some unique beers.

Head to Dust Bowl Brewing Co. for everything from sours to seltzers. This brewery, located nearby Old Fisherman’s Wharf, features a cozy indoor space and an expansive outdoor area with picnic tables and Wedo’s Food Truck on standby to complement your drink. 

We also love Alvarado Street Brewery over in Downtown Monterey for its unique brews, specialty cocktails, and juicy burgers. The outdoor seating is also dog-friendly and is enclosed, making you feel like you found a little paradise away from the hustle and bustle of the downtown city streets.

Not too far from Alvarado Street Brewery is another one of our top picks, Fieldwork Brewing Co. This brewery keeps a smaller menu, which allows them to rotate in and out popular and seasonal flavors. Sit around the fire pit with your pup while you sip a flight of brews you can’t get anywhere else.

12. Take in a Show at the Golden State Theatre

After you grab a drink at Alvarado Street Brewery, you don’t have far to go to get to the Golden State Theatre . Stepping into the Golden State Theatre is like stepping back in time, and catching a show here is one of the most unique things to do in Monterey. This well-preserved historic theater has been entertaining Monterey since 1926.

The 15,000-square-foot live performance venue was intricately designed and extravagantly decorated, but it was recently refurbished to suit more modern comforts. With plush velvet seats and a state-of-the-art sound system, every seat is the best seat in the house.

From concerts to film festivals to stand-up showcases, there’s always something happening at the Golden State Theatre. And if you fall in love with the magical venue like we did, you may even want to rent it out for a special event.

13. Scuba Dive at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Point Lobos is considered one of the top things to see in and around Monterey for a good reason. Located in nearby Carmel-by-the-Sea, there’s plenty to do at Point Lobos for anyone who loves the beauty of nature. 

Explore the emerald waters of China Cove, hike the Point Lobos Loop Trail, or go tide pooling at low tide. But Point Lobos is also home to several popular dive spots, located at Whaler’s Cove and Bluefish Cove, meant for both beginner and more advanced divers alike. 

If you’re in the mood for underwater adventure, explore the giant kelp forests, study the coral reefs, and keep your eyes peeled for otters, sea lions, seals, and more!

14. Go Golfing at Pebble Beach

If you ask most golfers, they’ll say that the top thing that needs to be on your Monterey bucket list is going golfing at Pebble Beach. Unanimously rated the “No. 1 Public Golf Course in the Country,” the Pebble Beach Golf Links were designed in part with the help of famous golfer Jack Nicklaus. Although it’s difficult to get a coveted tee time, golfers all across the world say it’s more than worth a visit.

Many of the greatest golfers in the world, from Tiger Woods to Arnold Palmer, have played at Pebble Beach. Depending on the time of year you visit, you just might be able to view such stars in action. 

Pebble Beach has been home to six US Opens, more than any other course in the last 50 years. It will be home to four more US Opens between 2027 and 2044, as well as four more championship events between 2023 and 2048. 

Every February, the PGA TOUR arrives for the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. This tradition began all the way back in 1947 and features professional golfers teaming up with a celebrity partner for charity. 

If you’re unable to get a tee time at Pebble Beach, don’t fret. Monterey and its surrounding cities are home to more than 20 golf courses, including Spyglass Hill and Poppy Hills , which are right next to Pebble Beach and feature similarly beautiful views.

15. Explore the Alvarado Street Farmer’s Market

Every Tuesday, Alvarado Street in Downtown Monterey welcomes locals and visitors alike to a street-long farmer’s market filled with delectable treats, local produce, and one-of-a-kind finds. With Monterey County being California’s third-largest agricultural producer, it only makes sense that Monterey strives to highlight the folks who work so hard to sustain the state.

You’ll find some of the freshest produce around at the Alvarado Street Farmer’s Market, with seasonal treats showing up throughout the year. But you’ll also find small businesses creating foods that you’ll fall in love with. 

Do yourself a favor and grab as many hummuses and pita chips from Hummus Heaven as you can before they sell out because they will sell out. And if you see Ad Astra Bread Co., buy a loaf of milk bread before it’s gone. 

Even if you don’t buy anything at all, the Alvarado Street Farmer’s Market is a lovely stroll through one of the most historic parts of Monterey. Listen to live music, take in the smell of baked goods in the air, and marvel at the beauty of Old Monterey.

There you have it! The 15 best things to do in Monterey. What’s your favorite thing to do in Monterey?

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Jacqueline is a writer and editor pursuing the freelance life to explore the world. Born and raised in New Jersey, she spent her college years in Boston before settling down with her partner and puppy in Monterey, California. When she’s not writing, you can often find her planning her next trip. Road trips are her favorite, whether it’s driving across the country or simply exploring a new city in her own backyard. She loves uncovering the history of every new place she goes. Jacqueline has a restless passion for learning and makes it a goal to pick up a new skill every year. She’s picked up embroidery, crocheting, knitting, and cross-stitching, but she’s hoping to master more languages to help her in her travels. She’s also a published author, with short stories and poetry appearing in several anthologies.

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50 Things to Do in Monterey California, Bucket List Experiences

Top things to do in monterey california.

Researching all the great things to do in Monterey California while working full time can be overwhelming. You’ve heard great things about Monterey. You want to visit all the must-see attractions and eat local food. You don’t want to spend hours on the internet doing research. Use this Monterey bucket list full of attractions, tours, and museums to plan your city break. You will find Save time and plan your perfect itinerary for Monterey California with these 50 things to do, see, and eat.

If you are planning a trip to Monterey California and looking for the best things to do, see and eat while visiting, you are in the right place.  Monterey sits on California’s postcard-perfect central coastline. The city is known for dramatic cliffs, sand dunes, fishing ports, redwoods, fish canneries, a historic mission, wine tasting, clam chowder, a lighthouse, aquarium, whales, sea otters, and a world-class golf course, but there’s more! Browse the list of must-see attractions, off-the-beaten-path experiences, outdoor activities, and museums to create your personal Monterey California bucket list. Then, plan the itinerary for your Monterey trip with these top things to do, see, and eat. Enjoy your time out of the office!

Read Things to Do in San Luis Obispo County Read Day Trip to Big Sur California

Things to Do in and Around Monterey California

Take a bike ride along the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail

Check out the 55 historical sites along the Path of History

Visit the Old Monterey Jail

Have a glass of wine at A Taste of Monterey

Explore the Monterey Museum of Art

Eat clam chowder at the Old Fisherman’s Wharf

Photograph the fishing boats in the harbor

Go whale watching

Have a cocktail next to a fire pit at the Inn at Spanish Bay

See the 19th-century adobe homes in Monterey State Historic Park

Spend an afternoon exploring the Monterey Bay Aquarium

Browse the Old Monterey Farmer’s Market

Check out the Walker Residence built by Frank Lloyd Wright

Kayak in Monterey Bay

Check out the Big Little Lies filming sites

Explore the Dali 17 Museum

Hang out with the sea lions at Monterey’s Coast Guard Pier

Photograph the old canneries along Cannery Row

Browse Cannery Row Antique Mall

Check out the view from the rooftop of Monterey Plaza Hotel

Have dinner at the haunted Restaurant 1833

Take a selfie or two at Selfieville Experiential Museum

Eat artichokes and sardines

Explore the tidepools on McAbee Beach (behind the Spin Drift Inn)

Check out Monterey’s Old Whaling Station

Take a selfie with Dennis the Menace at El Estero Park

Watch the sunset from the proposal bench on the Asilomar

Have afternoon tea at the Steinbach House in Salinas

Enjoy a picnic at Lover’s Point in Pacific Grove

Enjoy a food tour through old Monterey

Explore the Monarch Grove Butterfly Sanctuary in Pacific Grove

Check out the Victorian Homes on Ocean View Blvd in Pacific Grove

Photograph Pacific Grove’s Point Pino Lighthouse

Drive the scenic 17-mile Drive and photograph the Lone Cypress

Build a sandcastle on Carmel Beach

Explore Carmel’s Hansel and Gretel Houses

Tour the Carmel Mission

Take the Carmel Art Tour through galleries and secret gardens

Browse the boutiques in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Drive past Clint Eastwood’s Mission Ranch

Watch the golfers tee off at the famous Pebble Beach golf course

Hang out with the harbor seals at Whaler’s Cove

Enjoy the Arroyo Seco Gorge swimming holes

Take a bike ride at Fort Ord National Monument

Go for a hike at Pinnacles National Park

Photograph the sand dunes at Marina State Beach

Go wine tasting along the River Road Wine Trail

Shop for souvenirs at Moss Landing’s fishing port

Check out the Farm Sculptures off Hwy 68

Drive Hwy 1 through the Big Sur coastline

Be sure to check the Monterey California Tourism Board website for upcoming festivals, special events, and what’s happening during your stay.

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Oh boy, Monterey does have a lot things to do. I would love to see the Victorian Homes on Ocean View Blvd and also, sign up for some wine tasting. Would love to tour the aquarium too – I hear it is really good.

The aquarium is sooooo good!

Oh my gosh, I’ve always wanted to go to Monterey Bay — and I can’t believe I’ve lived in California almost 30 years and still haven’t made it there! I love all things historic, so I’d be all over the museums, Cannery Row, and also the Frank Lloyd Wright’s architecture. Plus all the really cool art and the beach! I need to make a date to go see Monterey soon!

I’m headed to California in June, and I certainly hope that I’ll be visiting Monterey again. That aquarium is among the best I’ve ever seen, and there’s so much to discover on that gorgeous Cali coastline.

I have just recently published my blog post about my California road trip. Oh, I am in love with the Monterey Peninsula! Carmel-by- the Sea is my favourite place in the U.S. Please God, can I go back, now! 🙂

Carmel is a really special spot!

Whale watching! Yes please!🙌🏼😍🐳 And hiking will forever be my fave – so Pinnacles National Park, here I come! 🥾Kayaking in Monterey Bay and taking a bike ride at Fort Ord National Monument also sounds like so much fun!

I really want to spend an afternoon exploring the Monterey Bay Aquarium. I have heard so many good things about it I must check it out. And definitely wine tasting!

I stood and watched the sardines FOREVER. Memorized

I’ve been to Monterey but only passing through. Went to the Aquarium and ate the best clam chowder of my life! But looking at your post I wish now that I have spent more days here. These are some good suggestions to go back one day. Will save your post for later. 😉

We just left Monterey! We only had two full days so only made it through a few things on your list. Cannery Row, Fisherman’s Wharf, local seafood and the aquarium took up a good part of one day. I am sorry we did not get to see the Walker Residence. We love to see Frank Lloyd Wright buildings. The seas at Pacific Grove were wild. And we loved just watching the waves pound in. So many good reasons to return.

I bet the waves were incredible, the weather has been so stormy

Wow that is quite a comprehensive list of things to do in Monterey! I can’t believe that there are 55 historical sites along the Path of History, that’s a lot of historical places to have concentrated in a small area (I’m only guessing it is small, I could be wrong). The sand dunes at Marina State Beach also sound pretty cool!

They surprised me!

I love the idea of having some clam chowder followed by a wine tasting. Or maybe some whale watching followed by a tour of the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Or try dinner at a haunted restaurant! So much inspiration! Thanks for sharing.

Or all of the above!

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20 Great Things to do in Monterey, California

Written By: The Planet D

United States

Updated On: April 17, 2023

Located just two hours from San Francisco , Monterey is an amazing weekend escape in California. Playground to the rich and famous, Monterey has something for everyone. With a beautiful coast, beaches, and endless outdoor activities, the whole family will enjoy their time exploring the best of Monterey. Whether you plan a weekend getaway or decide to make it home a base to explore the California Coast for a week or two, there is something for everyone. And these are the best things to do in Monterey, California, and not-to-miss attractions to make the most of your trip.

Table of Contents

Best Things to do in Monterey, California

We spent a few days in Monterey before starting a road trip down the Pacific Coast through Big Sur. Download this Big Sur self guided tour to see all the top attractions between Monterey and Pismo Beach to make the most of your visit. This is one of the great drives in California if not America. Check with SeeMonterey for more details.

1. Kayak Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary

Hands down our favorite of all things to do in Monterey was getting out on our kayaks to explore Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Seeing the coast from the water is one of the more unique experiences. But getting up close and personal with marine life such as the endangered sea otters, sea lions, and bird life of Monterey Bay is what makes it so special. The cute sea otters were once almost extinct, but thanks to the Monterey Bay Aquarium efforts, they helped to make sure these little guys thrives. Now they there are groups of them floating atop kelp forests relaxing in the bay.

• Book your kayaking trip and other outdoor activities at Adventures by the Sea located at 685 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940, United States
• Time to visit – 2-3 hours

2. Breakwater Cove and the Coast Guard Pier

If you want to see marine life in Monterey but aren’t keen on kayaking, make your way to the Breakwater Cove and the Coast Guard Pier to watch hundreds of sea lions bask in the sun. No visit to Monterey would be complete without witnessing the abundance of marine life. Sea lions are one of the top attractions in Monterey and you cannot leave without seeing them. They make their home on the rocks and chill out as they play in the water. It is definitely one of the most uplifting things to do in Monterey.

3. Monterey Bay Aquarium, Monterey Ca

The most famous of places to visit in Monterey is the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Located at a former sardine canning factory, the Monterey Bay Aquarium has interactive displays and an open sea exhibit displaying hundreds of species of marine life. While I am not a huge fan of aquariums, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is a leader in conservation to preserve wildlife in the waters off shore. Most notably it has helped to bring back the Southern sea otters and to help ensure the survival of sharks and bluefin tuna focusing on the population biology and ecology of these species.

• Location: 886 Cannery Row, Monterey directly on the waterfront.

4. Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary

The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary itself stretches all the way from San Francisco and is not only one of the best places to visit in Monterey, it’s in all of California. With tide pools sea kelp forests, an abundance of marine life, this is a must visit in California. The best way to explore the marine life and scenery of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary is on a whale watching tour.

5. Cannery Row

Monterey was once known as the sardine capital of the world with canning and fish factories dominating the waterfront. Today the historic district of Cannery Row is filled with shops and restaurants lining the street making it one of the top things to see in Monterey. John Steinbeck made the street famous in his novel Cannery Row written in 1945 depicting life in Monterey during the Great Depression. Make sure to grab some clam chowder at the Old Fisherman’s Grotto. (Voted Best Clam Chowder in Monterey County 16 years in a row).

Cannery Row is busy and crowded, but if you want to trace the footsteps of the Cannery Row from the days of Steinbeck walking tour, get this audio guide to the visit the locations made famous in his writings.

6. E-Bike 17 Mile Drive

Taking a drive along 17 Mile Drive is one of the top things to do in Monterey County and we highly suggest it. Starting in Pacific Grove, we rode an electric bike along the Monterey Peninsula from Pacific Grove to Carmel by the Sea. If you are looking for unique outdoor activities renting in an e-bike will do the trick. It’s a great way to see all the points of interest without having to deal with traffic. As cars line the entrance, we wizzed right on through.

Book your e-biking tour of Monterey from Pacific Grove to Pebble Beach at Big Sur Adventures. 125 Ocean View Blvd #122, Pacific Grove, CA 93950

7. 17 Mile Drive Attractions

There are so many things to see on 17 mile drive it deserves its own post, which we have here , but here are a few not to miss attractions. We entered at Pacific Grove Gate and then made our way to Carmel by the Sea. Big Sur Adventures had a truck ready to pick up our bikes so we could continue on in Carmel.

• Lone Cyrpus – The cypress tree of Pebble Beach lost a limb in 2019 so I have a feeling it won’t be so popular anymore.
• Ghost Tree – Instead, make sure to stop at the Ghost Tree, we found this one to be more photogenic regardless.
• John Denver Memorial
• Seal Rock Creek Beach, Spanish Bay Beach
• Pescadero Point in the Del Monte Forerst
• See all of the top attractions at 17 Mile Drive – What to See on the Scenic Drive of Pebble Beach

If you are driving yourself, download this 17-Mile Drive self guided tour to make sure to see all of the popular attractions from Monterey to Carmel along the Monterey Peninsula.

8. Old Fisherman’s Wharf Monterey

Old Fisherman’s Wharf is the historic wharf of Monterey that is now one of the star attractions of Monterey. It is definitely at the top of everything list of things to do in Monterey and it is packed with restaurants, shops, art galleries and cafés. It’s a pleasant afternoon and it is from here that you can book whale watching tours to Monterey Bay.

Places to Eat at Old Fisherman’s Wharf include  Paluca Trattoria with outdoor dining on the wharf and and Abalonetti for seafood.

9. Monterey State Historic Park

Take a walk through history at the Monterey State Historic Park. This collection of about a dozen buildings located near Old Fisherman’s Wharf let’s you see historic buildings dating back to the 1800s. Visit the Customs House which is the oldest government building in California or check out the Old Theater that claims to be the oldest theatre in California.

Monterey State Historic Park is located downtown interspersed throughout old Monterey. Book your tours at the Custom House (adjacent to Old Fisherman’s Wharf)

10. World Class Golf

The Pebble Beach Golf Course is often ranked the number 1 public golf course in the country and many people come to Monterey for world class golfing vacations. Other golf courses include, Spyglass Hill, Del Monte Golf Course, and the Pebble Beach Golf Academy.

11. Hear the Bagpiper at the Links of Spanish Bay

Even if you are not a golfer, the Spanish Bay Golf course is worth seeing for the beautiful dunes located on the sea. Each evening the bagpiper plays his pipes as the sun sets over Spanish Bay beach.

12. Carmel By the Sea

Carmel By the Sea is a community just 10 minutes from Monterey located on Carmel Bay. While it is another great place to spend some time, you can easily pop over for a day trip. We actually split our time between Monterey and Carmel and enjoyed each place equally. There is a beautiful beach at Carmel by the Sea and some excellent restaurants. Read more: Things to do in Carmel by the Sea

13. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

While e-biking through Monterey County our guide told us that one of the must-visit attractions in Monterey is the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. Known as the crown jewel of the state park system in California, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve offers plenty of outdoor activities with 13 hiking trails offers hikers both easy and challenging opportunities, and wildlife watching to being a popular scuba diving spot for diving among the kelp forests.

Take a walk on the Cypress Grove Trail to see the Monterey cypress trees hanging on the sea cliffs to make up for the lone Cypress on 17 Mile Drive. It is also a great place to spot gray whales migrating from December to May.

14. Monterey Museum of Art

If you are looking for things to do in Monterey that are indoors, a visit to the Monterey Museum of Art is one of the popular attractions to see California Art and artists. Ansel Adams lived in the Monterey Peninsula from 1962 to 1984 and his photography is showcased at the museum.

15. Monterey Coastal Trail

If you are looking for free things to in Monterey, the Monterey Coastal Trail is a great place to visit. The entire trail stretches 18 miles from Castroville to Pacific Grove. Passing by the top attractions in Monterey like the Monterey Bay Aquarium. There are plenty of places to stop to take in the views.

16. El Estero Park and Dennis the Menace Playground

If you are looking for some family-friendly things to do in Monterey, head over to the Dennis the Menace Playground at El Estero Park. The creator of Dennis the Menace himself helped design the playground located in 1956. Even if you don’t have kids it’s worth popping by to see this thoughtfully laid out park complete with a giant ship, slides, buildings and lots of things for kids to climb on (so keep a close eye). Located on El Estero Lake, there’s a skateboarding park, picnic tables, and an outdoor exercise course.

17. Monterey County Youth Museum (MY Museum)

Another family friendly activity is visiting the Monterey County Youth Museum, surrounded by Dennis the Menace Park which as interactive exhibits for the kids to enjoy.

Popular Monterey Tours

18. whale watching.

There is no doubt that whale watching tours are one of the top things to do in Monterey. It is one of the best places in California for whale watching year-round. We even saw whales from our hotel in Big Sur while having breakfast one morning. It’s amazing. Book this highly rated tour to explore the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary in search of whales.

19. Wine Tasting

It’s not only Napa Valley or Sonoma that are wine regions in California, Monterey County has its own vineyards. But you don’t have to go out inn search of them, many have wine tasting rooms downtown Monterey. A taste of Monterey Wine Market and Bistro is one of the most popular attractions giving visitors a taste of Monterey wine country.

You can also follow the River Road Wine Trail to visit the tasting rooms of estate wineries that have views of the beautiful Salinas Valley. (known as the Salad Bowl of the World)

20. Pacific Coast Highway

With its close proximity to the Pacific Coast Highway, Monterey is a great base for exploring this iconic ocean road. There are plenty of sites that you can visit on a day trip from Monterey to Big Sur.

Monterey is only a 40 minute drive to Big Sur and on the way you’ll be able to see such iconic sites as the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, Garrapata State Park, and The Bixby Creek Bridge. Read where to camp in Big Sur

• Check out the series Big Little Lies starring Reese Witherspoon and Nicole Kidman to see how the ultra rich live their lives in Monterey and Big Sur.

Where to Stay in Monterey

Monterey Plaza Hotel and Spa – With a central location just a short walk to San Carlos Beach. This is a great location to make a base. Kids will love being close to Dennis the Menace Playground and it overlooks Monterey Bay.

Portola Hotel and Spa – This is a great location connected to the Monterey Convention Center. It is just a five minute walk to Fishermen’s Wharf and Cannery row.

Intercontinental, The Clement – Another central location close to popular attractions in Monterey including Fisherman’s Wharf and Cannery Row. If you want a break from the kids, they offer in room childcare.

The Lodge at Pebble Beach – Stay at this exclusive resort with ocean front and ocean view rooms in complete luxury. This historic hotel dates back to 1919 and is close to several places to see including Seal Rock Creek Beach and the Lone Cypress.

Where to Stay in Carmel By the Sea

We stayed in Carmel by the Sea which is very close to Monterey and loved our time at The Hideaway  located just a half a mile from the beach but also centrally located downtown. It was close to restaurants and was a nice and central location.

How to Get to Monterey, CA

The best way to get to Monterey is by car. We recommend renting a car and making a road trip. You can compare prives at RentalCars.com. California was made for driving and it really is the best way to get around. Monterey is a 2 hour drive from San Francisco.

And Monterey is 5 hours from Los Angeles. It is popular to drive the Pacific Coast Highway 1 from L.A. but check to see what is open as there have been mud slides and road closures.

If you don’t have wheels you can book tours from San Francisco and multi day trips from Los Angeles.

This Family friendly day tour takes you to Cannery Row, A visit to the Monterey Bay Aquarium plus stops at Carmel and Pebble Beach.

Or for a longer tour to explore more of California including Monterey, you can book this Wild West Tour from Los Angeles where you take a drive up the Pacific Coast before heading on to San Francisco, Yosemite National Park and Death Valley.

Read More About California

• San Francisco Itinerary:   72 Hours in San Francisco – A Local’s Guide to the City
• Yosemite National Park :  Things to do in Yosemite National Park
• Los Angeles:   25 Best Things to Do in Los Angeles – Hollywood, Hikes, And More
• Northern California:   7 Epic Places to Visit in Northern California
• California Road Trip Itinerary:   The Ultimate California Road Trip Itinerary
• Lake Tahoe:   Things to do in Lake Tahoe 
• San Diego:   Where To Stay In San Diego – The Best Neighborhoods & Areas
• San Diego : The Best Things to Do in San Diego – A Local’s Guide to the City
• Beaches in California: 24 Of The Best Beaches in California
• About California: 12 Interesting And Cool Facts About California
• Hiking in California: 15 Best Hikes In California – Inspiration To Get Outdoors

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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24 Best & Fun Things To Do In Monterey (California)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: October 18, 2020  - Last updated: October 15, 2023

Monterey is a beautiful city known for its wealth of marine life and delicious seafood.

Its rich coastal history also means it’s filled with points of interest of all kinds, so much so that it can be hard to pick what stuff to do among your options.

To help you out, here are our picks for the top 24 best and fun things to do in Monterey, California to add to your bucket list.

Table of Contents

1. Cannery Row

Daniela Calota Lita / Shutterstock

Cannery Row is often considered the heart of Monterey tourism.

It’s a historic district that you may have heard of through the writings of John Steinbeck, namely his novel named after the location, released in 1945.

It’s among the best places to visit in the US and one of the most popular places to see across the Central Coast of California.

Once upon a time, Cannery Row was the location of the profitable and bustling canning industry – hence its name.

The same buildings used for cannery processes are mainly still being used today, turned into shops, hotels, eateries, attractions, and other locations.

Whether you’re looking for something fun to do or just want to go sightseeing, Cannery Row is sure to have what you seek.

Address: Cannery Row & Wave Streets, Monterey, CA 93940, United States

2. Monterey State Historic Park

Apostolis Giontzis / Shutterstock

The Monterey State Historic Park offers what is commonly referred to as the city’s “walking path of history”.

Walking along the path, which contains at least a dozen different buildings, lets you view a special set of buildings and homes with historical significance to this California city.

Many of these structures date back to the early years of the 19th century and are individually among the top most fun Monterey attractions in themselves.

As such, keep your eyes peeled for some of the most interesting buildings from the State Historic Park on this list!

Address: 20 Custom House Plaza, Monterey, CA 93940, United States

3. Cathedral of San Carlos Borromeo

Ken Wolter / Shutterstock

The Cathedral of San Carlos Borromeo is California’s oldest building made from stone, built somewhere from 1791 to 1794.

It was used as a Royal Chapel by Monetary founders Father Junipero Serra and Don Gaspar de Portola and remained in its service after the Mission of Serra moved to Carmel.

The chapel was used primarily by soldiers that remained to guard the newly created Spanish Presidio.

In 1849, Bishop Joseph Alemany picked it at the city’s diocese seat, making it the state’s first ever cathedral, too, which is even more reason that it’s on the list of what to do in Monterey.

At the time, the Cathedral of San Carlos Borromeo had a somewhat simple rectangular floor plan, but that was changed to a cross-shaped one in 1858 by the addition of transepts.

In 1921, an additional structure was made beside the cathedral to replicate the grotto of the Lourdes.

At the age of 215 in 2006, it was time for the Cathedral of San Carlos Borromeo to get some repairs.

Its foundation had become damaged by tree roots, walls were steeped with moisture, and some of the alterations done over the years had wound up weakening it further.

Full restoration began and completed in 2009.

But the real treasure of the restoration is the artifacts revealed during an archaeological dig that occurred during the period of renovation.

They now sit in the heritage center beside the cathedral, which is just as much of a must-see if you’re visiting the cathedral!

Address: 500 Church St, Monterey, CA 93940, United States

4. Old Fisherman’s Wharf

Erin Deleon / Shutterstock

Apart from being one of the best places to vacation , the Old Fisherman’s Wharf is one of Monterey’s most interesting historic places to visit.

In the past, it served as a wholesale fish market, only ending this occupation in the 1960s.

It is so named the “Old Fisherman’s Wharf” now as a means of separating it from another wharf around it, which functions as a commercial wharf for Monterey.

Despite no longer being a fish market, the Old Fisherman’s Wharf remains suitably themed, with a wide range of seafood restaurants that go from casual to fancy, all offering beautiful views of the bays of California.

There are also, of course, numerous local stores peppered throughout, selling candy, art, jewelry, and souvenirs.

Address: #1 Old, Fishermans Wharf, Monterey, CA 93940, United States

5. Monterey Bay Aquarium

photocritical / Shutterstock

The Monterey Bay Aquarium is located on Cannery Row, where a sardine cannery once stood.

It opened its doors in 1984 as a public aquarium and now boasts over 600 different flora and fauna species, mostly native to California.

Pools and tanks show off some unique and fascinating marine animals and plants in accessible ways.

Some of the aquarium’s displays are particularly special, as it is one of the only in the world to host fish like the yellowfin tuna, sunfish, and Bluefin tuna.

There is also the famous Kreisel tank display that hosts jellyfish in a circular water flow that makes for a truly astonishing display.

Other notable displays in the aquarium are the huge kelp forests of the Ocean’s Edge and the wide array of sea creatures like stingrays and others in the Open Sea.

All in all, there are a total of 45 interactive exhibits that showcase octopi, invertebrates, birds, and more, with activities like tours to add to the experience.

It’s one of the most fun things to do in Monterey Bay!

Address: 886 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940, United States

Looking for more thrill around California? Check out some of the best things to do in Palm Springs  & the top Fresno attractions !

6. Point Sur Lightstation

Lynn Yeh / Shutterstock

The Point Sur Lightstation rests on the coast of California on a large chunk of volcanic rock.

For centuries, it has sat 361 feet over the water, dutifully watching over the seas of Monterey and beyond.

The Point Sur Lighthouse was first suggested sometime in the 1880s due to a collision of a ship across the rock.

In 1886, construction began, and it was opened three years later.

Tenders of the lighthouse would live lonesome, quiet lives, and the building saw few visitors due to the treacherous route towards it.

Ironically, now that the lighthouse is automated (as it has been since 1972) and requires no minder, it has also become one of Monterey’s best and most loved tourist attractions.

It is considered a historic landmark and is the state’s only lighthouse from its time that is publicly open.

Address: Point Sur Lightstation, Monterey, CA 93940, United States

7. Monterey Museum of Art

Sgerbic , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

The Monterey Museum of Art first opened in 1959 as a home to showcase a lovely art collection dating from the 19th century to now, with a focus on the art of California.

It has two different locations – one on Pacific Street and one also known as La Mirada.

Across both properties, the permanent collection has more than a whopping 14,000 items!

On Pacific Street, you’ll be able to view contemporary art and photography by big names such as Armin Hansen, Edward Weston, Ansel Adams, and William Ritschel, to name a few.

In La Mirada, you’ll walk through a gorgeous mansion with a delightful rose garden set on beautiful grounds.

The latter focuses primarily on rotating exhibitions.

Community programs, art classes, educational programs, summer camps, and docent programs are also hosted by this Museum of Art.

No matter what you’re heading there for this weekend, though, there’s no denying that it’s one of the places to visit that art aficionados can’t miss!

Address: 559 Pacific St, Monterey, CA 93940, United States

8. Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail

David A Litman / Shutterstock

Looking for free things to do in this city in California?

The Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail is one of the more famous things to see in the city.

Near the Southern Pacific Railway – and, in fact, taking its very route – the Coastal Recreational Trail hugs, as its name suggests, the coastline.

Stretching 18 miles, it starts at Castroville and makes its way towards Pacific Grove.

If you like getting some exercise in the great outdoors or just want a bit of a walk, the Coastal Recreation Trail is a great way to do so.

The waterfront sights are exquisite, as are the parks, beaches, and similar locations you’ll pass along the way.

You can skate, cycle, hike, or even rent some form of water transportation to explore.

9. Monterey Jazz Festival

Penn State / flickr

If you’re in California at the right time, the Monterey Jazz Festival is one of the best things to do in Monterey.

Packed with exciting activities and events, it’s the longest-running festival for jazz music on the planet.

Spanning three days and two nights every September, it features multiple famous jazz artists in a lineup of amazing performances.

There is also a Jazz Legends Gala where the Jazz Legends Award is presented to an influential artist of the genre each year.

Aesthetically, this Jazz Festival is also quite the treat.

It is set in the heart of the city upon 20 acres of delightful, lush, oak-filled land.

Seven stages provide ceaseless talent and entertainment, films are ripe for viewing, stalls, and shops sell trinkets, beverages, food, and jazz memorabilia, and you might even get to interact with some of the attending jazz stars!

If you’re looking to spend more time and experience more thrill, here are some of the best places to go in California !

10. Colton Hall Museum

McGhiever , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

It was in Colton Hall that California achieved status as the 31st state of America.

It makes sense, then, that Colton Hall Museum is one of Monterey’s must-do sites!

Better yet, there’s no admission charge, so it’s one of the fun options for free things to do in the city.

In 1846, what was known at the time as Alta California was occupied by America.

Walter Colton, a well-known local businessman, was appointed Chief Magistrate of the district of Monterey.

He served in this job for three years and accomplished the first of the state’s public American buildings, which earned the name Colton Hall to honor his contribution.

It was in Colton Hall that the first constitution of California was drafted at a convention, with 48 delegates from 10 districts that held multiple debates regarding the state’s boundaries, the capital, and slavery, which would be forbidden in the state henceforth.

The constitution was signed on the 13th of October in 1849 and ratified exactly one month later – and then it traveled for three months to Washington DC to be approved.

While this travel was happening, Colton Hall was serving a new purpose as the state capital had shifted away to San Jose.

In 1873, it became a grade school and served many other purposes until it became what it is now – simply part of the city hall complex.

Its first floor boasts the simple offices for the Department of Planning and Building, but the second floor is home to the Colton Hall Museum.

The Colton Hall Museum was set up in 1949 and hosts a wide range of information and artifacts related to the creation of the state and its governance from then on.

Tours are freely available and attendants are always happy to answer questions.

Address: 570 Pacific St, Monterey, CA 93940, United States

11. Golden State Theatre

David Prasad / flickr

The Golden State Theatre is designed in such a way that you might not even feel like you’re in California anymore when you look at it!

Situated on Alvarado Street, it is built with Moorish design, restored since its original 1926 appearance, and is one of the best of Monterey attractions for entertainment and performance.

An opulent lobby, brilliantly rich frescoed sky canopy ceiling and beautiful floating mezzanine mark the luxurious atmosphere of the Golden State Theater.

It provides one thousand seats, all made from plush, soft velvet, and incredible acoustics that are purely state-of-the-art.

It’s the biggest theatre in Monterey, California, and hosts all sorts of events, like film festivals and concerts, as well as being available for private functions.

Address: 417 Alvarado St, Monterey, CA 93940, United States

12. Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary

randy andy / Shutterstock

The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary is an absolutely beautiful protected area that offers delightful wildlife viewings.

It’s one of the most impressive protected marine locations not just in California, but across the country.

The marine sanctuary stretches for quite some distance, from Cambria to San Francisco , so it’s not just a local city attraction.

Still, that just makes it even more worthy of being on your list of what to see with all its activities!

It’s truly a whimsical and beautiful experience, with relaxing shorelines, tide pools that shimmer in the sun, majestic canyons, wildlife-filled seamounts, and forests of lush kelp.

A range of different outdoor endeavors can be undergone at the National Marine Sanctuary.

Whether you want to kayak, dive, fish, or explore in general, this is a family-friendly location for everyone to enjoy!

Address: Monterey Bay, CA 93940, United States

13. Dennis the Menace Playground

James Kirkikis / Shutterstock

Simply love the old comic strip character of Dennis the Menace?

Looking for a park area to relax in?

Whatever it is you’re seeking, the Dennis the Menace Playground is a fun option among Monterey, California’s many places to visit.

In 1956, this delightful playground was set up as part of the area of El Estero Park.

It was made with the approval and assistance of Dennis the Menace creator Hank Ketcham, who lived in Carmel and was very much a fan of play and childish joy.

The thoughtfully-made playground is nothing short of exciting, with a giant adventure ship, a suspension bridge, a hedge maze, a climbing wall, and multiple play structures fitted with huge slides.

There is even a steam engine that is authentic from Southern Pacific, dating back to 1924.

Though close watch is kept on the playground to ensure kids don’t get into too much trouble, this location is still a must-do for even the most mischievous of children.

It’s safe, thrilling, and packed with adventure – what’s not to love?

Address: 725 Pearl St, Monterey, CA 93940, United States

If you have more time, why not head to San Jose? Located a little over 71 miles from Dennis the Menace Playground, here are some of the best places to visit in San Jose !

14. Alvarado Street Brewery

Alvarado Street Brewery & Grill

Monterey – and California in general – is fairly known for its alcohol.

One of the best places to sample such beverages is at the Alvarado Street Brewery , which serves some of Monterey’s finest craft beer.

The Alvarado Street Brewery is family-owned by a beer-loving son and his architect father.

The combination of their strengths results in excellent, innovative brews set in a beautifully renovated former theatre.

It’s not just drinks served at the Alvarado Street Brewery, though.

Check out their Vietnamese lamb burgers, truffle-crawfish mac and cheese, pork belly pizzas, and Thai-curry mussels.

Not here for food?

Just drink their Delorean Dust and Mai Tai PAs on the relaxing outdoor terrace beer garden!

If you’re an alcohol-lover, a trip to Alvarado Street Brewery is certainly among the top things to do in Monterey.

Address: 426 Alvarado St, Monterey, CA 93940, United States

15. Monterey County Youth Museum

Monterey County Youth Museum

The Monterey County Youth Museum , set up in 1997, is located on Washington Street among a number of other interesting tourist attractions, including the previously mentioned Dennis the Menace Park.

It was designed to provide opportunities for children, primarily younger ones aged below 10, to learn about all sorts of different topics and exercise their creativity and curiosity.

The exhibits found herein are extremely unique and fascinating, made to be hands-on and interactive so as to encourage the most learning from even the shyest children.

Exhibits of all kinds bring you and your kids out of the state of California and – pardon the pun – into a state of learning.

MY Hospital, MY Creation Station, MY Day at the Beach, and MY Build a House are just a few examples of the great exhibits available.

There are also, occasionally, special events, and private functions can be held here if desired.

Address: 425 Washington St, Monterey, CA 93940, United States

16. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Alla Khananashvili / Shutterstock

If you’re fine with leaving Monterey for a little bit, the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is just 15 minutes away and is one of the places to go that’s well worth the trip while you’re in California.

It’s famous for its unorthodox, striking rock formations and granite cliffs that are spread throughout the oceanside, each one dramatic and dissonant to the many cute animals that live in its vicinity.

There are many activities you can partake in here, from taking photographs to observing nature and from scuba diving to getting a little exercise on one of its 13 trails, each one with different levels of difficulty to get through.

One of the most popular trails in the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is The Cypress Grove, known for Monterey cypress trees that dot the cliffs along the seaside and its stunning panoramas of the coast.

There are also ten different diving spots at the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, which kelp forests reaching 70 feet in height, beautiful coral reefs, and the occasional whale or seal if you’re lucky.

There are also tidal pools packed with marine life, caves to explore, ponds enclosed by stones, and headlands.

Address: 62 CA-1, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93923, United States

There’s no way you can leave Point Lobos State Natural Reserve without going to Santa Cruz! Located about 49 miles from this location, here are some fun things to do in Santa Cruz !

17. Sloat Monument

Michael Vi / Shutterstock

The Sloat Monument has an interesting history behind that makes it one of the best of Monterey’s places to visit.

But in order to fully appreciate the monument at all, you need to know a little bit about the person it was built for: Commodore John Drake Sloat.

Sloat played a key role in the war between America and Mexico in 1846.

At the time, he was the commander of four vessels of the US Navy, and he knew that due to how thinly the military forces of Mexico were spread in Alta California, the state could be easily taken by American forces.

Sloat began making moves towards the state as soon as possible, arriving at the beginning of July that year.

British ships were already there, interested in the state, and Sloat knew he had to act now if he wanted to press any advantage at all.

The town of Monterey was first to be landed on, and it was seized unopposed.

As the capital, this led to the surrendering of the rest of the state, making it officially a US state three years later.

In 1910, the Sloat Monument was built, and visiting it is now one of the best things to do in Monterey Bay, which it overlooks.

Next to it, Fort Mervine is established, taking after the name of the captain who first landed in the city.

The area is quite closely controlled, but the monument is still open for public viewing.

Address: Ewing Rd, Monterey, CA 93944, United States

18. Old Monterey Jail

Jeremy Thompson / flickr

Old Monterey Jail was in use for an entire century, during which no one ever escaped, despite its incredibly simple construction.

This is likely due to the iron and granite used liberally in its structure, with almost no wood used at all due to the builders’ concern with its integrity.

But why was it set up in the first place, and how did it end up as one of the things to see for tourists in the city?

As the county seat of the newly state-ordained California, Monterey found itself in need of a jail that could house a fairly substantial amount of people as the city grew and grew.

In 1854, the large building, stout in shape and intimidating in its stone appearance, was set up beside Colton Hall.

Windows were covered with iron plates, providing only very little sunlight through perforations for inmates, to keep it extra secure.

In 1935, some modern amenities were added, like concrete floors and systems for ventilation and heating.

In 1956, it ceased regular operations and it was officially closed in 1959.

Then, the year after that, it was opened to the public.

For those interested in history, it’s a must-see, and it gives you a harrowing glimpse into the life of the prisoners who dwelled here through recreated scenes.

It certainly wasn’t fun for them!

Address: 580 Pacific St, Monterey, CA 93940, United States

19. Montrio Bistro

Montrio Bistro

It can’t be denied that eating good food is among the things many love about travel, and the Montrio Bistro serves up the very top of such the food that Monterey County, California has to offer.

It is housed in a building that can be dated to 1910 and was once a firehouse.

Brick walls lined with art make for an almost romantic but still family-friendly setting.

The Montrio Bistro has been in business for about two decades and specializes in sustainable offerings that change seasonally.

Their ingredients, ranging from produce to seafood, are all sourced from around Monterey, providing a dining experience that has the taste of California.

Some of the restaurant’s most loved dishes include king salmon with citrus risotto, boneless beef short rib that is Cabernet-braised, and other New American cuisines options.

You can also try out their great craft cocktails during happy hour, with good, discounted snacks!

Address: 414 Calle Principal, Monterey, CA 93940, United States

If you’re all geared up and looking for more adventure around California, check out some of the fun things to do in Sacramento  & the best things to do in Santa Monica !

20. 17-Mile Drive

The 17-Mile Drive, situated on the Monterey Peninsula’s southern side, is one of the most rewarding activities that you can take at your own pace.

It’s a long road that you can drive through in order to view some of the most beautiful landscape views that the city and state have to offer.

The 17-Mile Drive runs from Pacific Grove Gate and past Del Monte Forest.

While technically not only a Monterey, California attraction given how far it stretches, it’s worth the trip if you have the petrol and time to spare.

With cliffs, beaches, forests, and historical spots littered about the path, there’s plenty for you to see and have fun with!

21. The Old Whaling Station

Teemu008 / flickr

The Old Whaling Station is one of the more fascinating Monterey attractions.

The building itself was constructed as a family home by David Wight, a Scottish adventurer, in 1847, but after they left for the gold fields of California, it was left alone.

The Old Monterey Whaling Company then purchased it in 1855 and turned it into an employee residence and the headquarters for their company.

The Whaling Company ran a rather grisly business that involved killing whales at sea and bringing them on-shore to be processed.

Baleen, which is a bony filter in whale mouths, were used to make umbrellas and corsets.

Blubber was used as natural oil for maps or machine lubrication.

Bones were ground to turn into paving material or fertilizer.

No part was left spared.

Whale populations saw some decline in the early 20th century as whale populations also became jeopardized.

The International Whaling Commission attempted to moderate the industry but ultimately failed, and in 1986, commercial whaling was halted.

The Old Whaling Station now stands as a memory of the best years of this gruesome industry.

It is an official historical landmark owned by the state and, after restoration in 1980, it was opened to the public as a free attraction and museum of sorts.

It’s also, surprisingly, a popular wedding location.

Address: 391 Decatur St, Monterey, CA 93940, United States

Located a little over 230 miles from here is the beautiful city of Santa Barbara. Apart from luxury boutiques and beautiful buildings, here are some Santa Barbara attractions you shouldn’t miss! 

22. The Custom House

The Custom House wasn’t built by Americans, but by the government of Mexico.

Set up in the 1820s, it was made to collect import taxes for traps, rice, sugar, tolls, coffee, and other forms of merchandise that passed through Alta California to places near and far, including American states, Russia, and England.

When Commodore John Drake Sloat claimed the state, he raised the US flag at the Custom House.

It then continued performing the same duties, but for America instead of Mexico, and it stayed pretty busy throughout its time.

Until now, the Custom House performs the same function, and its days are virtually the same as they would have been in the 1840s.

It’s open for public viewing and, if you’re looking for what to do, it’s a great option for some insight into the trade of the state and city.

Rice, beans, houseware, lanterns, and tools line different tables, all awaiting customs officers for inspection.

Address: Monterey State Historic Park, 20 Custom House Plaza, Monterey, CA 93940, United States

23. Casa del Oro

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Casa del Oro , known also as the Joseph Boston Store, was one of the city’s first-ever general stores.

The structure was built by Thomas O. Larkin, the Consul of America to what was, at the time, Alta California, in 1845.

The building was leased by Joseph Boston four years later and he opened a merchandise store for general goods there.

Among other things, he sold coffee mills, soap, pans, brooms, silverware, walnuts, tubs, ham, and tea.

The Casa del Oro was also the site of the first-ever safe to be set up in the city – an implementation added because there were no banks in the town at all.

This is why the nickname Casa del Oro was earned and stuck, as it translates to “House of Gold”.

Miners from the surrounding gold fields would arrange for their found gold to be stored here.

Now, Casa del Oro is one of the city’s top places to visit, with the fun added attraction of the safe, sans golds, still remaining onsite.

The original desk used by Boston himself also remains.

The store continues its operations, with offerings like stationery, toys, candy, houseware, and more 1850s-themed items.

It is run by the Historic Garden League.

Address: M210 Olivier Street, Monterey, CA 93940, United States

24. The Moon Tree

At first glance, it can be hard to figure out why The Moon Tree is one of the best tourist attractions in Monterey, California.

You’ll soon learn, though, that visiting it might be one of the city’s most unique things to do!

The story begins in 1971, during the Apollo 14 mission.

Stuart Roosa, a Command Module pilot, brought hundreds of seeds in his own personal kit to the moon.

Before being employed by NASA, Roosa was a smoke jumper for the United States Forest Service, and he was conducting an experiment to see if space exposure would affect how the seeds germinate and grow.

The seeds chosen were Redwoods, Loblolly Pines, Douglas Firs, Sweetgums, and Sycamores, and they each had control seeds kept on earth for the experiment.

While conducting gravitational and radar experiments and photographing the moon, Roosa – and his seeds – did 34 full orbit turns over 33 hours.

He eventually returned to earth and the Forest Service wound up with 400 seedlings to use.

Some were planted but a huge many were given away to be planted in conjunction with the bicentennial celebration of America.

The Moon Tree is one of the seeds taken by Roosa.

It is a Redwood and is planted in this unassuming location.

Like many of the other seeds, there were no significant changes in its germination or growth compared to earthbound seeds.

The Moon Tree stands as a memorial to Roosa, who passed away in 1994.

Address: 536-570 Pacific St, Monterey, CA 93940, United States

If you have more time why not visit Orange County? Located about 365 miles from here, Orange County is famous for it’s Anaheim ’s Disneyland Resort! Apart from that, here are some fun things to do in Orange County !

Start Planning Your Trip To Monterey

Monterey is simply jam-packed with exciting and fun locations.

With museums, historical sites, natural attractions, and marine life abound, you’re spoiled for choice in terms of where to go.

Whether you’re in town this weekend or further into the future, hopefully, this guide for where to go in Monterey, California will help you make the most of your trip and pick the very best spots!

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• Indoor Activities

Indoor Activities in Monterey: 10 Warm Things to Do on Rainy, Cool Days in the Bay

by Jill Loeffler   •

Stay warm with these fun indoor activities in Monterey. You will find plenty of things to do on rainy or cool days in and around the bay.

My list includes top local museums. You will also find some great things to do with your entire family.

Disclaimer : I receive a small commission from some of the links on this page.

1. Monterey Bay Aquarium

Anyone who visits Monterey will want to see the incredible Monterey Bay Aquarium when you want to check out an indoor activity.

It was opened in 2984 and continues to expand with new displays every year.

This massive space includes almost 200 galleries and exhibits which are designed to educate you on the many habitats around this area.

Some of the favorite exhibits in it include the almost 350,000-gallon, and almost 30 foot tall, Kelp Forest. This will give you an idea of what it is like to be underwater in the Monterey Bay.

If you really want to imagine being underwater here, you will need to check out the 1,200,000-gallon Open Sea exhibit that that is 90-feet across, 35-feet tall, and 52-feet from the front to back.

This one has a massive glass wall in the front for you to look at and see all the animals in the bay. This includes sea otters, green sea turtles, ocean sunfish, sardines swimming in their schools, and even hammerhead sharks!

In case you aren't convinced yet, here are a few more statistics about it: It has more than 35,000 animals and plants in it and they are constantly changing throughout the year.

There are more than 500 mammals, reptiles, birds, plants, fish and loads of other animals to see when you visit it.

2. Dali Expo

Salvador Dali was known for some of the best, and strangely interesting, surreal art in the world. Even more impressive is that he spent much of his time living in Monterey and this space has over 550 pieces of his work.

With sculptures, etchings, drawing, and even tapestries, his incredible diversity of artwork, and styles, will be sure to amaze and delight any lover of his art.

Even though Salvador Dali was born in Spain, he moved to Monterey, and specifically the gorgeous Pebble Beach during World War II. There were many other artists here, that were exploring new and exciting styles of art, and he fit in perfectly with them.

Containing the United States' largest private Dali art, this incredible museum is located on Fisherman's Wharf, so it is easy to access and enjoy much of Monterey either before or afterwards.

>> Find some additional great museums in Monterey

3. Monterey Museum of Art

This museum is a fantastic way to spend indoors when you are in Monterey since it will give you many opportunities to explore the diverse, and beautiful, regional art from this area.

With art starting in the late 1870s, and going up until the most current of today's, you can be sure to find something you'll love and want to spend time examining and exploring.

Some of the ongoing exhibits include classics like the Early California Paintings, Photography specifically taken around this area, and contemporary art also. They will give you a great timeline of how Monterey art has influenced visitors and local alike.

The museum is also known for the many traveling exhibits such as Bernard Trainor's landscape architecture, Courtney Sennish's Currents, Mid-Century Modernism by Norma Zeigle Bhaskar and many more.

You are sure to get a wide variety of artists and art styles no matter how many times you visit the Monterey Museum of Art.

Make sure to check the schedules, and information, since there are often special events. Also, there are two locations and you will want to be sure which are open and which shows are presented at each of them.

>> More about this museum

4. National Steinbeck Center

John Steinbeck is without question the most famous author from this area. For those that love his work, or those that don't know it, this is can't miss of the great indoor activities in Monterey where you can learn more about this master.

John Steinbeck was born in Salinas, just outside of Monterey and wrote about life in this small town and this area.

He specifically wrote about growing up there, the workers who made this area the "Salad Bowl of the Nation" since so much of the vegetables and fruits were grown here, and their life and travails in this area.

Some of his most famous works include East of Eden, The Grapes of Wrath, and others.

This museum highlights the history of the area, and the history of the writer, who won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1962.

More than just a museum, it is also a cultural center where you can find out more about his views on social work, ecology, and how his thoughts and actions kept this area alive and well for all who lived here and now visit it.

5. Mirror Maze

Get ready to find yourself lost, and full of fun and amazement, at the Monterey Mirror Maze! This mirror maze is unlike any other as it isn't just a maze with mirrors, but many other exciting adventures and cool attractions inside of it.

Located on Cannery Row, this is one of the indoor activities in Monterey that give you easy access to everything that this fun area has to offer.

Obviously, the Mirror Maze has a maze in it that is full of psychedelic and confusing wall paintings, along with hip music, and crazy lighting to confuse and amuse you as you get lost and laugh at your mistakes.

However, this is so much more than just a mirror maze as it also includes the "Lazer Challenge", where you get through it and find the vault, all while dodging lazers and the obstacle course all around you.

One of the other attractions include "The Heist" which is based on a classic crime at the InterContinental Hotel back in 1933.

During this crime, all the gold in San Francisco, which was stored in the vault on Cannery Row, was stolen! You will be able to check out the display and maybe you can even figure out what happened and solve this famous crime!

NOTE : The Mirror Maze has flashing lights and it is not recommended for visitors who have light or photo sensitive epilepsy or seizures. If you do go, please go slowly and take your time, so as not to get confused or injured. It is also not recommended for small children as they can get lost or confused.

6. Highway 1 Mini-Golf & Arcade

The sister attraction to The Mirror Maze, you will find he only mini-golf location on Cannery Row.

For those who enjoy miniature golf, you are in for a crazy adventure since it has loads of 3-D glow-in-the-dark exhibits including ones of the Golden Gate Bridge, Pacific Coast Highway murals, and other locations like the beautiful Big Sur and even Santa Monica in Southern California.

For those looking for a bit more than cool and crazy mini-golf, you are in luck since it also has a huge assortment of classic, and new, arcade games.

Some of these games include ones like air hockey, first person shooter games for those that like to test their hand and eye coordination, Skee Ball, and so many more that you could spend the whole day here and never get bored.

Something that everyone loves is that the more games you play, the more tickets you can win, so you can take home a prize to remind you of your trip to Monterey.

So, have some fun, play some mini-golf, win some prizes and enjoy your day all at one location right off of Cannery Row!

7. Wine Tasting

Another one of my favorite indoor activities in Monterey is wine tasting. You will find several places in the Monterey Bay Area to taste local wines.

City of Monterey: You will find a few tasting rooms around Monterey. My favorite is The Taste of Monterey, which is along Cannery Row . Here you can sample wines as you gaze out at the beautiful Monterey Bay.

Carmel-by-the-Sea : Several local wineries have tasting rooms in Carmel-by-the-Sea. There is a large concentration of them in one area of town, which makes it a fun way to spend the day. Learn more about visiting Carmel-by-the-Sea .

Carmel Valley : The local wine region in Monterey is Carmel Valley. If you prefer to head out to get closer to the source of the wine, then you can make a quick trip here. You will find wine tasting rooms all around the town and a few out near the vineyards. If you don't want to drive, you can take a bus that will drop you off right in front of the wineries.

Learn more about wine tasting in and around Monterey .

8. MY Museum

This is not only MY Museum, which stands for the "Monterey County Youth Museum", but it is also your museum. This museum is dedicated to kids, and kids of all ages, so they can explore and learn life and experience all around them.

This museum is unlike any other as it has many classes that range from the fun Zumbini, which mixes Zumba and educational tools for kids 0-4 years old, to Make-N-Take where kids and parents will work together to strengthen their cognitive and social skills, another favorite is the Weird Science class where your youngster can try all kinds of experiments and let out their inner scientist!

There are also other classes, both continuing and new, throughout the year. Many of the classes are for ages 1 -10 years old but are enjoyable for anyone at the same time.

This museum is in Downtown Monterey, so it is easy to access from anywhere in the city and is well worth the visit for anyone and everyone.

9. Pacific Grove Natural History

This amazing museum has been in operation for 150 years and just keeps growing and becoming more impressive. When you choose to do this one of the indoor activities in Monterey, you will be amazed this beautiful area of California.

Some of the permanent exhibits that you, and your young ones, will love include the Birds of Monterey County, the Native Plant Garden, the Pacific Grove's Chinese Fishing Village among many others.

They often have special exhibitions which will help you learn more about this special area.

Monterey is known for the annual migration of the Monarch Butterflies.

This museum has a permanent exhibit dedicated to them, but if you are going to be in Monterey during November until February, you can see them live and in person as they fly around the sky.

The Pacific Grove Natural History Museum's Monarch Sanctuary is about 10 blocks from the Natural History museum and weather permitting, this is one of the most magical events you can experience anywhere.

>> More about visiting Pacific Grove

10. 17-Mile Drive

Now, taking a cruise down the gorgeous 17-Mile Drive may seem to a be a weird way to end our top 10 list of indoor activities in Monterey, but there is a specific reason to do that:

You can stay inside your car the whole way and still get amazing views, see the sites, and enjoy some of the best of this beautiful area.

This is a perfect way to still experience and see a lot especially if it is cold or rainy.

The 17-Mile Drive is accessible from anywhere, but most start at the Shepard's Knoll where you will get a view of the Monterey Bay.

Some of the other stops include the Spanish Bay Beach, Seal Rock which is home to the weird and fun Gingerbread House (you will have to get out to see this one), the world famous Lone Cypress, and the home to the U.S Open Pebble Beach Visitor Center.

There is a fee to drive the 17-Mile Drive, but it is per car and not by person, so the more you can fit into your vehicle the better!

>> Learn more about visiting the 17-Mile Drive

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Food & drink, top 10 attractions in monterey, things to do in monterey county, california.

There are so many unique Monterey attractions that it can be hard to pick just one! Here's a quick overview of Monterey County's top attractions and things to do.

Called "one of America's most captivating aquariums" by ForbesTraveler.com, the famed Monterey Bay Aquarium is teeming with discoveries and interactive exhibits. Dedicated to marine research and conservation, the Monterey Bay Aquarium presents marine life on a truly grand scale.

In January 1958, the City of Monterey officially re-named Ocean View Avenue " Cannery Row " in honor of John Steinbeck , the author of the well-known novel by the same name. Today's Cannery Row, anchored by the Monterey Bay Aquarium, stretches along the waterfront and features restaurants, hotels, specialty shops, local artists' galleries and wine tasting rooms.

Old Fisherman's Wharf

Take in the sights, sounds and smells of Monterey’s thriving fishing industry as working trawlers unload their catch of the day (and seagulls try to get in on the action). Snap photos of sea lions and otters frolicking in the calm inner harbor waters or get up close and personal during a glass bottom boat tour, deep-sea fishing trip or whale watching tour . Don’t forget to grab a cup of steaming hot clam chowder, or stop by one of several restaurants featuring fresh Monterey Bay seafood. Fisherman's Wharf in downtown Monterey should be on visitor’s "must-do" list.

Pebble Beach

With eight championship golf courses , gourmet restaurants, spas and shopping galore, Pebble Beach isn't just a community; it's an attraction all its own. Be sure to wind through 17-Mile Drive for spectacular points of interest along the way.

Scenic Drives

17-Mile Drive in Pebble Beach is one of the best-known scenic drives in the world. It takes visitors past impressive homes and the world's greatest golf courses, as well as miles of scenic coastline and the serene majesty of Del Monte Forest.

Highway 1 from Monterey through Big Sur is the road trip of a lifetime. It's a State Scenic Highway and has been declared an All-American Road by the U.S. Department of Transportation's National Scenic Byways Program. 

Historic Sites

Monterey County, once the capital of Alta California, is the epicenter of California history. Explore the heritage of the California mission era at our three historic missions . Walk the Path of History to learn about the Mexican era, as well as the area's early literary history. Experience the works of Nobel Prize-winning author John Steinbeck and the agricultural history of Monterey County at the National Steinbeck Center in Salinas. Learn about the region's flora and fauna at the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History .

There is no shortage of lush acreage to discover. Fort Ord National Monument , Pinnacles National Park and the Point Lobos State Reserve offer hiking, hang gliding, mountain biking, camping, horseback riding, surfing, birding, diving and more. Find your park here .

Whether you're looking for the quintessential sandy California surfing beach, stunning cliffs with spectacular views of the ocean, or a picture-perfect rocky shoreline, you'll find it all along Monterey County's coast. Dive, surf, sail, kayak or watch wildlife at any of our 13 beaches - or just enjoy the scenery. Find your beach here .

Special Events

Monterey's widely acclaimed calendar of events attracts visitors from around the world. Music lovers are drawn to the Carmel Bach Festival in July and the Monterey Jazz Festival in September. Car lovers and racing fans descend on Monterey County for the legendary Monterey Car Week and Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance as well as racing events at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca . February's  AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am and April's Big Sur International Marathon  are just a few of many competitive events that take place throughout the year. Click here to see upcoming events .

Monterey County was named as one of 2013's "Top Ten Wine Travel Destinations" in the world by Wine Enthusiast Magazine and for good reason. It’s one of the largest wine growing and producing regions in California made famous by unique microclimates and diverse growing conditions that produce 42 varietals. There are wineries and tasting rooms in virtually every city in the county, including Marina , Salinas Valley , Carmel-by-the-Sea and Carmel Valley . Find your perfect wine tasting room here .

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• Rainy Day Activities

Indoor Activities in Monterey, CA

• TripBuzz found 70 things to do indoors in the Monterey area. From Monterey Bay Aquarium to Mission Basilica, Monterey offers a variety of rainy day activities and other fun things to do indoors — including 72 indoor attractions with ratings over 90%.
• There are 38 different types of things to do inside in or near Monterey, California. Some of the most popular types of these activities include: Theaters, Art Museum, History Museums and Spas.
• There are 16 indoor activities in Monterey, and 54 indoor attractions in nearby cities within 25 miles, including: Carmel , Salinas, Watsonville and Pacific Grove.

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Monterey bay aquarium, mission basilica, monterey museum of art, sculptures by the sea, ghirardelli ice cream & chocolate shop, the paper wing theatre company, museum of monterey, stevenson house, pacific house museum.

The 23 Best Activities To Do In Monterey, CA. 2024

By carrie green zinn.

Wondering what are the best activities to do in Monterey CA?

As a Northern Cal local, I can say that Monterey is one of my favorite go-to spots for a relaxing break from the busy Bay Area. 

Monterey, California is one of the most picturesque gems of the central coast. It’s nestled into the Monterey Bay, close to its famous sibling, Carmel and has a significant place in California’s history. 

Monterey blends its legendary beauty and miraculous marine life with a whole bunch of great activities that the whole family and all your friends will love.

Just a 2 hour drive south of San Francisco and Alameda , Monterey is also just a stone’s throw from the ever lovely Carmel-By-The-Sea.

Keep reading for all the reasons you should visit and all the best activities to do in Monterey, CA.

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Fun Things & Activities to do in Monterey, CA.

There’s a lot to do in Monterey! In this guide I will mention 25 of those fun activities, but if you’re short on time, don’t stress and focus on these top 5 picks for things to do without getting in your car.

1. Walk along Old Fisherman’s Wharf

2. Spend time in the Old Town Historic District

3. Walk from the Old Town to Cannery Row

4. Enjoy the Famous Cannery Row

5. Don’t miss the Monterey Bay Aquarium

#1 Walk Along Old Fisherman’s Wharf

The heartbeat of Monterey is its connection to the sea and its fisherman culture.

The famous Fisherman’s Wharf is adjacent to the National Historic Park in Old Town .

Wander the wharf and shop for souvenirs, have great fish and chowder, and watch the boats and sea lions in the water.

#2 Spend Time in the Old Town Historic District

Standing in the min square of Monterey, next to Fisherman’s Wharf, you’ll be in the Monterey National Historic State Park .

Monterey was the capital of California under Spanish and then Mexican rule from 1776 – 1848. Given its significance in California’s history, parts of the city are a Monterey State Historic Park.

The Old Town National Historic District includes 17 buildings. Here you’ll find the landmarks, buildings, and museums, like the Colton Hall Museum and Pacific House Adobe, the Custom House, the first brick building in California, and more that guide you through the history of the region.

Gather info for walking tours at the Monterey National Historic Park building at 20 Custom House Plaza next to Fisherman’s Wharf.

With so many sites, this is one of the activities in Monterey, CA that you may have to come back again and again to complete!

#3 Walk from the Old Town to Cannery Row

The path that leads from Old Town and Fisherman’s Wharf, along the waterfront is a .7 mile trail. 

Trust me, this is a much nicer experience than trying to park near Cannery Row!

It’s  a wide, paved bike and walking path with perfect views of the water the whole time. There are several lookout points and mini parks for you to stop for photos, and for watching and listening to the sea lions soaking in the sun on their favorite rocks.

#4 Enjoy the Famous Cannery Row

You can’t go to Monterey without visiting the one and only Cannery Row .

Made famous by John Steinbeck in the 1940’s when he published his book entitled Cannery Row , it is now the ultimate in touristy shops, restaurants, and upscale hotels on the water.

This was once the place where people worked in the canneries with sardines and fish. You’ll find the Monterey Bay Aquarium at the end of the Row and lots to look at and buy along the way!

→ Book a Cannery Row & Monterey tour in a car that navigates itself! No Kidding!

#5 Don’t Miss the Monterey Bay Aquarium

We’ve enjoyed the Monterey Bay Aquarium countless times and have never tired of this amazing place.

With the kids, or without, its fascinating for all ages. This is THE premier marine life museum and education hub in California and beyond.

You’ll find sharks, sea otters, penguins, and jellyfish. Thousands of species of fish and marine life, including a living kelp forest.

Plan on a at least a 3-4 hour visit to really enjoy all the exhibits. It’s not cheap, so be prepared! Totally worth it in my opinion. $59.95 adults, $49.95 Seniors, and $44.95 for kids. Under 4 are free.

→ Get your Monterey Bay Aquarium Tickets Here!

#6 Visit the Monterey State Beach

This very beautiful and popular beach is right off Highway 1 at the Seaside Exit . and is the largest of the Monterey public beaches.

It’s a favorite spot for surfers, but is also great for relaxing and exploring tidepools. The

Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary waters at this beach make it a  hub for scuba divers and snorkeling. You can also fish, kayak, play volleyball, and fly a kite here. And your dog is welcome on a leash!

#7 Whale Watching

Northern California whale watching is a very popular activity because the season for migration of many different whale species is pretty long.

This is a bucket list activity to do in Monterey, CA for sure!

You’ll find several boat tours along Fisherman’s Wharf.

Blue Whales May – October

Killer Whales April – May and August – October

Gray Whales December – May.

→ Book a Top Rated Whale Watching Tour with a 90% Success Rate HERE!

#8 Rent Surrey Bikes

Biking in Monterey is a great way to see the town and enjoy a little exercise at the same time. There are Surrey Bikes for rent around town as well as electric bikes and manual bikes.

I think the surrey’s are fun becasue you can a small one fits 3 people and a large one fits 6, so the whole gang can enjoy the adventure together!

Look for Adventures By The Sea at 685 Cannery Row to rent bikes, kayaks, and paddle boards. You can also take tours with them.

# 9 Take a Snorkeling or Diving Lesson

The water on the coast of the Monterey Bay is called the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary . And the Sanctuary has over 6000 square miles of water so apparently, there is plenty of space for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling!

Look for the dive shops and boat tours on Cannery Row for more information about where, when, and how!

#10 Picnic on Del Monte Beach

The Del Monte Beach is close to Old Town Monterey and is a popular beach, but not as big at the Monterey State Beach.

Its a cozy beach perfect for sitting and enjoying your lunch or snacks and take a break from the crowds on Fisherman’s Wharf.

You’ll find plenty of surfers here as well, because the waves may be a little more rough.

This beach also allows scuba diving, snorkeling, and swimming, but note that there are no lifeguards on duty.

#11 Hang Out at the San Carlos Beach

The San Carlos Beach is a smaller beach area right at the start of Cannery Row by the boat launch ramp. You’ll see a lot of divers here because its a great spot for the beginner diving classes.

#12 Take a Moment at McAbee Beach

Along Cannery Row , if you peek throught the buildings, you’ll find a walkway to McAbee Beach , a cove with boulders and a small sandy area. Keep an eye out for Otters!

Its very scenic and is a great spot to hang out and enjoy the waves for a bit as a break from the busy Cannery Row tourist scene.

#13 Play at the Famous Dennis the Menace Park

Monterey’s famous playground that was donated by Hank Ketcham, the creator of Dennis the Menace, has been a favorite spot since opening in 1956.

The park is on Pearl Street and has a full playground, a maze, and even a climbing wall. Very cool!

#14 Make your way to Lover’s Point

Lover’s Point Beach and park is in on 17th Street in Pacific Grove, just 10 minutes south from downtown Monterey.

It’s a community park for swimming, picnicking, fishing, and surfing. In addition to the sandy beach, there is also a grassy area and volleyball courts, and a children’s pool.

This is a popular spot for event rentals as well, but also a great viewing stop on the tip of the Monterey Penninsula.

#15 Enjoy the Trails at Asilomar State Beach

Asilomar is a one mile sandy beach with a rocky coast that used to be called Moss Beach in Pacific Grove .

The Asilomar State Beach and Conference Center is very close to Pebble Beach and is just 12 minutes from Monterey.

T he grounds of this state park offer trails, a beach, a dune preserve, and beautiful lodging and dining in the historic facilities.

#16 Find Time for Shopping!

Who doesn’t like to do a little shopping on vacation?

While there is plenty of shopping to do along Fisherman’s Wharf and Cannery Row in Monterey, it tends to be very souvenier and tourist shopping.

So, if your looking for something else, then be sure to shop in downtown Monterey on Alvarado Street as well. There, you’ll find some independent boutiques and shops.

#17 Drive along the Iconic 17 Mile Drive

I had to make #17 be the 17 Mile Drive!

This is the famous scenic drive through Pebble Beach with 17 spots along the way to stop and enjoy.

It’s gorgeous any time of the year but I highly recommend doing the drive to catch the sunset over the ocean with the cypress trees in view. Truly special.

You can enter at the Pacific Grove entrance and exit in Carmel , or do the reverse.

Take Highway 1 to Exit #68 toward Pebble Beach and you’ll see signs for the entrance to the 17 Mile Drive.

#18 Make Carmel-By-The-Sea part of your Monterey Itinerary

Visiting Carmel and The Carmel Beach will be a highlight of your trip to Monterey.

The Carmel Beach at the end of Ocean Avenue in Carmel-By-The-Sea is a lovely, white sand beach with stunning mansions overlooking the ocean.

The town of Carmel is filled with fairytale cottages, charming and quaint streets, and plenty of shops and restaurants.

Just a 15 minute drive from Monterey, it’s a different kind of beach town and absolutely worth the trip. 

#19 Explore the Carmel Mission Bascilica

The Carmel Mission located in Carmel-By-The-Sea on Rio Rd is just a 13 minute drive from downtown Monterey.

It was founded in 1770 by Fr. Junipero Serra and is one of the 21 missions that were built in California.

Originally started in Monterey, the Carmel location was made its permanent home. It is an authentically restored Franciscan mission.

You can take tours and enjoy the gardens or attend a service there.

#20 You Must Visit the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Visiting Point Lobos should be on your must do list when spending any time in Monterey or Carmel. It is by far one of the most gorgeous spots in California.

It’s a stunning nature preserve along the coast with trails and views for days! Enjoy the wildlife and the emerald green water, look for whales, and soak up the sun and salt air.

Trust me, you don’t want to miss Point Lobos. It’s just 15 minutes from Monterey.

#21 Hit the Links at Pebble Beach

Pebble Beach is the home of the famous golf course which is located between Pacific Grove and Carmel. If you’re a golfer, then save your pennies and enjoy a day on the links here!

You’ll find hotels and restaurants within the gold club area that have remarkable views.

Or if you’re not a golferlike me, then at least take the 17 mile drive to experience the beauty of Pebble Beach from your car!

#22 See the Magic at  The Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary  

The Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary on 250 Ridge Rd. in Pacific Grove is nothing less than a miracle of nature.

The Monarch Butterfly migration in the Fall of each year brings thousands of monarch butterflies to this sanctuary in Pacific Grove.

Pacific Grove is nicknamed Butterfly Town USA for a reason!

Visit in the months of October – March, 7 days a week until sunset for free with free parking to enjoy the phenomenon!

#23 Photo Op at the Bixby Bridge

The iconic Bixby Bridge in Big Sur is just a 30 minute drive south of Monterey.

It is by far the most picturesque bridge along the coast. It was designed to help residents of Big Sur have the access they need during the winter months when the rains are so heavy.

The bridge blends into the landscape in a way that is both artistic and not obtrusive.

This also happens to be the bridge made even more famous by the Big Little Lies TV show!

You can find a parking lot on the northside of the bridge at the west side of Highway 1 to stop for photos. Be patient, it’s a very popular photo stop!

Where To Stay In Monterey

Monterey, like any great California coastal town has many choice of hotels, inns, B&B’s etc. I’m going to suggest you stay close to all the activity so you can walk everywhere.

The Portola Hotel & Spa 2 Portola Plaza, Monterey

Located right in downtown Monterey, the Portola is a large, well appointed, luxury hotel, that offers full spa facilities with excellent ratings. It’s not right on Cannery Row like some hotels, so its a little more quiet. I’ve stayed here a few times and find it to be a great choice. It’s in a perfect location with access to all the main Monterery activities you want to do. Its literally within walking distance to all the landmarks, shops, and restaurants in town. Prices start at $191

Check Availability and Book the Portola Hotel & Spa Here!

→ If you need a car rental for your California coastal trip, Book right here!

→ Check Availability for Top VRBO Rentals Here!

What is Monterey most famous for?

Monterey is very important for its profound historic significance in the early days of California’s development. However,  Monterey is probably most famous for its part in renowned American author, John Steinbeck’s life .

He and his second wife and son lived in Monterey in the 1940’s.

Steinbeck wrote one of his most famous novels, Cannery Row , while living in the area.

The book depicts the fishermen, canneries, bordellos, and characters that made Cannery Row notorious around the world. Even though, in its day, Cannery Row was considered offensive to some, it is now a novel that is taught in literature classes around the country.

There’s a monument on Cannery Row celebrating Steinbeck and the people who inspired him.

When is the best time to visit Monterey?

Visiting Monterey in the Springtime, is a great choice because there is likely to be warmer weather, more sunshine, and fewer crowds.

That being said, because of the regions micro climates, you may find foggy moringa and sunny afternoons in the summer and fall that are quite lovely.

Winter in the central coast can be damp and chilly, but certainly is many people’s (including me) favorite time of year in the area. So few people and still a lot of things to do.

Carmel or Monterey? Monterey or Carmel? Which is better?

If you’re trying to make a choice between Carmel or Monterey, good luck!

They’re both great for different reasons. So, I’ll tell you how I have resolved this dilemma after 40 plus years of visiting the area.

The choice truly depends on what your preferences are and what kind of experience you hope to have. In the ven diagram of these two towns, both will end up with a lot of similarities and a lot of unique specialities.

This is why I recommend you stay in one, but visit both towns during the trip . Here are some deets.

→ Carmel has an incredibly quaint atmosphere and is renowned for its charming and storybook-like setting. Picture fairytale cottages, beautiful gardens, and cobblestone streets. Its one square mile make it the most walkable of vacation towns. 

→ Carmel has a strong artistic community, with alot of galleries and boutiques with bespoke creations. 

→ Carmel Beach is unparalleled in my opinion, in all of Northern California for its soft white sand, clean water, extraordinary views, and spectacular ocean side homes.

→ Carmel’s plethora of upscale shopping and dining experiences check off all your vacation must-haves. 

→ Monterey has a rich and significant history making it among California’s most important seaside locations. The evolution of Monterey from its origins and maritime past give visitor’s some insight into California’s early days.

→ Monterey is known for having one of the most important Aquariums in the country and is second to none in its research and education of marine life.

→ Monterey is a hub for a lot of outdoor activities such as kayaking, whale watching, scuba diving, and bike riding.

→ Monterey is obviously a seafood lover’s paradise. Fresh fish is available everywhere along with local wines, and lots of chowder.

→ Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf and Cannery Row offer as much tourist shopping and dining as any visitor can ask for.

Can you see why it’s easier to plan on visiting both towns?  Since they are just minutes apart and each offer great activities for fun and relaxation, why limit yourself to just one!

Now you’re an expert on all the activities to do in Monterey,CA.!

In a nutshell…

I hope you can discover the enchanting beauty of this region with my curated list of the best activities to do in Monterey, CA. that showcase the town’s unique charm. 

From the iconic Cannery Row and the Monterey Bay Aquarium, to Fisherman’s Wharf, and the scenic 17-Mile Drive, you’ll catch the breathtaking coast, learn a lot of history, and have a ton of fun!

The Central California coast has everything for everyone. Tell me what you like best!

Carrie Green Zinn is the owner and author of Carrie Green Zinn – A Travel Blog, which helps travelers become inspired to explore and step out of their comfort zones. Carrie focuses on family vacations, empty nest travel, and girlfriend getaways. Her work is informed by her life as a former dancer, therapist, and school psychologist. She brings her passion for writing, photography, and making the world a smaller place to her ever growing blogging audience.

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Hi There! I’m Carrie.

I’m a native New Englander, turned New Yorker , turned California girl ! Following a dance career, working as a dance therapist, and being a school psychologist, I’m now ready to share my passion for photography and travel with you! I absolutely love seeing the world with my family and friends. I know you feel the same! Let’s go! 

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A friend and I have decided we are tired of the ennui that has become our daily lives...and we're always saying things like "Oh, we should go do that!"...and then forget. So, this year, we've decided that we're going to make a jar of ideas and when we get bored or at least once a month we're going to go see or do something new. Both of us are barely making ends meet these days, so we need to keep it cheap.

Some of our first ideas: Go to the beach; maybe go on a hike or something. We wanted to see the aquarium but we found out its closed.

Anyways, we'd really appreciate if you point us in the right direction.

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10+ Fun Things to do During One Day in Monterey, California

• May 25, 2022
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Monterey, California, is a cute little town on the coast south of San Francisco at the northern end of California’s Central Coast . The area has miles of beaches and a variety of hiking and cycling trails. Spending one day in Monterey is the perfect addition to a Central Coast road trip and a good gateway to Big Sur and Highway 1. 

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a commission at no cost to you! 

Table of Contents

History of Monterey, California

The original inhabitants of the Monterey area were the Ohlone. They established themselves in the area and spent a lot of time fishing. Later, the Spanish came and conquered the area and built up the mission system. 

In 1821, the area gained independence from Spain and became part of Mexico. The area continued to grow and contained a lot of “firsts” in California. Monterey was home to the first theater, public school, library, and printing press. 

1849, saw Monterey as the host of California’s first constitutional convention. Throughout the 1900s, it continued to grow and became home to many famous artists and writers. Present-day, it is a nice escape along the coast. 

When to Spend One Day in Monterey, California

Spring is the best time to visit Monterey as the weather is super nice and it will be less crowded than the summertime. Fall and winter tend to be very chilly, so keep that in mind if you visit during those times. 

How to Get to Monterey, California

The closest airport to Monterey is in San Jose, California. It takes about an hour and 15 minutes to drive from there to Monterey. You could also opt to fly into San Francisco if you want to spend some time in that area as well. 

To get to Monterey from San Jose, follow the 101 south for 53 miles. Then get on the 156 west and take it to the 1 south. 

Transportation in Monterey, California

Although you could take a bus or a train from San Jose to Monterey, it is much easier if you have a car. I recommend renting a car through Autoslash as that is where I always find the best deals. Having a car will give you more flexibility and enable you to visit more areas. 

Where to Stay in Monterey, California

Hotels in Monterey can be very pricey. If you want to stay in Monterey, some good hotel options include the Holiday Inn Express Monterey , the Hyatt Regency Monterey , and the Hampton Inn Monterey .

To save some money, you can opt to stay in Salinas. Salinas is about a 15-20 minute drive from Monterey. I recommend staying at the Hampton Inn Salinas . You can always try searching Priceline Express Deals for a better price. 

What to do During One Day in Monterey, California

You can easily spend an entire weekend exploring all of the sites in the Monterey area. However, if you only have one day in Monterey, I recommend following this itinerary. 

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Cost: $10/car

Hours: 8am-7pm

Start your one day in Monterey by exploring Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. Point Lobos is a popular stop for hiking and for its gorgeous viewpoints. It is one of the most popular of California’s state parks. A lot of people like to scuba dive in this area as well and also has a few small beaches. Plan to spend the morning exploring what the area has to offer. 

Alternatively, you can book a guided 2-hour to learn and discover more about this place.

Lunch at Sarita’s the Original 

Hours: 10:30am-6:30pm

Stop for lunch at one of the best Mexican food places around. Sarita’s the Original has your typical Mexican fare and everything we tried was delicious. You can opt to eat it there or grab takeout to bring with you. 

Wine Tasting

The Monterey area actually has a ton of wineries in the region. Thus, after lunch opt to stop at one of the winery tasting rooms. I highly recommend either Hahn Estate or Taste Morgan. Make sure to make reservations online ahead of time, because the tasting rooms tend to fill up. Wine tasting is the perfect thing to do during one day in Monterey. 

At Hahn Estate, it is open 11am-5pm, Thursday to Monday. It costs $20 for a 45-minute tasting of 5 wines. They also have some more intimate tasting options as well. I really like their SLH Chardonnay. 

Taste Morgan is open Monday to Saturday from 11am to 6pm. A tasting consists of 4 wines for $20, but when we went, they gave us two bonus pours. I liked pretty much all of their wines. 

Alternatively, you could book this Carmel Wine Tour .

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Hours: 10am-5pm

After wine tasting, visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium. This aquarium is one of the most famous aquariums and is a huge complex. Although it is insanely expensive, it is fun to visit at least once. The aquarium is non-profit so a lot of the money goes towards conservation efforts. 

Make sure not to miss the Open Sea exhibit, which is the 1.2 million gallon tank you may have seen pictures of. Another popular exhibit is the Sea Otters. Plan to spend 3-4 hours wandering through the aquarium exhibits. 

Cannery Row and Old Fisherman’s Wharf

Hours: Varies by Store

After visiting the aquarium, opt to spend some time walking down Cannery Row and exploring the Old Fisherman’s Wharf . This area has a ton of shops and restaurants, so you can find a ton of options for dinner.

Cannery Row was once the area where the street was lined with sardine canneries. You may have heard about it from John Steinbeck’s novel “Cannery Row.” The Old Fisherman’s Wharf is a fish market that now has a ton of restaurants and bars. It is the perfect area to end one day in Monterey. 

More Than One Day in Monterey?

Monterey State Historic Park

Hours: Varies by Building

The Monterey State Historic Park incorporates 17 historical buildings in Old Town Monterey. It is home to California’s first theater and also the site of where the first American flag was raised in California. You can easily spend a couple of hours exploring the buildings and sites in this state park. 

The 17-Mile Drive

Cost: $11.25/car

The 17-mile drive is a very popular drive along the Monterey Peninsula. It passes along the infamous Pebble Beach golf course, mansions, scenic stops, and has amazing views of the coastline. If you have time, add it to your one day in Monterey itinerary. However, I have heard it gets very crowded and many of the stops are overrated as you can get them for free elsewhere. You can also do this 17-Mile Drive Self-Guided Audio Tour or opt to do this 17-Mile Drive Guided EBike Tour .

Pebble Beach

For golf lovers, you will want to book a tee time at Pebble Beach. This is one of the most popular golf courses in the world and is rated the number one golf course in the country. It is a very scenic course and should be on any golfer’s list. 

Day trip to Pinnacles National Park

Cost: $30 or free with the America the Beautiful Pass

Pinnacles National Park is located a little over an hour away from Monterey and makes for a fantastic day trip. It is a small park, but still has over 30 miles of hiking trails. Many of the trails connect together, so you have the option of taking shorter or longer loops. I recommend the Mosses Spring Trail to the Bear Gulch Trail to the Rim Trail. During certain times of the year, that trail passes through a cave with bats in it!

Final Tips for One Day in Monterey

Other fun things to do include Whale Watching , a Food Tour , or this Ghost Tour . Monterey makes for a fun day trip from San Francisco and should be part of any Highway 1 road trip. You can easily spend more than one day in Monterey and also spend time exploring more of Carmel. If you have more time, opt to head out on a Central California road trip. 

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Hi! I’m Francesca, a native Californian and history teacher who loves to travel. I’ve been to 66 countries across 7 continents and all 50 United States.

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This Cancer season, give into the comfort your heart is yearning for

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June is a feeling that floats at the forefront of every Angeleno’s mind at some point or another in the months leading up to it. Whether it’s the flickering memory of dancing to cumbias antiguas at the backyard asada for your best friend’s birthday, or the solar warmth of those first few hot days embedding itself in your skin on a Sunday at Topanga as you watch the surfers, June can be an ocean of comfort to the winter-weary mind and soul. The energy of Cancer, which presides over the second half of this moonlit month, tells us that sometimes the secret to comfort is also the secret to happiness, and that it involves three things: bathing in the sea, basking in your home, and forgiving your mom.

We’re transitioning into Gemini, and Rick Owens won’t let us lose our house keys

Homemaking is an art, a craft, a practice, a burden, a necessity, a privilege. It’s in the talismans that we arrange within our homes — including our house keys.

May 21, 2024

It’s no wonder that this time of year brings some of our deepest sentiments to the surface — it is the only astrological sign ruled by the moon, whose gravitational pull is in constant interaction with the 60% of the human body that is made up of water. Not just a water sign, but the water sign, some would say, Cancer has liquid depths that serve to remind us that the heart is at once delicate and meant to be felt, not known.

The energy of Cancer tells us that sometimes the secret to comfort is also the secret to happiness, and that it involves three things: bathing in the sea, basking in your home, and forgiving your mom.

Could it be, also, that the heart is meant to be consumed? We see a potent metaphor for the fourth sign of the zodiac in the Mono Silver Zeug cutlery set — a shiny smattering of tools for that sacred source of comfort: eating. The stainless-steel set has a softly brushed exterior, an at-once blunt and tender combination fitting for a Cancer. Named zeug after the German word for “stuff,” the utensil is a mediator for the intimacy of the hand-to-mouth gesture. A Cancer, like this set of utensils, is sharp. As the protective mother figure of the zodiac, the Cancer doles out moments of tenderness to those they deem trustworthy in environments in which they feel safe (and their standards for safety are elevated and nuanced), and barbs of cold, sharp moonlight to those they perceive as a threat to themselves, but more often their homes or someone they love.

We all, like knives, need to be held closely and gripped tightly. An icy skinny dip in the ocean under a full moon as you breathe a prayer. A mother-figure friend kissing the top of your head as she places soul-reviving homemade soup in front of you. A lovingly acquired brushed-steel spoon that you can cradle between your forefinger and thumb and use to collect all your tears about everything, everyone, everywhere, because why is it all so hard? Why doesn’t the world protect softness? Ultimately it must protect itself and those it loves. It’s a sacred vocation, as vulnerability must be protected at all costs. It’s what makes us not just humans of flesh and water, but souls. This Cancer season, allow yourself to plunge into deep, heaping forkfuls of the comfort your heart yearns for — treating yourself like a delicate alloy of light and spirit will make you strong.

Goth Shakira is a digital conjurer based in Los Angeles.

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Subscriber only, local books: physics professor turns his talents to flash fiction.

Colson is one of those rare people who are transported through life by the alchemy of a keenly intelligent, analytical mind and a tender heart. That is how he conceived a story about an android, a couple of centuries in the future, who is scheduled to terminate but wants to do so on her own terms, with the feeling of human touch.

Colson could tell us how it turns out, but he’d rather we read the set-up, and develop a sense of it from the setting, the circumstances, and the era, to gain perspective on the protagonist, enabling us to feel empathy at the end. Like most things, he’s thought it through.

Growing up in Royal Oak, Michigan, Colson knew, by the end of high school, he would go into either physics or math. Recognizing that, while math adds up, not everything you calculate in physics is going to work, so he decided to take the more difficult route and study physics theory at Wayne State University.

His passion for the field was further ignited by a professor who stood on his desk and shouted his academic passion, a la Robin Williams in the film,  “Dead Poets Society” (1989). It also may be what triggered his flair for the dramatic.

After earning his undergraduate degree, Colson worked in a technical research lab in Michigan, where his talents were recognized, earning him a ride to Stanford to earn his Ph.D. While seeking a project that would enable him to focus his thesis on something with practical applications, Colson learned about a project in the department regarding a superconductor accelerator, whose research findings were incomprehensible. His advisor asked him to take it on.

“The paper was actually correct but poorly written,” Colson said. “I explained it more simply, more clearly, and it pretty much set my career in motion. It is still used around the world. People came to me, offering research projects, and I never had to ask for funding.”

While at Stanford, Colson fell in love with a fellow student, who had given up tennis to double major in physics and English literature before continuing with the pursuit of her Ph.D in physics, with a focus on the absorption of X-rays by interstellar gas. Her name was Sally Ride.

“I moved to Houston with Sally and was there with her when she became an astronaut. We broke up in 1979 and, four years later, she was in space.”

Colson, who had been working as a researcher and assistant professor at Rice University in Houston, went on to work at UC Santa Barbara for five years, before moving on to the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, supported by consulting firm Berkeley Research Associates, which required a lot of international research.

“Yet I was sitting on a beach in Sicily when a professor from the Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) in Monterey introduced himself and asked me to apply to NPS. At this point,” said Colson, “I was kind of well known.”  Others have said there is no “kind of.”

Colson spent 25 years at NPS, investing three-quarters of his time on research contracts, and the other quarter, teaching. In 2015, the Carmel resident retired and found himself, above all, bored. Until he discovered The Carmel Foundation, a senior center whose mission is to provide a place and a reason for members to gather.

“The Carmel Foundation is a really great place,” Colson said. “They offer classes of all kinds — painting, sculpting, drawing, photography, writing. I took a painting class and quickly decided writing wouldn’t be as messy.”

Except maybe emotionally.

Colson’s approach to writing, similar to his physics career, is to allow curiosity to arise and then work to satisfy it. Whatever happened to the first cave painter, for example, 40,000 years ago? The new guy, with unprecedented skill, was he accepted into the clan? Colson wrote about him.

“One thing I really like, by the way, is being the new guy,” he said. “There aren’t any expectations. I can bungle things and mess up, and things will get better. With physics, for 40 years, I wasn’t the new guy. This is my chance. As a writer, I’m still new and still learning.”

In March of this year, Colson, who has now completed 80 short stories, selected his 10 favorite and published them in “Spectrum, Flash Fiction Stories,” so named since the stories cover a range of themes and always in one or two scenes. Yet all of them carry a central theme of significance. They mean something to the author, the characters and, hopefully, the readers.

Sometimes, when reading his own stories aloud, he becomes emotional. One of his writing instructors said she was reluctant to take on a physics professor, said she would have dropped him as a student, recalls Colson, had he not cried about his characters, become emotional as he developed their storyline.

“Wasn’t it Robert Frost who said, ‘No tears in the writer, no tears in the reader’? When I hit on something that triggers tears,” said Colson, “I know I’m onto something and should keep going.”

On June 6, Colson, poet Peter Thabit Jones, who published “Spectrum,” through his Seventh Quarry Press, and Julie Tully, manager of River House Books, hosted a literary conversation at the bookstore, where the book is available.

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