A coastal city with Spanish colonial roots, now known for its aquarium, fresh seafood, and scenic 17-Mile Drive along the California coastline.
Monterey, California captivates visitors with its rugged coastline, rich marine ecosystems, and historical significance. This coastal city on central California's shore is home to the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium, the former fishing district of Cannery Row, and natural areas like Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. You can observe sea otters, seals, and migrating whales from the shore or join kayaking and whale watching tours. Monterey also offers insights into California's past through its adobe buildings and museums.
Explore the Monterey Bay Aquarium
The Monterey Bay Aquarium occupies a former sardine cannery on Cannery Row. Its exhibits showcase the marine life of Monterey Bay, from playful sea otters to ethereal jellyfish. You can watch feeding shows, touch tide pool creatures, and observe a giant kelp forest. The Open Sea exhibit houses hammerhead sharks, sea turtles, and schools of sardines in a million-gallon tank. Plan to spend at least 3-4 hours exploring the aquarium's many interactive displays and habitats.
Stroll Along Cannery Row
Cannery Row stretches along the waterfront where Monterey's sardine canning industry once thrived. Today, the old cannery buildings house shops, restaurants, and hotels. As you walk down the street, you'll see colorful murals depicting scenes from John Steinbeck's novel "Cannery Row." Stop into candy shops for saltwater taffy, browse art galleries, or try clam chowder at a seafood restaurant overlooking the bay. In the evening, Cannery Row comes alive with live music playing from bars.
Go Whale Watching
Monterey Bay is a prime location to see whales year-round. Gray whales migrate past from December to May, while humpbacks and blue whales feed in the nutrient-rich waters during summer and fall. Half-day whale watching tours depart from Fisherman's Wharf, taking you to optimal viewing areas. You might see whales breaching, spy-hopping, or fluking their tails. Dolphins, sea lions, and seabirds often appear too. For a different experience, you can kayak in the bay for close-up wildlife encounters.
Drive the 17-Mile Drive
The 17-Mile Drive winds through Pebble Beach and Pacific Grove, offering stunning coastal views. You'll pass mansion-lined neighborhoods, golf courses, and rocky shoreline. Stop at landmarks like the Lone Cypress perched on a rocky outcrop. Pull over at Spanish Bay to watch the sunset and listen to a bagpiper play at dusk. The $11.25 entrance fee is waived if you dine at one of the Pebble Beach restaurants. Allow 2-3 hours to drive the full route with stops.
Hike in Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Just south of Carmel, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve protects a beautiful stretch of coastline. Hiking trails wind through pine forests to hidden coves and rocky points where you can spot harbor seals on the rocks. Look for sea otters floating in kelp beds offshore. The 1.4-mile Cypress Grove Trail takes you through one of only two naturally occurring stands of Monterey cypress trees. Arrive early, as the parking lots fill up quickly on weekends.
