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Monterey (/ ˌ m ɒ n t ə ˈ r eɪ / ⓘ; Spanish: Monterrey) is a city in Monterey County on the southern edge of Monterey Bay on the U.S. state of California's Central Coast. Founded on June 3, 1770, it functioned as the capital of Alta California under both Spain (1804–1821) and Mexico (1822–1846).
- Things to Do in Monterey
- Things to Do Near Monterey
- Getting to Monterey, CA
- Where to Stay in Monterey, CA
- Where to Eat in Monterey
- The Best Time to Visit Monterey, California
- Frequently Asked Questions
Go on a Whale Watching Tour in Monterey Bay
Monterey is without a doubt one of the best places in the world to go whale watching. The Monterey Submarine Canyon allows for whales and dolphins to be seen close to shore, even with the naked eye. Monterey Bay is sometimes called “the Serengeti of marine life.” Gray whales pass by Monterey Bay as they make their way south from the Arctic seas to the warm waters of Baja California in November-December, to breed. In March-April, they make the return trek north with their young calves. They re...
Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium in Monterey, CA
The world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium is housed in a structure on Cannery Row, by the ocean. Visiting the aquarium is one of the most popular things to do in Monterey, for both kids and adults. At the aquarium, you can observe a variety of marine habitats, from kelp forests to the open sea and the rocky shores. There are some areas especially designed for kids. From sharks and sea bass to the giant Pacific octopus and the colorful inhabitants of tide pools, you can view lots of interesting c...
Kayak or SUP in Monterey Bay
If you are looking for an active way to explore the beautiful waters of Monterey Bay, consider kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding. The waters of Monterey Bay are sheltered and placid, making it a fun spot to paddle. Rentals are available at several places in town. Monterey Bay Kayaks offers rentals both in the city of Monterey and at Elkhorn Slough in Moss Landing. They also offer guided tours. Popular places to launch include Cannery Row in Monterey, Lovers Point Park in Pacific Grove, and...
Do the Scenic 17-Mile Drive through Pebble Beach
The 17-Mile Drivethrough Pacific Grove and Pebble Beach features beautiful coastal scenery. Starting at the Sunset Drive gate in Pacific Grove, the drive takes you past Spanish Bay to provide stunning vistas of beaches, the ocean, and golf courses, before finishing up in Carmel. Must-stop points along the route include the famous Lone Cypress, a photogenic Monterey Cypress tree that stands at the water’s edge, Bird Rock, Fan Shell Beach, and the Cypresses of Crocker Grove. There are pullouts...
Explore Fort Ord National Monument
If you enjoy the outdoors, you will want to explore Fort Ord National Monument, which has over 86 miles of trails. You can hike, bike, or go horseback riding in the monument, which features many different environments, from hills to grasslands. Trails at Fort Ord are open from dawn to dusk, and are great for viewing wildlife, birds, and wildflowers in season. The monument is home to numerous wildlife species, many of which are endangered and can’t be found elsewhere. At Fort Ord, you may see...
Visit the National Steinbeck Center in Salinas
If you enjoyed John Steinbeck’s many novels set in the region, you will want to stop by the National Steinbeck Center in Salinas. Discovering “Steinbeck Country” is one of the most unique things to do in Monterey. Steinbeck grew up in Salinas, and you can also visit John Steinbeck House, the childhood home of the author, located near the museum. The museum has an impressive collection of Steinbeck memorabilia, including manuscripts, family documents, photographs, letters, films, and artifacts...
Monterey Regional Airport has flight services from several major US cities, so it’s easy to fly in if you choose. Many visitors to Monterey arrive by road as well. Monterey is a must stop on a California road trip itinerary! Monterey makes for one of the many fun weekend getaways from San Francisco(or the SF Bay Area) you can do. The drive is just ...
Hotels in Monterey, CA
Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa features beautiful bay views, a full service spa, a hot tub with fabulous views, and a private beach. Located close to Cannery Row and the Monterey Bay Aquarium, the hotel offers spacious, well-appointed rooms, with dedicated sitting areas. Book a stay here! Intercontinental the Clement Monterey is located on Cannery Row, walking distance to shopping, wine tasting, and dining. The hotel features an onsite spa, a pool, and a children’s club. Rooms are spacious and el...
Vacation Rentals in Monterey
This sunny VRBO home is located in Del Rey Oaks, about a 10-minute drive from Monterey and Carmel. The 2-bedroom, 2-bath home is located on a rise and has a terraced garden in the front. Interiors are bright and well-appointed, and there is a full kitchen. An enclosed patio offers seating. Book a stay here! This Monterey Bay bungalow has two bedrooms and 1.5 baths, and is located in Seaside, a short drive from Monterey and Carmel. The home has an enclosed private courtyard for barbecues and a...
Estebanis a Spanish-Mediterranean restaurant in downtown Monterey. They have a beautiful patio for outdoor dining. The eclectic menu features the best seasonal, locally-grown produce and locally-sourced meats and fish. We loved the vegetable tagine and the saffron arancini. For lighter options, visit for happy hour. Old Fisherman’s Grottois good fo...
Monterey is a year round destination. The Monterey Peninsula offers fun activities and great weather any time of the year. Spring is beautiful on the Monterey Peninsula. The hills are clothed in bright fresh green, there are wildflowers everywhere, and the weather is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and biking. Fall brings warm temperatures...
***** Looking to explore more of Central California? Check out some of our other articles on fun Central California destinations! 1. How to Spend the Perfect Weekend in Santa Barbara 2. The Best Things to Do in Solvang, CA 3. The Most Awesome Things to Do in Cambria 4. The Best Things to Do in Morro Bay 5. What to Do in San Luis Obispo 6. Visiting ...
Things to Do in Monterey, California: See Tripadvisor's 179,248 traveler reviews and photos of Monterey tourist attractions. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in June. We have reviews of the best places to see in Monterey. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions.
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- Monterey Bay Aquarium. Called "one of America's most captivating aquariums" by ForbesTraveler.com, the famed Monterey Bay Aquarium is teeming with discoveries and interactive exhibits.
- Cannery Row. 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.
- 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).
- 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.
Vacation Rentals. Cruises. Rental Cars. Forums. United States. California (CA) Monterey County. Plan Your Trip to Monterey: Best of Monterey Tourism. By Management. 57,117. PLAN YOUR TRIP Monterey. Get ready for picnics on uncrowded beaches, ultra-fresh local seafood, and cozy hotels overlooking the abundant and beautiful Monterey Bay.
- Where should I stay in Monterey?We recommend staying at one of the most popular hotels in Monterey, which include: Monterey Plaza Hotel & SpaMonterey Bay InnMonterey TidesCasa Mun...
- What are the best places to eat in Monterey?Some of the most popular restaurants in Monterey include: Old Fisherman's GrottoLoulou's Griddle In The MiddleMontrioSchooners MontereySandbar & Grill
- What is Monterey known for?Monterey is known for some of its popular attractions, which include: Monterey Bay Aquarium17-Mile DriveDennis the Menace ParkCannery RowOld Fisher...
- What is there to do in Monterey?We recommend checking out these popular tours when looking for something to do in Monterey: Monterey Whale Watching TourHalf-Day Whale Watching Tou...
- When is the cheapest time to visit Monterey?If you're a more budget-conscious traveler, then you may want to consider traveling to Monterey between December and February, when hotel prices ar...
Aug 9, 2023 · 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.
Find things to do, places to visit, and experiences to explore at Visit California, the Golden State’s official tourism site. Learn about national parks, hotels, restaurants, beaches, mountains, cities, and more.
