Monterey County welcomes over 4.6 million visitors annually, drawn to its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and diverse attractions. This coastal paradise offers a wealth of experiences for travelers, from exploring the depths of the ocean at the Monterey Bay Aquarium to driving along the iconic 17-Mile Drive.
In This Article
Key Points
- The Monterey Bay Aquarium showcases a vast array of marine life and is a leader in ocean conservation
- Cannery Row and Monterey’s historic sites offer a glimpse into the region’s fascinating past
- The 17-Mile Drive provides breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and world-famous golf courses
The Journey Begins: Coastal Drive from San Francisco to Monterey
Embark on a scenic 2-hour drive from San Francisco to Monterey along Highway 1, winding through charming coastal towns and offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Notable stops along the way include:
- Half Moon Bay: Enjoy the quaint harbor and savor fresh seafood
- Santa Cruz: Visit the iconic Beach Boardwalk for a dose of nostalgia and thrills
- Moss Landing: Explore the vibrant marine life in Elkhorn Slough
Unveiling the Underwater World: Monterey Bay Aquarium
Dive into the wonders of the ocean at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, home to over 35,000 creatures representing 550 species. Must-see exhibits include:
- The Open Sea: Be mesmerized by the graceful dance of jellyfish and the power of tuna
- Kelp Forest: Discover the enchanting underwater forest teeming with life
- Sea Otters: Observe these playful creatures and learn about conservation efforts
Strolling Through History: Cannery Row
Step back in time as you explore Cannery Row, made famous by John Steinbeck’s novel of the same name. Once the heart of Monterey’s thriving sardine industry, today, Cannery Row offers:
- Unique shops and galleries housed in former cannery buildings
- Delectable dining options with stunning ocean views
- The Monterey Bay Aquarium at the end of the row
The Scenic Splendor of 17-Mile Drive
Prepare to be awestruck as you navigate the famous 17-Mile Drive, a winding road that hugs the Pacific coastline and passes through the iconic Pebble Beach Golf Links. Highlights include:
- The Lone Cypress: An iconic tree clinging to the rocky cliffs
- Spanish Bay: A picturesque white sand beach perfect for picnics
- The Links at Spanish Bay: A challenging golf course with breathtaking ocean views
Pacific Grove: A Quaint Coastal Town
Discover the charm of Pacific Grove, known for its Victorian architecture, vibrant monarch butterfly sanctuary, and pristine beaches. Don’t miss:
- Lover’s Point Park: A scenic spot for picnics, beach activities, and watching the sunset
- Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History: Learn about the area’s unique ecosystems
- Point Pinos Lighthouse: The oldest continuously operating lighthouse on the West Coast
Carmel-by-the-Sea: Art, Beaches, and Charm
Lose yourself in the enchanting village of Carmel-by-the-Sea, renowned for its art galleries, boutiques, and fairytale cottages. Highlights include:
- Carmel Beach: A pristine white sand beach perfect for sunbathing and surfing
- Carmel Mission: A beautifully restored 18th-century mission with lush gardens
- Wine tasting rooms: Sample local vintages from Monterey County wineries
Big Sur: Nature’s Masterpiece
Venture south of Monterey to explore the rugged beauty of Big Sur, where towering cliffs meet the crashing waves of the Pacific. Must-see attractions include:
- Bixby Creek Bridge: An iconic concrete arch bridge offering stunning views
- Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park: Home to the 80-foot McWay Falls and scenic hiking trails
- Pfeiffer Beach: A secluded beach famous for its purple sand and keyhole rock formation
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Fun in the Sun
Experience the nostalgia and excitement of the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, California’s oldest surviving amusement park. Enjoy:
- Classic rides like the Giant Dipper roller coaster and the Looff Carousel
- Beach activities such as volleyball, surfing, and sunbathing
- Dining on classic boardwalk fare like corn dogs and cotton candy
Exploring Elkhorn Slough and Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Immerse yourself in nature at two of Monterey County’s most pristine reserves. At Elkhorn Slough, you can:
- Kayak through the calm waters while spotting sea otters, harbor seals, and birds
- Join a guided tour to learn about the slough’s ecology and conservation efforts
At Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, discover:
- Scenic hiking trails that wind through cypress groves and along rocky cliffs
- Scuba diving opportunities in the protected marine reserve
- Chances to spot migrating whales from the shore
Fisherman’s Wharf Monterey and Monterey Peninsula Recreational Trail
Stroll along Fisherman’s Wharf Monterey, a historic pier featuring seafood restaurants, souvenir shops, and fishing charters. Then, explore the Monterey Peninsula Recreational Trail, an 18-mile paved path that offers:
- Stunning coastal views and access to beaches
- Bike rentals for a leisurely ride along the shore
- Connections to Cannery Row and Pacific Grove
Moss Landing and Pigeon Point Lighthouse
Discover the charming fishing village of Moss Landing, known for its antique shops, art galleries, and fresh seafood. Nearby, visit the historic Pigeon Point Lighthouse, one of the tallest lighthouses in the United States, offering:
- Guided tours of the lighthouse and grounds
- Overnight stays in the restored lighthouse keepers’ quarters
- Spectacular views of the rugged coastline
Swanton Berry Farm and the Delights of Local Produce
Experience the bounty of Monterey County’s agriculture at Swanton Berry Farm, a certified organic farm known for its delicious strawberries and artisanal jams. Enjoy:
- U-pick strawberries and olallieberries (a cross between blackberries and raspberries)
- Homemade strawberry shortcake and berry pies
- A glimpse into sustainable farming practices
Monterey’s Historic Sites and Cultural Attractions
Delve into Monterey’s rich history by visiting its well-preserved adobe buildings, museums, and cultural attractions. Notable sites include:
- Monterey State Historic Park: A collection of significant buildings from the Spanish and Mexican eras
- Colton Hall Museum: The site where California’s first constitution was drafted in 1849
- Monterey Museum of Art: Showcasing both contemporary and early California art
Marine Wildlife Exploration and Monterey Bay Hydrobikes
Get up close and personal with Monterey Bay’s marine life through unique experiences like hydrobike tours. These stable, pedal-powered water bikes allow you to:
- Glide across the calm waters of the bay while spotting seals, otters, and seabirds
- Learn about the area’s ecology and wildlife from knowledgeable guides
- Enjoy a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the coastline
Monterey’s Wine Tasting Journey
Savor the flavors of Monterey County’s thriving wine country, which boasts over 175 vineyards and 65 wineries. Highlights include:
- Carmel Valley: Known for its Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot
- River Road Wine Trail: Featuring a diverse array of tasting rooms and picturesque vineyards
- Pairings of local wines with artisanal cheeses and fresh seafood
Embracing the Great Outdoors: Activities in Monterey
Take advantage of Monterey’s stunning natural surroundings by engaging in a variety of outdoor activities. Options include:
- Hiking in the lush forests of Big Sur or along the coastal bluffs of Point Lobos
- Kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding in the calm waters of Monterey Bay
- Golfing at one of the many world-class courses, such as Pebble Beach or Spyglass Hill
FAQ
What are the must-see attractions at the Monterey Bay Aquarium?
Don’t miss the Open Sea exhibit, where you can watch mesmerizing jellyfish and powerful tuna, and the enchanting Kelp Forest exhibit. Be sure to visit the Sea Otter exhibit to learn about these playful creatures and the aquarium’s conservation efforts.
Can you explore the 17-Mile Drive without a car?
While driving is the most popular way to experience the 17-Mile Drive, you can also explore by bicycle. Rent a bike from a local shop and enjoy the scenic route at your own pace, stopping to admire the stunning vistas along the way.
What are the best spots for sea otter sightings in Monterey?
Elkhorn Slough is one of the best places to spot sea otters in Monterey County. Join a kayaking tour or visit the Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve to observe these adorable creatures in their natural habitat.
How can visitors best experience Monterey’s historic sites?
Walking tours are an excellent way to explore Monterey’s historic sites. Join a guided tour of the Monterey State Historic Park to learn about the city’s Spanish and Mexican heritage, or take a self-guided tour of the Path of History, which connects many of Monterey’s most significant landmarks.
What are the top whale watching tours in Monterey?
Several companies offer whale watching tours from Fisherman’s Wharf Monterey, including Princess Monterey Whale Watching and Monterey Bay Whale Watch. These guided tours provide the opportunity to spot gray whales, humpback whales, and even blue whales during their migration seasons.
