Things To Do
in Monterey
Monterey sits on California's Central Coast where the Pacific crashes against rugged shoreline and a storied fishing heritage remains visible along the harbor. World-class seafood, a famed aquarium, and a scenic coastline make it a compact coastal escape. Strolling Cannery Row, walking the harbor, and driving the iconic 17-Mile Drive offer easy ways to savor the scenery.
Whether you're chasing sea life, coastal hikes, or gourmet meals, Monterey blends culture and nature in a relaxed, ocean-forward setting.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Cannery Row, where you can enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local café overlooking the harbor. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, soaking in the charming architecture and vibrant atmosphere of this historic district. Don't forget to stop by the Pacific Biological Laboratories, where you can learn about the area’s rich marine history.
In the afternoon, dive into the fascinating world of marine life at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, renowned for its interactive exhibits and conservation efforts. After your aquarium visit, explore the shops and galleries along Cannery Row, picking up unique souvenirs or local art. Treat yourself to a seafood lunch at one of the restaurants with ocean views, savoring the fresh catch of the day.
As the sun sets, head to the shoreline for a sunset walk along the Coastal Recreation Trail. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean as the sky transforms into vibrant hues of orange and pink. For dinner, indulge in a fine dining experience at a waterfront restaurant, relishing the local flavors of fresh seafood.
Kick off your day with a scenic drive along the famous 17-Mile Drive, where breathtaking coastal views await at every turn. Stop at iconic viewpoints such as the Lone Cypress and Pebble Beach, capturing stunning photographs of the rugged coastline. As you wind your way through the picturesque scenery, take a moment to enjoy a picnic breakfast at one of the designated areas.
Continue your journey with a visit to the charming town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, known for its art galleries and boutiques. Stroll through the picturesque streets, stopping for lunch at a cozy café that offers local specialties. Afterward, explore the beautiful Carmel Beach and take in the stunning Pacific views while relaxing on the sand.
As evening falls, return to Monterey and consider visiting a local winery for a tasting experience. Savor a selection of wines while enjoying vistas of the vineyards at sunset. For dinner, find a quaint bistro and enjoy a meal made with local ingredients, celebrating the flavors of the region.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🏨Hotel per night (mid-range) | $150-350 |
| 🚆Public transit (one-way) | $1.75-3 |
| ☕Coffee or pastry | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic coastal beauty and easy access to nature
- Strong seafood and farm-to-table scene
- Compact, walkable downtown with cultural charm
- Touristy in peak season
- Limited nightlife compared with bigger cities
- Higher costs of dining and lodging on the coast
Places to Visit in Monterey
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic lone tree perched on a cliff with dramatic ocean vistas—one of the region’s most photographed viewpoints.
Historic cannery buildings along the water with boats, pilings, and moody sunset lighting.
Harbor scenes, boats, and colorful storefronts providing varied coastal angles.
Cliffside beaches and turquoise water framed by rugged shorelines (nearby to Monterey and Pacific Grove).
Coastal coves, sea stacks, and rugged headlands ideal for landscape photography.
Food in Monterey
Monterey Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty seafood stew with crab, clams, shrimp, and fish in a tomato-wine broth; best enjoyed at Cannery Row eateries and waterfront restaurants.
Must-Try!
Whole steamed crab or crab cakes, a seasonal central coast favorite served with drawn butter and lemon.
Delicate pan-fried local flounder served with garlic butter—popular at casual seafood spots along the wharf.
Creamy regional chowder served in a warm sourdough bowl, a coastal staple at many waterfront eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market featuring local produce, seafood, prepared foods, and crafts; a great place to sample fresh bites.
Seasonal vendors along Cannery Row offering snacks, coffee, and local treats with waterfront views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet staff politely, say please and thank you, and respect quiet residential areas, especially in evenings.
Do not harass wildlife; maintain distance from sea otters and other wildlife; avoid feeding animals.
Follow posted safety guidelines near beaches and rocks; stay on designated paths to protect fragile coastal habitats.
Safety
Tipping in Monterey
Ensure a smooth experience
In the United States, tip 15-20% of the pre-tax bill at dine-in restaurants; $1-2 per drink at bars; extra for exceptional service.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is also fine; many venues support contactless payments and mobile wallets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Typically mild to warm days with ocean breezes; coastal fog can roll in mornings or evenings. Pack layers, sunscreen, and a light jacket for cooler nights.
Continued pleasant weather and good visibility; whale watching often productive; shoulder-season crowds begin to ease.
Cool and wetter months with occasional storms; expect cooler sea temps and jacket weather; indoor dining becomes popular.
Mild and fragrant with wildflowers along the coast; marine layer can linger, clearing to sunny afternoons.
Monterey at Night
Hiking in Monterey
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic coastal trails with sea cliffs, coves, and wildlife; options range from easy strolls to more challenging hikes.
Cliffside and beach routes between Carmel and Big Sur with panoramic ocean views.
Redwood canyons and rolling hills with forested trails near Carmel Valley.
Coastal boardwalks and dune landscapes with ocean views, nearby to Pacific Grove.
Airports
How to reach Monterey by plane.
A small regional airport with domestic flights and quick access to downtown Monterey.
A larger hub about 70-90 miles north, with broad domestic and international connections.
Major international gateway roughly 120 miles north; frequent cross-country and international flights.
Bay Area hub with convenient connections and a driveable distance to Monterey.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, retirees, and long-time locals with a strong maritime heritage.
A steady stream of tourists drawn to the aquarium, coastline, and historic Cannery Row.
A growing student population nearby contributing to a youthful and active scene.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
World-class courses nearby, including Pebble Beach, Spyglass Hill, and the Del Monte Golf Course.
Harbor sailing and bay cruises are popular from the Monterey waterfront.
Calm bay waters are perfect for paddling along the coastline.
Several beaches offer beginner to intermediate surf spots with local schools available.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Monterey.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Monterey restaurants offer veg-friendly options such as salads, roasted vegetables, and pasta dishes; ask about egg or cheese in sauces when needed.
Gluten-free options are commonly available; inform the staff about cross-contamination concerns and sauces or bread ingredients.
Dairy-free choices exist; request sauces, dressings, and non-dairy milk alternatives when ordering.