Monterey is one of California’s prettiest coastal cities and is known for delicious seafood, a world class Aquarium, whale sightings & as the setting for John Steinbeck’s novel, Cannery Row. Explore the beautiful beaches, watch the sea lions at the wharf, take a scenic walk along the coastal cliffs or learn about Spanish history on Cannery Row.
Monterey
BEST TIME TO VISIT
Due to its location along the coast, the weather in Monterey is good all year round. However, we think the best time to visit is between April and May when the weather is getter warmer, the days are getting longer & there are fewer crowds. Not to mention hotel prices are lower.
TOP TIPS
— Best place to find whale watching companies is Old Fishermen’s Wharf.
— The weather can also be unpredictable and fluctuate throughout the day.
— To avoid the crowds at Monterey Bay Aquarium, go early or late.
— Use the free trolley to get around during the summer months.
WHAT TO SEE
MONTEREY BAY AQUARIUM
A non-profit aquarium & research center with exhibits, plants & animals related to marine life.
OLD FISHERMAN’S WHARF
A well-known historic & colourful wharf with stalls, restaurants & gift shops.
CANNERY ROW
Is a popular waterfront street that has a selection of restaurants, hotels, attractions, shops & nightlife.
MONTEREY BAY
A large bay area that stretches from Santa Cruz to Monterey inhabited by marine life & where you can see whales.
DID YOU KNOW…?
Monterey Bay Aquarium attracts over 2 million visitors annually. It was the first to successfully care for and display a great white shark & was the first to exhibit a living kelp forest. They also discovered the lifecycle of several jellyfish species ( flower hat jellies & purple striped).
WHERE TO STAY
DOWNTOWN MONTEREY
- The Monterey Hotel (see on Trip Advisor)
- Hotel Abrego (see on Trip Advisor)
MONTEREY BAY
- Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay (see on Trip Advisor)
- Lane Oak Lodge (see on Trip Advisor)
CANNERY ROW
TOURS TO BOOK
5 Free things to do in Monterey
- 17 Mile Drive – This exclusive seafront is dubbed one of the world’s most scenic drives. Stop to take pictures of the breath-taking views and coastline along the way.
- Old Fishermen’s Wharf – One of the top free things to do Monterey is walk along the Wharf, explore the attractions and watch the Sea Lions that have taken up residence here.
- Monterey Beaches – Head to one of the many stunning beaches in Monterey like Del Monte Beach or San Carlos Beach to go walking, have a picnic, or just relax with the sound of the ocean.
- Dennis the Menace Park – Have fun with the kids at this unique free playground & park area located on a lake with slides, climbing frames and even a steam engine.
- Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail – Walk along this easy 4-mile loop nature trail near Pacific Grove, stopping to see many types of birds and marine life.
what to eat in Monterey
Clam Chowder
Monterey and clam chowder are practically synonymous. Get it in a bread bowl for a real treat.
Where: Old Fishermen’s Grotto
Seafood
In Monterey, you are spoilt for choice when it comes to fresh sustainable seafood restaurants.
Where: Phil’s Fish Market in Moss Landing
Mexican Food
You can get all different types of Mexican food in Monterey, but we especially love the carne asada.
Where: Baldemiro’s Taco Shop
