Explore Monterey, California

Monterey, on California’s central coast offers adventure and exploration, culture and food, as well as sunny afternoons at the beach. The wide, empty road, salt-tinged sea air, and ornamental Cypress trees create a unique and stunning environment.

Monterey County is home to famous sights like the 17-mile drive, the Spanish Bay golf course, charming towns like Carmel-by-the-Sea and Pacific Grove, the world-class Monterey aquarium, and stunning state parks and beaches. Here’s where to see the best of the best.

Must-do in Monterey

Point Lobos State Reserve

While Monterey County is a fully customizable destination, you can’t miss Point Lobos State Reserve. This dramatically beautiful park boasts forests, sea cliffs, wildflowers, and tide pools. Point Lobos offers some of the most amazing views in central California, accessible for all travelers – with paved paths and adventurous hikes.

17-mile Drive

The 17-mile drive is another must-do attraction in Monterey. This iconic stretch of Highway 1 takes you past some of California’s loveliest homes, as well as the breathtaking white sand Spanish Bay beach. Along the way, you will find stands of ancient Cypress trees, and plenty of seals and sea lions.

For a unique Spanish Bay experience, head to the Inn at Spanish Bay at sunset, where you can watch a bagpiper play along the sea cliffs every night of the year—a nod to the Scottish-style golf course.

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Animal lovers and children will want to stop at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, one of America’s most popular aquariums. It’s a massive facility and a great place to learn about California’s marine ecosystems. The aquarium is located at the end of Monterey’s historic Cannery Row, where it’s easy to check out the Monterey Pier and enjoy seafood or sweet treats overlooking the water.

Bixby Bridge

Complete your visit to the central coast by driving to Bixby Creek Bridge, located about halfway between downtown Monterey and the entrance to Big Sur. This bridge has appeared in films and has been featured in numerous car commercials. It’s a photographer’s dream, showcasing architecturally striking designs in a magnificent natural setting.

Unexpected Gems

Although Monterey is a renowned tourist destination, plenty of locations and activities will surprise you and make return visits interesting.

Farmers’ Markets

Monterey County has a bounty of agriculture nearby, making the farmers’ markets incredible. There is one nearly every day of the week, but the largest occurs in Monterey on Tuesday nights. You can find fresh produce alongside food stands from local restaurants and art vendors.

Carmel-by-the-Sea

Just a few miles from Monterey lie the quaint villages of Carmel-by-the-Sea and Pacific Grove. Carmel is perfect for window shopping, featuring boutiques, galleries, and gift shops. Be sure to stop at the Tuck Box for an English-style tea in a storybook cottage, or grab sandwiches from Nielsen Market to enjoy alfresco. The town has a historic mission and several lovely parks for picnics. Downtown leads directly to the town’s long, white sand beach, making it an ideal place to end the afternoon.

Pacific Grove

Pacific Grove, though less popular, is a classic seaside village complete with Victorian architecture and a tight-knit community. Lovers’ Point Beach provides great views, and nearby is the Lovers’ Point Book Shop, which not only has an impressive literary selection but also a café serving unique drinks (be sure to try the signature lavender latte). Pacific Grove also features Asilomar, a retreat center with hiking trails through forests, along sand dunes, and along sea cliffs.

Where to Eat & Drink

Best Eats

Monterey’s food scene offers upscale dining options as well as casual spots. For seafood, enjoy the classic Sardine Factory or the rustic Monterey Fish House. The best sandwiches in Monterey County can be found at Mundo’s; do try the Argentine tri-tip.

Craft Brews

For local brews and tasty beer snacks, visit Alvarado Street Brewery or check out the Central Coast outpost of Bay Area brewery Fieldwork, which recently opened a beer garden in Monterey. Both locations offer a great ambiance, welcoming children and pets.

Wine Lovers

For those who appreciate wine, the Central Coast boasts plenty of options. Although it’s not as widely recognized as Sonoma or Napa, it produces a host of world-class wines. Cowgirl Winery in Carmel Valley features a charming tasting room in a repurposed wood barn, complete with a boutique selling local jewelry and gifts, along with cowgirl hats.