The 7 Best Things to Do in Monterey Bay

As one of the stars of the California coast, Monterey is a beloved seaside town perfect for family activities and coastal adventure. There’s plenty of beachside activity to enjoy here, from building sand castles to combing the beach for sea glass. Spend your day soaking in the sun’s rays and exploring the waterfront landscape made famous, in part, by author John Steinbeck. Finally, Cannery Row houses a few dozen eateries and cozy wine tasting venues for warming up after an adventurous day on the water. Here’s our take on the top things to do in Monterey Bay!

Take part in whale-watching wonders at Monterey Bay Whale Watch

There’s a chance you might see a humpback whale breaching the water when you go for a boat ride off the Monterey Bay coast.

Without question, one of the best Monterey Bay things to do is go looking for whales. Monterey Bay Whale Watch is one of the most popular whale-watching companies in the area, since marine biologists come along for the ride. That means you’ll have thoughtful narration during your experience, along with expert navigators. Captain and marine biologist Nancy Black has been studying whales in Monterey Bay for more than 25 years and knows right where to find them. Depending on the season, you might encounter humpbacks, blue whales or orcas.

Experience year-round marine life at Monterey Bay Aquarium

You’ll be tempted to take photos at every turn of the impressive Monterey Bay Aquarium.

No matter the weather, regardless of the season, you’re guaranteed an incredible experience at Monterey Bay Aquarium, a favorite location that has served as inspiration for blockbuster movies like Finding Dory and Star Trek IV. “I've been more times than I can count,” says aquarium visitor Shirley K. “It’s one of my favorite places on earth.” Dazzle the kids with an up-close encounter with a hammerhead shark or watch sea turtles sail by smoothly. Don’t miss the daily feeding sessions for the aquarium’s penguins, sea otters and more!

Paddleboard the bay with Adventures by the Sea

It’s exactly like walking on water, but with a paddleboard you can stand tall on the mild waves of Breakwater Cove.

Ready to test your balance? One of the best things to do in Monterey Bay is head to Breakwater Cove and spend a few hours exploring the bay on a paddleboard. Rentals and lessons are available through Adventures by the Sea, a local outfitter that will make sure you safely hone your skills and enjoy a smooth ride. You might even catch a glimpse of otters or sea lions as you coast along smooth waves.

Kayak by day or night

Experience sunset in a new way when you kayak off the seaside.

For a different perspective of the bay, rent a kayak and set sail just before sunset. Watch the changing sky highlight the seaside and witness wildlife settle in for the evening. Or join a tour through Elkhorn Slough, a picturesque seven-mile tidal slough and estuary home to hundreds of bird species.

Explore with a Sea Car

Have you ever toured around town in a Sea Car? These two-seater scooter cars give you the thrill of driving a convertible while letting your hair blow in the coastal breeze. A preprogrammed GPS route will take you along the harbor, through Cannery Row, over to Lovers Point and past historic landmarks. “Viewing the Monterey scenery from these cool three-wheelers is definitely a one-of-a-kind experience,” says Monterey local Cora Rose.

Find great surfing at Monterey Bay

Of course, one of the best Monterey Bay things to do is grab a wetsuit and hit the waves. Experienced surfers love the swells around Lovers Point, but beginners will find suitable breaks near Del Monte Beach. Sign up for lessons if this is your first time, or pop in to On the Beach Surf Shop if you’re ready to rent a board for the weekend.

Ride the wind at Monterey State Beach

A glorious view awaits any intrepid adventurers willing to take a paragliding lesson.

If you love adrenaline-fueled, outdoor adventures, take a soaring tour above the beach with a paragliding lesson. Fly securely in tandem with a guide coach as you take in incredible, bird’s-eye views of the Monterey Bay coastline and marine life below. If you prefer to keep your feet on the ground, the coastal breeze in Monterey is also perfect for flying kites.