Things to do in Monterey

Nestled just above sea level on Monterey Bay, the city is surrounded by jaw-dropping beauty and endangered species. This coastal city and namesake county offers you arrays of outdoor activity options—complete with historic sites, missions of yesteryear and unlimited cultural vibrancy. It celebrates its hard-working past and humble history as a major fishery. Complete with numerous conservation areas and marine reserves, Cannery Row and the annual Monterey Jazz Festival, the Monterey Peninsula seems almost magical.

1. Waterfront Wonderlands

John Steinbeck made this historic waterfront district of Cannery Row forever famous. His Cannery Row novel chronicled the area back in the Great Depression when it was rowdy and raucous. Fast-forward to today and you'll find eager merchants waiting to cater to your every whim as you stroll through the area. Shop in eclectic boutiques and outlets, listen to the jazz that this city is famous for or just head to the beach. Take some time to walk by the bust of Steinbeck at the bottom of Prescott Avenue, as well as the historical shacks occupied by the cannery workers of yesteryear at the base of Bruce Ariss Way.

2. Learning About Everything Aquatic

The Monterey Bay Aquarium, also located on Cannery Row, is one of the most famous in the country. Situated on the ocean’s edge and also using its salt water to circulate within its habitats, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is your gateway to marine life—full of playful penguins and sea otters to fear-invoking sharks and graceful jellyfish. Close your eyes before you enter, and imagine that you're standing beside an underground canyon that's wider and deeper than the Grand Canyon. The fact is, you are. The adjacent Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary contains such a canyon, teeming with kelp forests and a variety of marine life. Think giant octopus, graceful jellies, leopard sharks, playful otters and some 550 other species. It really is that amazing.

3. The 17-Mile Drive of Bliss

A major must while visiting Monterey is a leisurely cruise on the 17-Mile Drive and photo op with the Lone Cypress—California’s most famous tree and even a top contender for the world’s most photographed tree. Expect nonstop ogling out the windows of the rocky coastline and magnificent mansions. You'll pass the famous landmarks, along with abundant deer and acres of breathtaking natural beauty. There are scenic pullouts along the way, so take full advantage of them—especially if you’re the one behind the wheel.

4. Classic Seaside Amusement

Need a change of pace? Head one hour north to Santa Cruz on the northern tip on Monterey Bay. The city offers a much more relaxed beach vibe with the Santa Cruz Beach and Boardwalk, a classic seaside amusement park that’s been entertaining the masses since 1907. Old-fashioned boardwalk fun is hard to come by these days, which is why a day trip is worth it. Let the Ferris wheel carry you up, up and up until your head is in the clouds, or scream with fearful delight on the historic Giant Dipper Roller Coaster. Whether you have two or 20 people in your group, entrance to the boardwalk is free. You'll pay only for the rides, games and munchies.

5. Get Active

Not only is Monterey a waterfront community, its temperate year-round climate and landscape is ideal for outdoor and oceanic adventures. Thrill-seekers can plunge headfirst into the Monterey experience if water temperature and the occasional great white shark aren’t bothersome. Start by renting sea kayaks at the wharf for a tour of the calm waters of the bay, or rent bikes for everyone to cruise along the Coastal Bike Trail. The trail also keeps right on going to the gate of the 17-Mile Drive. Keep a lookout for sea lions, otters, whales, dolphins and more along the mostly waterfront adventure. If you need more on-the-bay time, take the family out on a whale-watching tour from the wharf or opt for some deep-sea fishing.

6. Elkhorn Slough

If your travels to California’s Central Coast still require more peace and quite than Monterey has to offer, take a hiatus in Moss Landing. Also a historic fishing village, Moss Landing takes the concept of quaint to the next level. The city is 20 minutes north of Monterey and is a hidden treasure loaded with seafaring options. Touted as one of the best places in America to see marine wildlife, make reservations with Captain Yohn Gideon for an Elkhorn Slough Safari on the high sea. With a naturalist aboard to point out the wildlife and give a history lesson, you'll see a plethora of aquatic creatures. If you're lucky, that might even include a "raft" of dozens of sea otters hanging together to sun themselves.

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