Guide to the Best Things to Do in Monterey, California
Monterey, California, is a coastal town located on the southern edge of Monterey Bay. With its stunning natural surroundings, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene, Monterey is a destination that offers something for everyone.
One of the main draws of Monterey is its breathtaking coastline. Visitors can take a scenic drive along 17-Mile Drive, which offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, rocky coves, and rugged cliffs. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is another popular attraction, showcasing the incredible marine life that calls the bay home.
In addition to its natural beauty, Monterey also has a rich history to explore. The town was once a significant center of the California Gold Rush. Visitors can learn about this exciting period at the Monterey State Historical Park, which features a variety of well-preserved adobes and other historic buildings. The nearby Cannery Row is also a must-visit destination. Once a bustling sardine canning district, it is now home to various shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
With its natural beauty, rich history, and cultural attractions, Monterey, California, is a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list.
Monterey Bay Aquarium
Located on the shores of Monterey Bay, California, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is a must-visit for wildlife lovers and families alike. This award-winning aquarium is a global leader in ocean research, education, and protection. The aquarium’s mission is to showcase the diversity of marine life in the Pacific Ocean and educate visitors about their choices in the seafood they consume.
Monterey Bay Aquarium features two floors of exhibits, including a two-story aquarium. One floor features a life-sized kelp forest and an aviary containing sea otters, octopi, and other creatures. Another floor exhibits a sea otter’s life cycle and plastic’s impact on oceans.
The aquarium has 45 interactive exhibits: three gift shops and a cafe offering a quick bite or a leisurely lunch.
Old Fisherman’s Wharf
Located in Monterey, California, Old Fisherman’s Wharf is an enchanting waterfront destination. Visitors worldwide come to enjoy scenic coastal views and award-winning dining. It is also home to marine life and wildlife and is known as the Monterey Bay Whale Watching Capital of the World.
Whether you’re planning to take a whale-watching tour or want to enjoy the views from the water, Old Fisherman’s Wharf has a variety of attractions to offer. The pier features many seafood restaurants, fish markets, and specialty shops. You can also take a glass-bottom boat cruise and enjoy the ocean’s wildlife.
Old Fisherman’s Wharf offers a wide variety of gift shops if you want to buy souvenirs. You can purchase saltwater taffy, caramel apples, cotton candy, and more. The area is also home to the first government building in California.
Point Pinos Lighthouse (1855)
Located on the Monterey Peninsula, the Point Pinos Lighthouse is one of the oldest lighthouses still operating on the West Coast. It was built in 1855. Initially, it was used as a whale oil lantern, but it was replaced with an electric light in 1919.
The Coast Guard now operates Point Pinos Lighthouse as an aid to navigation. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Point Pinos Lighthouse is open 1-4 pm Thursday-Monday. You can also tour the lighthouse’s basement, where you can learn about the lighthouse’s history.
Point Pinos Lighthouse is located on a flat point with Monterey pines lining the coastline. The lighthouse is 43 feet tall and has a fog horn. In addition, it uses a Fresnel lens made in France in 1853.
Del Monte Beach
Located in Monterey, California, Del Monte Beach offers visitors a chance to explore the shoreline. The beach is a quiet, serene, and beautiful place to spend time. This beach is also a popular spot for wildlife watching. The shoreline is often home to seals, seabirds, and migratory birds. The ocean is also excellent for surfing, bodysurfing, and scuba diving.
The beach is also known for its large amounts of sea glass. Visitors can find this treasure in a variety of colors and patterns. The beach has plenty of benches, picnic tables, and a boardwalk stretching through the dunes. The shoreline is also lined with picnic tables and portable restrooms.
The beach is also accessible from a paved bike path. This path is part of the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail. The trail runs along the shoreline and eventually leads into downtown Monterey.
Lovers Point Park
Located in Pacific Grove, Lovers Point Park is a 4.4-acre park and popular wedding venue in Monterey County. It features a large grassy area, a beach volleyball court, a small children’s pool, and a snack bar.
Lovers Point Park is also the western terminus of the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail. This trail was constructed on the old railroad right of way and extended from Lovers Point to the sea. It is also a popular kayaking spot.
Lover’s Point Park is the best place to go if you want to watch the sunrise. It is also a great place to learn about sea life. In addition, it has some interesting rock formations.
Lovers Point Park is also the perfect place to go if you want to do some kayaking or fishing. In addition, it is a great place to visit with your family. There are many picnic areas, BBQ stoves, and a beach volleyball court.