Things To Do
Monterey Bay Aquarium
The Monterey Bay Aquarium is one of the best in the world, showcasing incredible marine life from the local coastline and beyond. It’s a fun, easy stop for all ages and a great way to experience the beauty of Monterey Bay up close.
Monterey Wine Country
Monterey Wine Country offers beautiful vineyard views and relaxed tasting rooms featuring cool-climate wines, especially Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon sipping, exploring, and enjoying the local scenery.
Discovery Whale Watch
Discovery Whale Watching offers an unforgettable way to experience Monterey Bay, one of the best places in the world to see whales. Cruises give you a front-row seat to incredible marine life, all just offshore.
Monterey County Youth Museum
The Monterey County Youth Museum (MY Museum) is a colorful, interactive children’s museum located in downtown Monterey. It’s a great stop for families traveling with kids, offering hands-on exhibits focused on creativity, science, and imaginative play.
Big Sur Adventures, 17 Mile Drive
Big Sur Adventures offers guided tours along the famous 17-Mile Drive, with stunning coastal views, iconic landmarks, and plenty of photo stops. It’s an easy, scenic way to experience one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline.
Monterey Museum of Art
The Monterey Museum of Art showcases an impressive collection of California art, from historic landscapes to contemporary works. With rotating exhibitions and two locations in Monterey, it’s a great cultural stop while exploring the area.
Colton Hall Museum and Jail
If you enjoy local history, check out Colton Hall Museum downtown. This beautifully preserved building played a major role in California becoming a state—and it’s a quick, interesting visit while exploring Monterey.
Adventures By The Sea
Kayaking/Paddle boarding/Biking A fun way to explore Monterey’s coastline with bike, e-bike, kayak, and paddleboard rentals right on Cannery Row—perfect for getting outside and seeing the bay (otters included 🦦).
Monterey Ghost Tour and/or Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl
Looking for something fun and different while you’re in town? Check out the Monterey Ghost Tour with US Ghost Adventures — a guided evening walk through historic downtown filled with local history and spooky legends. A great after-dinner activity for adventurous guests who want to explore Monterey after dark!
Cannery Row
Cannery Row is a lively waterfront stretch in Monterey with shops, restaurants, ocean views, and a bit of classic California history. It’s a great spot to walk around, grab a bite, and enjoy the coastal vibe.
Carmel-by-the-Sea
Carmel-by-the-Sea is a charming, storybook seaside town known for its fairytale cottages, white-sand beaches, and walkable village filled with galleries, boutiques, and amazing food. Just a short drive from Monterey, it’s the perfect place to wander, relax, and take in the coastal beauty.
Pebble Beach Golf Links
Pebble Beach is home to some of the most famous golf courses in the world, known for stunning ocean views and legendary fairways. Whether you’re playing a round or just stopping by to see the scenery, it’s a must-see for golf lovers.