"Frolicking sea otters, fast-swimming sharks, pulsating jellies and waddling penguins — our world-class exhibits and breathtaking scenery instill a love of the ocean in our visitors. With over 200 exhibits and 80,000 plants and animals, the Aquarium is a window to the wonders of the ocean."
"Ghirardelli has been around for over 160 years, making it the oldest continuously operating chocolate maker in America. The company was founded in San Francisco in 1852 by Domenico Ghirardelli. Domenico was an Italian chocolatier, first introduced to the craft as an apprentice to a candy maker when he was a young boy."
"One of the best things to do in Monterey is to join one of the whale watching trips offered year-round by Monterey Bay Whale Watch. These trips allow you to observe the spectacular diversity and abundance of whales and dolphins inhabiting the Bay. Monterey is the best place in the nation to view a variety of marine mammals and seabirds."
"According to local legend, this park was originally called "Lovers of Jesus Point," back in the era when Pacific Grove was a Methodist retreat camp. Since the late 1800s, the beach at Lovers Point in Pacific Grove has been a popular spot for boating and swimming, and over recent decades surfers have joined the mix. Lovers Point Park has above all become Pacific Grove's best-loved spot for picnics, plein air painting, and scenic photography. Because of its unique east-facing location, it is also one of the only spots on the West Coast where you can watch the sun rise over the water."
"John Steinbeck’s Cannery Row captured life on Cannery Row during its industrial heyday, but the story began long before canneries lined the famous street. The history of the Row is a fascinating tale, from Native American, Asian and European settlement, through the boom and bust of the whaling and sardine industries, to restoration and re-development. Past and present influence the architecture, cuisine and attractions as Cannery Row continues to celebrate the unshakable spirit on which it was founded."
"The waterfront Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail stretches 18 miles, from Castroville in the north to Pacific Grove in the south. This popular paved path hugs the coast, following the same route as the old Southern Pacific Railway. The rec trail is a great way for families to reach the Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row, the American Tin Cannery shopping and outlet mall, Fisherman's Wharf, and much more - avoiding busy roads and parking hassles."
"It has seen bales of Chinese silks and barrels of Spanish wine, whaling ships, Navy cutters, and fishing boats by the score; Fisherman's Wharf, in its various incarnations, has been the focus of Monterey's economic life for centuries."
"At The Meatery, we do things the right way. No compromises. Our animals are sourced from sustainable and ethically focused farms, local when possible. Every product we offer is created in house—from hand cut meats and small batch charcuterie to gourmet sandwiches and seasonally inspired hot food."
The bakery is located at Cooper-Molera. "Cooper-Molera is significant as the original home of John Bautista Rogers Cooper, an American sea captain who settled in Monterey during Mexican rule in the early 20th Century. Cooper became a successful merchant, and acquired extensive landholdings throughout Northern California. His wife, Encarnación Vallejo Cooper, was the sister of General Mariano Vallejo, who played an important role in California’s transition from Mexican rule to an American territory. Subsequent generations of the Cooper family made significant contributions to the development of agriculture in the Salinas Valley."
"Jacks Peak County Park is a perfect spot for a day hike. Located in Monterey, Jacks Peak County Park has fossils from the Miocene epoch, stunning vistas of Monterey Bay and Carmel Valley, and one of the only remaining natural stands of Monterey Pine trees in the United States. It is also a great spot for a picnic, with picnic tables located close to restrooms, some with grills. Jacks Peak County Park is celebrated by birders for the many species it houses and is part of the Central Coast Birding Trail."
"Our afternoon historic Monterey walking tours take you from the modern era back in time, from the Spanish explorers to California statehood, as we visit historic buildings and hidden gardens, and learn why Monterey is the “Cradle of California”. Our morning Cannery Row walking tours travel from end to end , enjoying the wonder of the Monterey Bay, those cute little sea otters, and walking in the footsteps of John Steinbeck’s characters from the bygone fishing and canning era."
"Aptos St. BBQ established in May 2009 by the Ingram Family is an authentic local barbeque & blues experience in a casual setting. A selection of smoked meats, fresh produce, and thoughtfully sourced ingredients create the most amazing food and barbeque. Nightly live blues acts, an extensive craft beer list and American wines served by a welcoming faces completes the experience."
"Family owned and operated by Michael Morse since 1976, Original Ferrell’s Santa Cruz is the destination of choice for both locals and visitors alike seeking fresh, quality donuts and more: such as great bagel sandwiches and made-to-order big and delicious sandwiches."
"The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is recognized as the best seaside park in the world. Our vibrant, bustling amusement park is renowned for its great rides, remarkable history, spectacular beach setting, and friendly attitude. The Boardwalk has been operating since 1907, and it hasn't missed a beat!"
"Spend a day with your family at our family ranch and breathe in the fresh air and countryside atmosphere. Pick your favorite fruit of the season right off the tree or vine; then, picnic among the apple trees and the hills. Take home a jar (or two) of fresh berry jams, a jug of our fresh pressed apple juice, and eat the best pies this side of the Rockies!"