Carmel Beach Ocean Avenue Shopping & Art Galleries Charming, walkable downtown full of boutiques, cafes, and fine art galleries. Carmel Mission Basilica 18th-century Spanish mission with beautiful architecture and gardens. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve Gorgeous hiking trails, coves, sea lions, and tide pools. Popular for photography and wildlife viewing. Wine Tasting in Carmel Valley Bonus: 17-Mile Drive Scenic coastal route between Carmel and Pacific Grove. Stops include Lone Cypress, Pebble Beach Golf Links, and Spanish Bay.
Monterey Bay Aquarium World-renowned for its exhibits of sea otters, jellyfish, kelp forests, and deep-sea creatures. Great for families and ocean lovers. Cannery Row Historic waterfront street with shops, wine tasting rooms, and seafood restaurants. Made famous by John Steinbeck. Old Fisherman’s Wharf Dining, whale-watching tours, and harbor views. Try clam chowder samples from multiple vendors. Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail Scenic walking/biking path that stretches along the coast. Great views and dolphin sightings possible. Whale Watching Tour Year-round opportunities to see humpbacks, gray whales, and orcas depending on the season.
Take a road trip down highway 1 for breathtaking coastal views of the California coast. Along the way you'll see Bixby Creek Bridge and plenty of photo opportunities. You can end your trip at McWay Falls View Point or keep going south!