Renowned for its mouth-watering seafood, awe-inspiring coastal scenery, and fascinating culture, Monterey is an unmatched treat for adventurers. Its stunning cliffs overlooking the ocean and picture-worthy stops along the trails are sure to grab life’s nature moments.
Undoubtedly, it’s fortunate to offer exciting and unforgettable getaways for everyone.
While there are many things to do in this charming town, these 10 make it an undeniably delightful holiday destination.
10 Explore What’s Beneath The Monterey Bay Aquarium
Located at Cannery Row, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is one of the most exciting makeovers that showcase the dazzling undersea world. The glass-walled tank hosts over 35,000 animals and 550+ plant species. The adorable and furry mammals put on quite a show during feeding times, giving curious visitors a chance to interact with them through the glass window. The giant Pacific octopus is also pleasing to look at, especially once it unfurls its sucker-covered tentacles.
9 Visit The Big Sur
The natural grandeur of the Big Sur is a breathtaking beauty any traveler would love to tick off their bucket list. This roughly 100-mile coastline will beckon viewers with its natural beauty and other scenic attractions that make the road trip worthwhile. It offers plenty of pull-off spots like the Bixby Bridge, one of the most photographed places, thanks to its magnificent setting.
In addition to its mind-blowing views, it’s home to endangered California condors, seaweed, migrating whales, and floating sea otters.
8 Stroll Down The Old Fisherman’s Wharf
The Old Fisherman’s Wharf is yet another Monterey gem that has come a long way since 1846. It’s an iconic destination for travelers who want to shop for unique souvenirs, eat delicious meals at world-class seafood restaurants, and enjoy dip-sea fishing. That’s not all. There’s a charming coastal view and waterfront atmosphere that lets visitors escape the stress of everyday life.
Daring adventurous can sign up for a whale watching tours and other ocean expeditions. Without a doubt, it’s one place visitors shouldn’t leave their cameras behind.
7 Enjoy The Natural Beauty Of The Coastal Recreation Trail
Approximately 18 miles from the Castroville, this rail-trail is a perfect definition of what California dreams are made of. It provides access to magnificent beaches and marinas with small bright boats that make the entire trial a beauty on its own. Some parts are specially designed for pedestrian lanes and bike rides, which is an excellent addition for travelers who want to burn some calories.
6 Stop By The Ghirardelli Ice Cream And Chocolate Shop
Visiting Monterey during summer gives travelers an acceptable excuse to satisfy their taste buds with frozen treats. Where else, if not the Ghirardelli Ice Cream shop? It emits an irresistible smell of several Ghirardelli chocolate flavors and ice cream shakes. Sitting on the balcony while enjoying some Brownie Sundae covered with hot fudge gives travelers an exquisite ocean view. It sounds like a piece of heaven on earth.
5 Visit The Monterey State Historic Park
For tourists who love digging into local history, this historical site is a must-visit. The two-mile path features 55 historical buildings that are nothing short of fantastic. Guests who visit in October can engage in the Monterey History Festival, where residents cheerfully re-enact their most treasured historical moments. There’s an informative online map that history lovers can take advantage of to learn more about the adobe homes and beautiful heritage gardens.
4 Tour Through The 17-Mile Drive
This visually stunning roadway hugs the pacific coastline where vacationers drive through spectacular sights. The two-lane road winds its way through the world-renowned Del Monte Forest along the Monterey Peninsula. There are many photo opportunities for social media influencers as the area exposes tourists to some sensational views of the rocky beaches, famous golf courses, cypress trees, and marine animals.
3 Enjoy Fresh Air In The El Estero Park
The El Estero Park is a masterpiece that holds several outdoor activities for locals and visitors. Skating is one of the most famous and intriguing activities visitors yearn to engage in to test their skills. Kids will also adore the play structures that keep them occupied their entire period.
Birds love this spot as much as humans do, so every bird watcher shouldn’t miss this lifetime opportunity. From Aleutian cackling goose to phalaropes, there are several duck species to take down the memory lane once visitors return to their hometowns.
2 Attend World-Class Concerts In The Golden State Theater
Every Monterey visitor deserves to experience the state-of-the-art performances in this 15,000-square-foot venue. It hosts outstanding talents from the dances, music, theater, and stand-up spheres. In fact, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Jay Leno, and Tracy Morgan are some of the popular names that have graced the stage. Tourists can also host special events and become part of this theater’s history after its exciting revival.
1 Boost Mood At The Monterey Jazz Festival
Vacationers who love taking holidays in September might find themselves sticking a little longer in Monterey to witness the classic jazz live performances. The three-day festival hosts iconic and incoming jazz artists who keep everyone glued to the magnificent oak-studded grounds. The relaxing jazz effects are more likely to create an incredible healing influence on most stress-related health issues.