Things To Do
in Monterey
Monterey is a coastal city located in California, United States known for its stunning natural beauty and picturesque landscapes. It is home to the iconic Cannery Row, a historic waterfront district lined with shops, restaurants, and attractions. Visitors can explore the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, showcasing marine life from the Pacific Ocean.
Outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy activities such as whale watching, kayaking, and hiking in the nearby parks and nature reserves.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $150 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning 17-Mile Drive. Enjoy breathtaking ocean views and stop at iconic sites like the Lone Cypress.
Have lunch at Cannery Row, then explore the shops and the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium. Spend some time watching sea otters and other marine life.
Dine at a seafood restaurant with views of the coast. Wind down with a sunset walk along the beach.
Drive south along the Pacific Coast Highway, experiencing the beauty of Big Sur. Stop at McWay Falls for a quick hike and stunning views.
Continue your adventure with a visit to Pfeiffer Beach, known for its unique purple sand. Enjoy a picnic lunch while taking in the scenic surroundings.
Return to Monterey and savor dinner at a local bistro. Relax with a glass of wine as you reflect on the day's sights.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and stunning ocean views.
- Rich cultural and historical significance, including sites like Cannery Row and the Monterey Bay Aquarium.
- Pleasant Mediterranean climate with mild winters and moderate summers.
- Abundance of outdoor activities such as whale watching, hiking, and water sports.
- Culinary scene featuring fresh seafood and local wines.
- High cost of living, especially housing prices.
- Tourist traffic can lead to congestion during peak seasons.
- Limited job opportunities outside of tourism and hospitality.
- Potential for foggy weather, particularly in summer months.
- Some areas may experience a lack of diversity in activities for residents.
Best Activities in Monterey
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Take a boat tour to see Gray, Humpback, and Blue whales in the Monterey Bay.
Enjoy exploring the scenic coastline and wildlife by kayaking in Monterey Bay.
Experience world-class golfing at Pebble Beach or other stunning golf courses in the area.
Explore various hiking trails such as Point Lobos State Natural Reserve and Garrapata State Park.
Cycle along the scenic 17-Mile Drive or take a ride through the beautiful coastal scenery.
Tours
Uncover the best of Monterey with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Monterey
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of marine life and the bay, great for photo opportunities.
Historic waterfront district with scenic views, perfect for capturing the essence of Monterey.
Beautiful coastal park with panoramic views, ideal for photography enthusiasts.
Food in Monterey
Monterey Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Creamy and hearty clam chowder served in a freshly baked sourdough bread bowl is a signature dish in Monterey. Don't miss trying it at Old Fisherman's Grotto or Louie Linguini's.
Must-Try!
A local delicacy, abalone is often served pan-seared or in a citrus-infused ceviche. Sample exquisite preparations at The Sardine Factory for a true taste of Monterey's coastal flavors.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Monterey better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Held in Old Monterey, this market offers an array of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, local olive oils, and freshly baked bread. Sample street foods like gourmet tamales and organic ice cream while browsing the stalls.
Explore the vibrant street food scene along Cannery Row, where you'll find seafood stands serving up freshly caught fish and chips, ceviche, and other local delicacies.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Monterey, it is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when in public places.
Monterey values environmental conservation, so it is respectful to participate in efforts to reduce waste, conserve water, and protect local wildlife and marine ecosystems.
Embrace and appreciate the diversity of people and cultures in Monterey, and show respect for different customs, traditions, and ways of life.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Monterey with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Monterey
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is a common practice in the service industry in Monterey, United States. It is customary to tip around 15-20% of the total bill at restaurants, bars, and for other services such as hotel staff, taxis, and tour guides.
Payment methods in Monterey, United States are diverse and widely accepted. Credit and debit cards are commonly used for transactions, and mobile payment options such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are also gaining popularity. Cash is generally accepted, but not always necessary, as most establishments prefer card payments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Monterey.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for mild weather and blooming wildflowers. Expect lively festivals and events.
Ideal for outdoor activities like whale watching and beach visits. Expect crowded tourist spots.
Great for wine tasting and enjoying the harvest season. Expect fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
Good for spotting migratory whales and enjoying holiday events. Expect fewer tourists and occasional rainy days.
Monterey at Night
Hiking in Monterey
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning coastal area known for its breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and scenic hiking trails that wind through cypress trees and along rocky shorelines.
Located a bit further down the coast, this park features rugged mountains, redwood forests, and coastal views, with a variety of trails suitable for all skill levels.
A beautiful park in the Carmel Valley with miles of hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging, showcasing the area’s natural beauty and wildlife.
Offers a mix of beach and coastal trail hikes, with access to soft sandy beaches and the Big Sur River, ideal for a day of exploration.
A flat, scenic trail running along the coastline of Monterey Peninsula, perfect for walking, biking, or relaxing with beautiful ocean views.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Monterey through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Monterey by plane.
Located approximately 120 miles north of Monterey, SFO is one of the major international airports serving the San Francisco Bay Area.
LAX is about 300 miles south of Monterey and is one of the busiest international airports in the world.
Located approximately 80 miles north of Monterey, SJC serves the San José area and offers a variety of domestic and international flights.
Located around 120 miles north of Monterey, OAK serves the Oakland area and is another option for international travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A demographic group representing individuals who identify as White, not Hispanic or Latino.
Individuals who identify as Hispanic or Latino, regardless of race.
A demographic group consisting of individuals who identify as Asian, not including individuals of mixed race.
Individuals who identify as Black or African American, not including individuals of other races.
Individuals identifying with two or more racial categories.
Individuals who identify as Native American or Alaska Native.
Individuals who identify as Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander.
The Soul of Monterey
Discover the essence of Monterey through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Monterey's coastal location makes it a popular destination for surfing, attracting both beginners and experienced surfers to its beaches.
Monterey is home to several renowned golf courses, including Pebble Beach, making golf a very popular activity among locals and tourists.
With its stunning coastline and marine life, kayaking is a popular sport in Monterey, offering opportunities to explore the waters of the bay.
Monterey features picturesque bike trails, particularly along the coastal scenic routes, making biking a favored outdoor activity.
Monterey Bay offers excellent fishing opportunities, with various species found in the waters, making it a popular pastime.
The scenic landscapes surrounding Monterey provide numerous hiking trails, making hiking a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Monterey.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Monterey offer an array of vegetarian and vegan dishes, with creative plant-based options featured prominently on their menus. Check out restaurants like Wild Plum Cafe and Juice Bar for an excellent selection of vegetarian and vegan fare.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can indulge in gluten-free pizzas at Allegro Gourmet Pizzeria or savor gluten-free baked goods at Parker-Lusseau Pastries.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Monterey with these cultural adventures.