Visiting Monterey
While sampling the tastes from local restaurants, take the time to enjoy watching the local wildlife: the sea lions lounging on rocks while otters splash and play in the calm harbor waters. If you're feeling adventurous, take to the waters with a glass bottom boat tour, deep-sea fishing trip, or whale watching tour.
Looking for a great idea for a weekend get away? Regardless if you want a day trip or a few days to relax, visiting Monterey is a great idea. Monterey is filled with history and famous for its marine life and seafood.
Favorite Attractions
An obvious favorite attraction is the Monterey Bay Aquarium; a perfect place for families, couples, or just a place to stroll around by yourself. The Aquarium is located on Cannery Row and holds thousands of plants and animals (over 600 different species on display). You're sure to enjoy the Giant Kelp tank (which is 33 feet high!) and the amazing Outer Bay wing which features one of the world's largest single-paned windows. Your kids are sure to love the Splash Zone which offers touch pools and play areas for them to burn off energy and learn more about marine wildlife. Don't forget to check out special exhibits like “The Secret Lives of Seahorses” or the “Hot Pink Flamingos” before leaving. These exhibits give us a look at the animals up close, and how global climate changes impact tropical mammals.
A short walk away is another favorite, Cannery Row, named in honor of John Steinbeck's 1945 novel Cannery Row. Cannery Row features many restaurants and hotels, some of which are located in former cannery buildings. It's a great place to visit if you're interested in sport fishing, kayaking, or scuba diving. A favorite activity on the wharf for both tourists and locals is sailing on the Monterey Bay along Cannery Row. Some places offer daily sailing cruises year round, including romantic dinner cruises and fun family adventures.
Another short walk away is The Old Fisherman's Wharf, which is lined with seafood restaurants ranging from casual to formal indoor dining with views of the bay. While sampling the tastes from local restaurants, take the time to enjoy watching the local wildlife: the sea lions lounging on rocks while otters splash and play in the calm harbor waters. If you're feeling adventurous, take to the waters with a glass bottom boat tour, deep-sea fishing trip, or whale watching tour. Many tours are very family friendly and some are narrated by marine biologists with at least 10 years of experience on the Bay.
Got your kids along with you?
Grab some memories by having your family brought to life in a caricature while walking along the wharf, let your kids get their face painted. Bring out the inner kid in you by grabbing some freshly spun salt water taffies or enjoying some kettle corn fresh from the popper! If you're staying for the weekend check out My Museum. Developed in 1997, this museum is conveniently located by the Monterey Sports Center and the Dennis the Menace Park. Packed with a variety of hands on activities and exhibits, each trip will be unique and exciting for your child. Once you're done with the museum, head over to the Dennis the Menace Park! This park has just about everything a playground could desire. Many adults reminisce about going there as a child and enjoy being able to take their own children to share the joy this park has to offer. This park is located near Lake El Estero which is a favorite destination for many birdwatchers due to the diversity of bird life it attracts.
When is the best time to go?
Generally Monterey's weather is best in the spring or fall. The skies are much clearer and the crowds are thinner. If you're heading in the summer – especially around June – you're more likely to encounter fog and cloudy days. Regardless of the time of year, remember to dress in layers! Monterey is cooler than areas inland so don't forget your jacket. If you're planning to go during a special event (like the Jazz Festival or the Blues Festival), remember to book in advance. Hotels tend to fill up pretty quick.
Side Trips
While Monterey has a lot to offer, there are nearby places that are also worth the trip. Carmel is a charming town filled with art galleries and upscale shops. The architecture of the buildings itself is worth the drive. Pacific Grove is home to some amazing coastal scenery and part of the 17-Mile Drive which goes through Pacific Grove and Pebble Beach. The drive hugs the coastline and passes through famous golf courses and mansions. If you're looking for a little wine tasting trip, you can zip on over to Carmel Valley which houses wineries and golf courses. And of course, Big Sur isn't very far away either. If you're looking for a photo opportunity, you should not miss the beautiful coasts and beaches that Big Sur has to offer.