What to do in Monterey County, CA

The Monterey Bay Aquarium showcases more than 35,000 animals and plants across 550 species. You’ll discover all kinds of local wildlife here, including fish of all sizes, invertebrates, mammals and plants.

Gaze at dazzling mansions and barking sea lions along 17-Mile Drive, a privately owned stretch of road that winds between Pacific Grove and Pebble Beach. This exclusive seafront drive hugs the wild, craggy coastline, passing great cypress trees, rocky coves, sandy beaches and undulating golf courses.

Carmel Beach is a long stretch of soft, white sand in Carmel, a picture-perfect town just 15 minutes’ drive south from Monterey. Steady swells make this a popular destination with surfers, swimmers and kayakers. Rent a kayak and paddle out across the kelp beds. Bring a wetsuit, as the water is often cold except in the heat of summer.

Fisherman’s Wharf is a popular waterfront area that played a major role in the development of Monterey. After serving as a busy port toward the end of the 19th century, it is today a diverse district that draws crowds with its seafood restaurants, lively bars and souvenir shops. Admire the excellent views of the ocean in this old-world harbor.

Cannery Row was a busy sardine canning district, until the industry collapsed after overfishing. The grand old warehouses have been repurposed and today a vibrant blend of old and new make Cannery Row look quite attractive indeed. One warehouse has the amazing Monterey Bay Aquarium. Galleries, boutiques, historical attractions and restaurants fill the other warehouses. And, because of its setting on Monterey Bay, Cannery Row is always good for great ocean views.

Follow misty hiking trails through towering cypress trees along dramatic, craggy shorelines and down to secluded beaches. Once the home of whalers, sealers and fishermen, the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve and surrounding waters are now a protected wildlife and marine reserve.

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is a 1,000-acre (400-hectare) State Park on the California coast. The area takes its name from John Pfeiffer, whose family were European settlers in the 19th century. Perfect for hiking, camping and swimming, this park features stunning views across the Big Sur Valley, the Big Sur River Gorge and the Pacific Ocean. You’ll see a wide variety of large-tree species, including redwoods, oaks, sycamores and maples. Also, keep an eye out for the wildlife, including black-tailed deer, raccoons, skunks and varied birdlife.