At first blush, Monterey feels as if it is something out of a book or movie. That is because it is.
From John Steinbeck novels to nearly every scene in Big Little Lies, Monterey’s distinctive rugged coastal beauty, wildlife, history, golf, and entertainment scene has inspired artists around the world for more than 100 years.
Monterey Bay Aquarium and Fisherman’s Wharf
The waters of Monterey are magical, home to more than 34 species of marine mammals, 180 species of seabirds and shorebirds, 525 species of fish and an abundance of invertebrates and algae. Given this, a visit to Monterey Bay Aquarium is a must. It is home to 35,000 creatures and more than 550 types of sea life including sea otters, sharks, seahorses, tuna, penguins, and more. The permanent exhibits include a three-story kelp forest, touch pools, and the million-gallon Open Sea exhibit. It is located in the heart of Cannery Row just off Fisherman’s Wharf, which means it can serve as the anchor for a full day in the area. If unfamiliar, years ago the entire area served as the preeminent canning factory hotspot in the country. Those historic buildings, walkable wharfs along the water, and epic boardwalks are today kissed with shops, eateries, bars, entertainers, and artisans.
Beaching It
Eager to get into – or at the least near – the water to check things out for yourself? The region’s beaches beckon. If into SCUBA, McAbee Beach right on Cannery Row is an excellent option. Diving there feels like adventuring through an underground forest thanks to the lush kelp forest. If surfing is of interest, opt for Asilomar State Beach, Marina State Beach, Moss Landing State Beach, and Lovers Point Park and Beach, which is also great for swimming and kayaking. Those who want a quieter experience should check out ultra-chill Del Monte Beach.
There is something for everyone in Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. The protected land, famously the backdrop for some of Ansel Adams’ most beloved photography, offers more than a dozen lush hiking trails, unique geological and plant formations, SCUBA tours, wildlife viewing areas, and much more.
Oceanic Exploration
Prefer to explore the open seas by boat? Consider a whale watching tour. Among the most popular outfitters is Discovery Whale Watch. Now through November is prime time for humpback whales in particular, but in summer and fall months there are also often sightings of blue whales, Risso’s dolphins, Dall’s dolphins, sea lions, harbor porpoises, ocean sunfish, bottle-nosed dolphins, and even orcas.
17-Mile Drive and Pebble Beach
If a fan of golf, the mere mention of Pebble Beach will elicit goose bumps. Pebble Beach Resorts is located along the Monterey Peninsula and accessible by traversing the 17-Mile Drive – one of the most breathtaking stretches of oceanfront highway in the world – from Fisherman’s Wharf. It owns and operates four of the most renowned courses worldwide: Pebble Beach Golf Links, Spyglass Hill Golf Course, The Links at Spanish Bay and Del Monte Golf Course.
Final Advice
If still looking for items to cross off the bucket list when visiting, be sure to venture to Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, which has an 80-foot waterfall and towering redwoods that are more than 2,500 years old, and make time for all the great restaurants and tasting rooms, notably A Taste of Monterey, Bargetto Winery, Pierce Ranch Vineyards, Stokes Abode, Domenico’s, Montrio Bistro, Sardine Factory, Beach House Restaurant at Lovers Point, Nepenthe, and Tides Waterfront Kitchen. Need a place to rest? Exquisite options abound in The Lodge at Pebble Beach, The Inn at Spanish Bay, InterContinental The Clement Monterey, Monterey Plaza Hotel and Spa, and Portola Hotel and Spa.
For more, visit SeeMonterey.com.