9 Amazing Things To Do In Monterey – You Need To Know For 2026
Where else can you get front-row seats to the Monterey Bay’s best coastal scenery? Monterey is a city located on the southern edge of the Monterey Bay, and there are many things to do here to keep you entertained.
Having visited Monterey several times on separate California road trips, I simply can’t get over its natural beauty and historical significance. You can easily make last-minute decisions to catch the sunset since the best spots are not far from the downtown area.
If you’ve never been to Monterey, this article will reveal to you the places you absolutely need to visit when you’re here. These ideas on things to do in Monterey are also great for repeat visitors who are looking for something different.
One thing’s for sure, you’ll never forget a sunset you watch here in Monterey. Let’s see how we can plan a trip to Monterey with these amazing things to do.
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Where to stay in Monterey
Downtown Monterey: Great for historic charm, diverse dining, and access to cultural attractions. I’ve always stayed in Downtown Monterey because of the relatively affordable pricing of accommodations here.
- Arbor Inn Monterey offers great value for money as it within walking distance from the Old Fisherman’s Wharf. If you get a room on the second floor, you may even see all the way across to the sea from your window. Check the latest prices on Booking.com, Agoda, or Expedia.
Cannery Row: Ideal for a lively atmosphere, proximity to attractions, and waterfront views.
- Victorian Inn offers beautiful rooms that come with a fireplace. The room rate comes with complimentary breakfast, and there is a wine and cheese hour from 5-6pm daily. The location is great for exploring Cannery Row and the vicinity on foot. Check the latest prices on Booking.com, Agoda, or Expedia.
Pacific Grove: Offers a quieter experience, beautiful coastal scenery, and proximity to the famous 17-Mile Drive.
- Centrella Hotel is located in the exclusive neighborhood of Pacific Grove and has spectacular service. You can purchase tickets for the Monterey Bay Aquarium from the front desk, and even rent bicycles from the hotel for those days where you don’t want to worry about parking. Check the latest prices on Booking.com, Agoda, or Expedia.
Is it better to stay in Monterey or Carmel
Choosing between Monterey and Carmel depends on your preferences. Monterey offers a more extensive range of attractions, dining options, and amazing coastal scenery. Carmel, known for its quaint charm and artistic vibe, is a quieter retreat with a stunning beach and upscale boutiques.
If budget and affordability were a factor, I recommend staying in Monterey as there are many more options there. It is also easier to find fast food chains and grocery stores in Monterey, since Carmel tends to prefer local businesses and boutique shops.
If you’re celebrating a special occasion, I think Carmel would be a better choice because of the more charming ambiance. Besides, many of the attractions in Monterey can be easily reached by driving a short distance from Carmel. If having the classic seafood experience is not a priority, perhaps you’ll enjoy the culinary scene in Carmel more than Monterey.
That said, you don’t have to choose between Monterey and Carmel. Just visit both towns, and while you’re there make sure to stop by Big Sur as well. You can refer to my 3-day itinerary here.
What are the best things to do in Monterey
From must-see tourist attractions to local gems, here are the best things to do in Monterey.
1. Visit Monterey Bay Aquarium
The Monterey Bay Aquarium is famous for its conservation and education efforts when it comes to marine wildlife. This is where you can find the world’s first kelp forest, and the large jellyfish exhibits.
Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing world beneath the waves as you explore captivating exhibits showcasing the diversity of marine life. From playful sea otters to graceful jellyfish, every exhibit will help you gain a new appreciation for the ocean.
Tickets cost $59.95 for adults, which goes towards maintaining the aquarium as a non-profit organisation. It’s time to add Monterey Bay Aquarium to your bucket list!
2. Walk along Cannery Row
Take a leisurely walk along the historic Cannery Row, a waterfront street that exudes nostalgia around Monterey’s sardine-packing past. You can browse through charming shops, indulge in local delicacies, and soak in the atmosphere along this iconic stretch.
Many of the old buildings have been restored and are currently used to house restaurants, art galleries and other boutique shops. You can even go wine tasting here in some of the tasting rooms. Cannery row is just a walking distance away from the Monterey Bay Aquarium, making it a convenient addition to your trip.
3. Try whale watching
For an exhilarating experience, set sail on a whale-watching excursion. Monterey Bay is a haven for marine life, and you might witness the majestic breach of a humpback whale or the playful antics of dolphins.
If you’re looking to book a whale watching tour, you could either find one on the Monterey Wharf, or book it online. Some popular platforms for browsing tours and checking reviews include GetYourGuide, Expedia, or Viator. Check out this whale watching tour that’s 3 to 4 hours long, with a hot beverage and a biologist guide.
Alternatively, you can also try to look out into the Pacific Ocean on your own from the shores. See if you can see any “water spouts” or breaching activity in the distance and just be patient. Here are some types of whales you can expect at various seasons.
- Winter to early spring: Gray Whales
- Summer: Humpback Whales
- Summer to fall: Blue Whales
- All year: Orcas
4. Go on a scenic ride along 17-Mile Drive
The 17-Mile Drive is one of the must-do activities here in Monterey. I usually don’t think driving is very relaxing no matter what kind of scenery is around me. Thankfully, there are multiple stops and parking lots catered for those who prefer to step out of the car to admire the view.
Golden hour here is pretty spectacular and I particularly enjoyed Moss Beach and the iconic view of Lone Cypress. There are a couple other turnouts and viewpoints including China Rock Vista Point, Fan Shell Beach Outlook, Seal Rock Overlook, Fanshell Beach Overlook and more.
Although you can drive through the entire stretch of the 17-Mile Drive, I recommend taking about 1-2 hours to see each spot. If you plan to spend your sunset here, try to get there at least 30 minutes before to account for parking time.
Things to know about the 17-Mile Drive:
- There’s a $11.25 vehicle fee which is reimbursed after spending at least $35 at Pebble Beach Resorts restaurants.
- The best place to start the 17-Mile Drive is from the north at the Pacific Grove Gate.
- Initial parts of the drive in the north are along the coast, and goes inland into a forested area once you turn southward after Fanshell Beach Outlook.
5. Rent a classic car for drive-seeing
There’s no need to drive fast in Monterey, just take it slow and soak in the beautiful scenery. Let’s just say that it looks cool to cruise through the scenic coastal roads of the Monterey Peninsula in a classic car. It even injects a touch of nostalgia into your adventure in Monterey.
You can check out the classic cars at Monterey Touring Vehicles that are available for a few hours of rental. For a more affordable option, look for newer convertible cars that you can rent for the day via rentalcars.com.
6. Check out Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary
One of the best things to check out in late fall through winter is the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary. This is one of the 3 best places in California to view Monarch butterflies in these over-wintering sites. The other 2 locations are in Santa Cruz, and Pismo beach.
The Monarch butterflies will typically spend the colder months here as they have migrated away from places that are freezing. When the weather is slightly cooler, say below 60 F, the butterflies tend to cluster on tree tops and resemble pine cones from afar. As the day gets warmer, you are more likely to see them flying around.
If you like butterflies, I recommend coming down to this Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary where you can learn more about their migratory patterns and other fun facts. Do remember to look out for butterflies on the ground so that you can avoid stepping on them!
7. Picnic at Lovers Point Park
Recharge in nature with a lovely picnic at Lovers Point Park, located in Pacific Grove. The lush greenery and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean provide a perfect backdrop for a relaxing afternoon as you soak in the coastal atmosphere.
Parking is free here, and even if you can’t find a spot immediately, you can easily check out other parts of this stretch of coast. While you’re here, why don’t you take a walk through Pacific Grove to admire some nice houses too?
8. Dine at Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf
For the classic Monterey experience, head to Old Fisherman’s Wharf for a seafood feast. Here, you can enjoy the lively atmosphere and colourful shopfronts. There are numerous eateries lining the wharf, ranging from casual to higher end dining. Don’t forget to try some clam chowder and indulge in fresh calamari.
After your meal, explore the charming boutiques and souvenir shops, or browse through the various options of boat tours you can take for the next day. You may even be treated to some live music and street performances especially if you visit during busy periods.
The Old Fisherman’s Wharf is a must-visit for your first time in Monterey! Come here to embrace both the maritime history and the amazing seafood.
9. Watch the sunset at Alisomar State Beach
Wrap up your day with a visit to Alisomar State Beach to witness a mesmerizing sunset. The warm hues painting the sky over the Pacific Ocean create a magical finale to your day in Monterey. Take a leisurely stroll along Alisomar Coastal Trail which is a boardwalk that allows you to access different pockets of the coast.
There is also ample roadside parking along Sunset Drive which is just beside the beach. The best part is that parking here is free!
How long should you spend in Monterey
The ideal duration for a visit to Monterey depends on your interests and the activities you plan to enjoy. Overall, I recommend spending at least 1 day in Monterey as a first time visitor. A weekend getaway to Monterey would provide a well-rounded experience at a relaxed pace.
For those looking to explore beyond Monterey to places like Carmel and Big Sur, consider spending 3 to 4 days here. If you’re pressed for time, a day trip will allow you to see 1-2 of the best spots.
How to spend a day in Monterey as a first timer
A trip to Monterey can also be done as a day trip from San Francisco. If you only have a day and want to check out the must-see attractions, I’ve got your back. In fact, my first visit to Monterey was only half a day long, as it was just meant to be a rest stop for my Highway 1 road trip. Looking back, I wish I had the full day, and would have spent it like this instead.
Morning: Begin your day with a visit to the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Explore the diverse marine life and engage in the interactive exhibits.
Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at the famous Passionfish restaurant, or try some fresh seafood at Old Fisherman’s Wharf. After that, consider go on a whale-watching tour.
Evening: To fully enjoy the sunset, head to Asilomar State Beach for a walk, or take a scenic drive along the 17-Mile Drive to enjoy winding coastal vistas.
Best time to visit Monterey
The best time to visit Monterey is during the fall (September to November) when the weather is mild, and crowds are smaller. The weather was really clear when I visited in November, though daylight is getting shorter. You also get to see Monarch butterflies in late fall.
Spring (April to June) is also pleasant, and offers the chance to see wildflowers blooming along the coast. Summers can be busy, but offer warmer temperatures. Winter brings cooler weather, but it’s a quieter time to explore (especially if you’re visiting Big Sur in winter too). If you want to see migrating whales in winter, this is your chance!
How to get around Monterey
Choose the mode of transportation that aligns with your itinerary and preferred level of exploration.
Walking: Many attractions in Monterey are within walking distance, especially in areas like Cannery Row and Downtown.
Biking: Rent a bike to explore scenic coastal trails. You can also ride along the famous 17-Mile Drive where it’s free if you’re cycling or walking.
Car: Having a car provides flexibility, especially if you plan to explore the nearby attractions like Carmel and Big Sur. Parking is generally available, and traffic is manageable. If you need to rent a car, check out my car rental tips in California, as well as a comparison of the various options.
Public Transportation: Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) buses serve the area, offering an affordable way to get around. However, this can be more time consuming and not recommended for a short trip to Monterey.
