Top Things To Do In Monterey

This beautiful California state park offers endless outdoor activities. Explore tide pools, walk through rare Monterey Cyprus tree groves, hike scenic trails, picnic on the sandy each, meet playful sea lions, and soak up impressive views of the Pacific Ocean.

Explore Monterey's historic waterfront district made famous by novelist John Steinbeck. Cannery Row is a bustling stretch lined with restaurants, wine tasting rooms, bars, and shops housed in old canneries.

Encounter the amazing marine life of Monterey Bay. Explore this waterfront aquarium with wondrous exhibits and breathtaking scenery. Meet sharks, jellies, penguins, and a giant octopus. Discover a window to the ocean. Please know that tickets need to be purchased from the Monterey Bay Aquarium in advance and is open daily from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. 

Walk, run, bike or skate along this waterfront path on Monterey Bay. Enjoy breathtaking ocean views discovering attractions like Cannery Row, Monterey Bay Aquarium and Lover's Point. Rent a bike, kayak or surrey.

Kayak the waters of Monterey Bay near Cannery Row or Stillwater Cove. Cruise the coastal trail on a surrey or bike along the breathtaking coastline. Adventures by the Sea offers rental equipment for outdoor recreation.

Discover beautiful wineries and vineyards in the Monterey Wine Country, from Salinas Valley to Carmel. Sip pinot noirs, chardonnays, and zinfandels on the River Road Wine Trail or swing by the tasting rooms on Cannery Row.

With its white sand along the Pacific Ocean, Carmel Beach is the perfect place to relax, swim, surf and soak up Cali vibes. Enjoy a picnic, hang ten on the waves, fly a kite or stroll the shore and take it in.

Head to this museum dedicated to the life of Monterey County native son, John Steinbeck. Wander through the museum's permanent exhibits showcasing artifacts, photographs, and films of the great American author who wrote Cannery Row.

Founded by Father Junipero Serra in 1771, Carmel Mission is a beautiful example of adobe architecture. Enter the breathtaking Basilica Church and be inspired by the Spanish Colonial art and explore history through museum exhibits.

Cruise the jaw-dropping coastline on this scenic road through Monterey and Pebble Beach. See pristine beaches, dramatic rock formations, idyllic coves, and legendary golf courses. Photograph natural wonders like the Lone Cypress and Seal Rock.

Experience high-speed racing at this motorsport venue with action-packed events like the Ferrari Series Challenge. Feel the thunderous roar of engines as you see elite racing on this 11-turn, 2.2-mile road course on California's central coast.

Located on Monterey's historic Cannery Row, Tipsy Putt is a lively mini golf bar and restaurant, perfect for family fun, conference events, and group gatherings of any size. The two-story space features a 9-hole mini golf course, bar games, and flexible event areas. Guests can enjoy crave-worthy smash burgers, street tacos, and a wide selection of craft beers and creative cocktails—all in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.