Looking for the best things to do in Monterey CA? These are our favorites
If you’ve been following along, you already know that Monterey is one of our favorite areas in California. We’ve visited a handful of times and love that it offers the comfort of a city with easy access to the best ocean views and the outdoors.
It’s a great home base for exploring the entire Monterey Peninsula, which is so conveniently close to Carmel by the Sea (less than 5 miles), Pebble Beach (5 miles), and Big Sur (less than 30 miles).

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Last Updated: July 17, 2024
15 Best Things to Do in Monterey CA
When you talk about Monterey, most people think about the Aquarium, Cannery Row, and the 17-Mile Drive. But there are so many pockets to see and explore. Carmel-by-the-Sea, a romantic and charming seaside town worth visiting on its own, is only 10-15 minutes away from downtown Monterey. You can also drive to Pinnacles National Park and Big Sur as easy day trips.
1. Monterey Bay Aquarium →
886 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940, map
The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a world-class aquarium with a prime location at the edge of the Pacific Ocean. Though not all aquariums are ethical, we love MBA’s focus on education and ocean conservation research, with 80% of its sea life from the local Monterey Bay area. Our favorite exhibits were the open sea area, the Kelp Forest, and the temporary jellyfish exhibit.
Local Tip: Though it’s a must-visit, put this later in your trip itinerary if you’re also going on a whale-watching tour. If your tour gets canceled due to weather, this is a great alternative activity for days like that.
See More: Tips for Visiting the Monterey Bay Aquarium

2. Whale Watching at Fisherman’s Wharf or on a Whale Watching Tour
36.6043144,-121.8953787, map
If you’re looking for a place to go whale-watching, this is your spot! There are panoramic views of the bay, seals sunbathing on the rocks, and restaurants to stop at for a quick bite. Visiting in April lets you see both Gray whales and Humpback whales.
- Gray Whales – December through April
- Humpback Whales: April to November
- Blue Whales: June to October
- Orcas (Killer Whales): less predictable but often during the gray whale migration as they prey on calves.
- Minke Whales: year-round but less common
- Fin Whales: year-round
Pro Tip: If you’re going on a whale-watching tour, book it early in the trip in case of weather cancellations. Ours was later in our trip, so we didn’t get a chance to reschedule. Also, read how to whale watch responsibly.
Photo Tip: You will want your longest lens. A 70-200 mm won’t cut it. Some wildlife photographers also like shooting with cropped sensors to get in closer. Most whales you see will be far away.
See More: 15 Best Places to Whale Watch in the US + When to Go

3. 17-Mile Drive →
This is considered one of the most scenic drives in the US and the world. It’s bizarre to drive through neighborhoods and the Pebble Beach Golf Links. Make sure you see the famous Lone Cypress, but here are all the stops on the 17 Mile Drive.
Local Tip: It’s $10 to enter or free with a dinner reservation or tee time.
See More: A Quick Guide to the 17 Mile Drive in Monterey



4. Golfing at Pebble Beach or The Hay Short Course
1700 17 Mile Dr, Pebble Beach, CA 93953, map
Pebble Beach is famed as one of the most beautiful golf courses in the world! It’s a bucket list place to golf. If you can get one of the coveted tee times, you’ll play where the pros play. If you can’t get a tee time, you can still view the course on the 17-Mile Drive.
The Hay Short Course is another excellent option for not-so-serious golfers. We played our first nine holes together here (It was Esther’s first time on a golf course). The holes are much shorter (50-100 yards) than a regular course, and the views are beautiful! Plus, it only takes 1.5-2 hours to finish compared to an all-day event for those who want to do more than golf on vacation.
Local Tip: No 3. is an exact replica of the famed No. 7 hole at Pebble Beach Golf Links at The Hay.


5. Cannery Row
36.613851,-121.9010181, map
Cannery Row, a former sardine canning district, was transformed into a vibrant waterfront area with shops, restaurants, boutique hotels, and the renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium. Be sure to check out the Antique Mall to get a glimpse of its roots.

6. Kayak Monterey Bay →
36.0306029,-113.8290033, map
One of the best ways to see the Monterey Bay is to kayak! You learn about marine life and may have a chance to see sea otters, starfish, jellyfish, sea urchins, and more. Check out our whole experience of sea kayaking with Adventures by the Sea.
On our recent trip, we kayaked in Elkhorn Slough. It’s in a protected estuary, which makes it easier for new kayakers. Within a mile, we saw multiple otters, a blue heron, and tons of other birds. You can rent equipment from Monterey Bay Kayaks, and rentals include a jacket/pants or a wetsuit.
Pro Tip: Having done both kayaking trips, I will tell you if you’re scared, Elkhorn Slough is a much more relaxed paddle. Sea kayaking is more challenging, but they will help you as much as you need. It was only our second time when we went sea kayaking vs. our 20th time at Elkhorn Slough.
See More: Kayaking in Monterey Bay with Adventures by the Sea

7. Take a Plein Air Watercolor Class
Plein Air, French for “in the open air,” is the act of painting outdoors. I recently discovered on the Visit California Play Quiz that I’m an explorer and find travel most fun when learning something new. A painting class by the sea was the perfect way to slow down our day and take in the surroundings.
Our Plein Air Watercolor Class with Diane Grindol was a hands-on learning experience. We set up a meeting time and place (you can pick or let her decide since she knows the area). During the class, she guided us through the basics of watercolor and color mixing, and then we had the opportunity to apply what we learned by working on our own pieces. Some seagulls even showed up to model for us.
Get in touch with Diane Grindol at 831.236.8177.

8. Go on a Handcar Tour
3071 Del Monte Blvd, Marina, CA 93933, map
We went on our first handcar tour here. The railbikes were a pleasant and relaxing way to enjoy the afternoon and get a glimpse of the ocean at the end. Plus, these are electric-assisted, so even though you have to pedal, the handcar does most of the work. You can make it as leisurely as you like or get a serious workout.

9. Play Pickleball at the Hyatt Regency Monterey
15 Old Golf Course Rd, Monterey, CA 93940, map
With Jacob’s pickleball obsession, we had to check out the local scene. We stayed at the Hyatt Regency Monterey, which gave us access to the Monterey Bay Racquet Club. The club has 8 courts and a pro shop where you can rent or buy equipment.
They run a ladder every Tuesday and Thursday from 5:30 to 7:30 PM, and they plan on adding Sundays soon. It is free for guests and members or $20 for drop-in. See the schedule and sign up here.
Local Tip: If you visit in August during car week, the Raquest Club is closed. Richie, who runs the shop, told us to avoid visiting during car week at all costs if you’re not into cars.

10. Golden State Theatre →
417 Alvarado St, Monterey, CA 93940, map
Golden State Theatre is a beautifully restored historic theater that seats roughly a thousand people and hosts world-class concerts, film festivals, and live performances.
On this past trip, we saw Iron & Wine perform, and it was the perfect venue. Did you know Jacob and his brother did a cover of Iron & Wine’s cover of Postal Service back in 2009, the good ol’ YouTube days?

11. Pinnacles National Park
Parking lot, 2011 Chaparral Drive, Soledad, CA 93960, map
Getting to Pinnacles National Park’s West entrance takes just over an hour. On this side of the park, we recommend the Balconies Cave Trail. Also, keep your eyes on the sky in hopes of spotting a California condor, one of the rarest bird species. Turkey vultures also look very similar from far away and are way more common.
Local Tip: Bring a headlamp if you plan on hiking through the cave. Some parts are pitch black, and you’ll want your hands free.
See More: 15 Least Visited National Parks You Need to Explore Next/

On the Monterey Peninsula
12. Big Sur →
47555 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920, map
Big Sur is one of our favorite places in the world, and Monterey is a great place to base yourself if you want to explore the Monterey Peninsula. Did you know it’s only 30 miles away? Accommodations in Monterey are much more affordable, and you have better food options.
See More: 11 Things You Can’t Miss in Big Sur California/


13. Carmel-by-the-Sea
36.552861,-121.9226152, map
This seaside village is the perfect spot to spend a few days! We really enjoyed the wine walk and getting lost in the alleyways of Carmel-by-the-sea. You can also picnic down at Carmel Beach.
Local Tip: The Carmel Valley (just inland and shown in the photo below) is also beautiful and has wineries you can visit.



14. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
36.5159128,-121.9408201, map
Just south of Carmel-by-the-Sea is this beautiful Natural Reserve. The dramatic landscapes will keep you mesmerized for hours. It’s a great spot for tide pooling, especially Weston Beach! Check the tide charts and visit during low tide.
If you are dive-certified, there are 10 diving spots where you can swim through 70-foot-high kelp forests and coral reefs.
Local Tip: By late morning, the park gates were closed because parking was full. People parked along the side of the road outside of the park and walked in.

15. Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary
36.6834553,-123.443561, map
Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary is one of the nation’s best marine protected areas, with spectacular wildlife viewing opportunities. The sanctuary, which also includes Point Lobos above, stretches from San Francisco to Cambria and is full of beaches, tide pools, kelp forests, steep canyons, and marine life.
See More: The Ultimate California Coast Road Trip – All the Best Stops Along the PCH

When to Visit Monterey CA
Summer is peak season, but it can still be cool and overcast. January and February are the rainy seasons. If you want clear weather and temperatures in the 70s, go during the fall and spring.
If you’re a Jazz fan, check out the world’s longest-running jazz festival in September. You can see Monarch butterflies in October. If you’re there to see baby seals, go in the spring, and if you want to see whales, go in April.
Where to Eat in Monterey CA
- Alejandro’s (Mexican, Cocktail Bar, 💰💰) – Really cute spot. The fried dishes were over-fried for my taste, but we enjoyed the beautiful space, cauliflower tacos, and cocktails.
- Captain + Stoker (Coffee, 💰💰) – If you’re a coffee snob, this is where you should get your coffee.
- Dametra Cafe (Greek, Mediterranean, 💰💰) – Big portions and really busy. The owner comes out to play and sing every so often.
- El Charrito Salinas (Mexican, 💰) – Delicious and cheap spot popular with locals. They also run El Charrito Express out of Alejandro’s during the day, but we loved the food here more.
- Jeju Kitchen (Korean, 💰💰) – Korean fusion that hits the spot in Carmel by the Sea.
- Hay’s Place (Mexican, 💰💰) – Whether you played golf or just want to enjoy the views, tasty Mexican food with a beautiful outdoor patio.
- Noodle Bar (Vietnamese, 💰💰) – No fuss Viet spot that hits the spot when you’re craving pho.
- The Power Plant (Coffee & Tea, 💰💰) – Cute coffee shop + plant store + marketplace.
- Revival Ice Cream (Ice Cream, 💰💰) – Try the Bee’s Knees.
- Stationaery (Breakfast & Brunch, 💰💰) – Cute spot for brunch. I had the lobster roll and it was delicious.
- Toribashi (Ramen, 💰💰) – Ramen served quickly. I liked the cold noodle dish more than the ramen.



Map of the Best Things to Do in Monterey CA
Where to Stay in Monterey CA
For the first half of our trip, we stayed at the Hyatt Regency Monterey. The rooms are really spacious, and Jacob loved that there were pickleball courts! There are also two heated pools, fire pits, lawn games, hammock gardens, and more.
For the second half of our trip, we stayed at Le Petit Pali in Carmel-by-the-Sea. The rooms are really cute, and they bring you freshly baked cookies every day. It’s also in a great location, walking distance from the beach and lots of shops and restaurants.
On a previous trip, we also stayed at the Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa, and we saw whales from our balcony.


For more accommodation options, see the map below.
Planning Checklist
- Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
- Download these helpful language apps.
- Find a great deal on Monterey hotels.
- Arrange a rental car for your trip.
- Book a tour for your visit.
- Get airport lounge access.
- Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
- Get a new backpack for your trip.
- Buy a Monterey travel guide.
- Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
- Don’t forget your in-flight essentials.
Can you think of any other things to do in Monterey CA that we missed? Which of these are you putting on your itinerary next?
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“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes” – M. Proust

Esther + Jacob
Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.
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i love it
Thanks, Justin!
Just found your blog and I love it! Just thought I’d drop a comment! :) I’d love to go whale watching, it sounds fun.
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
Thank you so much, Charmaine! :)
Kayaking is my favorite way to experience a new place! Love that it’s on the list!
It is definitely a unique way to experience it, which I’m all for! Thanks, Juliette!