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Monterey
28,803 people (2006)
A rugged California coast where sea otters float in kelp forests just offshore and the famous 17-Mile Drive winds past wind-sculpted cypresses and crashing surf. World-class seafood on the historic Cannery Row, a world-renowned aquarium, and gateway access to Big Sur make it one of the West Coast's most rewarding stops.
Written by our AI
Scenic drivesFamily-friendlyFoodieOutdoor adventure
Our AI's themes
How long
2–4 days
Our AI's estimate of a typical stay.
Sightseeing weather
June, July, August, September and October
Weather only, worked out from the town's records.
On the map
Where it is, and the other places we have mapped around it.
Skip the map- This place
- Things to do
- Places to eat
- Places to stay
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors. Tiles by OpenFreeMap.
Things to do in Monterey
25 of the 41 we list here
Written by our AI
1Monterey Bay AquariumWildlife & nature·About 3h·Easy·Best in the morningOne of the world's premier aquariums, perched over Monterey Bay, with living kelp forest tanks, rescued sea otters, and hands-on tide-pool touch stations.
2Point Lobos State Natural ReserveHiking & trails·About 3h·Moderate·Best in the morningCalled the 'crown jewel of California state parks,' Point Lobos delivers dramatic granite headlands, kelp-filled coves, and close encounters with harbor seals, sea otters, and nesting seabirds along…
3Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration CenterMuseums & galleries·About 1h 30m·Easy·Any timeDive into the hidden world of Monterey Bay through immersive multimedia exhibits, live touch pools, and a real remotely operated vehicle that has explored the ocean's depths.
4Lone CypressAttractions & monuments·About 20m·Easy·Best at golden hourA solitary Monterey cypress, sculpted by centuries of coastal wind, clings dramatically to a granite promontory above the crashing Pacific.
5Fort Ord Dunes State ParkHiking & trails·About 2h·Easy·Any timeFort Ord Dunes State Park offers a network of scenic trails that wind through coastal dunes, leading to a stunning beach and a bluff-top platform with panoramic views of Monterey Bay.
6Chris' Fishing Trips and Whale WatchingAttractions & monumentsA local company offering fishing trips and whale watching tours in Monterey Bay.
7Point Sur LighthouseAttractions & monuments·About 30m·Easy·Best at golden hourPerched atop a bluff, Point Sur Lighthouse offers sweeping coastal views and a glimpse into maritime history, accessible via guided tours.
8Marina State BeachBeaches & water·About 2h·Easy·Best at golden hourA wide, wind-swept Pacific beach backed by sandy dunes and coastal scrub, where tide pools beckon curious kids and surfers read the break.
9Asilomar State BeachBeaches & water·About 1h 30m·Easy·Best at golden hourA serene mile-long stretch of sand bordered by dramatic rocky coves and tide pools, where harbor seals often haul out just yards from strolling visitors.
10National Steinbeck CenterMuseums & galleries·About 1h 30m·Easy·Any timeThe National Steinbeck Center immerses visitors in the life and works of John Steinbeck through engaging interactive exhibits suitable for all ages.
11Edward F. Ricketts State Marine Conservation AreaOutdoor adventure·About 2h·Easy·Any timeExplore the diverse marine life and stunning coastal landscapes at the Edward F.
12Sea ottersWildlife & nature·About 1h·Easy·Best in the morningObserve playful sea otters lounging and swimming in the kelp forests along the Monterey coastline, a delightful glimpse into marine mammal life.
13Memory GardenFamily & kids attractions·About 30m·Easy·Any timeThe Memory Garden in Monterey offers a peaceful escape filled with lush greenery and vibrant flowers, perfect for quiet reflection or family outings.
14Huckleberry Hill Nature PreserveWildlife & natureAn 81-acre preserve offering forested trails, diverse wildlife, and scenic views, ideal for hiking and nature walks.
15Monterey Bay Whale Watching CenterAttractions & monumentsA center offering whale watching tours in the Monterey Bay area, providing opportunities to see various whale species in their natural habitat.
16Monterey Bay SailingAttractions & monumentsProvides sailing tours in the Monterey Bay area, offering scenic views and opportunities to see marine life.
17Moss Landing State BeachBeaches & water·About 2h·Easy·Best at middayMoss Landing State Beach offers expansive sands and gentle waves, perfect for relaxation and spotting local wildlife like seabirds and sea otters.
18Museum of MontereyMuseums & galleriesA museum dedicated to the history and culture of Monterey, featuring diverse exhibits and artifacts.
19El Estero ParkOutdoor adventure·About 1h·Easy·Any timeEl Estero Park offers a tranquil escape with beautiful walking paths weaving through lush greenery and the serene estuary.
20Pacific Grove Museum of Natural HistoryMuseums & galleries·About 1h 15m·Easy·Any timeA beloved community gem tucked in Pacific Grove, this free natural history museum showcases the Central Coast's rich biodiversity through hands-on exhibits covering local birds, insects, marine…
21Del Monte BeachBeaches & water·About 2h·Easy·Any timeDel Monte Beach is a beautiful stretch of sandy shoreline perfect for relaxing or taking leisurely strolls along the coast.
22Old Custom HouseMuseums & galleries·About 1h·Easy·Any timeThe Old Custom House in Monterey is a historic maritime building that offers a glimpse into California's trading past with exhibits on local history and early commerce.
23Monterey Museum of ArtMuseums & galleries·About 1h 30m·Easy·Any timeHoused in a historic Monterey estate, this intimate museum hosts contemporary art exhibitions and cultural events in elegant gallery spaces.
24Presidio of Monterey MuseumMuseums & galleries·About 1h·Easy·Best in the morningHoused in a restored 1840s adobe, this compact museum traces over two centuries of military history on the Monterey Peninsula, from Spanish colonial soldiers to Cold War intelligence training.
25Fishermans Shoreline ParkOutdoor adventureThis picturesque park boasts walking paths along the waterfront, with beautiful views and benches to relax.
Durations, effort and best times are our AI's estimates.
Places to eat in Monterey
25 of the 27 we list here
Written by our AI
1Montrio BistroSuits dinner·$$$Located in a historic 1910 firehouse, Montrio Bistro offers inventive, locally sourced New American cuisine.
2Hula's Island GrillSuits lunch, dinner·$$Hula's Island Grill offers a tropical ambiance with a diverse menu featuring American and Asian fusion dishes.
3Schooners Coastal KitchenSuits lunch, dinner·$$$Schooners Coastal Kitchen boasts stunning views and a menu that highlights fresh, local seafood.
4Lalla Oceanside GrillSeafood·Suits lunch, dinner·$$$Known for its breathtaking ocean views, LALLA offers a menu featuring fresh, local ingredients with a Mediterranean twist.
5Sardine FactorySeafood·Suits dinner·$$$$This historic establishment is renowned for its elegant ambiance and exquisite seafood dishes.
6Paluca TrattoriaItalian·Suits lunch, dinner·$$$An Italian restaurant offering authentic dishes made with high-quality ingredients.
7Ocean SushiSuits lunch, dinner·$$A local favorite for sushi, this restaurant is known for its fresh ingredients and creative rolls.
8Bay CafeSuits breakfast, lunch·$$A cozy cafe known for its comfortable atmosphere and variety of breakfast and lunch options.
9Lalla GrillSuits dinner·$$Lalla Grill features a modern twist on American cuisine with a vibrant atmosphere and an extensive drink menu.
10Crown & AnchorSuits lunch, dinner·$$This pub is well-known for its lively atmosphere and hearty pub fare, making it a great spot to unwind.
11Rockfish Harbor GrillSeafood·Suits lunch, dinner·$$This waterfront restaurant offers stunning views of the marina and a relaxed atmosphere.
12Rosine'sSuits lunch, dinner·$$This restaurant features a diverse menu with a focus on Italian and American dishes, served in a cozy atmosphere.
13Alta Bakery & CafeSuits breakfast, brunch·$$Famous for its baked goods and breakfast offerings, this cafe provides a relaxing atmosphere.
14La Casa BodegaSuits lunch, dinner·$$A cozy pub featuring a selection of craft beers and a diverse menu.
15Siamese BaySuits lunch, dinner·$$Specializing in Thai cuisine, Siamese Bay offers a comforting menu with a variety of dishes to choose from.
16PigWizardSuits lunch·$$PigWizard is known for its quality deli meats and sandwiches that appeal to both locals and visitors.
17London Bridge PubSuits lunch, dinner·$$A traditional pub offering a variety of beers and comfort food classics.
18Cafe La StradaSuits breakfast, brunch·$$Cafe La Strada is known for its inviting atmosphere and delicious baked goods, making it a favorite morning spot.
19Peet's CoffeeCoffee shop·Suits breakfast, lunch·$$A popular spot known for its rich coffee blends and cozy atmosphere.
20Cannery Row DeliSuits lunch·$Cannery Row Deli offers a selection of sandwiches and quick meals perfect for a day out in Monterey.
21Del Monte Golf Course GrillSuits lunch·$A casual grill situated at a golf course, offering simple fare and a relaxed atmosphere.
22Carousel CandiesSuits snack·$A whimsical shop offering a wide variety of candies and treats.
23Duffy's TavernSuits late-night·$A laid-back bar known for its friendly atmosphere and selection of drinks.
24Denny'sAmerican·Suits breakfast, dinner·$This diner-style restaurant is famous for its hearty American breakfast served all day, perfect for families and those craving comfort food.
25Peter B's BrewpubSuits dinner, late-night, drinks·$$$Monterey's original craft brewery since 1996, offering a variety of house-made beers and a full pub menu in a lively atmosphere.
Cuisine from OpenStreetMap. "Suits" and price bands are our AI's estimates.
Places to stay in Monterey
25 of the 43 we list here
Written by our AI
Type of stay from OpenStreetMap. "Good for" and price bands are our AI's estimates.
Each place opens our booking partner, where you can check prices and book. We may earn a commission if you book.
The weather you'd get
Typical daily high and low, and the share of days with rain, from historical records (2011-2025). Average weather for Monterey, not a forecast.
January high 58°
low 47°
rain on 26%
February high 58°
low 47°
rain on 27%
March high 58°
low 48°
rain on 34%
April high 58°
low 49°
rain on 17%
May high 59°
low 51°
rain on 10%
June high 62°
low 53°
rain on 3%
July high 63°
low 55°
rain on 1%
August high 65°
low 56°
rain on 0%
September high 67°
low 56°
rain on 4%
October high 66°
low 55°
rain on 9%
November high 62°
low 50°
rain on 20%
December high 58°
low 48°
rain on 27%
Warmest month: September, highs around 67°F, 19°C. Wettest: March, rain on about 34% of days. Driest: August.
Sightseeing weather. The mildest, driest and calmest months for sightseeing are June, July, August, September and October. That is weather only. It says nothing about ski seasons, beach days or festivals, which is often why people go.
Nearby towns
Road trips through Monterey
From Wikipedia
Monterey is a city on the southern edge of Monterey Bay, on the Central Coast of California. Located in Monterey County, the city occupies a land area of 8.645 sq mi (22.39 km2) and recorded a population of 30,218 in the 2020 census.
Text: Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0
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Sources and credits
Names, place details, opening times and addresses © OpenStreetMap contributors, available under the Open Database Licence.
Text: Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0.
Weather: Open-Meteo historical weather data.
Airports: OurAirports, public domain.
Photo: MontereyWharf&Harbor by Smatprt, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons.
Descriptions, themes and estimates are written by Journey Builder's AI.