Map of Monterey, United States

🏖️ What to do in Monterey

Monterey offers a variety of activities for every traveler, from scenic coastal walks to exciting marine adventures. Must-try activities include visiting the iconic Cannery Row, exploring the Monterey Bay Aquarium, and indulging in the stunning views along 17-Mile Drive.

• Best Budget Activity in Monterey:

  Pacific Grove Coastal Recreation Trail: Enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride along this picturesque trail with breathtaking ocean views.

• Best Mid-Range Activity in Monterey:

  Kayaking in Elkhorn Slough: Paddle through serene waters and observe a variety of wildlife, including otters and birds, in their natural habitat.

• Best Luxury Activity in Monterey:

  Pebble Beach Golf Links: Tee off at this world-renowned golf course, known for its beautiful seaside setting and challenging holes.

🍽️ Where to Eat in Monterey

Monterey is a culinary gem offering a diverse range of dining options, from fresh seafood to international flavors. Must-try foods include clam chowder, abalone, and locally caught fish.

• Best Budget Restaurant in Monterey:

  Papa Chevos•$ - $$:

  Mexican fare with generous portions

• Best Mid-Range Restaurant in Monterey:

  Old Fisherman's Grotto•$$ - $$$:

  Seafood dishes served with a waterfront view

• Best Luxury Restaurant in Monterey:

  Aubergine•$$$$:

  Fine dining showcasing innovative Californian cuisine

• Best Budget Bar in Monterey:

  London Bridge Pub•$:

  Fish and chips paired with a pint of local beer

• Best Mid-Range Bar in Monterey:

  Alvarado Street Brewery & Grill•$$ - $$$:

  Craft beer flights and gourmet burgers

• Best Luxury Bar in Monterey:

  Sardine Factory Lounge•$$$$:

  Signature cocktails and premium wine selection

🏰 What to see in Monterey

Monterey is rich in history and natural beauty, offering visitors a glimpse into its past and stunning coastal landscapes. Must-visit landmarks include the historic Cannery Row, the scenic Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, and the iconic Lone Cypress along the 17-Mile Drive.

• Cannery Row:

  Once bustling with sardine canneries, Cannery Row is now a vibrant waterfront street lined with shops, restaurants, and the renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium.

• Point Lobos State Natural Reserve:

  Explore this pristine reserve known for its diverse marine life, rugged cliffs, and hiking trails offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.

• Lone Cypress:

  Standing resilient on a rocky outcrop, the Lone Cypress is a symbol of the Pebble Beach coastline and a must-see landmark along the scenic 17-Mile Drive.

• Monterey Bay Aquarium:

  Delve into the wonders of the ocean at this world-class aquarium, featuring captivating exhibits showcasing marine life from the Monterey Bay and beyond.

• Old Fisherman's Wharf:

  Stroll along the historic wharf lined with seafood restaurants, gift shops, and opportunities for whale watching tours and fishing excursions.

🛍️ Where to go shopping in Monterey

Monterey offers a delightful shopping experience with a mix of unique boutiques, artisanal stores, and well-known brands. Explore picturesque streets and bustling marketplaces to find the perfect souvenirs or gifts.

• Best Budget Shopping Place in Monterey:

  Cannery Row Marketplace: Browse a selection of shops offering affordable souvenirs, apparel, and locally made gifts in the heart of historic Cannery Row.

• Best Mid-Range Shopping Place in Monterey:

  Old Monterey Marketplace: Discover an array of charming shops, art galleries, and specialty stores showcasing handcrafted jewelry, artwork, and gourmet treats.

• Best Luxury Shopping Place in Monterey:

  Carmel Plaza: Indulge in upscale shopping at Carmel Plaza, featuring designer boutiques, luxury brands, and fine art galleries in a sophisticated outdoor setting.

🚌 Getting Around Monterey

• Public Transport

  Monterey offers a convenient public transportation system for visitors to explore the city. The primary mode of public transport is the bus system operated by Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST). Visitors can purchase single-ride tickets for $1.50 or day passes for $5, providing unlimited rides within a 24-hour period. The bus schedule varies by route, with service frequency typically ranging from every 30 minutes to hourly.

• Main Transportation Hubs

  Within Monterey, the main transportation hub is the Monterey Transit Plaza located in downtown Monterey. From here, visitors can connect to various bus routes that serve different parts of the city and nearby attractions. For those arriving by train, the Salinas Amtrak Station is the nearest rail hub, approximately 20 miles east of Monterey. Alternatively, travelers can fly into Monterey Regional Airport for air travel convenience.

• Rental Services

  🚗 Car Rentals: Major car rental companies like Hertz, Enterprise, and Budget operate in Monterey, offering a range of vehicle options to suit different needs. Prices for car rentals start at around $40 per day, varying based on the vehicle type and rental duration. 🚲 Bicycle Rentals: For a more eco-friendly and leisurely way to explore Monterey, several local shops and tour operators provide bicycle rental services. Prices for bicycle rentals typically start at $15 for a half day or $25 for a full day, with options for guided tours and equipment included.