Monterey

🇺🇸 United States of America

Experience California beauty in Monterey

Monterey - Vacation Briefing

Nestled on the scenic Pacific coast of California, Monterey is a charming city that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. With its picturesque coastline, stunning beaches, and world-class marine life, Monterey is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the iconic Monterey Bay Aquarium, visit historic Cannery Row, or take a leisurely drive along the stunning 17-Mile Drive. Enjoy fresh seafood at charming waterfront restaurants or indulge in wine tasting at local vineyards. With its year-round pleasant climate, Monterey is a delightful destination for all seasons.

Popular Sights in Monterey

Monterey Bay Aquarium Cannery Row 17-Mile Drive Pebble Beach Golf Links Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Old Fisherman's Wharf Point Lobos State Natural Reserve Monterey Museum of Art Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History Dennis the Menace Park

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Things to do during your Monterey vacation

Monterey is a charming coastal city located in California's central coast region. Known for its natural beauty and rich history, Monterey offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Whether you're interested in exploring the stunning coastline, diving into the vibrant marine life, or immersing yourself in the area's cultural heritage, Monterey has something for everyone.

Monterey Bay Aquarium: Discover the wonders of the ocean at one of the world's most renowned aquariums. Home to a diverse range of marine life, including sea otters, sharks, and penguins.
Cannery Row: Explore the historic waterfront district that was once home to sardine canning factories. Today, Cannery Row is lined with shops, restaurants, and art galleries.
17-Mile Drive: Take a scenic drive along the picturesque coastline, passing famous landmarks such as the Lone Cypress and Pebble Beach Golf Links.
Monterey State Historic Park: Step back in time as you wander through a collection of historic adobe buildings, including California's first theater and the Custom House.
Whale Watching: Embark on an unforgettable experience and witness majestic whales in their natural habitat. Monterey Bay is a prime spot for whale watching.
Paddleboarding in Monterey Bay: Rent a paddleboard and glide across the serene waters of Monterey Bay, enjoying the beautiful coastal scenery and marine life.
Monterey Bay Coastal Trail: Walk, run, or bike along this scenic trail that offers breathtaking views of the coastline, wildlife sightings, and access to various beaches.
Monterey Wine Tasting: Indulge in the region's renowned wines by visiting the numerous wineries and tasting rooms scattered throughout Monterey County.
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve: Experience the stunning natural beauty of Point Lobos, with its rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and diverse marine habitats. Perfect for hiking and photography.
Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary: Immerse yourself in the vibrant underwater world of the marine sanctuary through activities like scuba diving or snorkeling.
Monterey Museum of Art: Discover an impressive collection of American and early California art at this museum, housed in a historic adobe building.

Why you should visit Monterey

Overall

Monterey, United States of America is a captivating destination with a variety of attractions to offer.

Safety

Monterey generally has a decent level of safety, but it is advisable to be cautious in crowded tourist areas and take necessary precautions.

Culture

Monterey boasts a rich cultural heritage with numerous museums, historical sites, and diverse culinary experiences to explore.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Monterey is moderate, with a few bars and clubs to enjoy, but it may not be as vibrant as some other popular destinations.

Adventure

While Monterey may not be known for extreme adventures, it provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities like kayaking, sailing, and wildlife watching.

Relaxation

If you are seeking relaxation, Monterey is an excellent choice. With beautiful beaches, coastal hikes, and serene lakes, it offers plenty of opportunities to unwind.

Best time to visit Monterey

Monterey offers pleasant weather and a variety of activities throughout the year. The best time to visit is from May to October when you can enjoy warm temperatures and outdoor adventures without the high summer crowds.

Jan

Mild weather, but some rain

6°C - 14°C

Feb

Moderate temperatures and fewer crowds

7°C - 15°C

Mar

Warmer weather and blooming flowers

8°C - 16°C

Apr

Ideal weather for outdoor activities

9°C - 18°C

May

Warm temperatures and blooming nature

11°C - 20°C

Jun

Sunny days and bustling summer vibes

12°C - 22°C

Jul

Peak warm weather and lively festivals

13°C - 24°C

Aug

Continued warm weather and abundant marine life

13°C - 23°C

Sep

Sunny days, fewer crowds, and wine harvest

12°C - 22°C

Oct

Mild temperatures and fall foliage

10°C - 19°C

Nov

Cooler temperatures, but fewer tourists

7°C - 15°C

Dec

Mild weather and festive holiday spirit

6°C - 14°C

A guide To your first day of Monterey vacation

morning

Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium
Take a scenic drive along the 17-Mile Drive

afternoon

Explore Cannery Row and indulge in local seafood
Visit Pacific Grove for a scenic coastal walk

evening

Enjoy a sunset cruise on the Monterey Bay
Stroll along Fisherman's Wharf and try some local cuisine

night

Experience live jazz music at a local bar
Take a romantic beach stroll under the moonlight

How to get to Monterey

By Plane

Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) is the convenient gateway to Monterey, offering domestic flights from major cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco. Its small size ensures hassle-free check-ins and short security lines, allowing travelers to quickly reach the heart of this beautiful coastal city.

Check direct connections to MRY Airport

By other means

Monterey is well-connected by public transport, with a network of buses that conveniently links the city to nearby attractions like Carmel and Big Sur. The Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) offers affordable and reliable service, making it easy for visitors to explore the region without a car.

Tips for Booking Your Trip

Planning a trip can get tricky, right? Don't worry, we've got some solid advice to make your life easier. Here's how you can find flights and accommodations without a hitch.

Flights: How to Score the Best Deal

First things first, check out Google Flights. Their price calendar and nearby airport options are really useful. Found a good deal? Great, but hang on a sec—make sure you compare it with prices on Kayak, Skyscanner, Momondo, and Kiwi. A little research can go a long way.

Accommodation: Find Your Ideal Spot

For places to stay, start by scanning Booking.com and Airbnb to get an idea of what's out there. Then, level up your search by looking at Hostelworld and Agoda. Oh, and a quick tip: the hotel's own website might have some special offers, so give that a look too.

Ready to make some moves? The links you need are right below. Happy booking!