TripAdvisor's editorial team reviewed our attractions database and selected the best local attractions to highlight in this itinerary. Some are popular, some are off the beaten path, but all are worth a visit.
Can't miss |
|  | Monterey Bay Aquarium: Set on the beautiful Monterey Bay, the aquarium seeks to preserve and promote the marine life and habitats of America's largest marine sanctuary. Address: 886 Cannery Row at David Avenue, Monterey, Monterey Peninsula, California Phone: 831-648-4888 Admission fee |  |
Steinbeck |
|  | Cannery Row: Immortalized by Nobel- and Pulitzer Prize-winning author John Steinbeck, this popular walkway is one of America's most famous streets and is filled with shops, restaurants and historic attractions. Address: Cannery Row & Wave Streets, Monterey, Monterey Peninsula, California Phone: 831-649-6690 Free |  |
|  | Doc Rickett's Pacific Biological Laboratories: A landmark on Cannery Row, this is the spot where John Steinbeck's good buddy and biologist Ed "Doc" Ricketts prepped the marine life he collected before shipping it to schools and medical facilities. Address: 800 Cannery Row, Monterey, Monterey Peninsula, California Phone: 831-372-8512 |  |
|  | National Steinbeck Center: In nearby Salinas, the Center is a celebration and exploration of Steinbeck's work through multi-sensory exhibits, priceless artifacts and live theater performances. Address: One Main Street, Salinas, California Phone: 831.796.3833 Admission fee |  |
Famous drive |
|  | 17-Mile Drive: Seals bask on the beach and pelicans perch on rocky cliffs along this famous drive that passes through many popular spots. Address: Monterey, Monterey Peninsula, California Free |  |
Outdoor recreation |
|  | Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park: A breathtaking 80-foot waterfall dropping from the cliffs to the ocean is the focal point of this park. Address: State Route 1, Milepost 37 south (52.7 north), Monterey, Monterey Peninsula, California Admission fee |  |
Restaurants |
|  | Loose Noodle Pasta House: This family-friendly eatery serves large portions of delicious pasta dishes at affordable prices. Address: 538 Lighthouse Ave, Monterey, Monterey Peninsula, California Phone: (831) 641-0130 |  |
More attractions |  |  | View all attractions in Monterey |
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Nearby places worth a visit |  | Carmel Tucked between Big Sur and the famous Pebble Beach Golf Course, elegant Carmel boasts a rural European feel with intimate gourmet restaurants, exquisite inns and upscale shopping. Only 17 miles from Monterey, it is ideal for a half- or full-day jaunt. |
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