Things to Do in Monterey

Things to Do in Monterey, CA - Monterey Attractions

Things to Do in Monterey

Check out must-see sights and activities:
Monterey Bay Aquarium, 17-Mile Drive, Nature and Wildlife Tours, Historic Sites. For personalized recommendations, try our AI trip-planning product.
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Top Attractions in Monterey

These rankings are informed by Tripadvisor data—we consider traveler reviews, ratings, number of page views, and user location.

Scenic coastal drive with panoramic ocean views, iconic trees, and cliff-side lookouts. Features photographic spots and a renowned golf course amid natural beauty.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveler reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.

Coastal trails with scenic views, historic spots, and diverse marine life characterize this seaside neighborhood. Enjoy beach strolls, wildlife observation, and a historic drive.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveler reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.

Vibrant playground with whimsical designs and diverse equipment caters to children of various ages and abilities. Features shaded areas and a pond with paddle boats for family recreation.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveler reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.

Historic waterfront district with a blend of dining, shops, and ocean views. Features cultural significance and sea life encounters, ideal for literary enthusiasts.
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*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.

What travelers are saying

  • DebiandBruce
    Redding, CA16 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    After 20 prior visits to the Aquarium over a decade, it keeps getting better. The staff and volunteers share so much information and always welcome questions. One of our favorite places to go in Monterey. Special thanks to Zachary for a great back area tour and the Aquariasts during the feedings and films who keep expanding our knowledge of all depths of the sea!! The knowledge and exhibits about the deeps keeps evolving. Even the otters in the bay made special outpourings along with an army of cormorants, harbor seals spreading along the pilings and one raccoon strutting her stuff on the beach. We never get enough. We're proud to be members.
    Written February 2, 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Trey C
    Los Angeles, CA1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    The drive itself is well-maintained, with plenty of scenic spots to stop and take it all in. One of my most favorite activities I have done so far.
    Written January 31, 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • wvogelii
    165 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Took our family of four (two teenage boys) for a day trip from Fresno area (2 1/2 hour drive). Pro tip, leave early to get there and park before 9am or it’s going to be a challenge finding a good spot (we went on a Sunday). We chose lots of 21 right in between Cannery Row and Old Fishermans Wharf. It was about $10 to park for the day. We chose to walk the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail which is a well maintained bike/run/walk path up and down the coast. Pro tip, there is a free shuttle taking you up and down the trail if you’re tired of walking. We hit up the shops, food and sea life viewing areas over a 6 hour duration. Definitely worth the trip (and beats the Fresno heat ~30 degrees cooler)!
    I’ll review a few of the individual locations on my profile.
    Written June 24, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Monica P
    1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Probably the best park that I’ve ever visited in my life. They had lots of different types of slides and different types of equipment. I couldn’t believe it was free. My kids loved it! Parents please always keep an eye on your children, even if you can see them, this park is very chaotic and there are a lot of people there.
    Written July 18, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Lauren C
    New Jersey169 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Really fantastic and scenic trail that’s great for biking or walking. You can pick it up wherever and enjoy the views of the water, wildlife, and local charm. Highly recommend!
    Written November 16, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • jv66210
    Oklahoma City, OK152 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Cannery Row is a beautiful location with lots of restaurants and shops. We went in the evening, and I think it was even more beautiful lit up after dark.
    Written October 16, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • jan w
    3 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    It was Picture Post Card gorgeous! South of otter refuge area .I am so sorry to hear about Highway 1 and it crumbling hillside ! This was My Mother’s best place to drive too and loved it, she called it her favorite scenic view she has ever got drive and pull over when she wanted too. She took my Brother and myself to this place when we where young as a family trip and boy did we love it, myself and brother remembered what she said , so we travelled this way a few years ago, in memory of that occasion. I don’t think that place was there when we travelled, but I thought that was a beautiful spot to remember her by.
    Written April 28, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Jeanine Loves Travel
    Saint Charles, IL147 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Go early in the morning and do the Skyline Nature trail. It is magical with the fog. Heck, spend the entire morning there exploring. Lots to see!
    Written July 1, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Joe Alejo
    South Lake Tahoe, CA311 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    very cool spot to stroll and take in the sights! great area to stretch the legs after driving around and visiting the area attractions
    Written August 24, 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Glenn L
    16 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Saw some seals, cormorants and even a couple of otters. A number of people were fishing from the wharf, but don’t know if they had any luck. A bit run down and dinghy, especially on the Coast Guard portion
    Written January 2, 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • BruinDan
    Fullerton, CA3,341 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Founded in 1959, the Monterey Museum of Art can be found on Pacific Street between the intersections with Madison and Jefferson Streets, across from the Monterey City Hall. There is metered parking along the street. My wife and I visited this museum during late February 2024.

    There is a permanent collection of art housed here, but what the museum is known for is featuring 15-20 special exhibitions throughout the year. So, it’s advisable to check the museum’s website before visiting to verify the special exhibit is something you’d like to see. On our visit, the exhibition was named “Harvesting California,” which celebrated the local economy’s close connection with agriculture. It featured the work of both local artists and nationally-known figures such as the famous photographer Dorothea Lange.

    The museum was easy to navigate, the artwork was tastefully displayed, and it won’t take you all day to go through it all. We enjoyed our visit and can recommend it to others.
    Written June 19, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • roy v
    Traralgon, Australia6,029 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    We enjoyed going here after the huge Independence Day parade.
    There were so many people on the lawns, eating and drinking and listening to the music.
    The Hall looked terrific with the Fourth Of July decorations on it .
    We went in and had a look around, nice building and a bit of history to learn. Very historic place and hard to imagine you are standing where history was made as the Californian Constitution was conceived and signed in this Hall.
    Nice volunteer Gentleman there who was happy to give us information, That was excellent
    Written July 5, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
When to Visit
  • January
    52 ºF
    8 days of rain
    Less busy
  • February
    53 ºF
    8 days of rain
    Wettest month
    Moderately busy
  • March
    54 ºF
    7 days of rain
    Moderately busy
  • April
    55 ºF
    4 days of rain
    Moderately busy
  • May
    56 ºF
    2 days of rain
    Very busy
  • June
    58 ºF
    0 days of rain
    Very busy
  • July
    59 ºF
    0 days of rain
    Very busy
    Busiest month
  • August
    60 ºF
    Hottest month
    0 days of rain
    Very busy
  • September
    60 ºF
    1 day of rain
    Moderately busy
  • October
    59 ºF
    2 days of rain
    Less busy
  • November
    55 ºF
    6 days of rain
    Less busy
  • December
    51 ºF
    Coldest month
    8 days of rain
    Less busy
    Least busy month
The above attraction descriptions were created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for any of the above attraction descriptions. Please read full traveler reviews for more details and information.
Reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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