Whether you have one day or several days to explore the Monterey area, there are a variety of activities we recommend - the aquarium, renting bikes or kayaks, children's parks and museums, wine tasting, and taking in breathtaking coastal views. Here are a few more suggestions and details to help you plan your trip.
| Attractions on Cannery Row Adjacent to the Intercontinental Clement Hotel is the world renowed Monterey Bay Aquarium. The new Seahorse exhibit is exceptional. This is a must-see for any family with extra time to enjoy the Monterey Bay. Stroll along Cannery Row's restaurants and shops which cater to tourists. For outdoor recreation, you can rent bikes and rollerblades to enjoy the ocean-front trail from Adventures by the Sea. For even more of an "adventure by the sea" rent a kayak and explore the Monterey Bay. | Activities with Children Dennis the Menace Park is a favorite children's park in Monterey. With free admission, this park offers fun for children of all ages. Nearby is a lake which rents paddleboats. MYMuseum is a local children's museum with interactive exhibits. The annual Feast of Lanterns celebration also takes place In Pacific Grove's Lover's Point on July 25, where kids can go swimming at the 90-degree wading pool, build sandcastles, and get their faces painted. |
Cultural and Culinary Experiences There are many cultural and culinary attractions for adults in the area. Carmel-by-the-sea is a quaint town filled with art galleries and high-end shoppes. Down Carmel Valley you will find an oasis of wineries which offer tastings for a fee. See Sunset Magazine's Day in Pacific Grove and 36 Hours in Carmel-by-the-Sea in the New York Times for inspiration. |
Natural Beauty of Monterey Bay and the Central Coast To best enjoy the beauty of Monterey area, be sure to tour the 17-mile Drive through Pebble Beach for a small entrance fee. Just south of Carmel you will find Point Lobos State Park which offers some light and beautiful hikes. Further down the coast by car is beautiful Big Sur, where you can see Redwoods and rocky coasts. |