Discover the Scenic Serenity of Monterey Bay Coastal Trail
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Monterey Bay Coastal Trail, a serene pathway perfect for biking, walking, and enjoying nature's wonders.
The Monterey Bay Coastal Trail is a picturesque haven for both locals and tourists, offering breathtaking ocean vistas, lush landscapes, and a perfect place for walking or cycling. This serene trail stretches along the stunning shoreline of Monterey, showcasing the natural beauty of California's coast. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, the trail is suitable for all ages and provides a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
A brief summary to Monterey Bay Recreation Trail North-North West Seal Lions
- Monterey Bay Coastal Trail, Monterey, California, 93944, US
- Monday 6 am-9 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-9 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-9 pm
- Thursday 6 am-9 pm
- Friday 6 am-9 pm
- Saturday 6 am-9 pm
- Sunday 6 am-9 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or during sunset for the most stunning views and fewer crowds.
- Bring a camera to capture the diverse wildlife and picturesque scenery along the trail.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll want to explore the trail for hours.
- Check the local weather before your visit to ensure the best experience on the trail.
- Don't forget to bring water and snacks for a refreshing break during your adventure.
Getting There
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Walking
From downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea, head east on Ocean Avenue towards San Carlos Street. Turn left onto San Carlos Street and continue to follow it until you reach 6th Avenue. Turn right onto 6th Avenue, which will lead you to Mission Street. Follow Mission Street north until you reach the intersection with Del Monte Avenue. Cross Del Monte Avenue to continue on the same path. After crossing, you’ll be on the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail. Continue walking along the trail until you reach the designated area for Seal Lions.
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Biking
If you have a bicycle, start from downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea and ride east along Ocean Avenue towards San Carlos Street. Turn left onto San Carlos Street and follow it to 6th Avenue. Take a right on 6th Avenue and then another right onto Mission Street. Continue north on Mission Street until you reach Del Monte Avenue. Cross Del Monte Avenue and continue onto the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail. Follow the trail to the Seal Lions viewing area.
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Public Transport
From Carmel-by-the-Sea, you can catch the Monterey-Salinas Transit bus route 1, which will take you to the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail. Board the bus at the nearest bus stop on Ocean Avenue. Make sure to ask the driver for the nearest stop to the trail. Once you disembark, follow the signs towards the Coastal Trail, which is just a short walk away. Head north along the trail to reach the Seal Lions.
Discover more about Monterey Bay Recreation Trail North-North West Seal Lions
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hippolyte Bouchard Plaque
0.2 km
Explore the Hippolyte Bouchard Plaque in Monterey, a historical landmark that captures the essence of California's maritime heritage.
Sloat Monument
0.3 km
Explore the Sloat Monument in Monterey, a striking sculpture commemorating Commodore John D. Sloat and a pivotal moment in California's history.
Monterey Bay Whale Watch
0.4 km
Discover the wonders of Monterey Bay with unforgettable whale watching tours, where marine life meets breathtaking coastal scenery.
Old Fishermen's Grotto
0.4 km
Experience the best of Monterey's culinary scene at Old Fishermen's Grotto, where fresh seafood and steaks meet stunning waterfront views.
Monterey Harbor
0.4 km
Discover the charm and beauty of Monterey Harbor, where stunning coastal views, vibrant marine life, and unforgettable experiences await in California.
Doud House
0.5 km
Discover the Doud House, a historical landmark in Monterey, California, where history and beauty intertwine in a captivating journey through time.
California State Historical Landmark No. 1
0.5 km
Explore California State Historical Landmark No. 1 in Monterey, a vital piece of California's heritage showcasing the area's rich maritime history.
Monterey Custom House
0.5 km
Explore Monterey Custom House, a key historical landmark reflecting California's maritime heritage and architectural beauty in the heart of Monterey.
Monterey Harbor Monument
0.6 km
Explore the rich maritime heritage at Monterey Harbor Monument, a captivating historical landmark offering stunning coastal views and a glimpse into Monterey's past.
Monterey State Historic Park Office
0.6 km
Explore Monterey State Historic Park Office, a historical gem offering insights into California's rich heritage amidst stunning coastal views.
Monterey Bay Aquarium
0.7 km
Discover the Monterey Bay Aquarium, where marine life comes alive and conservation meets education in a breathtaking coastal setting.
Old Monterey Foundation
0.8 km
Explore Monterey's rich history and cultural heritage at the Old Monterey Foundation, where stories of the past come to life in engaging exhibits and community events.
Fisherman’s Wharf
0.8 km
Discover the charm of Fisherman’s Wharf in Monterey, a historic waterfront destination with fresh seafood, shopping, and stunning ocean views.
The Famous Old Fisherman's Wharf Sign
0.8 km
Explore the iconic Old Fisherman's Wharf Sign in Monterey, a vibrant symbol of the city's rich maritime heritage and coastal charm.
Carmel Valley Wine Tours / Tours Monterey
0.8 km
Explore the exquisite wines and breathtaking landscapes of Carmel Valley Wine Tours, a must-visit for wine enthusiasts in Monterey, California.
Unmissable attractions to see
Sister City Park
0.1 km
Explore the natural beauty and tranquility of Sister City Park in Monterey, California, a perfect retreat for relaxation and scenic views.
Breakwater Cove Marina
0.1 km
Discover the beauty and adventure of Breakwater Cove Marina in Monterey, where coastal charm meets thrilling maritime experiences.
San Carlos Beach
0.2 km
Experience the beauty of San Carlos Beach in Monterey, California, where sandy shores meet vibrant marine life and breathtaking coastal views.
Lower Presidio Historic Park
0.2 km
Explore the scenic beauty and rich history of Lower Presidio Historic Park in Monterey, California, where nature and heritage come together.
Coast Guard Pier
0.2 km
Discover the stunning beauty and marine life at Coast Guard Pier, Monterey's iconic destination for breathtaking views and coastal adventures.
Presidio of Monterey Museum
0.2 km
Explore Monterey's military heritage at the Presidio of Monterey Museum, where history comes alive through fascinating exhibits and artifacts.
San Carlos Beach Park
0.4 km
Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of San Carlos Beach Park in Monterey, featuring stunning ocean views, lush picnic areas, and vibrant marine life.
Sanctuary
0.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Sanctuary in Monterey, a coastal gem on Cannery Row offering stunning ocean views and relaxation.
Sail Monterey
0.4 km
Discover the beauty of Monterey Bay with Sail Monterey, offering unforgettable sailing experiences, boat rentals, and sailing classes for all skill levels.
1 Old Fisherman’s Wharf
0.5 km
Discover the timeless beauty and culinary delights of Old Fisherman’s Wharf, a must-visit coastal retreat in Monterey, California.
Old Fisherman's Wharf
0.5 km
Discover Old Fisherman's Wharf in Monterey, a vibrant blend of seafood dining, shopping, and breathtaking ocean views, perfect for all travelers.
0 Old Fisherman’s Wharf
0.5 km
Discover the charm of Old Fisherman’s Wharf in Monterey, where fresh seafood meets stunning coastal views and vibrant local culture.
Custom House Museum
0.5 km
Explore the Custom House Museum in Monterey, a gateway to understanding the region's vibrant maritime history and cultural heritage.
Monterey Sea Lions
0.5 km
Experience the lively Monterey Sea Lions, a captivating natural attraction showcasing playful marine life against a stunning coastal backdrop.
California's First Theatre
0.5 km
Discover the rich cultural heritage of California at California's First Theatre, a historical landmark in scenic Monterey, offering a glimpse into the performing arts.
Essential places to dine
Osteria Al Mare
0.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Osteria Al Mare in Monterey—where fresh seafood meets homemade pasta in a charming coastal setting.
Rockfish Harbor Grill
0.3 km
Experience fresh seafood with breathtaking views at Rockfish Harbor Grill on Monterey's historic Fisherman’s Wharf.
Abalonetti Bar and Grill
0.4 km
Experience fresh seafood delights at Abalonetti Bar and Grill, where coastal charm meets Italian flavors on Monterey's picturesque Fisherman's Wharf.
Fish & Chips Cafe
0.4 km
Experience authentic fish and chips at Monterey's picturesque Fisherman's Wharf with stunning ocean views.
Crab House
0.4 km
Discover Crab House in Monterey – where fresh seafood meets vibrant international flavors along Fisherman's Wharf.
Café Fina
0.4 km
Experience exquisite seafood and authentic Italian cuisine at Café Fina in Monterey's scenic Fisherman's Wharf.
Domenico's on the Wharf
0.4 km
Experience exquisite seafood and Italian cuisine at Domenico's on Fisherman's Wharf - where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Crab Louie's Bistro
0.4 km
Experience fresh seafood delights at Crab Louie's Bistro on Monterey's historic Fisherman's Wharf - where ocean views meet culinary excellence.
Crabby Jim's seafood
0.4 km
Experience Monterey's best seafood at Crabby Jim's Seafood – where fresh flavors meet stunning waterfront views.
Benihana Monterey
0.5 km
Experience the thrill of teppanyaki at Benihana Monterey – where culinary artistry meets entertainment in every meal.
Paluca Trattoria
0.5 km
Discover Paluca Trattoria: where Italian culinary traditions meet fresh local seafood in an enchanting waterfront setting.
Coastal Kitchen
0.6 km
Experience fresh seafood and local flavors at Coastal Kitchen in Monterey's Cannery Row—where every meal tells a story.
Schooners Monterey
0.6 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining with stunning ocean views at Schooners Monterey - your perfect culinary getaway in California.
Jacks Monterey
0.7 km
Discover culinary delights at Jacks Monterey, where local flavors meet breathtaking coastal views in an unforgettable dining experience.
Chart House
0.7 km
Experience the finest seafood dining at Chart House in Monterey's Cannery Row—where ocean views meet culinary excellence.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Monterey Bay Silver Company
0.4 km
Explore the exquisite collection of handcrafted silver jewelry at Monterey Bay Silver Company, where each piece reflects the beauty of the California coast.
Morning Star Pearls
0.4 km
Experience the elegance of handcrafted pearl jewelry at Morning Star Pearls in Monterey's Fisherman’s Wharf, where beauty meets artistry.
Sock Harbor
0.4 km
Explore Sock Harbor, a charming gift shop in Monterey offering unique souvenirs and local crafts that embody the spirit of California's coast.
Pirate's Cove
0.4 km
Explore unique souvenirs and local crafts at Pirate's Cove Gift Shop in Monterey's Fisherman's Wharf.
Carousel Candies
0.4 km
Discover a world of sweet treats at Carousel Candies in Monterey, where nostalgia meets gourmet delights amidst stunning coastal views.
Ocean Front
0.5 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Ocean Front, a charming gift shop on Monterey's scenic Fisherman's Wharf, perfect for tourists and locals alike.
Wharf's General Store
0.5 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts at Wharf's General Store, a charming destination on Monterey's vibrant Fisherman's Wharf.
Harbor House
0.5 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Harbor House, the perfect spot for memorable keepsakes in Monterey's charming Old Fisherman’s Wharf.
Joseph Boston Store
0.5 km
Explore the Joseph Boston Store in Monterey, CA - a unique blend of gift shop, antique store, and historical landmark filled with treasures.
Sea Dreams
0.7 km
Discover unique antiques and vintage treasures at Sea Dreams in Monterey, where every item tells a story of the past.
Cannery Row Antiques Mall
0.7 km
Explore the charm of Cannery Row Antiques Mall, where history and art intertwine in Monterey's vibrant antique hub.
The Feral Market
0.7 km
Explore The Feral Market in Monterey for unique gifts, local artisan crafts, and stylish clothing that embody the spirit of California's coastal charm.
Fashion Trade
0.8 km
Discover a curated selection of vintage clothing and accessories at Fashion Trade, Monterey's go-to destination for unique thrift finds.
Bliss Boutique
0.8 km
Shop in style at Bliss Boutique, Monterey's premier women's clothing store, offering unique fashion and accessories for every occasion.
Gift Shop | Monterey Bay Aquarium
0.9 km
Explore exclusive ocean-themed souvenirs at the Monterey Bay Aquarium Gift Shop, a unique destination for marine enthusiasts and tourists alike.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Pearl Hour
0.4 km
Experience the eclectic charm and unique cocktails at Pearl Hour, Monterey's hidden gem for nightlife enthusiasts.
Bar Cart Cocktail Co.
0.4 km
Experience the best of mixology at Bar Cart Cocktail Co. in Monterey, where every cocktail tells a story and the atmosphere is always vibrant.
The Wine Experience
0.6 km
Discover the finest wines and a cozy atmosphere at The Wine Experience in Monterey, where every sip tells a story.
Sovino Wine Bar & Merchant
0.7 km
Discover the Best of California Wines at Sovino Wine Bar & Merchant in Monterey – A Cozy Spot for Enthusiasts and Casual Drinkers Alike.
London Bridge Pub
0.8 km
Discover the delightful mix of British tradition and Californian flavor at London Bridge Pub in Monterey.
Dust Bowl Brewing Co. Tap Depot
0.8 km
Discover craft beer in a historic train station at Dust Bowl Brewing Co. Tap Depot, a lively brewpub in beautiful Monterey, California.
Bulldog Sports Pub
0.9 km
Discover Bulldog Sports Pub, Monterey's vibrant sports bar offering delicious food and live sports in a welcoming atmosphere.
Compact Disco
0.9 km
Experience Monterey's nightlife at Compact Disco, where classic cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere create unforgettable evenings.
The Whisky Club (TWC) Monterey
0.9 km
Indulge in artisanal cocktails and a cozy ambiance at The Whisky Club, Monterey's premier destination for whisky lovers and cocktail enthusiasts.
The Salty Seal Brewpub and Sports Bar
1.0 km
Discover the lively ambiance of The Salty Seal Brewpub and Sports Bar, where great food, craft beers, and sports come together in Monterey.
Segovia's Cocktail Bar & Lounge
1.0 km
Experience Monterey's nightlife at Segovia's Cocktail Bar & Lounge, where exquisite cocktails and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable evenings.
Britannia Arms
1.0 km
Discover Britannia Arms, a lively pub in Monterey offering a delightful mix of traditional dishes and local flavors in a cozy atmosphere.
Bargetto Winery Tasting Room
1.1 km
Discover the exquisite wines of Bargetto Winery Tasting Room in Monterey, a perfect blend of flavor and coastal charm.
Alfredo's Cantina
1.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Alfredo's Cantina, Monterey's favorite cocktail bar with a lively atmosphere and exquisite drinks.
LindaRose Rooftop Bar & Grill at Hotel 1110
1.5 km
Discover the enchanting LindaRose Rooftop Bar & Grill, where mouthwatering cuisine meets stunning views in the heart of Monterey.