Best Attractions in Monterey

Discover the serene beauty and rich history of The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park, a redwood sanctuary reborn from the ashes of logging, offering miles of trails and natural wonders.

Discover Big Sur's largest state park: rugged coastline, redwood forests, and pristine beaches await at Andrew Molera, a haven for hikers and nature lovers seeking tranquility.

Discover coastal serenity at Sunset State Beach in Watsonville, CA, offering stunning Monterey Bay views, camping, and diverse wildlife in a peaceful natural setting.

Experience a gravitational anomaly in the Santa Cruz redwood forests, where the laws of physics are questioned and perceptions are challenged at this iconic roadside attraction.

Discover breathtaking coastal views and abundant wildlife at Bird Rock Vista Point in Pebble Beach, a scenic haven along the iconic 17-Mile Drive, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

Discover the rugged beauty of Pescadero Point on Pebble Beach's 17-Mile Drive: home to iconic Ghost Trees, windswept cypress, and breathtaking Pacific views.

Discover coastal beauty and military history at Fort Ord Dunes State Park, offering stunning views, diverse wildlife, and miles of trails along Monterey Bay's pristine shoreline.

Experience the spirit of Scotland on the California coast at The Links at Spanish Bay, where challenging golf meets breathtaking scenery and a nightly bagpiper serenade.

Experience golfing paradise at Pebble Beach Golf Links, where breathtaking coastal scenery meets challenging play on one of the world's most iconic and historically significant courses.

Discover breathtaking coastal views and tranquil relaxation at Berwick Park in Pacific Grove, a scenic haven for picnics, walks, and exploring Monterey Bay's natural beauty.

Experience the iconic Rocky Creek Bridge on Highway 1 near Carmel-by-the-Sea, offering stunning Pacific Ocean views, rich history, and access to Big Sur's natural wonders.

Discover California's oldest continuously operating lighthouse, a beacon of maritime history offering stunning coastal views and a glimpse into the lives of its dedicated keepers in Pacific Grove.

Discover Rio Del Mar Beach in Aptos: A scenic coastal escape with sandy shores, calm waters, and stunning sunsets, perfect for families, surfers, and nature lovers alike.

Discover Pfeiffer Beach in Big Sur: Iconic Keyhole Arch, unique purple sands, and breathtaking coastal scenery await on this easily accessible yet secluded natural haven.

Discover Monterey's hidden gem: Del Monte Beach, a serene coastal escape with stunning views, rich history, and endless opportunities for relaxation and adventure.

Experience affordable golf with breathtaking ocean views at Pacific Grove Golf Links, the "Poor Man's Pebble Beach" on the Monterey Peninsula, offering a unique blend of parkland and links-style play.

Step into a world of playful adventure at Dennis the Menace Playground in Monterey, where classic charm meets modern fun for an unforgettable family experience by the scenic Lake El Estero.

Experience the heart of Capitola at Esplanade Park: ocean views, live music, community events, and beachside fun await in this vibrant coastal gathering place.

Discover serenity and spiritual enrichment at the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple in Watsonville, a hilltop sanctuary offering panoramic views and cultural immersion.

Discover breathtaking Pacific Ocean views and a rich history at China Rock Vista Point, a serene escape along Pebble Beach's iconic 17-Mile Drive, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

Discover the allure of Carmel Beach: pristine sands, iconic cypress trees, and a dog-friendly paradise on California's Monterey Peninsula, offering breathtaking sunsets and coastal charm.

Discover Monterey's captivating past and vibrant artistic spirit at the History and Art Museum, showcasing the region's unique connection to the sea and its diverse cultural heritage.

Discover Monterey's captivating history and vibrant art scene at the Stanton Center, a cultural hub showcasing the city's unique heritage and artistic expressions.

Discover Monterey Bay: A captivating blend of marine wonders, historic charm, and scenic beauty on California's Central Coast, offering unforgettable experiences for every traveler.

Experience championship golf amidst the serene beauty of Pebble Beach's Del Monte Forest at Poppy Hills, a course renowned for its challenging layout and commitment to sustainability.

Experience the heart of Salinas at the Sports Complex: Home to the legendary California Rodeo, concerts, sports, and community events, steeped in history and local pride.

Discover Monterey's maritime heart at the Coast Guard Pier: a blend of naval history, stunning ocean views, and abundant marine life, nestled between Cannery Row and Fisherman's Wharf.

Discover Santa Cruz Harbor: A vibrant gateway to Monterey Bay offering boating, dining, beaches, and abundant marine life encounters on California's scenic Central Coast.

Explore Monterey's Cannery Row: A historic waterfront reborn with world-class dining, unique shops, the Monterey Bay Aquarium, and stunning ocean views, inspired by Steinbeck's legacy.

Experience championship golf amidst breathtaking coastal scenery at Spyglass Hill Golf Course, a legendary Pebble Beach destination where sand and trees meet in perfect harmony.

Discover Cowell Beach in Santa Cruz: gentle waves, stunning sunsets, and a vibrant surf culture await. Perfect for beginners and families seeking a classic California beach experience.

Discover a tranquil escape at Laguna Grande Regional Park in Monterey, CA. Enjoy scenic trails, diverse wildlife, and family-friendly activities in a beautiful coastal setting. A perfect spot for relaxation and recreation.

Explore the natural beauty and rich biodiversity of Elkhorn Slough Reserve, a serene haven for wildlife enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers in California.

Discover Capitola State Beach: A vibrant seaside escape with colorful architecture, sandy shores, and a charming village atmosphere, perfect for a classic California getaway.

Discover Carmel's natural beauty at Mission Trail Park: Hike scenic trails, explore diverse habitats, and connect with local history in this tranquil 34-acre preserve.

Explore Monterey's Cannery Row: A historic waterfront district blending marine life, literary history, unique shops, and stunning ocean views on California's Central Coast.

Discover the serene beauty of Seal Rock Creek Beach on Pebble Beach's 17-Mile Drive: a coastal paradise with stunning views, abundant wildlife, and a tranquil escape into nature's embrace.

Explore the natural and cultural history of Monterey County at the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History, showcasing local wildlife, geology, and Native American heritage since 1883.

Experience the raw power of nature at the Restless Sea in Pebble Beach, where turbulent waters meet dramatic cliffs along the iconic 17-Mile Drive, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into maritime history.

Discover California's oldest continuously operating church, a historic landmark blending Spanish Colonial architecture with a rich cultural and spiritual heritage in Monterey.

Discover California's oldest stone building and continuously operating parish, a beautiful Spanish Colonial cathedral with a rich history in the heart of Monterey.

Discover Monterey Bay Park: A scenic coastal escape offering stunning views, recreational trails, and easy access to Monterey's top attractions, perfect for a day of relaxation and exploration.

Experience the authentic flavors of Castroville at Pezzini Farms, a family-run farm stand offering fresh produce, artichoke delicacies, and a taste of California's agricultural heritage since 1929.

Discover a treasure trove of fun at Neptune's Kingdom on the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: miniature golf, arcade games, and a pirate adventure for the whole family.

Experience breathtaking coastal views and dramatic sunsets at Cypress Point Lookout, a must-see destination along Pebble Beach's iconic 17-Mile Drive, showcasing Monterey's natural beauty.

Explore Huckleberry Hill, a serene nature preserve in Pebble Beach, California, offering stunning views, diverse trails, and peaceful outdoor experiences.

Explore the historic Point Sur Lightstation and Naval Facility on the rugged Big Sur coast, where maritime history and stunning natural beauty converge for an unforgettable experience.

Discover Monterey Bay's aquatic heart at Breakwater Cove Marina, a scenic gateway to Cannery Row's attractions, diving adventures, and abundant marine wildlife encounters.

Experience state-of-the-art bowling, arcade games, karaoke nights, and a unique bowling history museum just steps from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, offering fun for all ages.

Discover the stunning vistas of Seal Beach Overlook in Big Sur, where the Pacific Ocean meets the rugged California coastline, offering a tranquil escape and breathtaking views.

Discover Monterey's underwater paradise at San Carlos Beach, a historic Cannery Row gem offering world-class diving, scenic views, and easy access to top attractions.

Discover the artistic spirit of Big Sur at the Henry Miller Memorial Library, a unique cultural haven dedicated to literature and creativity.

Ignite your child's imagination at MY Museum in Monterey! Explore hands-on exhibits, discover Monterey County's unique industries, and create lasting family memories in a safe, engaging environment.

Explore California's oldest government building, the Custom House Museum in Monterey, and step back in time to witness the state's rich maritime history and cultural heritage.

Ignite your child's imagination at MY Museum in Monterey! Explore hands-on exhibits, discover Monterey County's unique industries, and create lasting memories through play-based learning for the whole family.

Discover a literary sanctuary in Carmel-by-the-Sea at Pilgrims Way Community Bookstore and Secret Garden, where books, nature, and community intertwine to create a unique and unforgettable experience.

Explore the rugged beauty and literary legacy of Robinson Jeffers' Tor House in Carmel, where stone and poetry intertwine on the dramatic Pacific coast.

A peaceful waterfront park on the Monterey Peninsula Recreational Trail, offering stunning bay views and a tranquil escape near Cannery Row.

Discover the heart of Monterey Bay at Moss Landing Harbor District: where maritime history, natural beauty, and thrilling adventures converge for an unforgettable coastal escape.

Discover a historic Carmel-by-the-Sea landmark, the Church of the Wayfarer, a welcoming interdenominational space with stunning architecture, tranquil gardens, and a rich cultural heritage since 1904.

Discover the dramatic beauty of the California coast along the northernmost point of the Big Sur National Scenic Byway, a legendary drive offering stunning views and unforgettable experiences.

Experience handcrafted ales and lagers at Santa Cruz Mountain Brewing, where the spirit of the mountains meets the vibrant Santa Cruz scene, offering a taste of local flavor and community.

Discover where California's story began: Colton Hall Museum in Monterey, the site of the state's first constitutional convention, offering a captivating journey into the past.

Experience Monterey's working waterfront at Municipal Wharf II: a historic pier offering fresh seafood, fishing, and stunning bay views, away from the tourist crowds.

Explore Monterey's military history from its indigenous roots to the present day at the Presidio of Monterey Museum, a hidden gem in the Lower Presidio Historic Park with free admission.

Discover panoramic Pacific views at Notleys Landing Vistapoint, a historic Big Sur lumber port turned scenic overlook, offering a glimpse into California's rugged past and stunning coastline.

Discover dramatic seascapes and abundant wildlife at Fanshell Beach on Pebble Beach's scenic 17-Mile Drive, a coastal paradise offering stunning views and tranquil moments.

Experience world-class performances and vibrant cultural events at the Sunset Center in Carmel-by-the-Sea, a historic landmark and community hub for arts and entertainment.

Discover where California's journey to statehood began at Colton Hall Museum and Jail in Monterey, a landmark of history and pivotal moments that shaped the Golden State.

Experience panoramic Monterey Bay views from Shepherd's Knoll, a scenic stop along Pebble Beach's 17-Mile Drive, steeped in history and natural beauty within the Del Monte Forest.

Discover Capitola Wharf, a historic landmark offering fishing, scenic views, and access to Capitola's charming village and beaches, making it a perfect coastal getaway on Monterey Bay.

Discover the enchanting California Sea Otter State Game Refuge in Big Sur: a protected haven for playful sea otters and diverse marine life amidst breathtaking coastal scenery.

Experience timeless elegance at the Cocoanut Grove, a historic oceanfront venue hosting unforgettable events since 1907, adjacent to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.

Experience coastal serenity at Vista Blue Spa in Monterey, offering panoramic ocean views, luxurious treatments, and a tranquil escape on historic Cannery Row for ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation.

Discover the timeless beauty of ancient Monterey Cypress trees in Pebble Beach's serene Crocker Grove, a living testament to nature's artistry along the iconic 17-Mile Drive.

Experience the lively spectacle of Monterey's playful sea lions at Fisherman's Wharf, where nature's charisma meets historic charm, creating unforgettable coastal memories.

Discover Capitola's captivating past at the Historical Museum: Explore exhibits, artifacts, and stories that shaped this charming coastal town, from its early days to its vibrant present.

Discover the heart of Carmel's art scene at the Carmel Art Association, the oldest gallery in town showcasing over 100 local artists with rotating monthly exhibitions since 1927.

Explore the meticulously preserved 1835 home of Thomas O. Larkin, a Monterey landmark showcasing Monterey Colonial architecture and offering a glimpse into California's past.

Discover Monterey's hidden gem: Lower Presidio Historic Park, where California's rich history unfolds amidst stunning bay views. Explore trails, monuments, and a free museum.

Unearth adventure on Cannery Row with Treasure Hunt: The Ride, a thrilling, interactive dark ride blending local pirate lore with state-of-the-art animatronics for an unforgettable family experience.

Experience the heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea at Devendorf Park, a vibrant community hub hosting year-round events, art festivals, and farmers markets in a beautiful downtown setting.

Discover the Monterey Moon Tree: A coast redwood grown from a seed that journeyed to the moon, planted in 1976, a symbol of history, science, and nature's enduring legacy.

Discover California's captivating past at Monterey State Historic Park: Explore historic adobes, wander through vibrant gardens, and walk in the footsteps of early Californians.

Discover contemporary and modern masterpieces at Dawson Cole Fine Art in Carmel-by-the-Sea, showcasing renowned artists and dynamic sculptures in an elegant setting.

Discover literary treasures and local history within the architecturally stunning Harrison Memorial Library, a cultural cornerstone in the heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Discover the historic Garrapata Creek Bridge on California's Highway 1, offering stunning coastal views and access to the natural beauty of Garrapata State Park in the Big Sur region.

Explore the chilling history of the Old Monterey Jail, a preserved 19th-century lockup where no prisoner ever escaped, offering a glimpse into Monterey's rugged past and early justice system.

Explore Weston Gallery Inc, a premier art gallery in Carmel-By-The-Sea, showcasing contemporary art, photography, and local talent in a serene setting.

Discover the Monterey Peninsula: Your adventure starts here with expert travel advice, maps, and local secrets for an unforgettable California getaway.