Monterey, California Travel Guide

Discover Monterey, California – a serene coastal city with stunning Pacific views, rich history, and vibrant culture. Perfect for nature lovers, history buffs, and families.

Monterey, located in California, is a serene coastal city that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Known for its stunning vistas of the Pacific Ocean, Monterey provides a tranquil escape for those looking to unwind and explore. Monterey Bay Aquarium is one of the city's main attractions. It is renowned for its diverse marine life exhibits and interactive displays. The aquarium is a must-visit, especially for families and marine enthusiasts. Cannery Row, once the heart of the sardine-packing industry, now bustles with shops, restaurants, and historical landmarks. Walking along this famous street, you can almost hear the echoes of the past while enjoying modern-day conveniences. For nature lovers, a drive along the scenic 17-Mile Drive is essential. This route offers breathtaking views of the coastline, luxurious estates, and the iconic Lone Cypress tree. Additionally, Monterey's beaches and parks provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as kayaking, hiking, and picnicking. History buffs will appreciate the city's historic sites, including the Custom House and San Carlos Borromeo de Carmelo Mission. These landmarks offer a glimpse into Monterey's Spanish and Mexican heritage. With its mild climate, picturesque landscapes, and rich cultural backdrop, Monterey is a destination that promises a memorable experience for all types of travelers.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Monterey.

Visit Monterey Bay Aquarium early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter experience.
Take a guided walking tour of Cannery Row to fully appreciate its historical significance.
Bring layers of clothing; Monterey's coastal weather can be unpredictable and cool, even in summer.
Reserve a spot for the 17-Mile Drive; it's a popular route and can get congested during peak hours.
Try local seafood at one of the many waterfront restaurants for an authentic taste of Monterey.
Explore nearby Carmel-by-the-Sea, just a short drive from Monterey, for charming shops and beautiful beaches.

Neighbourhoods in Monterey

Cannery Row

Downtown Monterey

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Old Fisherman's Wharf

Explore All Neighbourhoods in Monterey

Explore Monterey: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Monterey

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Lovers Point Park

Discover breathtaking views, diverse activities, and a rich history at Pacific Grove's iconic Lovers Point Park, a coastal haven for recreation and relaxation on Monterey Bay.

4.8

Pebble Beach Golf Links

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.

4.8

Carmel Beach

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.

4.8

The Links at Spanish Bay

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.

4.8

Best landmarks in Monterey

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Lovers Point Park

Discover the stunning coastal beauty and recreational charm of Lovers Point Park, a top destination for nature lovers in Pacific Grove, California.

4.8

Asilomar State Beach

Explore the serene beauty of Asilomar State Beach, where golden sands meet stunning ocean views in Pacific Grove, California.

4.8

San Carlos Cathedral

Discover the beauty and history of San Carlos Cathedral, Monterey's oldest cathedral, a serene retreat for spiritual seekers and history enthusiasts alike.

4.8

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Discover the majestic marine life and conservation efforts at Monterey Bay Aquarium, a premier aquatic destination along California's stunning coastline.

4.7

Best restaurants in Monterey

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Stokes Adobe Restaurant

Experience the best of American cuisine at Stokes Adobe Restaurant in Monterey - where history meets culinary excellence.

4.7

Loulou's Griddle In the Middle

Experience breakfast like never before at Loulou's Griddle In the Middle—where seafood meets morning favorites in scenic Monterey.

4.6

El Cantaro

Discover El Cantaro: Where Vegan Meets Authentic Mexican Flavors in Monterey’s Vibrant Culinary Scene.

4.6

The Sardine Factory

Experience fine seafood dining at The Sardine Factory in Monterey - where exquisite flavors meet stunning coastal views.

4.6

Best bars in Monterey

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

The Whisky Club (TWC) Monterey

Discover the essence of whisky at The Whisky Club in Monterey, where expert bartenders and a curated selection await your taste buds.

5.0

Dust Bowl Brewing Co. Tap Depot

Discover craft beer in a historic train station at Dust Bowl Brewing Co. Tap Depot, a lively brewpub in beautiful Monterey, California.

4.6

Sandbar & Grill

Experience the best seafood and vibrant atmosphere at Sandbar & Grill in Monterey, where ocean views and delightful dishes await.

4.5

The Crown & Anchor

Discover The Crown & Anchor, a British-themed bar and restaurant in Monterey, CA, offering delicious food, vibrant ambiance, and local brews.

4.5

Best nightclubs in Monterey

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

The Whisky Club (TWC) Monterey

Discover the essence of whiskey culture at The Whisky Club in Monterey, where every sip tells a story and every visit is a celebration.

5.0

Pearl Hour

Discover a vibrant nightlife experience at Pearl Hour in Monterey, CA, known for its creative cocktails and lively atmosphere.

4.5

Compact Disco

Experience the lively nightlife of Monterey at Compact Disco, where great drinks and music create unforgettable memories.

4.5

Alfredo's Cantina

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Monterey at Alfredo's Cantina, where innovative cocktails and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.

4.4

Best shops in Monterey

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Luminata Books & Gifts

Explore Luminata Books & Gifts in Monterey, where a world of books and unique gifts awaits every visitor.

4.8

Steinbeck Plaza

Experience shopping and local culture at Steinbeck Plaza, a vibrant hub in Monterey, CA, featuring unique shops, eateries, and stunning waterfront views.

4.6

Cannery Row Antiques Mall

Discover unique antiques, vintage clothing, and local art at Cannery Row Antiques Mall in Monterey, California—a treasure trove for collectors and tourists alike.

4.6

Fashion Trade

Discover a curated selection of vintage clothing and accessories at Fashion Trade, Monterey's go-to destination for unique thrift finds.

5.0

Explore Monterey on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Monterey, mapped for you.

Monterey Essentials

Monterey is accessible via multiple modes of transportation. The nearest major airport is Monterey Regional Airport (MRY), which offers direct flights from several major cities in the United States. Alternatively, you can fly into San Francisco International Airport (SFO) or San Jose International Airport (SJC) and drive to Monterey, which takes about 2 to 2.5 hours. Amtrak also provides train services to nearby Salinas, with connecting bus services to Monterey. The area is also well-connected by major highways, including Highway 1, which offers a scenic coastal drive.
Monterey offers several transportation options for getting around the city. The Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) bus system provides extensive coverage, including routes to popular tourist destinations like Cannery Row and the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also readily available. For a more leisurely experience, consider renting a bicycle or taking a scenic walk along the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail. Car rentals are available at the airport and in downtown Monterey, offering flexibility for exploring the surrounding areas.
The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful throughout Monterey, offering easy access to cash. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and for tipping. Traveler's checks are not commonly used and may be difficult to cash.
Monterey is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it's always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone late at night in secluded areas and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded tourist spots. While Monterey doesn't have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, staying vigilant will ensure a trouble-free visit. Lock your car and avoid leaving valuables in plain sight.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Monterey has excellent medical facilities, including Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula (CHOMP). For non-emergency medical issues, urgent care centers and pharmacies are widely available. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress in layers as the weather can change quickly. Casual wear is generally acceptable, but consider dressing up for fine dining. Religion: Do be respectful when visiting religious sites and churches. Public Transport: Do have exact change for bus fares and be mindful of bus schedules. Don't eat or drink on public transportation. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a handshake. Californians are generally friendly and open. Eating & Drinking: Do try local seafood delicacies. Don't forget to tip, usually 15-20% in restaurants.
To experience Monterey like a local, visit the Old Monterey Farmers Market held every Tuesday on Alvarado Street. Enjoy a morning walk or a bike ride along the scenic Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail. Don't miss a visit to the lesser-known Pacific House Museum for a deeper dive into local history. For a unique dining experience, try the clam chowder at one of the local seafood restaurants at Fisherman's Wharf. Engage with locals who are often happy to share their favorite spots and stories about the city.

When is the best time to visit Monterey?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Monterey

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Monterey. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHola
  [oh-lah]
- GoodbyeAdiós
  [ah-dee-ohs]
- YesSí
  [see]
- NoNo
  [noh]
- Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [por fah-vor/deh nah-dah]
- Thank youGracias
  [grah-see-ahs]
- Excuse me/SorryDisculpa/Lo siento
  [dee-skool-pah/loh see-ehn-toh]
- How are you?¿Cómo estás?
  [koh-moh ehs-tahs]
- Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
  [bee-ehn. ee too]
- Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
  [ah-blahs een-glays]
- I don't understandNo entiendo
  [noh ehn-tee-ehn-doh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver el menú, por favor
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah behr ehl meh-noo, por fah-vor]
- I don't eat meatNo como carne
  [noh koh-moh kahr-neh]
- Cheers!¡Salud!
  [sah-lood]
- I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah pah-gahr, por fah-vor]
- Help!¡Ayuda!
  [ah-yoo-dah]
- Go away!¡Vete!
  [veh-teh]
- Call the Police!¡Llama a la policía!
  [yah-mah ah lah poh-lee-see-ah]
- Call a doctor!¡Llama a un médico!
  [yah-mah ah oon meh-dee-koh]
- I'm lostEstoy perdido
  [ehs-toy pehr-dee-doh]
- I'm illEstoy enfermo
  [ehs-toy ehn-fehr-moh]
- I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah kohm-prahr]
- I'm just lookingSólo estoy mirando
  [soh-loh ehs-toy meer-ahn-doh]
- How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
  [kwahn-toh kwehs-tah]
- That's too expensiveEso es muy caro
  [eh-soh ehs mwee kah-roh]
- Can you lower the price?¿Puedes bajar el precio?
  [pweh-dehs bah-hahr ehl pree-see-oh]
- What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
  [keh oh-rah ehs]
- It's one o'clockEs la una
  [ehs lah oo-nah]
- Half past (10)Media (10)
  [meh-dee-ah (deh-eez)]
- MorningMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
- AfternoonTarde
  [tahr-deh]
- EveningNoche
  [noh-cheh]
- YesterdayAyer
  [ah-yehr]
- TodayHoy
  [hoy]
- TomorrowMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
- 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
- 2Dos
  [dohs]
- 3Tres
  [trehs]
- 4Cuatro
  [kwah-troh]
- 5Cinco
  [seeng-koh]
- 6Seis
  [sehs]
- 7Siete
  [see-eh-teh]
- 8Ocho
  [oh-choh]
- 9Nueve
  [nweh-veh]
- 10Diez
  [dyehs]
- Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está...?
  [dohn-deh ehs-tah]
- What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
  [kwahl ehs lah dee-rehk-syohn]
- Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?
  [pweh-dehs mohs-trahr-meh (ehn ehl mah-pah)]
- When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (autobús)?
  [kwan-doh ehs ehl proh-ksee-moh (ow-toh-boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (a ....)
  [oon boh-leh-toh (ah)]

History of Monterey

Monterey was originally founded on June 3, 1770, by Spanish explorer Gaspar de Portolà and Father Junípero Serra. It was named after the Count of Monterey, the Viceroy of New Spain. The city soon became a center of Spanish and later Mexican governance in Alta California.
Monterey served as the capital of Alta California under both Spanish and Mexican rule. The city was the site of the signing of California's first constitution in 1849 at Colton Hall, which is now a museum showcasing this pivotal moment in the state's history.
In 1846, during the Mexican-American War, the Battle of Monterey took place. American forces led by Commodore John D. Sloat captured the city, marking a significant moment in the war and leading to California becoming part of the United States.
Cannery Row, immortalized by John Steinbeck in his famous novel of the same name, was the epicenter of Monterey's sardine-packing industry. The row of canneries along the waterfront thrived during the early 20th century but declined after World War II due to overfishing. Today, Cannery Row is a bustling tourist destination filled with shops, restaurants, and the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium.
The Monterey International Pop Festival, held in June 1967, was a landmark event in the history of rock music. It featured iconic performances by artists such as Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, and The Who. The festival helped launch the careers of many musicians and is often cited as the beginning of the 'Summer of Love.'
Opened in 1984, the Monterey Bay Aquarium has become one of the most renowned aquariums in the world. Located on the site of a former sardine cannery, the aquarium focuses on the marine habitats of Monterey Bay and has played a significant role in marine conservation and education.
Established in 1770, the Presidio of Monterey is a historic military installation that has served various purposes over the centuries. It was initially a Spanish fort, later used by Mexican forces, and eventually became a U.S. Army post. Today, it houses the Defense Language Institute, where military personnel are trained in languages critical to national security.
The Pacific House Museum, located in Custom House Plaza, is one of Monterey's oldest buildings. Built in 1847, it served as a hotel and a governmental building. Today, it offers exhibits on Monterey's history, including the Spanish colonial period, the Mexican era, and early American California.
Built in 1827, the Custom House is the oldest government building in California. It was used by Spanish and Mexican authorities to collect taxes on imported goods. Today, it is part of the Monterey State Historic Park and offers visitors insights into the region's trade history.