Attractions in Monterey

Located in South Central California along the beautiful Pacific Coast is the town of Monterey. Due to its coastal location, it has a Mediterranean style climate which makes it a great place to visit any time of year. Its many attractions include an aquarium, marine sanctuary, fisherman's wharf, and the historic cannery row.

Monterey Bay Aquarium is one of the most well known aquariums in the United States. A visit to this aquarium will be enjoyable for the entire family as you visit the many different and sometimes unique fish and water birds that the aquarium has to offer, including the new flamingo exhibit. It also offers sailing excursions and behind the scenes tours so that you can see how the facility operates.

The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary is a 276-mile coastal area that is protected by the United States government. It is a varied ecosystem in which many different kinds of fish, animals, birds, plants, and invertebrates make their home. Through observation, scientists have discovered that these protected life forms are very productive when left in their own habitats. A visitor to the sanctuary can enjoy it immensely, but because it is a protected area, there are some restrictions, such as no boats, fishing, or other activities that could impact the environment.

Historic fisherman's wharf is an exciting place to visit with its dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Here you can enjoy a plated meal at one of Monterey's finest restaurants or you can just enjoy chowder in a bread bowl as you shop at some of its many boutiques. From here you can also book your sailing or whale watching adventure out in the Pacific.

Another wonderful location to visit in Monterey is historic Cannery Row. This is where the fishing industry began in this area of California. You can enjoy a 2 hour walking tour as well as grab a bite to eat while enjoying your day in history.