Top 19 Things to do in Monterey and Carmel
Monterey and Carmel are two of my favorite coastal towns in Central California. I’ve visited them many times over the years, sometimes as a day trip from the San Francisco Bay Area, other times as a relaxed weekend getaway.
These towns are just five miles apart, so no matter which one you stay in, it’s easy to explore both. That’s why I’m putting them together in one guide instead of writing separate ones, as it really feels like one trip.
Monterey has more oceanfront attractions like the aquarium, whale-watching, and the bustling Cannery Row, while Carmel is all about small-town charm and art.
In this guide, I’m sharing some of the best things to do in both Monterey and Carmel, along with a few of my favorite nearby places that are easy to add to your visit.
Below are some top recommendations!
Top Things to Do in Monterey
Monterey has a great mix of family-friendly beaches, scenic coastal trails, marine life, and fun activities, all within a compact, walkable area. We’ve visited many times with family and friends and always find something new to do in our Monterey itinerary, whether it’s biking along the waterfront, relaxing at the beach, or simply exploring the shops and views along Cannery Row. Here are some of our favorite ways to experience Monterey.
1. Visit Monterey Bay Aquarium
One of the most renowned marine science centers in the country, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is known for its impressive exhibits and oceanfront location on Cannery Row.
If you’ve never been, it’s absolutely worth a visit, no matter your age. We had an annual family pass for years when our kids were younger, and even as adults, we’ve always found the marine life exhibits fascinating.
The aquarium’s focus on conservation and education stands out, and we always appreciated how well it combines entertainment with learning. It’s easy to spend half a day or even a full day here, especially with highlights like the Open Sea exhibit, the giant kelp forest, and daily feeding shows.
Tip: Go early or on weekdays if you can to avoid crowds. If visiting on weekends and holidays, get your tickets online in advance to avoid long entrance queues.
2. Explore Cannery Row
Once the heart of Monterey’s sardine canning industry, Cannery Row has transformed into a lively waterfront hub filled with plenty of places to eat and shop while enjoying ocean views. It’s also home to the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium, making it a great place to start your Monterey visit.
You can walk the length of Cannery Row and pop into its many souvenir shops, boutiques, and galleries. I always make a quick stop for a magnet and a local souvenir; it’s my go-to keepsake from every trip. Along the way, you’ll find everything from quirky gift stores to upscale wine tasting rooms.
This is also a great spot for oceanfront dining. We recently had brunch at El Torito, a casual Mexican restaurant with incredible views if you grab a window seat. Other popular options include the Chart House, Schooners Coastal Kitchen, and Fish Hopper, all known for fresh seafood and oceanfront dining.
And if you have a sweet tooth, don’t skip the Ghirardelli Ice Cream shop. It’s been our family favorite for years.
Cannery Row is also one of the best areas to stay in Monterey, with beautiful waterfront hotels and easy access to everything. It’s on the pricier side, but if you’re looking to splurge, Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa offers luxury, location, and ocean views that are hard to beat.
3. Take a whale watching tour
Monterey Bay is one of the best places in California to go whale watching, thanks to the deep submarine canyon just offshore that attracts marine life year-round. Depending on the season, you might see humpback whales, gray whales, blue whales, and even dolphins.
While I haven’t taken a whale-watching tour in Monterey yet (I have done one in Hawaii, though), it’s high on my Monterey bucket list. I’ve heard great things from friends who’ve done it; they spotted several whales, dolphins, and sea lions.
Tours typically leave from Old Fisherman’s Wharf and last around 2.5 to 4 hours. Spring through fall is ideal for humpbacks and blue whales, while gray whale migration peaks in winter.
➡️ I recommend this small group 4 Hour Whale Watching Tour from Monterey
Tip: Dress in layers and carry a beanie, as it can get chilly and windy even on sunny days out on the water. And if you’re prone to seasickness, it’s best to take precautions beforehand as the water can be pretty choppy in Monterey Bay.
4. Stroll Along Old Fisherman’s Wharf
Just a short walk from Cannery Row, Old Fisherman’s Wharf is another lively waterfront spot that’s worth a visit while you’re in Monterey. It has a different vibe, more old-school and touristy, but still fun to explore.
You’ll find seafood restaurants lined up along the wharf . A few popular places to eat here include Old Fisherman’s Grotto, Domenico’s on the Wharf, and Abalonetti Bar & Grill—all known for fresh seafood and harbor views.
Beyond food, there are souvenir shops, candy stores, and a few classic ice cream spots. You can often see sea lions lounging nearby or watch sailboats and kayakers out in the bay.
Fisherman’s Wharf is also a main departure point for whale watching tours in Monterey. If you’re planning to book one, this small group whale -watching tour is a popular choice with great reviews.
It’s a great place for a leisurely stroll, especially if you’re in the mood to snack, browse, and enjoy the ocean air.
5. Relax at Monterey State Beach or Del Monte Beach
If you’re looking for a quieter spot to unwind by the water, Monterey has a couple of great beach options right in town. During summer, we often do a day trip to one of the Monterey beaches and bring a picnic along.
Monterey State Beach stretches along the southern edge of the bay and offers wide sandy areas perfect for walking, picnicking, or just sitting with a view. It’s not usually crowded, and the gentle waves make it a good spot for families.
Just a bit further west, Del Monte Beach feels more like a locals’ hideout and is one of our favorite places for a peaceful beach walk. There’s a boardwalk through the dunes, and if you go around sunset, it’s especially beautiful.
Neither beach is ideal for swimming (the water is chilly and the surf can be unpredictable), but they’re great for a low-key break from sightseeing.
6. Walk or Bike the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail
One of the best ways to take in the Monterey coastline is by following the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail. This scenic path runs for 18 miles along the waterfront, stretching from Castroville in the north down to Pacific Grove.
The section between Cannery Row and Lovers Point is especially popular and easy to walk or bike. We’ve enjoyed this trail several times over the years.
Sometimes we walk this trail section and stop at the scenic vista points. There are benches along the way where you can sit and enjoy the ocean views.
Most of the trail is fenced off in this section, and during a spring visit, we spotted seals lounging on the beach during nesting season. It was such a cool sight!
Other times, we’ve rented bikes or the multi-person family bikes from shops along Cannery Row and ridden all the way to Lovers Point Beach. When we tried the six-seater bike with family friends, it was a bit of a workout to steer, but it was definitely a fun group activity. The four-seater bike is much more manageable.
I highly recommend walking or biking from Cannery Row to Lovers Point Park when in Monterey. You only need an hour or two for this.
7. Explore Pacific Grove and Lovers Point Park
Right next to Monterey, the charming town of Pacific Grove is easy to miss if you’re just focused on Cannery Row or the aquarium, but it’s well worth a visit. It has a slower pace and a beautiful stretch of coastline that feels more relaxed than the busy tourist areas.
One of our favorite spots here is Lovers Point Park, a scenic oceanfront park with grassy areas, picnic tables, a small beach, and incredible views of the rocky coastline. It’s our favorite place to stop while walking or biking the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail, which runs right through it.
The beach here is very family-friendly as it’s a cove with gentle waves. We often see families with young children here, as well as several kayakers. There’s a small café near the park where you can grab a drink or snack, and tide pools to explore if you’re visiting at low tide.
If you have extra time, you can continue walking or driving along Ocean View Boulevard, which offers more coastal views and connects to the start of 17-Mile Drive.
8. Go kayaking in Monterey Bay
If you’re looking to get out on the water, Monterey Bay is a great place to try kayaking. The calm waters near Cannery Row and Pacific Grove are perfect for beginners, and we always see kayaks along the Monterey Bay shoreline.
You can rent gear from outfitters like Adventures by the Sea, which has multiple rental locations along the waterfront.
➡️ I recommend this 2-hour kayak rental at Monterey Bay
Although we haven’t done this ourselves, we’ve seen kayakers just offshore while walking the coastal trail, and it looks like a fun way to experience the bay and wildlife from a different perspective.
Keep in mind that the water stays cold year-round, so wearing layers or renting a wetsuit is a good idea.
9. Try a GoCar Tour Around Monterey
For a fun and unique way to explore Monterey, consider taking a GoCar tour. These small, GPS-guided storytelling vehicles are like a mix between a scooter and a tiny convertible, and they come with turn-by-turn narration as you drive.
Starting from Fisherman’s Wharf, GoCars follow set routes that take you along scenic areas like Cannery Row, Pacific Grove, and even out to Point Pinos Lighthouse. You’ll hear interesting facts and local stories along the way, making it a fun mix of sightseeing and self-guided exploration.
➡️ I recommend this Ultimate Monterey Bay and Cannery Row GoCar Tour
Top Things to do in Carmel
Carmel-by-the-Sea is a charming coastal town known for its fairytale cottages, art galleries, and small-town feel. I’ve visited many times, sometimes just for the day, and other times for a quick overnight getaway. I always enjoy strolling down Ocean Avenue, browsing the shops, and trying out new restaurants. Here are some of my favorite things to do in Carmel to add to your Carmel itinerary.
10. Wander in Carmel downtown
Walking around downtown Carmel is one of my favorite things to do in the area. The heart of the town is Ocean Avenue, where you’ll find most of the restaurants, boutiques, art galleries, souvenir shops, and bakeries. Ocean Ave ends at Carmel Beach, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Carmel has a charming, small-town feel with a lot of character. You won’t find any fast-food chains here, and even the homes don’t have street addresses; they’re described by nearby landmarks or unique features, which reminded me of how addresses worked in small towns back in India.
We’ve loved exploring the shops here and trying local treats from the Carmel Bakery, which is known for its baked goods.
Right next to it is Dametra Cafe, where we once celebrated our wedding anniversary. They had live music, dancing, and a lively atmosphere. It was definitely one of our more memorable meals in Carmel.
The whole town is very dog-friendly. Even though we don’t have a dog, it was hard not to notice the water bowls outside shops, dog treats on display, and even pet snacks for sale at the bakery.
Carmel is easily explored on foot, and if you’re interested in the town’s history, you can pick up a historic walking tour map at the Visitor Center in Carmel Plaza. I haven’t done this myself yet, but it’s on my list for our next trip. If you are looking for a guided tour to explore Carmel, check out these recommendations below.
➡️ Carmel Small Group Walking Food & Cultural Tour
➡️Carmel-By-The-Sea Electric Bike Guided Tour
11. Stop by the fairytale-style cottages
One of the unique things about Carmel is its fairytale architecture, and you’ll spot it right away as you walk through town. Many of these whimsical cottages were built in the 1920s by designer Hugh Comstock, and they still give the village its storybook charm.
The most popular ones to look out for are the Tuck Box and the Hansel and Gretel Houses. They’re tucked along the side streets off Ocean Avenue and are easy to spot with their curved rooflines, wood trim, and cottage-style gardens. Even if you’re not hunting for them, you’ll likely pass by one or two as you wander around.
12. Browse local art galleries and boutiques
Carmel is known for its art scene, and the downtown area is filled with small galleries showcasing local and international artists. Whether you’re into paintings, photography, or sculpture, it’s easy to spend time browsing and maybe even bringing home a one-of-a-kind piece.
I usually pop into a few galleries while walking down Ocean Avenue, and I always enjoy seeing the range of art styles on display.
Even the shops here are fun to explore. There are independent clothing boutiques, home decor stores, and plenty of places to find unique gifts or souvenirs.
13. Enjoy a walk or sunset on Carmel Beach
At the end of Ocean Avenue is Carmel Beach, a beautiful spot to unwind after exploring downtown. In the evenings, we like heading here just in time for sunset. There’s public parking near the beach, but if it’s full, you can usually find a spot on one of the nearby residential streets and walk down.
Sometimes we just sit and take in the view, and other times we walk the trail along Scenic Road, which continues south all the way to Carmel River State Beach. The water here is always cold, typical for Northern California, so I’m usually just content admiring the ocean views.
14. Visit the historic Carmel Mission Basilica
Just a short drive from downtown, the Carmel Mission Basilica is one of the most historic landmarks in the area. Founded in 1771, it’s one of the original California missions and has been beautifully preserved with its bell towers, gardens, and museum exhibits.
There’s a small entrance fee, and parking is available on-site. It’s a good stop if you’re interested in California history or want a quiet break from the busier parts of town.
15. Go wine tasting in Carmel Valley
Just a scenic drive from Carmel-by-the-Sea, Carmel Valley is dotted with boutique wineries and tasting rooms surrounded by rolling hills.
Two popular wineries to check out are Folktale Winery, known for its garden setting and sustainable wines, and Holman Ranch, which offers estate-grown wines in a peaceful, rustic atmosphere.
You can explore these on your own or join a guided tour if you’d rather leave the driving to someone else. Tours typically include transportation, a few tastings, and sometimes lunch or lunch pairing.
➡️ I recommend this Carmel Valley wine trolley tour from Monterey, which takes care of transportation and includes tastings at three wineries (plus lunch).
Top Things to Do Nearby
One of the things I love about visiting Monterey and Carmel is how many great attractions are just a short drive away. Whether you’re up for a scenic drive, a coastal hike, or a quick stop to see something unique, there are plenty of easy add-ons to explore if you have more time in your trip.
16. Drive the Famous 17-Mile Drive
The 17-Mile Drive is one of the most scenic coastal drives in California, winding through Pebble Beach with ocean views, dramatic cliffs, and iconic landmarks. We’ve done this drive multiple times, and it’s always a favorite.
The route includes well-marked stops like Lone Cypress, Bird Rock, and Spanish Bay, plus golf courses, beaches, and cypress forests. You can enter through any of the main gates (we usually start at the Pacific Grove gate), and there’s a small entrance fee per vehicle.
Give yourself a couple of hours for the drive, more if you plan to explore all stops like me, or grab a meal at The Inn at Spanish Bay or Pebble Beach Resorts.
It’s an easy add-on if you’re already visiting Monterey or Carmel, as it is situated between the two.
➡️ If looking for a guided tour, I recommend this 17 Mile Drive Guided Electric Bike Tour
17. Hike at Point Lobos State Park
Just south of Carmel, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is one of the most beautiful coastal parks in California, with dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and a network of scenic trails. If you have time, I would highly recommend hiking at Point Lobos.
I have been here once and loved the ocean views and well-maintained trails. Parking fills up fast, so go early if you can. If the lot is full, you can park along Highway 1 and walk in through the main entrance like we did.
Bird Island Trail and South Shore Trail are two of my favorite hikes here, with stunning views and great spots for birdwatching, especially near Bird Island. On our visit, we saw several harbor seals and pups resting on the beach at China Cove.
You can also explore tidepools at several beaches, relax by the water, or bring lunch to enjoy at one of the designated picnic areas at Whaler’s Cove, Bird Island, or Piney Woods.
18. Take a Scenic Drive to Big Sur
If you have extra time, a drive along Highway 1 to Big Sur makes a great day trip from Monterey or Carmel.
Due to current Highway 1 closures, you can only drive south as far as McWay Falls in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, then head back north. We’ve done this out-and-back route, and it’s still one of the most scenic drives in California.
The stretch between Carmel and McWay Falls is packed with coastal views, bridges, and hiking stops, and even with the closures, it’s still worth the trip.
Some of the top things to do in Big Sur include Bixby Bridge, Garrapata State Park, Calla Lily Valley (in season), Pfieffer Big Sur State Park, Pfeiffer Beach, and McWay Falls, a must-see with its waterfall flowing into a cove.
Check road conditions before you go, and bring snacks, water, and a full tank as services are limited once you get into Big Sur. Have lunch at Nepenthe Restaurant for the panoramic views from the terrace!
19. Check out the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary in Pacific Grove (seasonal)
If you’re visiting between mid-October and February, make time for the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary in Pacific Grove. It’s one of the best places on the Central Coast to see thousands of monarch butterflies clustered in the trees during their winter migration.
It’s a peaceful spot with a short walking path through an eucalyptus grove. You’ll often spot the monarchs hanging in large clusters high up in the trees.
It’s free to visit, and you’ll sometimes find volunteers on-site to help point out the clusters. Just remember not to touch or disturb the butterflies; Pacific Grove has a fine of up to $1,000 to protect them.
Final Takeaways
Monterey and Carmel offer a great mix of experiences, including coastal walks, scenic drives, beach time, marine life, art galleries, and charming downtowns. You can visit world-class spots like the Monterey Bay Aquarium, go whale watching, walk along Carmel’s Ocean Avenue, take in ocean views from Point Lobos, or just relax at the beach.
No matter how many times we go, I always find something new to enjoy, whether it’s a unique part of the coastline, a fun shop, or a great restaurant. If you’re planning a trip to this part of the California coast, make time for both towns and explore a few places nearby, too. Hope you have a great time exploring!
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