The California coastline stretches for miles with scenic stops that promise fresh views and memorable moments. Over time, many travelers find themselves returning to the same overlooks and familiar attractions while quieter corners remain just beyond the usual routes.
In Monterey County, the landscape shifts between ocean cliffs, peaceful beaches, and forested trails that feel far removed from the crowds. Visitors can watch wildlife along the shoreline, stroll seaside streets, and follow scenic roads that lead to waterfalls and calm inland spaces shaped by nature and history. This listicle highlights the best experiences that reveal the many sides of this remarkable coastal region.
1. Cannery Row
Cannery Row in downtown Monterey is a great spot to see California sea lions and offers plenty of activities for everyone. You can enjoy fun puzzles at Escape Room 831, explore the Monterey Mirror Maze, or indulge in fresh seafood at local restaurants like The Fish Hopper. With its rich history and charming architecture, Cannery Row is a perfect weekend getaway with shops, museums, and more to discover.
2. Monterey Bay Aquarium
A visit to the Monterey Bay Aquarium is a must when in Monterey, especially if you’re with kids. Known for its living kelp forest and popular exhibits like sea otters and penguins, it offers unforgettable experiences. Though tickets can be pricey, the money supports ocean conservation, making it well worth the visit.
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3. Old Fisherman’s Wharf
Old Fisherman’s Wharf, just 5 minutes from Cannery Row, is a great spot for souvenirs and fun activities. You can watch sea lions, go whale watching, or enjoy a meal at one of the 18 restaurants on the historic wharf. The wharf, dating back to 1870, also features street performers and costumed characters that add to the lively atmosphere.
4. Whale Watching
If you love nature, whale watching in Monterey is a must-do activity. The cool waters of Monterey Bay attract many whale species, making it one of the best places to see them year-round. Tours depart from Old Fisherman’s Wharf, and though the 3-4 hour trip costs around $65, it’s worth it for the chance to see these amazing marine creatures up close.
5. Big Sur
Big Sur is a stunning stretch of Highway 1 known for its breathtaking coastal views and outdoor activities. Be sure to stop at Bixby Bridge and Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park to see McWay Falls, an 80-foot waterfall that flows into the Pacific Ocean. Another unique spot is Pfeiffer Beach, where the sand is purple, making it a great place to relax and watch the sunset.
6. McWay Falls
McWay Falls is a 24-meter waterfall in Big Sur that flows directly into the ocean at high tide, creating a stunning view. Though the beach is closed to the public to preserve the area, you can still enjoy great views from several vantage points along nearby hiking trails. The waterfall is about three hours from San Francisco, and there’s parking available near Highway One for a short hike to the viewing areas.
7. Bixby Creek Bridge
Bixby Creek Bridge is a 360-foot concrete arch bridge that stands 280 feet above the water and was built in 1932. It’s one of the most iconic and photographed spots along California’s coastline, known for its stunning views, especially at sunset. Be careful while parking and crossing the road to see the bridge, and stay away from the cliff edges.
8. Salmon Creek Falls
Salmon Creek Falls is a stunning 120-foot waterfall in Big Sur that you can get up close to with an easy 0.3-mile hike. The trail starts at the Salmon Creek Trailhead and follows a creek downstream, leading you right to the waterfall. It’s a peaceful spot perfect for swimming, picnicking, and spending a relaxing day with family.
9. Point Lobos State Reserve
Point Lobos State Reserve, just south of Carmel-by-the-Sea, offers beautiful coastal views, great hiking trails, and scenic beaches. You can explore the reserve on the five-mile Point Lobos Loop Trail or choose shorter trails like Bird Island Trail and Sand Hill Trail. For the best experience, visit tide pools at Weston Beach during low tide and enjoy the stunning Gibson Beach with a short walk from the Bird Island Trail.
10. Carmel By The Sea
Carmel-by-the-Sea, just 10 minutes from Monterey, is a charming town filled with fairytale-like cottages, quaint shops, and art galleries. Ocean Avenue is the main street, leading to Carmel Beach, a peaceful white-sand beach perfect for sunbathing. You can also visit the historic San Carlos Borromeo de Carmelo Mission or drive along the Pacific Coast Highway for stunning views.
11. Garrapata State Park
Garrapata State Park, along HWY 1, offers 2 miles of rugged coastline with hiking trails and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. You can spot gray whales, sea otters, and sea lions, but it’s not safe for swimming due to strong waves. The park is known for its spring wildflowers, especially the calla lilies in Calla Lily Valley, best seen between February and May.
12. Carmel Valley
Carmel Valley is a sunny town known for its many wineries offering chardonnay, pinot noir, and more, along with parks, golf courses, and fine dining. While you’re there, visit the Moto Talbott Motorcycle Museum, which showcases over 170 motorcycles from 17 countries. Carmel Valley is perfect for those who love nature and outdoor activities while enjoying modern amenities.
13. 17-Mile Drive
The 17-Mile Drive is a scenic road trip through California’s Monterey Peninsula, famous for landmarks like Pebble Beach Golf Links and the Lone Cypress Tree. The drive takes about 3 hours, with beautiful views and interesting stops along the way. There’s a $10.75 admission fee per vehicle, but it’s reimbursed if you spend $35 or more at Pebble Beach Resort restaurants, or if you’re staying at certain nearby hotels.
14. Lovers Point Park
Lovers Point Park in Pacifica, California, offers stunning views of the Pacific coastline and is a popular spot for walking, picnicking, and enjoying the outdoors. The park features amenities like a volleyball court, a kid’s pool, and a restaurant, and you can also fish, surf, or rent kayaks at Lovers Point Beach. In July, don’t miss the annual Feast of Lanterns with lantern floating, a parade, and fireworks over Monterey Bay.
15. Asilomar State Beach
Asilomar State Beach is a park with a rocky shore, sand dunes, and a popular spot called “Proposal Bench” where you can watch sunsets. You can hike or bike on trails and explore sandy coves with wildlife and tide pools. The Asilomar Hotel & Conference Grounds offers ocean and forest views, with amenities like a heated pool, dining, and meditation space, making it a great place to visit for any length of stay.
16. Fort Ord Dunes State Park
Fort Ord Dunes State Park in Marina is a beautiful spot for a quick adventure, offering a 4-mile beach surrounded by sand dunes. The park is often foggy or windy, so layer up, and enjoy activities like walking, biking, and wildlife watching. It’s a great place to spend the day with family and friends, with free parking and a chance to spot seals, whales, and even Santa Cruz on clear days.
17. Skydive Monterey Bay
If you’re looking for an exciting skydiving experience in California, check out Skydive Monterey Bay, where you’ll jump closer to the ocean than anywhere else in the state. You’ll get the chance to freefall from 18,000 feet, which is the highest tandem skydive in the world, giving you 90 seconds of thrilling freefall. Pro tip: Keep your mouth closed when jumping, as the wind can be too strong to close it once you’re in the air!
18. Handcar Tours
Ever tried a handcar? It’s a manually operated vehicle on railroad tracks that you power with levers, seating up to 4 people. The Handcar Tour is a fun and unique experience with friends or family, offering beautiful views of the ocean and sand dunes while you work together to pedal uphill for the first half of the trip.
19. Dennis the Menace Park
Looking for fun activities in Monterey County for toddlers? Check out Dennis the Menace Park, a unique playground with creative structures, a rock climbing wall, and a maze. The park, named after the famous cartoon character, also has a picnic area, skate park, and paddleboat rentals on El Estero Lake.
20. Monterey Zoo (and stay overnight!)
Monterey Zoo in Salinas has over a hundred animals, including lions, bears, and elephants, and lets you get close to the wilder ones. The coolest part is that you can stay overnight at Vision Quest Ranch, a safari-themed bed and breakfast with bungalows named after the zoo’s animals. Enjoy breakfast with animals, join a VIP tour to walk and pet them, or even feed the big cats like tigers.
21. Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz, located between San Francisco and Los Angeles, is a top vacation spot in California with amazing beaches, redwood forest hikes, and mountain biking trails. You can enjoy year-round activities like surfing, swimming, camping, tennis, golf, and hiking along the stunning coastline. It’s the perfect place for outdoor adventures and relaxation.
22. Pinnacles National Park
Pinnacles National Park, east of Salinas, is famous for its unique rock formations created by volcanic activity and erosion. Established in 2013, the park features stunning landscapes with talus caves, rocky cliffs, and diverse plant life. It’s a great spot for hiking on well-marked trails during the day and offers amazing stargazing at night.
23. Andrew Molera State Park
Andrew Molera State Park, located on California’s Big Sur coastline, offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and dramatic coastal scenery. The park has a variety of trails, some leading to the beach and others through redwood trees, rolling hills, and cypress tunnels. You can also camp at one of the 24 campsites, and visit the Molera Ranch House Museum to learn about Big Sur’s history.
24. Mission San Antonio de Padua
Mission San Antonio de Padua, founded in 1771, is a hidden gem in the remote town of Jolon, surrounded by the peaceful beauty of the Santa Lucia mountains. The drive to the mission is scenic, but there are no nearby restaurants or gas stations, so be sure to bring water and food. Explore the well-preserved mission grounds, learn its history at the museum, and enjoy self-guided or docent-led tours.
25. Point Sur Lighthouse
Point Sur Lighthouse is a hidden gem located in Point Sur State Historic Park, visible from Highway 1. Built in 1889 on a volcanic rock, it offers stunning views and 3-hour walking tours on Wednesdays and Saturdays. The lighthouse is a kid-friendly attraction, so don’t forget to dress in layers due to unpredictable weather and explore this historic site listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
26. Portal to Big Sur
“Portal to Big Sur” is a hidden public art installation along Highway 1, featuring a wooden circular frame that beautifully captures views of the Pacific Ocean. Located in Ragged Point, near the Ragged Point Inn, it’s a great spot to relax on nearby benches and take in the scenery. While you’re there, you can also explore the nearby Black Swift Waterfalls and Young Creek Beach, though the beach trail is steep and slippery.
27. San Antonio Reservoir
The San Antonio Reservoir in Bradley is a man-made lake where you can camp in a quiet setting at the San Antonio Reservoir Recreation Area. The lake level is low, but you can still rent kayaks or enjoy other water activities. You’ll spot wildlife like deer, eagles, and rabbits, but watch out for pigs or boars that might come near your food.
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