Things to do in Castroville

Activities, attractions and tours

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An aerial view of a large agricultural field with a winding water channel.
A field of green crops planted in neat rows.
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Things to do

Step aboard our stable, USCG inspected, 27ft. pontoon boat, and embark on an unforgettable wildlife adventure!

Wildlife Safari Boat Tour in Scenic Monterey Bay Wetland

RM187
per adult
Wildlife Safari Boat Tour in Scenic Monterey Bay Wetland
Elkhorn Slough Wildlife Tour

Elkhorn Slough Wildlife Tour

RM183
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
Elkhorn Slough Wildlife Tour
Goddess Fantasy 150 passenger vessel

Monterey Bay Whale Watching

RM285
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Monterey Bay Whale Watching
Monterey County Salinas Valley Farm Tour

Monterey County Salinas Valley Farm Tour

RM916
per adult
Monterey County Salinas Valley Farm Tour
Happy Anniversary ❤️

Thai Cooking Class in Monterey

RM549
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Thai Cooking Class in Monterey
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Top places to visit

1. Monterey Bay Aquarium

The Monterey Bay Aquarium showcases more than 35,000 animals and plants across 550 species. You’ll discover all kinds of local wildlife here, including fish of all sizes, invertebrates, mammals and plants.
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2. Carmel Beach

Carmel Beach is a long stretch of soft, white sand in Carmel, a picture-perfect town just 15 minutes’ drive south from Monterey. Steady swells make this a popular destination with surfers, swimmers and kayakers. Rent a kayak and paddle out across the kelp beds. Bring a wetsuit, as the water is often cold except in the heat of summer.
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A sandy beach with waves crashing onto the shore, a rocky outcrop, and a person walking.

3. Cannery Row

Discover the leisure attractions along the historic street of Cannery Row. Once a thriving and rather smelly sardine-canning district, today this strip of coast offers fun for the whole family. Peruse the specialty shops and art galleries, dine in seafood restaurants, take the kids to Monterey Bay Aquarium and enjoy watersports in the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.
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A coastal pier with restaurants and a palm tree.

4. 17-Mile Drive

Gaze at dazzling mansions and barking sea lions along 17-Mile Drive, a privately owned stretch of road that winds between Pacific Grove and Pebble Beach. This exclusive seafront drive hugs the wild, craggy coastline, passing great cypress trees, rocky coves, sandy beaches and undulating golf courses.
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5. Fisherman's Wharf

Fisherman’s Wharf is a popular waterfront area that played a major role in the development of Monterey. After serving as a busy port toward the end of the 19th century, it is today a diverse district that draws crowds with its seafood restaurants, lively bars and souvenir shops. Admire the excellent views of the ocean in this old-world harbor.
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A boardwalk with shops, including a candy store and a fish market.

What to do in Castroville

Stay near popular Castroville attractions

Salinas River Dunes Nature Preserve

8.4/10 (5 reviews)
Wander through coastal dunes where endangered western snowy plovers nest in this peaceful wildlife refuge. Bring binoculars for exceptional birdwatching along pristine beaches with panoramic Monterey Bay views.
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Salinas

Frequently asked questions

Is Castroville worth visiting?
Whether you want to experience the cultural hotspots and local charm or try unique foods and explore in nature, there are plenty of things to do in Castroville.
How do I spend a day in Castroville?
Marina State Beach and Salinas Valley Model Railroad Museum are two excellent places to start your adventures. Be sure to check out the dining and retail options in Castroville while you're in town too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Castroville?
Marina State Beach is one of the top tourist attractions in Castroville and should feature high on every sightseeing itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Castroville?
Three days in Castroville is more than enough to enjoy the city's main highlights. Many travellers spend two days on average. Marina State Beach, Salinas River State Beach and Boronda Adobe History Centre are highly rated sights. Like to see more? Hang around a while longer to check off nearby hotspots such as Monterey.
What are some activities to do in Castroville with kids?
Whether you're travelling with hard-to-please teens or tiny adventurers, an itinerary filled with fun activities sets the tone for a great escape. Take a look at our ideas for what to do in Castroville with kids.

What to do in Castroville for adults?
There's no shortage of things to do in Castroville, with entertainment for adults of all ages. Round off your day with a visit to Steinbeck House or Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute.
Are there free things to do in Castroville?
One of the top ways to learn about free things to do in Castroville is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on hip neighbourhoods, parks and other top attractions you can experience without taking your wallet out. Marina State Beach is one spot that doesn't charge an entrance fee.