Things to do in Monterey

Activities, attractions and tours

A sandy beach with footprints, a wooden fence, and a clear blue sky.
A white lighthouse with a green door and windows, a flag, and a clear blue sky.
A coastal landscape with a beach, turquoise waters, and surrounding hills.
A coastal bridge with a mountainous backdrop and ocean waves.
An aquarium with sharks and rays swimming above a crowd of visitors.

Things to do

Monterey: Whale Watching Tour with A Marine Guide

Monterey: Whale Watching Tour with A Marine Guide

RM286
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Monterey: Whale Watching Tour with A Marine Guide
Monterey: Half-Day Electric Bike Rental

Monterey and 17 Mile Drive: Half-Day Electric Bike Rental

RM229
per adult
98% of travellers recommend
Monterey and 17 Mile Drive: Half-Day Electric Bike Rental
Catamaran Sailing Cruise in Monterey

Catamaran Sailing Cruise in Monterey

RM266
per adult
Catamaran Sailing Cruise in Monterey
Sunset Sailing Cruise in Monterey Bay

Sunset Sailing Cruise in Monterey Bay

RM389
per adult
Sunset Sailing Cruise in Monterey Bay
Monterey Self-Guided Walking Tour Cannery Row to Old Monterey

Monterey Self-Guided Walking Tour Cannery Row to Old Monterey

RM41
per adult
Monterey Self-Guided Walking Tour Cannery Row to Old Monterey
Monterey: Treasure Hunt The Ride - Anytime Admission

Monterey: Treasure Hunt The Ride - Ticket + Power-Up Combo

RM94
per adult
Monterey: Treasure Hunt The Ride - Ticket + Power-Up Combo
Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Big Sur PCH Highway 1

Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Big Sur PCH Highway 1

RM82
per traveller
Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Big Sur PCH Highway 1
Mini Golf 9 Hole Course in Monterey

Mini Golf 9 Hole Course in Monterey

RM74
per adult
Mini Golf 9 Hole Course in Monterey
Cannery Row Cross Overs

Historic Cannery Row: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of John Steinbeck's Monterey

RM37
per adult
Historic Cannery Row: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of John Steinbeck's Monterey
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Most popular experiences in Monterey

Tours & day trips

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Monterey, Carmel & Pacific Coast Highway - Full Day Tour

Monterey, Carmel & Pacific Coast Highway - Full Day Tour

Activity duration is 11 hours and 30 minutes
9.0 out of 10 with 243 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is RM 521 per adult
Monterey, Carmel & Pacific Coast Highway - Full Day TourOpens in new tab

Private & custom tours

See all 24 activities
Carmel-by-the-Sea's Fairytale Houses: A Self-Guided Walking Tour

Carmel-by-the-Sea's Fairytale Houses: A Self-Guided Walking Tour

Activity duration is 1 hour and 20 minutes
6.2 out of 10 with 33 reviews
Price is RM 32 per adult
Carmel-by-the-Sea's Fairytale Houses: A Self-Guided Walking TourOpens in new tab

Food, drink & nightlife

See all 17 activities
Monterey: Treasure Hunt The Ride - Ticket + Power-Up Combo

Monterey: Treasure Hunt The Ride - Ticket + Power-Up Combo

Activity duration is 1 day
9.0 out of 10 with 2 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is RM 93 per adult
Monterey: Treasure Hunt The Ride - Ticket + Power-Up ComboOpens in new tab

What to do in Monterey

Stay near popular Monterey attractions

A coastal pier with restaurants and a palm tree.

Cannery Row

9.0/10 (8,046 reviews)
This historic waterfront district transformed from sardine canneries into a vibrant cultural hub. Explore boutique shops in converted industrial buildings while enjoying spectacular views of Monterey Bay's marine life.
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Where to stay in Monterey

Find the best Monterey areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Monterey
Learn more about Monterey
Three jellyfish with translucent bodies and orange and white patterns against a blue background.
Photo by Ana Sals
Open Photo by Ana Sals

New Monterey

If you're spending some time in New Monterey, Cannery Row and San Carlos Beach - The Breakwater are top sights worth seeing.

A coastal bridge with a mountainous backdrop and ocean waves.

Old Monterey

Old Monterey is a destination visitors seek out for its pristine beaches, ample dining options and popular aquarium. You might also want to check out attractions like Perry House or Monterey State Historic Park while you're exploring the neighbourhood.

A coastal scene with a pier, clear blue water, and a sandy beach.
Photo by PollitoAventurero
Open Photo by PollitoAventurero

Downtown Monterey

The pristine beaches and popular aquarium are top of the list for many visitors to Downtown Monterey. A stop by Dennis the Menace Playground or Golden State Theatre might round out your trip.

A coastal landscape with a prominent green hill, a beach, and a lighthouse.

Lighthouse District

Lighthouse District is well-regarded for its pristine beaches, ample dining options and popular aquarium, and you might also want to make a stop by Cannery Row, a top sight in the neighbourhood.

A coastal golf course with a beach, ocean, and residential areas in the background.

Monterey Vista

While Monterey Vista isn't home to many top sights, Cannery Row and Munras Avenue are some notable places to visit nearby.

A two-story building with a gabled roof, a flagpole with an American flag, and a sign that reads "Alain Pinel."

Carmel

A coastal landscape with rocky cliffs, dense green foliage, and the ocean.

Pebble Beach

A rocky shoreline with the sun setting over the ocean.

Salinas

Frequently asked questions

Is Monterey worth visiting?
Renowned for its hiking and festivals, discovering awesome things to do in Monterey is easy. Remember to add Monterey Bay Aquarium to your trip itinerary when here.
How do I spend a day in Monterey?
Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row are two great places to kick-start your sightseeing adventures. Remember to check out the dining and shopping options in Monterey while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Monterey?
You can't leave without checking out Monterey Bay Aquarium, rated the top tourist attraction in Monterey.
Is three days enough to stay in Monterey?
Three days will give you time to check out many city sights, such as Monterey Bay Aquarium, Cannery Row and Carmel Beach. The average stay in Monterey is two days. If you feel the urge to extend your trip, Santa Cruz isn't far away.
Is Monterey a walkable city?
Some major attractions in Monterey, including Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row, are within walking distance. You can also visit several of the city's popular neighbourhoods on foot. Only 0.64 kilometres from central Monterey is Downtown Monterey and Monterey Vista is 2 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Monterey with kids?
Whether you're travelling with young explorers or adventure-seeking teens, a fun-filled itinerary makes a big difference. Take a look at our recommendations for what to do in Monterey with kids.

What to do in Monterey for adults?
There are loads of things to do in Monterey, with activities for adults of all ages. Finish your day off at Folktale Winery and Vineyards or Ventana Vineyards Tasting Room.
Are there free things to do in Monterey?
In Monterey, Cannery Row is an unmissable spot for anyone planning to enjoy the city without opening their wallet. Also, wander around the local parks and neighbourhoods, and ask a local tour guide for ideas. It's a simple way to explore the best free things to do in Monterey.