Monterey County Travel Guide

This comprehensive Monterey County travel guide includes everything you need to know for your visit, including top attractions, food and drink scene, where to stay, local customs, safety and health, transportation, and nearby destinations.


Introduction to Monterey County

Nestled in the heart of California’s central coast, Monterey County is an idyllic destination for travelers seeking a mix of natural beauty and rich cultural experiences. With stunning seaside views, an abundance of outdoor activities, and a lively food and drink scene, Monterey County has something to offer visitors of all ages and interests.

List of Places to Visit in Monterey County

The following are some of the must-visit destinations in Monterey County:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Carmel Mission Basilica Museum: A historic church built in 1797, the Carmel Mission Basilica Museum offers insight into California’s colonial past.
  • National Steinbeck Center: This museum is dedicated to the life and legacy of Monterey County’s most famous resident, John Steinbeck.
  • Monterey State Historic Park: This park is home to several historic buildings, including the Custom House, California’s first government building.

Natural Attractions of Monterey County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Point Lobos State Natural Reserve: A scenic reserve with hiking trails, wildlife, and beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean.
  • 17-Mile Drive: A picturesque drive along the coast, featuring stunning views of Pebble Beach, Cypress Point, and the Lone Cypress.
  • Big Sur: A rugged coastline known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities, including hiking, kayaking, and camping.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Monterey County

Some of the best hiking and biking routes in Monterey County include:

  • Garland Ranch Regional Park: A 4,400-acre park perfect for hiking, nature watching, and mountain biking.
  • Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail: A 29-mile trail along the coast, popular with joggers, bikers, and walkers.
  • Fort Ord National Monument: A former military base turned recreational area, featuring miles of trails for hiking, running, and biking.

Best Things to Do in Monterey County: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of fun and exciting things to do in Monterey County, including:

  • Whale Watching: Monterey Bay is home to a variety of whale species, and several companies offer tours for visitors to see them up close.
  • Wine Tasting: Monterey County is home to several wineries and tasting rooms, where visitors can sample locally-produced wines.
  • Golfing: Monterey County is a golfer’s paradise, with courses designed by some of the greatest names in the sport, including Pebble Beach Golf Links, Spyglass Hill Golf Course, and Cypress Point Club.

Week-Long Itinerary for Monterey County

Day 1: Arrive in Monterey, explore Cannery Row and the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Day 2: Drive the 17-Mile Drive and visit Pebble Beach. Day 3: Hike or bike at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, then visit Carmel-by-the-Sea. Day 4: Go wine tasting in Carmel Valley, visit the Carmel Mission Basilica Museum. Day 5: Explore Big Sur, hike in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Day 6: Visit the National Steinbeck Center in Salinas, attend the Salinas Farmers Market. Day 7: Relax on the beach, enjoy the sunset at Asilomar State Beach.

Food and Drink Scene of Monterey County

Monterey County has a vibrant food and drink scene, featuring local ingredients and unique flavors.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cioppino: A seafood stew, made with fresh fish from Monterey Bay.
  • Artichokes: Monterey County is known for its artichokes, which are served in a variety of dishes, including fried, grilled, and in dips.
  • Abalone: A local delicacy, abalone is often served fried or in ceviche.

Local Beverages

  • Wine: Monterey County is home to several wineries, known for producing high-quality Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Sauvignon.
  • Beer: There are several breweries in Monterey County, including Alvarado Street Brewery and Peter B’s Brewpub.
  • Coffee: Monterey County is home to several specialty coffee roasters, including Acme Coffee Roasting and Bright Coffee.

Where to Stay in Monterey County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are many options for accommodation in Monterey County, including:

  • Hotels: There are many hotels in Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea, and other cities in Monterey County, ranging from budget to luxury.
  • Hostels: There are several hostels in Monterey, including HI Monterey Hostel and HI Pigeon Point Lighthouse Hostel.
  • Guesthouses: There are many guesthouses and bed & breakfasts in Carmel-by-the-Sea and other areas of Monterey County, offering a more intimate and personalized experience.

What to Buy in Monterey County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Artichokes: Locally-grown artichokes make a great souvenir and a tasty addition to any meal.
  • Wine: Bring home a bottle of Monterey County wine as a souvenir or gift.
  • Cannery Row Memorabilia: Take home a piece of Monterey’s history with a souvenir from Cannery Row.

Local Culture and Customs of Monterey County

Monterey County has a laid-back, friendly culture, with a focus on living life to the fullest. Some local customs include:

  • Outdoor Activities: Monterey County is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with hiking, biking, and water sports among the most popular activities.
  • Wine Tasting: Wine is an important part of Monterey County’s culture, and locals love to celebrate it through tastings, festivals, and other events.
  • Sustainability: Monterey County is committed to sustainability and environmental stewardship, with many businesses and residents adopting ecologically sound practices.

Best Time to Visit Monterey County

The best time to visit Monterey County depends on what you’re looking for. Summer is the peak tourist season, with warm weather and plenty of outdoor activities, while fall offers mild weather and fewer crowds. Winter is rainy but still mild, while spring offers blooming wildflowers and baby animals.

Do’s and Don’ts of Monterey County

Do:

  • Do bring layers: The weather in Monterey County can change quickly, so it’s always a good idea to bring layers.
  • Do explore the outdoors: Monterey County’s natural beauty is one of the main reasons visitors come here, so make sure to take advantage of it.
  • Do try the local food and drink: Monterey County has a vibrant food and drink scene, with plenty of unique and delicious options to try.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter: Monterey County is committed to sustainability, so please dispose of your trash responsibly.
  • Don’t forget sunscreen: Even on cloudy days, the sun in Monterey County can be strong, so make sure to protect your skin.
  • Don’t disturb wildlife: Monterey County is home to many beautiful and endangered species, so please be respectful and observe from a distance.

Safety and Health

Safety in Monterey County

Monterey County is generally a safe destination, but visitors should still take precautions, including:

  • Watch for traffic: Monterey County’s roads can be busy, especially during peak tourist season, so be careful when crossing the street.
  • Be aware of the water: While Monterey Bay is beautiful, the water can be cold and dangerous, so always follow safety guidelines when swimming or boating.
  • Stay hydrated: The weather in Monterey County can be hot and dry, so make sure to stay hydrated, especially when engaging in outdoor activities.

Health in Monterey County

Monterey County has excellent medical facilities and emergency services, but visitors should still take necessary precautions, including:

  • Stay up-to-date on vaccinations: Before traveling to Monterey County, make sure you’re up-to-date on all required vaccinations.
  • Use sunscreen: The sun in Monterey County can be strong and lead to sunburn, so make sure to use sunscreen and reapply throughout the day.
  • Stay hydrated: The weather can be hot and dry, so drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Getting to Monterey County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Monterey County

The main airport serving Monterey County is Monterey Regional Airport (MRY), which is about 10 minutes from downtown Monterey.

Bus Stations Near Monterey County

Greyhound buses and other regional bus services stop in Salinas and Monterey.

Other Options

If driving, visitors can take Highway 1 or Highway 101 to reach Monterey County.

How to Get Around in Monterey County

The best way to get around Monterey County is by car, but there are other options available, including:

  • Biking: Monterey County has several bike trails, including the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail.
  • Public Transportation: Monterey-Salinas Transit offers bus service throughout the county, and the Monterey trolley is a fun way to get around downtown Monterey.
  • Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services: Taxis and ride-sharing services are available in Monterey County.

Where to Go Next from Monterey County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Monterey County is located in a prime location for further exploration, and nearby destinations include:

  • San Francisco: A world-class city with iconic landmarks, museums, and cultural experiences, located about two hours north of Monterey County.
  • Santa Cruz: A beach town with a fun, laid-back vibe, located about 45 minutes north of Monterey County.
  • Big Basin Redwoods State Park: A beautiful park with towering redwoods, located about an hour and a half north of Monterey County.

Conclusion

Monterey County is a wonderful destination for travelers looking to experience California’s central coast. With stunning natural beauty, rich cultural experiences, and a lively food and drink scene, Monterey County has everything you need for an unforgettable trip. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, food and wine, history, or just relaxing on the beach, Monterey County is sure to deliver.

The Bixby Creek bridge and the Big Sur coastline. The Bixby Creek bridge and the Big Sur coastline. The iconic Lone Cypress on the 17-Mile Drive near Carmel. The iconic Lone Cypress on the 17-Mile Drive near Carmel. Fremont Peak Fremont Peak Mission San Carlos Borromeo de Carmelo in Carmel, built in 1771 as the second of the 21 missions established by the Spanish in California. Mission San Carlos Borromeo de Carmelo in Carmel, built in 1771 as the second of the 21 missions established by the Spanish in California.


    Carmel
    Carmel Point
    Carmel Valley
    King City
    Marina
    Soledad