Best 10 Attractions to See inMonterey, California

With about four million visitors each year, the Monterey Peninsula is a

must go to destination for anyone traveling in the United States. If you take a

road trip to the West Coast, the road trip cannot be complete without a

weekend in Monterey County.

You are probably wondering what the hype is about. Well, wonder no

more. We provide you with ten best Monterey attractions that you can visit

while in Monterey.

1. Monterey Bay Aquarium

Ranked by some as the best Aquarium in the world, the Monterey Bay

Aquarium is an attraction you must visit.

At the aquarium, you will have the chance to see more than 600 species.

Some of the species on display include jellyfish, sea otters, stingrays, penguins,

blue and yellow fin tunas among many other species. There are also white

sharks which can be seen from time to time.

The aquarium also supports Marine conservation and promote healthy

oceans. It has considerably invested in education and research. Visitors will

find brochures advising them on kinds of seafood to have and kinds of

seafood to avoid.

2. Monterey State Historical Park

The historical park was built to preserve objects with historical

significance. Visitors to the park will get to see the place where explorers

from Spain landed in 1602. Visitors will also get to see the Custom House,

which is the oldest house in California.

Here is a tip: Be sure to pass by the Pacific House Museum to get information

on the historic buildings and the options available to view them.

3. Coast Guard Pier or Old Fisherman’s Wharf

While taking a stroll at these places, you will get to see hundreds of sea

lions. The sound of their grunting is a unique experience!

4. Cannery Row

You can take a walk in Cannery Row. There are restaurants, shops, and

bars housed in modified factories.

If you have a sweet tooth, you can check out Sweetock. You will be

surprised to find out that they offer samples. You can also visit some wine

tasting rooms including A Taste of Monterey, Bargetto Winery, and Carmel

Ridge Winery.

5. Point Lobos

Point Lobos has hiking trails that are easy to manage. The hiking points

are good for beginners. Point Lobos also has stunning views as well as plenty

of sea life. An example of the sea animals that can be seen include gray

whales, sand dollars and starfish.

6. Carmel Valley

At Carmel Valley, you can go for wine tasting. The Valley is famous for

producing Zinfandels and excellent Sauvignon Blanc. Furthermore, the valley

has wine tasting rooms that range from the elegant to the laid back.

7. The Carmel Mission

The Carmel Mission is a mission by the Roman Catholic that goes back to

1770. Visitors can take a tour around the property, and also visit the museum.

The property has ancient structures, swanky gardens and a host of other

attractions.

8. Sample Local Restaurants for Fresh Seafood

Monterey is known for its restaurants which serve excellent fresh

harvested seafood.

Recommended local restaurants include Sea Harvest, The Fish Hopper,

and Sardine Factory.

9. Take the 17-Mile Drive

What better way to experience the beauty of Monterey than to take the

17-Mile Drive. Apart from the beautiful coastlines and forests, there are also

attractive sites like Bird Rock, Lone Cypress and The Ghost Tree. Ensure that

you spare at least two hours for the drive.

10. Relax and Enjoy the Quiet Seaside Vibes that Monterey has to Offer

Monterey is known as a quiet town. There are no mega malls or high-rise

buildings. For anyone wishing to relax, this is ideal. Accommodations prices

are somehow affordable, it depends of course on your taste and season.

Luxury hotels are available for those who have a bit more cash to spend and

like to pamper themselves even more.

We hope that our guide on the best Monterey attractions will be helpful

while on your trip to this beautiful destination.