Monterey, California,
One of the most stunning, natural locales on earth, the Monterey Peninsula, with its jagged coastline, deep blue waters, marine sanctuaries and cooling cypress forests, is so jaw-droppingly beautiful it has inspired artists and writers Robert Louis Stevenson and John Steinbeck on its fabled shores. Just 120 miles south of San Francisco, Monterey was first settled by the Rumsien, a Native American tribe; then, European settlers established a Royal Presidio and Mission in 1770, today one the most authentically restored Franciscan missions. Monterey's friendly community takes pride in its maritime heritage. A walk down iconic Cannery Row reveals its past as the West's sardine capital, and the world renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium is a celebration of all creatures of the sea. Top it off with freshly caught seafood and a tasting of local, hand-crafted wines for a perfect day. Nature lovers will relish the opportunity to bike along tree-lined trails or drive the 17-mile road, a spectacular stretch of coastline real estate that includes Carmel, the seaside, star-studded town that boasts cottage-style curio shops, tiny candy stores, cafes and fashionable boutiques, and the legendary Pebble Beach Golf Course. From sandy beaches to salt-water taffy, Monterey offers the quintessential California experience to those lucky enough to grace its shores.
Points of Interest
- Carmel-By-the-Sea
- 17-Mile Drive
- Monterey Bay Aquarium
- Cannery Row
- Carmel Mission
- Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
- Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary
- Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Monterey Movie Tour
- 17-Mile Drive
- Cannery Row
- Carmel Mission
Cinema buffs will get a real kick out of this fun and friendly, guided motor coach tour showcasing some of the movies that have immortalized the incredible beauty of the Monterey Peninsula on film. Travel through such show-stopping areas as Fisherman's Wharf, Cannery Row, Pacific Grove, Pebble Beach and its 17-Mile Dr and Carmel, among other backdrops, for such stars as Marilyn Monroe, Clint Eastwood, and many more.
Easy Activity
$69.95
Monterey Bay Whale Watching
- Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary
Have a whale of a time in search of whales and dolphins. Have your camera ready as you get up close to these gentle creatures in their natural habitat inside the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.
Moderate Activity
$74.95
Monterey Bay Aquarium On Your Own
- Monterey Bay Aquarium
Enjoy the marine life of California at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Begin with a drive through picturesque Monterey to the aquarium. One of the world's most prestigious centers for marine life is home to sharks, seals, otters, exotic fish, and a host of amazing sea creatures.
Moderate Activity
$74.95
Monterey Bay Aquarium with Guide
- Monterey Bay Aquarium
Enjoy the marine life of California at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Begin with a drive through picturesque Monterey to the aquarium. One of the world's most prestigious centers for marine life is home to sharks, seals, otters, exotic fish, and a host of amazing sea creatures.
Moderate Activity
$74.95
17 Mile Drive & Carmel
- Carmel-By-the-Sea
- 17-Mile Drive
Travel the famed 17-Mile Drive, one of America's most picturesque roads that winds along a rocky coastline. This bucket list drive includes a stop at Bird Rock and Seal Rock for wildlife viewing and a chance for a photograph at the world-famous Pebble Beach Golf Club. Explore Carmel-by-the-Sea, an idyllic European-style village with local art galleries, unique restaurants and quaint architecture.
Moderate Activity
$99.95
Local Connections: Point Lobos State Natural Reserve Hike with Expert Guide
- Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Join local guide Monica Hudson for a trek through breathtaking Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. Hike through the forest, past scenic lookout points and along a rocky coastline. Bring binoculars and a camera to capture native Monterey cypress trees and possible wildlife sightings of sea lions, harbor seals and herons.
Strenuous Activity
$139.95
Redwoods & Vineyards
- Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
Travel along the stunning central California coast with its beautiful vistas. After crossing the famous Bixby Creek Bridge, you'll arrive at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park for a chance to walk amongst the coastal redwood trees before heading north to the Carmel Valley for wine tasting in the plentiful wine producing region of Monterey County.
Moderate Activity
$139.95
Monterey Wine Tasting and Historic Carmel Mission
- Carmel-By-the-Sea
- Carmel Mission
Journey to the charming coastal village of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Step back in time to 1771 with a visit to the Carmel Mission Basilica, a Registered National Historic Landmark. Then sample wines at a local winery renowned for its fine vintages and spectacular views of the Monterey Valley.
Moderate Activity, Includes snack
$149.95
Foodie Walking Tour of Old Monterey
Nibble your way through the lively streets of Old Monterey on a culinary walking tour. Visit four to six restaurants and eateries on the side streets of Downtown Monterey and Fisherman's Wharf and taste the different cultural influences that have made Monterey what it is today.
Moderate Activity, Includes snack
$149.95