How to Enjoy Monterey, California

Few places live up to their reputation like Monterey California. Steeped in history and natural beauty, this beautiful seaside community has all the charm of small town America with an endless variety of eye-candy and activities. Fisherman's Wharf, Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row are three things not to be missed. There are 20 world-class golf courses in the area, a unique variety of shops and galleries and a memorable assortment of parks and nature. There is enough to see and do in Monterey for trip as short as one to three days. For a longer trip, take a week to explore the entire Monterey Peninsula.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Map of Monterey
• Transportation
• Layered clothing

1. 
    

   Be prepared for all types of weather. Monterey can be sunny and warm and then foggy and chilly. So, remember, just because the sky appears clearn and warm in the morning, doesn't mean it will stay that way. Make sure to wear layered clothing to allow for adjustments as the weather changes. Valleys are warmer than coastline.

2. 
    

   Take advantage of the many literature racks. Also, purchase a map of the area to assist you in planning your day(s). Proper planning will allow for enough time to see all the great sights.

3. 
    

   Arrange for transportation. Rental cars and limousines are plentiful. However, a reservation is recommended. The city has an efficient bus system and taxis are always available. By using a rental car or limousine, you will be able to move at your own pace and cover more ground.

4. 
    

   Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium. The aquarium is considered to be one of the top in the world. Expect your visit to last anywhere from three hours to an entire day. For a less crowded experience, visit between 2:00 pm and 6:00 pm on Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday.

5. 
    

   Visit Fisherman's Warf. In the 1800's this part of town was the center of Monterey's whaling industry. Now the area offers whale-watching cruises and a peak at sea life from the wharf. The view including sea lions, harbor seals and sea otters - all nature's jokesters. The wharf is home to an abundance of restaurants and shops.

6. 
    

   Visit Cannery Row. Back in the day, Cannery Row was a place where fish processors canned fresh fish straight off the boat. It was immortalized in print by John Steinbeck's "Cannery Row" and "Sweet Thursday." Today the Row is home to shops, galleries, fine restaurants and an IMAX theater. The nightlife is exceptional!

7. 
    

   Tour the Monterey Peninsula. The most popular spots to see on the peninsula are the town of Carmel, the famous Pebble Beach Golf course, with it's spectacular 17 Mile Drive, and the redwoods of Big Sur. The drive down Highway 1 will never be forgotten. Make sure to try some of the following: sky diving and kayaking, walking tours and guided limousine movie tours, fishing, bicycling, whale watching, wine-tasting, art walks, bowling, auto racing, shopping, bird watching, nightlife, water sports, museums, the Monterey Jazz Festival, and theaters.