Location: Monterey
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The 10 Best Nature & Parks in Monterey, California (CA)
Think picnics on gorgeous, uncrowded beaches, fabulous seafood restaurants, and great hotels overlooking beautiful Monterey Bay… Monterey is a great place for a romantic getaway. Nature buffs can explore the bay by kayak for a close-up look at sea lions, seals and otters.
Restaurants in Monterey
1. Monterey Peninsula Recreational Trail
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 799 reviews
Popular hiking trail running along the Pacific Grove and Monterey coast.
Reviewed By Dao1949 - Chiang Mai, Thailand
It stretches along the coast of Monterey from Fisherman's Wharf all the way through Pacific Grove Beach and Lover's Point. Incredibly scenic views to be viewed along your walk with the Pacific Ocena waves crashing in. In the Cannery Row stretch, walk through history of a famous street of canneries that harvested millions of tons of fish, many decades ago. The Pacific Grove section is completed with the walk through of Lovers Point which features a pristine sandy beach in a protected cove.
2. Monterey Bay Aquarium
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 14,123 reviews
Located at the ocean's edge, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is a window to marine life -- for dive masters and non-swimmers alike. It's home to sea otters, penguins, sharks, jellies and thousands of other marine animals and plants. Its mission is to inspire conservation of the ocean.
Reviewed By Healthy94920 - San Francisco, United States
Re-joined this most excellent Aquarium to Capture the evolving array of remarkable sea creatures from the mysterious jellyfish to playful, entertaining sea otters, sharks, crustaceans, scuba diving experience all @ reasonable rates & with well-trainer staff at your service throughout your tour. Give yourself at least 3-4 hours to begin to enjoy this wonderful venue!
3. Path of History
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 69 reviews
Self-guided 2.7 mile walking tour around 46 historic buildings in downtown Monterey.
Reviewed By mini - Fremont, United States
We walked the Path of History while in Monterey. This is an interesting walk to take to see historical sites and buildings. There is information boards to read about the area.
4. Jacks Peak County Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 113 reviews
Reviewed By L0ve2travle
The park was pretty empty during week days, I came across two more hikers. The trails were very shady for a moderate hike. A $2 dollar entrance fee was well worth to pay for access to a beautiful area.
5. Monterey Bay
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,791 reviews
Reviewed By V236FJrobertn - Monterey, United States
The Central Coast's Monterey Bay is one of the most attractive and interesting places in the country. Beautiful Pacific Coast scenery, and lots to do along the coast, from numerous beach walks, to whale watching on boats out of Monterey, Moss Landing and Santa Cruz, and of course, a number of fine surfing spots.
6. Dennis the Menace Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 714 reviews
Designed by the creator of Dennis the Menace, this park has all sorts of unique attractions.
Reviewed By lizzybl8 - Monterey, United States
great fun. lots to do for all ages, tunnels to hide, climb, walk paths, and views of the lake, ducks, bird watching, bathrooms, 711 and many eateries very close by. mcdonals walking distance. skate park is big, grassy areas to sit, benches too.
7. California Sea Otter Game Refuge
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 50 reviews
Reviewed By 716sachink - Plainview, United States
This game refuge offers fantastic natural views. Drove southbound along the Pacific coast highway, when came across this refuge. However did not see any sea otters in their natural habitat but thoroughly enjoyed the views. Certainly worth visiting.
8. Breakwater
9. San Carlos Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 12 reviews
Reviewed By mini - Fremont, United States
We went to San Carlos Beach in Monterey. There are several historical plaques here including one for HP founder David Packard. There were also several divers there enjoying going out in the water. We were there on a stellar warm day in early November 2019.
10. Monterey State Historic Park
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 164 reviews
A state park in Monterey that operates tours of its gardens and historic buildings dating back to the 17th century.
Reviewed By mini - Fremont, United States
We took a nice walk to see the different historical buildings at Monterey State Historic Park. Its a good way to learn about local history.
