Location: Monterey
Top Things to do in Monterey
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What to do and see in Monterey, California (CA): The Best Free Things to do
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. On The Beach Surf Shop
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 16 reviews
Voted #1 Surf Shop by the Monterey County Weekly readers 24 years in a row! On The Beach Surf Shop was founded by Kelly Sorensen at the young age 20 years old. Kelly loves both surfing and the lifestyle that goes along with it. The goal of On The Beach is to bring the equipment and accessories of the surfing lifestyle to people of all ages who have the same.
3. ZFolio Gallery
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 12 reviews
ZFolio Gallery is California's premier destination for contemporary art jewelry, art glass, photography and art for the home.
Reviewed By JonathanS569
I just love stopping in and seeing what they have. When I am in the mood to buy something, the staff is very friendly and helpful. And when I am just browsing, the staff is still friendly and helpful. It is definitely a place worth looking at when you are at Cannery Row!
4. Monterey's Tasty Olive Bar
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 32 reviews
Reviewed By lynnetravels2017 - Los Angeles, United States
I probably tasted every oil and vinegar in the store. Great, friendly employees. I went home with a lot of delicious items! I will be back for sure!
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. 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.
8. Colton Hall Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 70 reviews
Built in 1849 to serve as a public school and town meeting hall, this historic building is now a museum open for public touring.
9. 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.
10. A Taste of Monterey-Wine Market & Bistro
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 184 reviews
This regional wine market and bistro is Cannery Row's 2nd largest attraction and is a must see when in Monterey. We invite you to come in and discover the culinary delights of Monterey Wine Country. Take in the magnificent ocean's edge location while sampling locally-sourced wine and food. An entire wall of windows overlooks the majestic Monterey Bay, providing a stunning backdrop for a wine tasting and/or dinning adventure. Housed in a renovated circa 1918 sardine cannery and showcases over 95 Monterey County wineries.
Reviewed By Lance2002 - Buckeye, United States
I decided to try them for wine tasting using a Groupon. The issue was they only let you taste their reds and not their whites and I am a white wine drinker. So if you are white wine drinker, do not wine taste here. I recommend that you just buy a bottle of white wine and maybe some small plate/appetizers and enjoy your wine while looking out on the bay. They have a good selection of small plate/appetizer type dishes and they are very good and not over priced for the area. It is a very relaxing, romantic location . Go there around sunset and get a table by the window.
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