A city known for preservation of culture, history, and its natural environment, Monterey is paving the way to establishing one of California’s sustainable communities.

The city’s focus on natural resource conservation, comfortable year-round climate and rich historical and cultural presence makes Monterey a fabulous destination to relax, unwind and explore, any time of year. This peninsula with remarkable views of the Central Coast offers a plethora of activities to satisfy cravings for history, art, marine life, recreation, and of course, food.

Maximize your stay at Monterey’s Victorian Inn. Just one block from the water, the charm of the Inn lives up to its namesake with updated amenities and a wine and cheese hour, offering guests intimate hospitality at its best. With a more-than-accommodating concierge, the Victorian Inn can assist in planning an ideal Monterey getaway. Their “Pooch Package” also allows for convenient travel with pets. Nearby access to the pet-friendly recreational path and select beaches will make for one happy pup.

The recreational path is pet, bike and walker friendly and stretches along the picturesque coast. Stops along the trail include Historic Monterey, San Carlos Beach, Fisherman’s Wharf and Cannery Row. Kayak along the coast and explore marine life up close. Meander along Fisherman’s Wharf sampling famous clam chowder, and pick up unique coastal gifts in one of the quaint gift shops. Surrounding the nearby Monterey State Historic Park are the Maritime Museum, the Pacific House Museum and the Monterey Museum of Art. Downtown Monterey also offers a variety of local restaurants, and famed pubs.

A historic walking tour led by trained docents provides a glimpse into the exciting past (and into a myriad of historic buildings) of Monterey. Along the way, visitors may behold the oldest stone building in California, the Royal Presidio Chapel, the state’s first theater, and the Custom House, a traditionally-styled Mexican adobe structure – among numerous other historic structures.

A notable Monterey attraction, Cannery Row has come a long way from the “gathered and scattered, tin and iron and rust and splintered wood, chipped pavement and weedy lots and junk heaps, sardine canneries of corrugated iron” as Steinbeck described it in his 1945 novel. The famous stretch of now hotels, boutiques, art galleries, eateries, entertainment and shops ends at the famed Monterey Bay Aquarium. Live music may be enjoyed any given weekend, and the distinctive galleries grant many late-night openings and opportunities to view unique artisan handiwork. Stop in at one of the city’s many celebrated restaurants for fresh local seafood.

The aquarium is a spectacle and fun for all ages. With new and exciting exhibits, any time is the perfect time to visit. Reserve an entire day (or two) to take in the nautical wonder. Enjoy the latest exhibit, the Hot Pink Flamingos, and learn where they get their pink color from; and The Secret Life of Seahorses is a must-see, fascinating and educational experience. And while the sea otters and giant octopus are also favorites, everyone will find something to love at the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

With a keen focus on environmental preservation, rich history and an abundance of activities and fresh cuisine, Monterey Bay offers a small-town vibe with big-city fun for everyone.

POSTCARD FROM MONTEREY

EAT

Domenico's on the Wharf
50 Fisherman's Wharf
domenicosmonterey.com
831-372-3655

Paradiso Trattoria
654 Cannery Row
paradisomonterey.com
831-375-4155

The Fish Hopper
700 Cannery Row
fishhopper.com
831-372-8543

STAY

Best Western Victorian Inn
487 Foam Street
victorianinn.com
831-373-8000

Monterey Hotel
406 Alvarado Street
montereyhotel.com
831-375-3184

Monterey Bay Inn
242 Cannery Row
montereybayinn.com
831-373-6242

PLAY

Monterey Bay Aquarium
886 Cannery Row
montereybayaquarium.org
831-648-4888

Randy's Fishing Trips and Whale Watching
66 Old Fisherman's Wharf, Suite 1
randysfishingtrips.com
831-372-7440

Monterey Mirror Maze
751 Cannery Row, Suite 109
montereymirrormaze.com
831-649-6293