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25 Incredible Things To Do In Monterey With Kids You Shouldn’t Miss
Let’s explore some of the top things to do in Monterey with kids! From inside fun for rainy days and educational experiences to hiking and adventurous options, Monterey is packed with fun things for children and families to enjoy!
While you may have heard of the most things to do in Monterey like the Monterey Bay Aquarium and Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, there’s much more for you and your kiddos to check out here.
One of the best things about this city is that there are so many different options for visitors. Education-focused family travelers, adventure-seekers, fabulous foodies, sun soakers, and fun loving families will all find things that they will love to do while in they are in Monterey.
So, let’s get started and learn about the top family friendly things to do in Monterey!25 Incredible Things To Do In Monterey With Kids You Shouldn’t Miss
Rent a Swan Paddle Boat at El Estero Park
Through El Estero Boating, you can participate in one of the top Monterey kid friendly activities, renting a paddle boat! El Estero Park is a lovely place top be for families. It’s located on Del Monte Avenue and has a lot to offer families, and all types of visitors.
On El Estero Lake, you can take out different paddle boats for a half an hour or a whole hour. And while you are here, you will have a few options to choose from. Choosing between one of the regular paddle boats and one of the animal paddle boats is the biggest decision for you and your little ones.
The regular paddle boats come in different glittery colors and the animal paddle boats are either swans or ducks. You can expect to save some money by choosing a regular paddle boat as the swans and ducks are pricier. Nevertheless, this is one of the best things to do in Monterey with kids!Have Your Mind Blown at The Monterey Bay Aquarium
As one of the best things to do in Central Coast California, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is an incredible site that you won’t want to skip over when you are visiting Monterey. It’s hard to talk about what to do in Monterey CA without mentioning the aquarium!
Located on the rocky California coast, the aquarium sees around two million visitors each year! What makes this aquarium different than many marine life attractions is that it exists for the purpose of conservation. The water in the tanks is pulled directly from the bay so that animals are given a life that is as similar to the bay as possible.As a non-profit, they do perform countless tasks for the betterment of marine life and the ocean’s health every day. In fact, they have worked to restore sea otter populations, pass bills that support ocean health, transform fisheries around the world, and more!
There are so many breathtaking exhibits at the aquarium including an aviary and an area that is designed to look like you are underneath the famous wharf in Monterey.
When searching for the best things to do in Monterey with kids, you will probably always hear someone suggesting the aquarium, and rightfully so! It’s even a favorite of Betty White who was a fan and donor of the aquarium and all the good work they do. So much so that instead of flowers at her funeral, she requested donations to the aquarium.
Consistently ranking among the top aquariums in the U.S., the Monterey Bay Aquarium is a must for anyone visiting this lovely coastal town.Hit One of The Stunning Beaches in Monterey
Spending time at one of the best beaches in Monterey is among the top fun things to do in Monterey CA with kids. While the water in Monterey is super cold all year around, sun bathing, checking out the tide pools, taking a walk, and wildlife viewing are all great ways to spend you time on the beach in Monterey.
If you or your little ones do want to get in the water, there are a few beaches with calmer water where little ones can be safe from the more turbulent areas. Lovers Point Beach, McAbee Beach, Seal Rock Creek Beach, and Del Monte Beach are all fairly calm compared to the others in the area.
For those traveling with dogs, there are a few beaches that are the most dog-friendly. Monterey State Beach, Asilomar Beach, and Carmel River State Beach all allow dogs. And you can have your doggos off the leash at nearby Carmel Beach as long as they are under voice control.Follow The Path of History
If your family is interested in historical things to do in Monterey with kids, following the Path of History is the way to go! The path weaves through the historic district and showcases historical sites and buildings. It also takes you to a museums like the Old Monterey Jail Museum and the Cotton Hall Museum.
You can start at the Customs House, then just follow the little round emblems in the sidewalk. They will lead you to fifty-five historical sites along the trail and it will have you pass beautiful gardens along the way.
Following this path is great for photography, learning about the history of Monterey, and sticking to your travel budget as the buildings and museums on the path are free to visit. You can walk this path on your own or you go with a guided walking tour which is ten bucks for adults, and free for everyone under 18.Dennis The Menace Playground
Is outdoor play a must on your Monterey itinerary? The Dennis The Menace Playground is one of the best fun things to do in Monterey with kids. This park is huge and has countless activities for children.
Whether it is overcast or sunny, this playground is perfect for families looking for free stuff to do in Monterey CA.
Remarkably, this playground has been around since 1950 when it was built with the help of the creator of the Dennis The Menace comic strip, Hank Ketcham. He was a resident of Carmel just down the road from Monterey and of course, a lover of childish antics.
Large slides, bridges, spinning platforms and climbing bars, tunnels, and more are all there at the Dennis The Menace Playground. Kids’ eyes light up when they see this park!Hike at Jacks Peak Park
When people talk about Monterey attractions, you rarely hear someone suggesting Jack’s Peak, which is such a shame! Of all the things to do in Monterey with kids, Jacks’s Peak is definitely the most underrated and it offers the best hiking in Monterey.
This county park is 525 acres of wooded mountain area that offers hiking trails and picnic areas for visitors. Photography, wildlife viewing, catching a glimpse of the bay, and enjoying a picnic are all great ways to enjoy the park.
This is one of the best free things to do in Monterey as you can spend time exploring the nature of Monterey County, save money by having a picnic instead of eating out, and you will get to see a view of the Monterey Bay that few visitors ever get to see.Learn at The Monterey County Youth Museum
We can’t talk about the top things to do in Monterey with kids without talking about the Monterey County Youth Museum.
Also one of the best things to do in Monterey with toddler, the museum is only ten dollars and children under two are able to enjoy it for free! The museum aspires to provide an environment where children can be curious and creative while growing their thrill for lifelong learning.
Whether you are traveling with a super young one who is still in diapers or an older child who is nearing their tween years, there are exhibits that suit the developmental age of most children.
The museum also holds different events throughout the year so be sure to check their website before you arrive to see if you can add any fun events to your itinerary. One of those events includes a 21+ games night where adults can enjoy drinks, board games, and food from local restaurants.Play an Escape Room Game
Rainy days in Monterey can be pretty common from fall to spring, and a good way to tackle these days is to have a solid plan for things to do in Monterey when it rains. And an escape room is the perfect way to have fun despite the weather!
The family activities in Monterey CA, like Escape Room 831, are great ways to strengthen family relationships and make memories that your kids won’t soon forget. Plus, the games at Escape Room 831 offer different levels on difficulty and scariness so you can find something appropriate for your kids ages.
You’ll find Escape Room 831 location on Wave Street and Lighthouse Avenue. When you book a room at one of these location, you can choose from themes like Alice’s Dream which is an Alice in Wonderland theme and The Terminal which is a dimly lit office in a subway terminal.
For those with young kids, the Alice in Wonderland themed room is most appropriate. However, I took my five and six year old to The Terminal and they did well there as well. As long as your kids are old enough to understand that it is fake and they aren’t trapped in the room, you should be
Don’t miss out on an escape room while you are in town as it is one of the best things to do in Monterey with kids!Explore Tide Pools on 17 Mile Drive
Seventeen Mile Drive is among the most popular road trips in California. There is an $11.25 admission fee for driving this scenic stretch of road along the dramatic coastline of the Monterey Peninsula. There are loads of stops along this drive where you can get out and enjoy the natural beauty of central coats California.
This is by far one of the best things to do in Monterey with kids! With mind blowing tide pools like the ones along 17 Mile Drive, your kids will be occupied for hours while you sit back with a good book or simply enjoy the scenery. But, it’s not just tide pools, there’s a lot to see and do along 17 Mile Drive.
One of the must-see places along the 17-Mile Drive is Spanish Bay. Spanish explorers stopped here to camp in 1769 when they were trying to find the Monterey Bay based on a description of the bay from 1602. This is one of the beach beaches in Monterey County! There’s a lovely wooden boardwalk along the beach and benches where you can sit and enjoy the view of the waves coming in.
Something else worth a stop along 17 Mile Drive for is the Pebble Beach 17 Mile Drive Gingerbread House. This cutesy and unique house is a must-see for travelers who like to see the strange and unusual on their adventures.
Other overlooks and information stops can be found along 17 Mile Drive, including Fanshell Beach Overlook where you get views of a beautiful beach and see the pupping habitat for harbor seals. If you want to see wildlife while you are in the area, this is a must!Walk Around Cannery Row
Hands down the best of the free activities in Monterey is walking Cannery Row. This is probably the most recognizable location in the city. This stretch of road in Monterey was home to fish canneries in the early days of California.
There was a big canning boom and expansion due to demand brought on by the war from 1916-1918 and many more canneries and businesses erupted during this time. John Steinbeck wrote a book titled Cannery Row which was published in 1945. And over time, the row continued to gain popularity.
Today, Cannery Row is mostly restaurants and shops. There are several gift shops here where you can find a souvenir at a reasonable price. You could also grab a milkshake or ice cream to enjoy while you walk around.
Walking along here gives you a look back in history while seeing the effects of modernity on this historical road in California. Also, a great spot for taking travel pictures, walking on Cannery Row is among the top things to do in Monterey with kids.Enjoy The Kid Friendly Restaurants in Monterey
While looking for restaurants in Monterey, you should keep in mind that there are some restaurants that aren’t exactly kid friendly. After a long day of exploring the top things to do in Monterey with kids, a delicious coastal dinner is in order, but not everywhere is great for kids of all ages.
Some restaurants in town have policies about no high chairs and no booster seats, as well as how loud children can be. So, be sure to check online for information about the restaurant you are wanting to visit. Of course, the regular concerns of is there a kids menu and is it too rowdy for kids are also in play.
Some of the top restaurants to visit include Bubba Gump Shrimp, Sur Burger, Lalla Grille, and most places for breakfast in Monterey as these are all kid friendly! Lalla Grille has white table cloths and an elevated vibe but they still have a great kids menu and will provide a high chair upon request.See the Point Pinos Lighthouse
A short two-mile drive from the Monterey Bay Aquarium is the pretty Point Pinos Lighthouse. One of the best Monterey activities is taking the drive to this fun little lighthouse. First lit in 1855, Point Pinos Lighthouse is the oldest continuously operating lighthouse on the west coast. Remarkably, even the lens is original!
This stunning site is one of the top things to do in Monterey with kids for a few reasons. First, while there is a small entrance fee, it is reduced for children between seven and seventeen, and children under seven are free. Plus, area around the lighthouse is absolutely beautiful and great for photography. Lastly, a visit here serves as a learning opportunity, which we know is very important to a lot of family travelers.Hike at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is one of the most popular attractions on any Pacific Coast Highway road trip and definitely one of the top things to do in Monterey with kids. There is a small entrance fee that is totally worth the cost!
Point Lobos is home to incredible hiking trails, great beaches, beautiful views, bluish-green water, and diverse wildlife. This is an extremely busy part of Monterey County, so if you plan on visiting during your time spent in town, be sure to arrive early in the day so that you can get a parking spot.
Even better, visit on a weekday if possible. On good weather days, parking can fill up by 10 am on weed days so do your best to arrive as early as possible. Once parking fills ups, cars start parking in the sandy areas along the Cabrillo Highway. You can see people walking along the highway to get to the entrance of Point Lobos so be careful driving around this area.While in Point Lobos, check out the Whalers Cabin. This cabin was built by Chinese fishermen in the 1850s and today it acts as a cultural history museum for visitors. There are also dreamy beaches in Point Lobos that are worth checking out.
A couple of the best are Gibson’s Beach and China Cove Beach. China Cove is one of the best beaches in Monterey County!
To get to China Cove, you take the Bird Island Trail. This trail takes you down a long wooden and stone staircase to the beach below. This cove has natural rock tunnels and cliffs around the beach, creating a mystical area that photographers and outdoor enthusiasts love.
There are often seals laying on the beach here so be sure to keep your distance if they are present while you are there.If you have plenty of time to spend at Point Lobos, consider hiking the Point Lobos Loop Trail. This trail is a combination of trails that make a loop of nearly seven miles. This path will allow you to see many of the best parts of the state natural area.
For those who need a shorter, more accessible trail, the Sand Hill Trail is wheelchair and stroller-friendly. This trail is only 0.4 miles long and gains less than twenty miles in elevation making it super easy. No matter which trails you choose to explore, Point Lobos offers some of the top opportunities for hiking in Monterey County.
On the Sand Hill Trail, you will get views of Sand Hill Cove and Sea Lion Cove. Binoculars or a monocular would be great to bring along with you on this trail and to all of Point Lobos as you can spot wildlife in the water and on the rock cliffs throughout the area.Visit the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History
The Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History is just a few minute drive from Monterey on the Monterey Peninsula and it offers free admission for everyone on the last Saturday of the month during the school year. If you are visiting Monterey during this time, swing by the museum to enjoy the museum as it is one of the best things to do in Monterey with kids.
If you are planning on getting around the city on foot or by bike, no worries! The museum is just one mile from the Monterey Bay Aquarium. You will know you have arrived when you see the large whale sculpture out front.
The museum focuses on plants, animals, geology, and the cultural histories of the Monterey area. It has been open since 1883 (the same year that the Brooklyn Bridge opened) and it is one of the oldest natural history museums in the country. The collections here show a deep diversity of the flora, fauna, and historical artifacts of the central coast.Grab Ice Cream in Monterey
Ready for some amazing ice cream in Monterey? There are some seriously mind blowing places to get ice cream while you are in town. After walking around in the California sun as you explore this dreamy seaside town, there’s nothing like a cold creamy ice cream.
A popular ice cream shop is Revival Ice Cream on Alvarado Street. They have vegan options and they make their flavors using locally sourced products and house made toppings. If you find your self on the Old Fishermans Wharf, you can stop by Monterey Bay Creamery yummy treats, views of the bay, and wildlife viewing.
You can also head north a few minutes to Marina where you can try Moon Scoops. This shop is less than ten minutes from the Old Fishermans Wharf and well worth the drive. They also sell waffle ice cream sandwiches, cookies, coffee, and more. Plus, the dining area is super cute and Insta-worthy!
Getting ice cream from one of these remarkable shops is one of the best things to do in Monterey with kids!Walk Around The Old Fisherman’s Wharf
Among the free things to do in Monterey with kids is to visit the Old Fishermans Wharf. The wharf acted as an active fish market until the 1960s and today serves as not only a historical site but also a place to shop, eat, and sightsee.
You can find shops on the wharf that sell souvenirs, clothes, jewelry, and more. There are also restaurants and sweet shops where you eat or browse overlooking the pretty blue water of the Monterey Bay.Plus, if you are visiting close to a holiday, you can enjoy the decorations on the wharf. Always outfitted with a festive dress, the wharf is a fun place to be around holidays year-round.
If wildlife watching is on your itinerary for your trip, you can usually see some sea lions and harbor seals splashing around the wharf. You can also hear and see them off in the distance as well. Keep your eye out for the buoys in the bay, sea lions love to lay down on them and rest in the sun.Learn a Bit of History at The National Steinbeck Center
John Steinbeck did wonders for tourism in Monterey County. You can visit the National Steinbeck Center which is about a thirty-minute drive from the Monterey Bay Aquarium where you can see all of the exhibits that have been dedicated to his life’s work and his memory.
If you are traveling as a family, you will be happy to know that admission to this museum is free for children five and under which makes this one of the best things to do in Monterey with family!
This center acts as both a museum and a memorial for this famous author. Steinbeck grew up in town where the center is located and you can find different sites dedicated to his memorial all throughout central coast California.You will want to spend at least an hour and a half to two hours here to really take in the information that is offered. Once you are done exploring the center, there are loads of restaurants and coffee shops around the center if you want to drop in for a drink or a bite to eat.
Walking around Salinas is a great town to walk around in because of its history and its beauty. It has a very classically California valley look to it that you will love to see and photograph, especially if you have never been in the area before.
If you are able to carve out some time on your trip to Monterey to walk around downtown Salinas, you’ll love the beauty and history of this lovely CA town. So, don’t miss a visit to Salinas and the Steinbeck Center as it is one of the best things to do in Monterey County with kids!
Walk Through a Mirror Maze or Play Mini Golf
The Monterey Mirror Maze is fun for all ages! Whether you are 5, 35, or 55, the mirror maze is always a hit. As one of the best things to do in Monterey with kids, be sure to add this attraction to your itinerary!
At the mirror maze, there is also a Laser Challenge. You can navigate the laser beams on your own or tackle the challenge with a friend. Either way, playing a spy in the laser challenge is one of the coolest things to do in Monterey when it rains.
Pro-tip: put on the special kaleidoscope glasses to make it even more difficult. [You can find them by the entrance to the maze!]Go Whale Watching
While whale watching may not be the best thing to do in Monterey with a baby, it is definitely one of the top things to do in Monterey California with kids who are a bit older! In fact, whale watching is super popular in the Monterey Bay.
You may be wondering when is the best time to go whale watching in Monterey. Well, you can see whales in the bay most of the year, but you aren’t likely to see them during the winter months. The best time to see whales is March through November.There are several companies in the area that give whale watching tours. There are different types of tours so you can choose the one that works best for you and whoever you’re traveling with. Keep in mind, it is a lot colder out in the bay than it is on the coast so be sure to wear something warm and have something to cover your ears with.
If you get motion sickness or your children are younger, you may want to bring some Dramamine with you. If you forget, don’t worry, most companies offer something for motion sickness for sale before you board the boat. For those who book through Monterey Bay Whale Watch, they have ginger candy and motion sickness meds for sale as well as other things you might need on the boat like ear muffs, gloves, snacks, and water.Hike at Garland Ranch Regional Park
Hiking is among the top things to do in Monterey with kids. You will have to drive roughly twenty minutes from downtown Monterey to reach Garland Ranch Regional Park.
Here you can find the Lupine Loop Trail. It is rated as easy in difficulty and is among the kid friendly hiking trails near Monterey. At only 1.5 miles long and little elevation gain, this trail only takes around a half an hour to complete. A lot of people walk their dogs here and you can get close to the Carmel River from this trail.
Another easy and kid friendly trail in the park is the Rancho and Copper Trails Loop. It’s only 1.4 miles and takes around a half an hour. Or, if you are able to take a slightly more difficult trail, check out the Garland Ranch Waterfall and Siesta Point Trail. Rated as moderate in difficulty, this trail is just two miles long.Visit Bakeries in Monterey
Bakeries in Monterey offers sweet treats, savory pastries, and quick lunch options while you are exploring the town. When you’re traveling with kids, keeping them happy and entertained is a must, especially with the little one. Sometimes, all they need (and you!) is a delicious sweet treat to sink your teeth into.
Visiting the bakeries in town is one of the best things to do in Monterey with kids. You can head to L’Aubette Belgian Bakery for authentic Belgian waffles, Lilly Mae’s Cinnamon Rolls for gluten free options, Paris Bakery Cafe for colorful and beautifully crafted pastries, and to Rock N Roll Donut Bar for over the top kid friendly donuts.
There are many other options in town as well where you can get everything from fresh baguettes, bagels, and croissants to crepes, sandwiches, and cupcakes. Plus, many of these bakeries also offer lunch, coffee, and more. So, you are sure to find something that fits the needs of everyone in your family.Walk Along The Rocky Coast at Asilomar
Visiting the rock coastline at Asilomar State Beach is among the best things to do in Monterey with kids. Here you can find tide pools, sandy beaches, rock formations, and more.
You can walk along the coast on a sand trail that curves along with the changing coastline. There are also wooden boardwalk sections and a gazebo along on the coast that gives you a spectacular view of the crashing waves and the expansive blue water off the Asilomar Coast.
You can find parking here on Sunset Drive. There’s sandy space off of the road where cars park before walking to the beach and trails. You will find this area at the northern part of the Monterey Peninsula which is a roughly 5-10 minute drive from the Monterey Bay Aquarium.Explore The Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary
A chance to see thousands of Monarch butterflies? Yes, please! Visiting the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary is one of the best things to do in Monterey with kids. The sanctuary is roughly 5-10 minute drive from the Monterey Bay Aquarium and is well worth the drive!
The sanctuary is open seven days a week and is best visited in the winter months. The butterflies cluster together on Cypress, Pine, and Eucalyptus trees which is quite a site for visitors! They will only be in the area from mid-October to early March, so be sure to check them out if you are visiting during the winter months.See Wildlife at The Coast Guard Pier
Monterey County offers more coastline than any other county in California, so checking out the wildlife that like to hang around the coast is a must while you are in town. At The Coast Guard Pier, you can enjoy wildlife viewing while not breaking your travel budget as it is totally free to visit, making it one of the best free things to do in Monterey CA!
Once you arrive and realize just how close you can get to the marine life off of the pier, you will see why visiting here is easily one of the top things to do in Monterey with kids! While you have a chance at seeing seals and sea lions in many places in town, the Coast Guard Pier is allows you to stand with just a couple of feet from them.
Sea lions hang around Monterey all year round, but they aren’t always lounging at The Coast Guard Pier. You will find them there lounging on the rocks that line the pier in the sunshine during the warmest months of the year. However, even during the rest of the year, you can usually see them off the end of the pier.Take a Mini Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip
Hands down, taking an excursion from your time spent on the peninsula to go on a mini Pacific Coast Highway road trip is among the best things to do in Monterey CA with kids. The adventures and opportunities to explore along the PCH are incredible bucket list activities!
You can see some of the most mind blowing views in all of California from the highway, take stunning travel photos, eat breathtaking meals, shop for local art, visit museums and historical sites, go hiking, see wildlife, and much more while you are on the Pacific Coast Highway.Some of the top towns to visit on the Pacific Coast Highway within three hours from Monterey include:
- San Francisco
- Santa Cruz
- Carmel-By-The-Sea
- Big Sur
- San Simeon
- Morro Bay
Some of the best things to do on the Pacific Coast Highway within three hours from Monterey:
- Golden Gate Bridge
- Santa Cruz Wharf
- Capitola Beach rainbow houses
- Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
- Hearst Castle
- Morro Bay Museum of Natural History
All of these incredible things to do in Monterey with kids will allow you to explore the city and surrounding areas in various ways. You can see the natural coastal beauty, venture to the Carmel Valley, learn about the history of the area, try incredible west coast cuisine, and more.
There’s a reason why more than three million people visit Monterey County each year, the beauty, fun, and food here really are unmatched. And now that you have learned about the best things to do with kids in Monterey, which of these awesome sites and attractions will you be adding to your travel itinerary?
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25 Extraordinary Spots For Breakfast in Monterey
Breakfast in Monterey is a great way to start your day before you set off to explore the beautiful and exciting things to do in Monterey, California! One of the most amazing things about this idyllic and picturesque central coast California town is its variety. And luckily for us breakfast lovers, that variety carries over to the breakfast restaurants here!
You can find classic American diner style breakfast, coastal breakfast, international dishes, later breakfast and brunch, as well as vegan breakfast in Monterey. What ever you are looking for, sit back and relax, because Monterey has you covered!
Which of these extraordinary breakfast places in Monterey will you be visiting first?25 Extraordinary Places For Breakfast in Monterey
Old Monterey Cafe
For a mind blowing Monterey Bay breakfast, you can head to the Old Monterey Cafe on Alvarado Street. Here you can get made-to-order breakfast dishes served in a diner-like dining room. Classic American diner plates are produced from the kitchen at Old Monterey Cafe.
Plates loaded with sausage, burritos, hash browns, pancakes, Eggs Benedict, toast, eggs, and more cover the tables of this incredible brunch joint in Monterey. The chill vibe and amazing menu allowed Old Monterey Cafe to be voted Monterey County’s best breakfast, lunch, and java.
The menu at Old Monterey Cafe is filled with egg scrambles like the Tahoe Scrambler which comes with hickory smoked ham, onion, pepper, and cheese, French Toast like the Cinnamon Raison Swirl French Toast, pancake stacks like the Apple Compote Pancakes, Eggs Benedict like the Turkey Avocado Benedict, and big crispy Belgian Waffles.
Old Monterey Cafe is among the top restaurants in Monterey, so it’s no surprise that you can find some of the best breakfast in Monterey here as well!Black Bear Diner Monterey
Biscuits, omelets, and pancakes, oh my! The Black Bear Diner is by and large one of the top places to get breakfast in Monterey. They have everything from omelettes and French Toast to egg combo meals and pancake stacks.
Black Bear Diner is among the top breakfast spots in Monterey because they serve breakfast all day long! However, if you are visiting a little later in the day and are wanting something more lunch-esque, you can sink your teeth into one of their specialty burgers or sandwiches at brunch time.
One of the best things about eating here is the dessert menu. They have dreamy pies and cakes for you to indulge in after your breakfast or brunch. They have California cheesecake, apple cobbler, chocolate cream pie, five layer chocolate cake, and banana cream pie, just to name a few!Parker-Lusseau Pastries
Parker-Lusseau Pastries is among the top bakeries in Monterey. If you are looking for tasty baked goods in a cute coastal bakery, Parker-Lusseau is the place to be! It is easily planted on the list of top breakfast places in Monterey as well as it is in a perfect location in the downtown area for a sweet breakfast and a cup of coffee in the morning.
It is inside an old white building with the word Patisserie painted on the side of the wall. And there’s a lovely little patio where you can sit outside and enjoy your coffee and pastries while you people-watch and enjoy the Monterey weather.
When visiting Parker-Lusseau Pastries, you can choose from all of the coffeehouse classics like espresso, latte, hot chocolate, Americano, etc. But, the real star of the show here is the mind-blowing pastries and lunch items that they serve here.
The macarons, eclairs, croissants, fruit tarts, sandwiches and galettes are amazing here. Grabbing a bite to eat at one of the best places for breakfast in Monterey is a great way to start your day before exploring the city.
Wave Street Cafe
Calling everyone who is looking for breakfast in Monterey on Cannery Row!
An iconic place for breakfast on Cannery Row is the Wave Street Cafe. New American breakfast dishes are served here at Wave Street Cafe in the charming dining room that is designed in a European-bistro style, complete with an outdoor patio.
The cute building, design, and dining spaces make a visit here super desirable. Add onto that the incredible menu options and you will find yourself not wanting to leave the Wave Street Cafe as it is one of the top Monterey breakfast spots!
On the All-Day Menu at Wave Street Cafe is are classic breakfast favorites like oatmeal, breakfast burritos, eggs Benedict, egg scrambles, omelets, pancakes, and French Toast.
The classics are taken to the next level at this breakfast joint in Monterey. You can choose from a variety of omelets like The Denver, Garden Fresh, Bay Shrimp and Spinach, The Greek, or The Vegan omelet. Eggs Benedict are serves in unique ways as well. You can get a Norwegian, Irish, Vegetarian, Hawaiian, or Garden Eggs Benedict.L’aubette Belgian Bakery
When it comes to Sunday breakfast places in Monterey, it doesn’t get much better than this Belgian bakeruy. L’Aubette is a cute little bakery near Cannery Row. This bakery is only open on Sundays and provides guests with outstanding Belgian waffles.
The owner of L’Aubette is Belgian and wants to share his love of the Belgian cuisine that he grew up with with the people of Monterey. The Belgian-born creator of L’Aubette is passionate about what they are doing in Monterey and it shows through their waffles.
One taste of these Belgian waffles and it will be easy to see what makes L’Aubette one of the top places to get breakfast in Monterey. They are proudly made with Belgian sugar, Mexican vanilla, and local ingredients.
They offer classic, chocolate, blueberry with lemon glaze, churro flavor, and more. The flavors are rotating so you can get something different every time you visit.
The laid-back nature of this small bakery, the vibe, and the quality of the waffles sold here are unmatched.Googie Grill
Ready for a good breakfast in Monterey CA. Well, the Googie Grill is just a short 5-10 minute drive from Monterey in Seaside, CA and is well worth the drive! The vibes here are very 1950s, complete with vintage fixtures and fun paint colors.
You can start your breakfast here by indulging in a delectable griddle order. Perhaps the Haileys Comet Combo from the griddle will be just what you need to order to have your mind blown by the Googie Grill! It comes with eggs, French Toast or Pancakes, your choice of bacon, sausage or ham, and either Googie potatoes or hash browns for a classic spread of American breakfast must-haves.
Other awesome options here at the Googie Grill include Brioche French Toast, Belgian waffles, eggs, omelets, and scarmbles. Pair your breakfast with something from the espresso, coffee, and tea bar and you are good to go!Red House Cafe
Let’s take another baby step from Monterey and look at the Red House Cafe. Just five minutes from Monterey, this cafe offers excellent breakfast in Pacific Grove. Red House graces visitors with seasonal American classics with European twists and influence along with tea and pastries for a fabulous breakfast line up.
The meals here are easily placed on the pedestal for best breakfast in Monterey County. They have everything from spectacular breakfast sandwiches, Eggs Benedict, and breakfast trifles to Nutella paninis, smoked salmon potato pancakes, and the full country breakfast which comes with egg, potatoes, bacon or sausage, and more.
If you get a late start to your day, you can still had to Red House Cafe as they have a great brunch menu as well!
After your breakfast or brunch, you should set off on foot to explore Pacific Grove. Although it is just a few minutes away from the Monterey Bay Aquarium, it has a totally different vibe to it. You can enjoy the architecture, visit the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History, or check out Pavel’s Backerei while you are in the area.Crepes of Brittany
Breakfast on the Monterey Bay is simply mind-blowing when you visit Crepes of Brittany on Alvarado Street. This creperie is open in the mornings and afternoons and they offer dine-in and takeaway options at this cute waterside location.
The creperie will serve you either sweet or savory crepes, depending on your mood! [No matter which you choose, you will find some of the best crepes in Monterey here!]On the sweet menu there are lemon sugar crepes, peach melba crepes, blueberry cream cheese crepes, and Nutella crepes.
If you want something more savory, you can order a ham or turkey crepe, an imported brie and caramelized onion crepe, or a wild smoked salmon crepe. Onion soup, sandwiches, and tuna salad are also on the menu along with a large selection of coffee and some alcoholic beverages.
Crepes of Brittanys is in a great location in town that is within walking distance of two of the best beaches in Monterey, Del Monte Beach and San Carlos Beach. So, if you find yourself out for some of the best breakfast in Monterey at this creperie, consider checking out some of the fun sights and attractions in the area.Loulou’s Griddle in The Middle
Does Loulou’s sound familiar? If you have watch The Food Network then it probably does sound familiar! This incredible coastal diner was on Diners Drive Ins and Divers and should always been in discussion about the best breakfast Monterey.
Loulou’s Griddle in The Middle is a family-friendly spot for breakfast on Monterey Wharf. It is located on the Municipal Wharf which is right next to the Old Fisherman’s Wharf. If you are just passing through and looking for some of the best free things to do in Monterey, The Old Fisherman’s Wharf is a must-visit!
Loulou’s Griddle In The Middle has some of the very best breakfasts in Monterey. The restaurant claims that they have “good eats and crazy waitresses!” This American restaurant serves up hearty incredible breakfast fare. Omelets, pancakes, French Toast, oatmeal, and classic American breakfast spreads can be found at Loulou’s.
The coolest things to order off the breakfast menu are the pancakes because they are massive and can be filled with your favorite fruits and chocolate chips. For more savory lunch-type meals, you can order salads, soups, burgers and sandwiches, and of course, fresh seafood. Like most restaurants on the water in Monterey, they also serve incredible clam chowder later in the day as well.Paris Bakery Cafe
The Paris Bakery is a fantastic place for breakfast in Monterey. This is because they have way more than just breakfast options like croissants, quiche, breakfast sandwiches, and muffins here. You’ll also find chocolate cakes, large fruit cakes, fruit galettes, and other pastries like flaky turnovers, fruity danishes, sugary cookies, and classic cupcakes.
Paris Bakery Monterey is among the top Monterey breakfast spots for those looking for a quick bite to eat before they head out to explore the city. It is located near other points of interest that can be reached on foot. Boutiques, restaurants, shops, and the Monterey County Youth Museum are all nearby.
What really makes this one of the top places for breakfast in Monterey is its proximity to the Old Fisherman’s Wharf. Since the wharf is one of the most popular attractions for visitors, it is likely you will find yourself in the wharf area. And a short few block walk will allow you to reach the Paris Bakery from there.
While you are here, you may notice that the window sign and signs inside the bakery say “Montmartre French Bakery.” Don’t let this confuse you, you are in the right place!The Breakfast Club
There’s nothing like a Monterey Bay breakfast, and you can certainly get a fantastic one at The Breakfast Club in Seaside, CA. A short 5-10 minute drive from Monterey will allow you to arrive at this laid back and mouth watering restaurant for breakfast in Monterey.
The Breakfast Club is totally unassuming and very chill. The unpretentious dining room is relaxing and very typical of an amazing breakfast joint. It’s always the laid back dining rooms that serve you the most incredible breakfasts, isn’t it?
On the breakfast menu here, you can order from a huge selection of egg dishes like omelets and Eggs Benedict, sweet options like pancakes, French Toast, and waffle, and other options like local favorites and Mexican inspired dishes. There’s also some gluten-free options as well!The Wild Plum Cafe
Have you been looking for vegan breakfast restaurants in Monterey? The Wild Plum Cafe & Bakery is one of the best places for breakfast in Monterey and they have an excellent vegan menu.
Along with the pastry cornucopia that you can choose from at Wild Plum, there is also a menu full of breakfast and brunch On the breakfast menu here are scrambles, pancakes, breakfast burritos and tacos, and omelets. For vegans, there are vegan scrambles, breakfast tacos, mushroom chimichurri wraps, and more.
Meals here are bursting with flavors and are full of color. If a memorable brunch is important for you during your time spent in Monterey, a meal at the Wild Plum Cafe & Bakery is in order.
Scrambles and omelets are stuffed with vegetables and overflowing with seasoning and toppings, the salads are teeming with healthy nutrient-dense foods, and the pancakes are topped with sugary cooked fruit.
If you are having a sleep start and still want to get breakfast a little later in the day, no worries! Wild Plum Bistro offers some of the best dishes for brunch in Monterey. In fact, they serve breakfast all day everyday except for on Tuesdays.Bagel Bakery
On the popular tourist street, Alvarado Street is one of the best places for breakfast in Monterey, California for those who need a quick meal during their travels or a place to pick up a bite to eat to take with them on the go.
They offer a huge variety of bagel sandwiches like the New Yorker Lox bagel, Ham and Cheese, Egg Salad, Hummus and Avocado, and the Veggie Bagel Sandwich that comes with cream cheese, avocado, sprout onion, lettuce, tomato, and cucumber.
Breakfast burritos, omelets on croissants, and croissant deli sandwiches are also on the menu here at Bagel Bakery. Pair your sandwich with a boba tea and enjoy your day spent in Monterey.Mando’s Restaurant
Does an American breakfast in Monterey with a Mexican influence sound good to you? At Mando’s Restaurant, you can get Mexican American dishes serves under an umbrella on their cute patio or in their small dining room.
You will be happy to know that there are loads of egg breakfast options. Everything from eggs with kielbasa to eggs with Linguisa are on the menu. Of course, you will find French Toast, waffles, and pancakes as well.
For something a bit hardier, you can order Joe’s Special which is an egg scramble that comes with ground beef, onions, spinach, mushrooms, garlic butter, and parmesan cheese. And if you need something quick or to-go, the breakfast burrito is a must!Manasiri’s Crepes & Sandwiches
Is it time for something sweet in Monterey? Manasiri’s Crepes & Sandwiches has sweet crepes that will blow your mind! You’ll find this eatery in Old Monterey on Alvarado Street. There is a charming outdoor space along the street where you can relax on the wicker furniture while you devour your sweet crepes and other pastries.
Any list of breakfast restaurants in Monterey that excludes Manasiri’s is seriously lacking this absolute gem of a restaurant. The sweet crepes on their menu include the strawberry, kiwi, and honey, the caramel apple, the classic Nutella and banana, and the lemon sugar. There are also savory crepes like the cheese and smoked turkey, the cheese, spinach, and mushroom crepe, and the cream cheese, green onion, tomato, and capers crepe.
Other than crepes, they also have hot and cold drinks, paninis, bagels, and other sweet treats like baklava, croissants, and muffins. This is a super welcoming restaurant inside and out with two toned chairs and a relaxed atmosphere, you are sure to fall in love with this chill bistro. With all of the great offerings here, you will want to make sure you don’t miss this outstanding place to get breakfast in Monterey!Crepes On The Row Cafe
Crepes On The Row is the place to be for everyone looking for a quick breakfast near Monterey Bay Aquarium. This dreamy Cannery Row creperie has awesome crepes that you won’t want to miss!
Here, you can grab a crepe to eat as you walk the short remainder of Cannery Row to the aquarium. This creperie opens and starts serving breakfast in Monterey at nine in the morning which is an hour before the aquarium opens.
As you may have expected, both sweet and savory crepes are offered here. The sweet crepes range from lemon and sugar to caramel and apple. While the savory options range from cheese and smoked turkey to cheese, spinach and mushroom.
It is recommended for visitors who like to try local specialties to try the Monterey Special. This crepes comes with caramelized onions, sautéed spinach, feta cheese, and sun dried tomatoes. Super yummy!First Awakenings
When it comes time to enjoy a lovely vegan breakfast in Monterey, First Awakenings needs to be on your short list of places to visit! The Monterey location of First Awakenings is on David Avenue, just a block from the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium.
If you visit First Awakenings on a good weather day in Monterey, consider city outside in the large seating area under an umbrella. The sun and salty air are perfect additions to your brunch experience here.
There are so many remarkable menu items here that it can be hard to choose just one!
Some of the mind-blowing breakfast offerings at First Awakenings include a California Crepe that comes with avocado, mushroom, onion, ham, and sprouts, a Bombero Burrito that comes loaded with scrambles eggs, ham, bacon, sausage, onions, and mushrooms, and Woodstock Oatmeal that comes with chia seeds, banana, walnut, almond milk, raisins, and brown sugar.
If you find yourself more inland looking for some nice restaurants in Salinas, First Awakenings has a location there as well.Sunrise Cafe
The light and airy dining room at Sunrise Cafe draws in loads of visitors for some of the best breakfast in Monterey, California. Located on Lighthouse Avenue, a visit to the Sunrise Cafe is elegant and dreamy. Don’t brush by this perfect cafe while you are in Monterey.
Don’t let the unassuming exterior and laid back dining area fool you, a meal at the Sunrise Cafe is highly desirable. They also have an incredible beverage menu. They offer grapefruit juice, guava juice, and other fresh juice along with lattes, and other coffee offerings.
On the menu, you will find calamari, burgers, the Monterey omelettes, egg skillets, Eggs Benedict, breakfast burritos, biscuit and gravy, Prime New York Steak and eggs, avocado toast, pancakes, waffles, and more!
Sunrise Cafe is just two blocks from San Carlos Beach, a few minute walk to the Old Fisherman’s Wharf, and three blocks from the world-famous Cannery Row. It is the perfect place to start your day before you head off to explore Monterey and everything it has to offer.Pavel’s Backerei
Pavel’s Backerei is a five-minute drive from the Monterey Bay Aquarium across from the Grove Market in Pacific Grove. One of the top places for a quick breakfast in Pacific Grove, a visit to Pavel’s Backerei is well worth the short drive from Monterey.
This may be the only one of the places for breakfast in Monterey County to be cash only. The vibe here is old school and the use of cash-only transactions adds to that experience. If you want to add Pavel’s to your Monterey itinerary, be sure to come with cash in hand.
The offerings at Pavel’s are huge. Large chocolate croissants, tarts, danishes, cinnamon rolls, and bear claws are all massive. The large portions and budget-friendly prices are things that keep locals and visitors returning time and time again.
If you are looking for Monterey breakfast stops that offer something quick and delicious, consider swinging by Pavel’s!Tuck Box
While looking for a delicious meal to start your day, consider making the short 10-20 minute drive to the Tuck Box. Visiting this fairytale like restaurant is one of the best things to do in Carmel-By-The-Sea and it is by far one of the best places to get breakfast in Monterey County.
Carmel-By-The-Sea is known for its fairytale-like cottages and buildings. These buildings are a part of what gives Carmel its charm. When you dine at the Tuck Box you are graced with striped awnings, European-style architecture, and a menu of classic American fare accompanied with a few European options.
You can get breakfast at the Tuck Box until around 11:30 and after that, some breakfast items will appear on the lunch menu as well, so all you brunch lovers will feel right at home here at the Tuck Box. Keep in mind that guests are served in a first-come first-serve fashion and no reservations are accepted.
On the menu, there are oats, Belgian waffles, omelets, Eggs Benedict, country potatoes, scones, fresh squeezed juice, salads, deviled eggs, and more. Beers from the Carmel Brewing Co. are served along with select English beers. There is an Afternoon Tea and Late Luncheon Menu as well.Del Monte Grill and Cafe
The Del Monte Grill and Cafe is an excellent breakfast restaurant Monterey. This Grill and Cafe is ready to bring you an impeccable breakfast in Monterey! A laid back little California eatery, Del Monte Grill and Cafe offers all day breakfast and all day lunch, both! So, you can get your American favorites at any time of the day!
The breakfast menu here includes a massive omelette menu! They offer omelettes on every end of the breakfast spectrum. From baby shrimp, chorizo, and Mexican omelettes to Calamari, New York Steak, and Denver omelettes, you have more than enough to browse through if you have your sights set on ordering a mouth watering omelette while you are here!
Also on the menu are pancakes, Eggs Benedict, burrito bowls, prawns rancheros, pastrami melts, B.L.T.’s, grilled salmon, grilled tilapia tacos, milk shakes, juices, and Del Monte Style burgers. The Hawaiian burgers and the Teriyaki Mushroom and Swiss Cheeseburger are both worth a try!Rosine’s Restaurant
Rosine’s Restaurant is among the top places for breakfast in Monterey. You will find this lovely American restaurant on Alvarado Street where they serve basic American dishes along with desserts like carrot cake and German chocolate cake.
Breakfast food is served until 3 pm each day at Rosine’s. You will find all of your favorites like eggs Benedict (cooked in different ways!) They have a salmon florentine Benedict, a turkey avocado mushroom Benedict, and a veggie Benedict as well!
Also on the menu are steak and eggs, omelets, scrambles, pancakes, French toast, and more! If you are there for brunch, consider trying a select cocktail or perhaps indulging in the mimosa bar or going with the old tried and true Bloody Mary.
Of all the restaurants in Monterey, Rosine’s is one that really makes you feel at home and like you are enjoying a little slice of Americana. Visiting Rosine’s is one of the best things to do in central coast California for anyone looking to indulge in dishes that are the epitome of American breakfast.Tides Waterfront Kitchen
Breakfast in Monterey with an ocean view could not get any better than at Tides Waterfront Kitchen. What beats breakfast with a waterfront view? Not much!
This informal beach front dining opportunity has lovely window front or patio seating where you are served casual California cuisine. The restaurant is located in the Monterey Tides Hotel and while they don’t have a dress code, they do deliver on giving guests the finest experience with spectacular views.
Breakfast at the Tides Waterfront Kitchen includes omelettes, huevos rancheros, steak and eggs, avocado toast, breakfast sandwiches, parfaits, farmers market egg scrambles, Eggs Benedict, pancakes, French Toast, and more!
You truly can’t beat such delicious food and panoramic views of the Monterey Bay! Once you are done at Tides Waterfront Kitchen and you feel like grabbing something sweet after your Sunday brunch, there are great places to grab some ice cream in Monterey after your meal.Schooners Monterey
This Cannery Row staple offers visitors beautiful meals for breakfast in Monterey. Elegant and modern, Schooners has the best views of any restaurant in Monterey. The attractive dining room and large floor to ceiling windows create a breath taking space for you to have breakfast.
Like the restaurant itself, the meals here are also elevated. You will find things like Dungeness Crab Eggs Benedict, seafood omelets, and Barrel Aged Smoked Salmon on the breakfast menu.
Of course, staples like pancake stacks are on the menu along with healthy choices like steal cut oats, house made granola parfaits, and avocado toast. And if you want something small, consider ordering a fresh juice with something from the Tidal Bakery like a cinnamon roll or gluten free muffin.Grandma’s Kitchen
Are you looking for Sunday brunch in Monterey CA? Grandma’s Kitchen has you covered! This eatery in Monterey can be found on North Fremont Street. The relaxed atmosphere and old-school dining room is the perfect place to be for visitors looking for an American Diner experience.
Grandma’s Kitchen makes you feel at home as plates full of scrambled eggs, country potatoes, hash browns, French Toast, and burgers roll out of the kitchen and fill the dining room with good tasting (and good looking!) American classics!
The variety at this American Diner does not disappoint. Whether you are looking for Eggs Benedict, Chicken Bacon Club Sandwiches, Taco Salads, Pecan and Cranberry Pancakes, or anything in between, Grandma’s Kitchen has you covered for great brunch in Monterey.Now that you have discovered the top places for breakfast in Monterey, which of these lovely restaurants will you make plans to visit?
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20 Outstanding Spots for Brunch in Monterey
Brunch in Monterey is always a good idea! These restaurants in this dreamy coastal town know how to deliver great food and fun atmospheres to visitors. You can have your brunch served on outdoor patios, to cozy diner booths, in elegant restaurant dining rooms, or overlooking the Monterey Bay.
Visiting some of the best brunch options here is one of the best things to do in Monterey. There are so many incredible restaurants in Monterey, visiting a couple during your visit to this idyllic coastal town is something that you won’t want to miss out on!
Which of these outstanding brunch spots will you visit first?20 Outstanding Spots for Brunch in Monterey
Wave Street Cafe
An iconic place for brunch in Monterey is the Wave Street Cafe. New American breakfast and lunch dishes are served here at Wave Street Cafe in the charming dining room that is designed in a European-bistro style, complete with an outdoor patio.
The cute building, design, and dining spaces make a visit here super desirable. Add onto that the incredible menu options and you will find yourself not wanting to leave the Wave Street Cafe as it is one of the top Monterey brunch spots!
On the All-Day Menu at Wave Street Cafe are classic breakfast favorites like oatmeal, breakfast burritos, eggs Benedict, egg scrambles, omelets, pancakes, and French Toast.
The classics are taken to the next level at this brunch joint in Monterey. You can choose from a variety of omelets like The Denver, Garden Fresh, Bay Shrimp and Spinach, The Greek, or The Vegan omelet. Eggs Benedict are serves in unique ways as well. You can get a Norwegian, Irish, Vegetarian, Hawaiian, or Garden Eggs Benedict.
For those wanting something more lunch-esque, you can choose from salads like the Brown Derby Cobb, burgers like the Black Bean Chipotle Burger, seafood like the Baja Shrimp Tacos, or something small like the Crispy Artichoke Hearts.Grandma’s Kitchen
Are you looking for Sunday brunch in Monterey CA? Grandma’s Kitchen has you covered! This brunch eatery in Monterey can be found on North Fremont Street. The relaxed atmosphere and old-school dining room is the perfect place to be for visitors looking for an American Diner experience.
Grandma’s Kitchen makes you feel at home as plates full of scrambled eggs, country potatoes, hash browns, French Toast, and burgers roll out of the kitchen and fill the dining room with good tasting (and good looking!) American classics!
The variety at this American Diner does not disappoint. Whether you are looking for Eggs Benedict, Chicken Bacon Club Sandwiches, Taco Salads, Pecan and Cranberry Pancakes, or anything in between, Grandma’s Kitchen has you covered.First Awakenings
When it comes time to enjoy a lovely Mothers Day brunch in Monterey, First Awakenings needs to be on your short list of places to visit! The Monterey location of First Awakenings is on David Avenue, just a block from the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium.
If you visit First Awakenings on a good weather day in Monterey, consider city outside in the large seating area under an umbrella. The sun and salty air are perfect additions to your brunch experience here.
There are so many remarkable menu items here that it can be hard to choose just one!
Some of the mind-blowing breakfast offerings at First Awakenings include a California Crepe that comes with avocado, mushroom, onion, ham, and sprouts, a Bombero Burrito that comes loaded with scrambles eggs, ham, bacon, sausage, onions, and mushrooms, and Woodstock Oatmeal that comes with chia seeds, banana, walnut, almond milk, raisins, and brown sugar.
For a meal that leans more into the lunch department, the Bay Burger is a nice option that has grilled calamari steak, Monterey Jack cheese, lettuce, tartar sauce, and tomato, as well as the Black & Bleu Salad that has grilled steak, lettuce, onion, tomato, avocado, and blue cheese crumbles.
If you find yourself more inland looking for some nice restaurants in Salinas, First Awakenings has a location there as well.Tuck Box
While looking for brunch places in Monterey, consider making the short 10-20 minute drive to the Tuck Box. Visiting this fairytale like restaurant is one of the best things to do in Carmel-By-The-Sea and it is by far one of the best places to get brunch in Monterey County.
Carmel-By-The-Sea is known for its fairytale-like cottages and buildings. These buildings are a part of what gives Carmel its charm. When you dine at the Tuck Box you are graced with striped awnings, European-style architecture, and a menu of classic American fare accompanied with a few European options.
You can get breakfast at the Tuck Box until around 11:30 and after that, some breakfast items will appear on the lunch menu as well, so all you brunch lovers will feel right at home here at the Tuck Box. Keep in mind that guests are served in a first-come first-serve fashion and no reservations are accepted.
On the menu, there are oats, Belgian waffles, omelets, Eggs Benedict, country potatoes, scones, fresh squeezed juice, salads, deviled eggs, and more. Beers from the Carmel Brewing Co. are served along with select English beers. There is an Afternoon Tea and Late Luncheon Menu as well.Loulou’s Griddle in The Middle
Does Loulou’s sound familiar? If you have watch The Food Network then it probably does sound familiar! This incredible coastal diner was on Diners Drive Ins and Divers and should always been in discussion about the best brunch Monterey.
Loulou’s Griddle in The Middle is a family-friendly spot for brunch in Monterey. It is located on the Municipal Wharf which is right next to the Old Fisherman’s Wharf. If you are just passing through and looking for some of the best free things to do in Monterey, The Old Fisherman’s Wharf is a must-visit!
Loulou’s Griddle In The Middle has some of the very best brunches in Monterey. The restaurant claims that they have “good eats and crazy waitresses!” This American restaurant serves up hearty seafood dishes and incredible breakfast fare. Omelets, pancakes, French Toast, oatmeal, and more can be found at Loulou’s.
The coolest things to order off the breakfast menu are the pancakes because they are massive and can be filled with your favorite fruits and chocolate chips. For more savory lunch-type meals, you can order salads, soups, burgers and sandwiches, and of course, fresh seafood. Like most restaurants on the water in Monterey, they also serve incredible clam chowder as well.Village Corner Bistro
Village Corner Bistro has been around since 1948 and is known as having some of the best breakfast in Monterey. If you are thinking about swinging by here for brunch, go for it! The Mediterranean-inspired fare is served in a casual dining space or on their charming patio.
The buildings itself is super attractive with blue window frames, brick walls, and an old-timey font used to write the name of the restaurant on the wall of the building. The aesthetics here do not disappoint. So, head on in to the Village Corner for some of the best brunch in Monterey.
The menu is packed with classic breakfast options like eggs, pancakes, sausage, breakfast potatoes, hash browns, fresh fruit, and more. The breakfast menu is served until 11:30 and there is a brunch extension that is served throughout their lunch hours as well.
The brunch menu includes the Village Omelette which comes with smoked ham, onions, pepper, and Cheddar Jack cheese, a Carmel Benedict which is a traditional Benedict with smoked ham, and Avocado toast which is served on a baguette. The lunch menu is available with plenty of vegetarian options.Rosine’s Restaurant
Rosine’s Restaurant offers the perfect mix of American cuisine with international favorites. So, you won’t be surprised to hear that it is among the top restaurants in Monterey. Decadent cakes, seafood dishes, coastal classics, and their iconic Hearty Homemade Beef Minestrone Soup are all available to your when you visit.
The Hearty Minestrone that is served here was featured in an episode of Diners Drive Ins and Dives (wow, there must be something in the water here in Monterey!), season 20, episode 2.
The breakfast menu at Rosine’s is served until 3pm, making it a great place for brunch in Monterey. A family favorite offered here is the Chili Egg Puff. It is baked eggs, three cheeses, chiles, jalapeños, pico de gallo, and your choice of meat. If you want to try something special, check out the Chili Egg Puff!
Also on the menu are all of your brunch favorites like avocado toast, country potato skillets, biscuits and gravy, Eggs Benedict, steak and eggs, omelets, pancakes, waffles, and French Toast. Plus, theres an incredible Mimosa bar!Esteban Restaurant
Esteban Restaurant offers a luscious Easter brunch in Monterey. Each year, they serve their regular breakfast menu in the morning then switch over to a special brunch menu. For this meal, it is recommended that you make a reservation.
The chef uses delicious farm-fresh ingredients to put a Spanish twist on classic brunch favorites at Esteban’s. You can expect to see dishes like Montadito which is poached eggs serves with serrano, avocado, Carmel Valley olive oil and grilled bread, Dungeness Crab Cakes, Lox and Bagels, Cinnamon Rolls, and more on the brunch menu.
Heading to one of the top bakeries in Monterey after brunch is the perfect way to end a fantastic meal. There are loads of bakeries to check out in town where you can grab tasty Danishes, Eclairs, Cinnamon Rolls, and more to round off your brunch.Old Monterey Cafe
For Sunday brunch in Monterey, you can head to the Old Monterey Cafe on Alvarado Street. Here you can get made-to-order breakfast and lunch dishes served in a diner-like dining room. Classic American diner plates are produced from the kitchen at Old Monterey Cafe.
Plates loaded with sausage, burritos, hash browns, pancakes, Eggs Benedict, toast, eggs, burgers, and more cover the tables of this incredible brunch joint in Monterey. The chill vibe and amazing menu allowed Old Monterey Cafe to be voted Monterey County’s best breakfast, lunch, and java.
The menu at Old Monterey Cafe is filled with egg scrambles like the Tahoe Scrambler which comes with hickory smoked ham, onion, pepper, and cheese, French Toast like the Cinnamon Raison Swirl French Toast, pancake stacks like the Apple Compote Pancakes, Eggs Benedict like the Turkey Avocado Benedict, and big crispy Belgian Waffles.The Black Bear Diner Monterey
Burger, omelets, and chicken fried steaks, oh my! The Black Bear Diner is by and large one of the top places to get brunch in Monterey. Starting with the breakfast items, they have everything from omelettes and French Toast to egg combo meals and pancake stacks.
If you are wanting something more lunch-esque, you can sink your teeth into one of their specialty burgers or sandwiches. A few incredible options include the open faced hot turkey sandwich and the chicken avocado club sandwich. If you are wondering what time to arrive for brunch, the answer is any time! They serve breakfast dishes all day!
One of the best things about eating here is the dessert menu. They have dreamy pies and cakes for you to indulge in after your brunch. They have California cheesecake, apple cobbler, chocolate cream pie, five layer chocolate cake, and banana cream pie, just to name a few!Stationæry
Stationæry serves brunch in Carmel, a short drive from Monterey. Brunch at this nice Carmel restaurant is served daily from 8 am to 3 pm. The menu will allow you to indulge in some incredibly memorable dishes. Everything on the menu here is elevated and has something special that won’t let you forget your meal and your time spent in their modern dining room.
This is a must-have on your list of best places to get brunch in Monterey as it offers a higher end experience that many brunch restaurants in Monterey don’t offer. The brunch menus most exciting dish is the caviar and chips. Tsar Nicolai caviar is served with creme fraiche and kettle cooked chips.
Other items include the Farmers Salad which comes topped with sheeps milk cheese, pistachios, and cider vinaigrette, the Potato Pancake which comes with a poached duck egg, culatello, parmigiano, and roasted asparagus, and the sausage Banh Mi which is spicy pork sausage, carrots, fried egg, cucumbers, Thai basil, cilantro, daikon radish, and sambal mayo.Crepes of Brittany
Brunch in Monterey is simply mind-blowing when you visit Crepes of Brittany on Alvarado Street. This creperie is open in the mornings and afternoons and they offer dine-in and takeaway options at this cut waterside location.
The creperie will serve you either sweet or savory crepes, depending on your mood! On the sweet menu there are lemon sugar crepes, peach melba crepes, blueberry cream cheese crepes, and Nutella crepes.
If you want something more savory, you can order a ham or turkey crepe, an imported brie and caramelized onion crepe, or a wild smoked salmon crepe. Onion soup, sandwiches, and tuna salad are also on the menu along with a large selection of coffee and some alcoholic beverages.
Crepes of Brittanys is in a great location in town that is within walking distance of two of the best beaches in Monterey, Del Monte Beach and San Carlos Beach. Being on Alvarado Street, it is also lovely as there are many of the best things to do in town right there on Alvarado within walking distance of your brunch spot.Wild Plum Cafe
Have you been looking for a vegan brunch spot in Monterey CA? The Wild Plum Cafe & Bakery is one of the best places for brunch in Monterey and they have an excellent vegan menu.
Along with the pastry cornucopia that you can choose from at Wild Plum, there is also a menu full of breakfast, brunch, and lunch options as well. On the breakfast menu here are scrambles, pancakes, breakfast burritos and tacos, and omelets. For vegans, there are vegan scrambles, breakfast tacos, mushroom chimichurri wraps, and more.
Meals here are bursting with flavors and are full of color. If a memorable brunch is important for you during your time spent in Monterey, a meal at the Wild Plum Cafe & Bakery is in order.
Scrambles and omelets are stuffed with vegetables and overflowing with seasoning and toppings, the salads are teeming with healthy nutrient-dense foods, and the pancakes are topped with sugary cooked fruit. You won’t want to miss out on this Monterey gem.Carmel Belle
Carmel Belle is a unique little cafe that is a counter-serve space that dispenses gourmet meals that are made from locally-sourced ingredients. The food is served in a charming country-chic setting, making this one of the best places for brunch in Monterey County.
Breakfast items are served until noon on weekdays and until 1 pm on weekends, so you can fulfill your brunch dreams here at Carmel Belle. You can try the poached eggs, truffles egg toast, roasted mushroom melt, or perhaps a tofu scramble during your visit.
If you need something a bit more filling, a breakfast sandwich may be just the thing! They have a lovely prociutto la quercia, an ooey gooey grilled chocolate, and a packed breakfast burrito as well.
While their breakfast menu is most popular, the lunch items are available to you all day every day. The lunch menu includes small snacks like a veggie plate, warm sandwiches like the ham, fontina and pear sandwich, cold sandwiches like the chicken and brie, salads like the citrus, pistachio, olive, and pecan salad, and cheese and charcuterie boards.
When you are done at Carmel Belle, you can visit their Juice Bar before you leave. Here you can get smoothies and fresh juices made just for you. This makes a great take away item for you if you plan on walking around a bit after your meal. A beautiful walk around this part of the Monterey Peninsula is made better with a fresh juice in your hand.Tides Waterfront Kitchen
Sunday brunch in Monterey could not get any better than at Tides Waterfront Kitchen. What beats brunch with a waterfront view? Not much! While Tides does not offer traditional brunch hours, it still needs to be included here as what it has to offer is too good to pass up. So, be sure to consider swinging by for a late breakfast while you are in Monterey!
This informal beach front dining opportunity has lovely window front or patio seating where you are served casual California cuisine. The restaurant is located in the Monterey Tides Hotel and while they don’t have a dress code, they do deliver on giving guests the finest experience with spectacular views.
Breakfast at the Tides Waterfront Kitchen includes omelettes, huevos rancheros, steak and eggs, avocado toast, breakfast sandwiches, parfaits, farmers market egg scrambles, Eggs Benedict, pancakes, French Toast, and more!
You truly can’t beat such delicious food and panoramic views of the Monterey Bay! Once you are done at Tides Waterfront Kitchen and you feel like grabbing something sweet after your Sunday brunch, there are great places to grab some ice cream in Monterey after your meal.Katy’s Place
This breakfast restaurants has some of the very best brunch on the Monterey Peninsula! Burgers, Benedicts, and other delectable brunch staples are served to guests in diner-style seating or on their outdoor patio. Breakfast and lunch both are served all day long so you can eat your favorites until your hearts content, no matter what time of day you visit.
A few elevated dishes that you can try at Katy’s Place include Calamari Benedict and the Lance Barrow Omelette which comes with lobster, crab, shrimp, spinach, tomatoes, and mushrooms.
They also have more down to Earth offerings like the Country Omelette, California Benedict which comes with turkey and avocado, Buttermilk Pancakes, French Toast, or an order of eggs with your meat of choice.
If you want something on the lunch side of things you can order delicious Maryland crab cakes, shrimp quesadilla, a Santa Fe chicken breast sandwich, a basic burger, Greek salad, an Albacore Tuna salad sandwich, or a melty grilled ham and cheese. No matter how you choose to eat at Katy’s, this is one of the top spots for brunch in Monterey County.Del Monte Grill & Cafe
Del Monte Grill and Cafe is ready to bring you impeccable brunch in Monterey! This California eatery offer all day breakfast and lunch. So, you can get your American favorites at any time of the day!
The breakfast menu here includes a massive omelette menu! They offer omelettes on every end of the breakfast spectrum. From baby shrimp, chorizo, and Mexican omelettes to Calamari, New York Steak, and Denver omelettes, you have more than enough to browse through if you have your sights set on ordering a mouth watering omelette while you are at the Del Monte Grill and Cafe.
Also on the menu are pancakes, Eggs Benedict, burrito bowls, prawns rancheros, pastrami melts, B.L.T.’s, grilled salmon, grilled tilapia tacos, milk shakes, juices, and Del Monte Style burgers. The Hawaiian burgers and the Teriyaki Mushroom and Swiss Cheeseburger are both worth a try!Sunrise Cafe
The light and airy dining room at Sunrise Cafe draws in loads of visitors for brunch in Monterey. Located on Lighthouse Avenue, a visit to the Sunrise Cafe is elegant and dreamy. Don’t brush by this perfect cafe while you are in Monterey.
Don’t let the unassuming exterior and laid back dining area fool you, a meal at the Sunrise Cafe is highly desirable. They also have an incredible beverage menu. They offer grapefruit juice, guava juice, and other fresh juice along with lattes, and other coffee offerings.
On the menu, you will find calamari, burgers, the Monterey fish sandwich, Greek salad, a Carmel fish salad, prawn scampi pasta, omelettes, egg skillets, Eggs Benedict, breakfast burritos, biscuit and gravy, Prime New York Steak and eggs, avocado toast, pancakes, waffles, and more!
Sunrise Cafe is just two blocks from San Carlos Beach, a few minute walk to the Old Fisherman’s Wharf, and three blocks from the world-famous Cannery Row. It is the perfect place to start your day before you head off to explore Monterey and everything it has to offer.The Little Swiss Cafe
If you are looking for brunch in Carmel, just a short drive from Monterey, The Little Swiss Cafe offer kid-friendly Swiss breakfast and lunch options like blintzes and pancakes in a quirky dining space complete with murals on the walls.
The Little Swiss Cafe has all of the fairytale charm that this part of the Monterey Peninsula is known for. Plus, breakfast is served all day here so you can enjoy brunch at whatever time works for you!
The breakfast menu is packed with everything from French Toast, pancakes, and waffles to breakfast burritos, omelettes, and biscuits and gravy. The lunch menu offers hot and cold sandwiches, salads, and entrees like the low calories ground steak, the braised pork chops, poached filet of salmon, and the fresh vegetable plate.
To wrap up your incredible brunch in Monterey County, you can order a homemade cheesecake or a delectable apple strudel. Both are can be ordered a la mode!Winston’s A Brunch Place
Winston’s A Brunch Place in nearby Pacific Grove offer flavor packed brunch dishes that you won’t soon forget. Like most places to get brunch in Monterey, Winston’s has a menu that is diverse and envy inducing.
You can order luscious options like traditional waffles topped with powdered sugar, butter, and syrup, French Toast with sautéed bananas and hazelnut spread, chicken and waffles, Irish steel cut oatmeal, a ham and cheese omelette, Eggs Benedict, or a combo plate that comes with eggs, your choice of sausage, bacon, or ham, and a buttermilk biscuit.
There is also an exciting wine menu that includes white, ride, and sparkling wines. You can order Blood Mary’s and Mimosas as well. The mimosa flavors at Winston’s include guava, mango, pineapple, grapefruit, cranberry, and orange!When it comes time for you to head out and find brunch in Monterey, hopefully you have a good idea on where you would like to go now that you have learned a bit about the best spots for brunch in town!
So, tell us, which of these brunch spots will you be visiting first?
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15 Impressive Bars in Monterey California
Visiting the impressive bars in Monterey is a must-do when in town! This dazzling wave battered town in central coast California is full of amazing bars for visitors to check out. In fact, many of the bars have made their way onto the list of the best things to do in Monterey!
Whether you are looking for a bar overlooking the water, something small and intimate, or something a little louder and lively, Monterey truly has everything you could hope for. So, let’s get started and learn about the coolest bars in the area!Your Bars in Monterey Questions Answered
Does Monterey have a night life?
Absolutely! Night life in Monterey is buzzing with live music, bars, and events. The bars in Monterey are just one part of the equation when it comes to the night life here. Cannery Row and Alvarado Street both are lively places to be at night time.
Where can I go on a date in Monterey?
The bars in Monterey make for great date night locations, but there are other options as well. While most of the best spots in town are in the New Monterey and Downtown Monterey areas, there are loads of restaurants and evening attractions for you to enjoy.
While we are going to discuss the best bars in this article, the Monterey Bay Aquarium, waterfront restaurants, the best beaches in Monterey, and other popular attractions all make for incredible date locations in town.What is there to do in Monterey on a Saturday night?
Other than the bars in Monterey, on a Saturday night, you can go shopping at the Del Monte Shopping Center or at Steinbeck Plaza and Cannery Row, play a round at an escape room, listen to live music, enjoy a festival or event in town or at the Monterey County Fairgrounds, watch a comedy show, go to the movies, and more.
15 Impressive Bars in Monterey California
Sly McFly’s [Sly’s Fueling Station]
It’s impossible to talk about nightlife in Monterey CA without talking about Sly McFly’s, now called Sly’s Fueling Station. While there aren’t any clubs in Monterey, Sly McFly’s offers a lively atmosphere and live music in a laid back setting on Cannery Row.
At Sly’s, they offer red, white, and sparkling wines, drafts and bottles, and specialty cocktails. If you aren’t sure what to try, consider diving into the Sly’s Pineapple Rita. It is Reposado, cointreau, pineapple juice, and fresh lime juice on the rocks!On the menu at Sly’s, you’ll find starters like street tacos and herbed garlic fries. Then, sink your teeth into one of their delicious sandwiches, burgers, or entrees. They have everything from lobster rolls and beyond burgers to pan seared New Zealand Ora King Salmon and Cioppino.
While the food and drinks are fantastic, it is the fact that they are open seven days a week and have live music each night that makes this one of the best bars in Monterey. There’s nothing like great food, tasty drinks, and fun nightlife to add to your time spent in on the Monterey Bay.Segovia’s Cocktail Bar & Lounge
One of the best bars in Monterey is Segovia’s Cocktail Bar and Lounge. You will find this moody bar on Lighthouse Avenue in New Monterey. It has been around since 1937 and delivers when it comes to that small dive bar feel. There is a juke box, a dart board, a small fire pit, and indoor and outdoor seating.
Segovia’s is open seven days a week from 7 pm to 2 am and is near many cool things to do in the area. Close to the bar you can go shopping, visit a nearby beach, see top attractions, enjoy an escape room game, and try one of the best restaurants in Monterey.
This Lighthouse Ave bar is within walking distance from Cannery Row, seafood restaurants, Mexican restaurants, and American restaurants, as well as the Antiques Mall. So, once your day is done in the area, head on in to Segovia’s Cocktail Bar and Lounge to end your night!Savvy Bar
Visiting some Monterey California bars is a must for anyone who is coming to town for a visit. Savvy Bar is arguably the most fun of all the bars in Monterey. It is a speakeasy inspired bar on Tyler Street that comes complete with a dress code and password.
When you visit the bar Thursday through Saturday you will need to follow their dress code. Men should have on collars or lapels and women should dress tastefully as well. Everyone should avoid shorts, holey jeans, Uggs, flip flops, beanies, and ball caps.
The theme here at Savvy is lovely. They offer Prohibition-Barrel inspired cocktails and music in soft lighting and velvet covered walls. One of their popular cocktails is the Mexican Firing Squad. It’s made from Herradura Tequilla, Grenadine, lime juice, Mole Bitter, and a lime twist. You can also order bespoke cocktails that are mixed on demand.
If you want a bite to eat while you are here, they have snacks and menu of small plated from around the globe. This includes chips and salsa, pickled eggs and sausages, and hot dogs. The food menu here is made primarily of Mexican, American, and Persian dishes, but they are working on adding more to the menu.Peter B’s Brewpub
Just across from the Old Fishermans Wharf is Peter B’s Brewpub where you can enjoy the casual setting and delicious bar bites and beer flights that are served here. You can devour fish and chips, fried pickles, Diablo burgers, Bavarian pretzels, loaded nachos, Margherita pizza and more at Peter B’s!
Now, on to what we really care about when it comes to bars in Monterey, the drinks! The have great cocktails here like the High West Manhattan which is made from rye whiskey, vermouth, and bitter, The Monterey Moscow Mule which is made with Tito’s, triple sec, ginger beer, lemon, lime, and orange juice, and the Pomeranian lemonade that is made from Tito’s, pomegranate juice, and lemonade.
Something really cool about this bar is that they offer Bark Bowls. If you are a dog parent traveling with their doggo to Monterey, you can pick them up a Bark Bowl while you are at Peter B’s. They have ground beef meat roaff, a turkey K-9 casserole, and chicken with quinoa.The Crown & Anchor
There aren’t gay bars in Monterey CA anymore, but Gay Travel lists the Crown and Anchor as being one of the best gay friendly bars in Monterey. It is located on West Franklin Street in Old Monterey incredible restaurants. If you want to head out for a bite to eat before going to The Crown and Anchor, consider Sur Burger or Round Table Pizza. Both fabulous places for a casual bite to eat. However, you can totally eat at bar instead if thats what you prefer!
While there is a large food menu at The Crown and Anchor, it maintains its bar feel. UK dishes and decor are plentiful here. On the menu, you can expect to find dishes like corned beef and cabbage, fish and chips, steak and mushroom pie, bangers and mash, and smoked brisket. They also offer American staples and other international cuisine. Like turkey melts, burgers, Ruebens, B.L.T.’s, and more.
When it comes to drinks at The Crown and Anchor, they have a variety of wines, Winter Warmers, draft beers, imported and domestic bottled beers, and British specialties. If you find yourself walking around Monterey near the wharfs, you can easily reach The Crown and Anchor on foot. Happy Hour here is Monday through Friday from 4-6 pm!Pearl Hour
The Pearl Hour on Lighthouse Avenue is a moody little cocktail spot that is easily one of the top bars in Monterey CA. At Pearl Hour, you have all of the classics at your disposal like the Gin and Tonic, Lemon Drop, Manhattan, and Paloma. On top of that they have unique cocktails like the Sunrise in Japan which is Satsuma gin, Oka Kura Bermutto, and Mugwort Tincture.
Beers, shots, wine, and sake are all also offered at the Pearl Hour alongside bar snacks like almonds and cheezits! And if you are headed to the bar with someone who won’t be drinking alcohol, there are herbal teas, alcohol free cocktails, and a soda fountain that has unique flavors like honeycomb, hibiscus, and Ginger beer.
The Pearl Hour is just two blocks away from the beautiful San Carlos Beach and the Coast Guard Pier. This is a great place for wildlife viewing! There are almost always seals and sea lions swimming around the pier or lounging on the rocks. You may even see a sea otter or two!London Bridge Pub
London Bridge Pub is simply unreal. It sits on the edge of the Monterey Bay overlooking the boats docked off of the Municipal Wharf. This ideal location gives you beautiful views of the water and puts you in a great place for exploring top Monterey attractions before you head in for a drink and a bite to eat.
The menu here to accompany your drinks of choice is spectacular. There are pub favorites on the menu like blackened Icelandic cod, bangers and mash, curry, and cottage pi along with American favorites like the BBQ bacon cheese burger.
Like all bars in Monterey, the drink selection at London Bridge Pub does not disappoint. You will find local craft ales, imports, cider, seltzers, bottled beers, wines, and champagne. Come on in at Happy Hour Monday through Friday 3-6 pm for deals on beer pints, house wine, and liquors.Britannia Arms
If you are looking for downtown Monterey bars, consider stopping in Britannia Arms. Easily one of the top bars in Monterey, this British bar has TVs and live music to add to your experience. Before you head in, you may want to stop across the street at Revival Ice Cream where you can try some of the best ice cream in Monterey!
The beer selection at Britannia Arms is massive. They offers common beers like Bud Light and Blue Moon, plus a lot of less popular drinks like Mango Cart, Firestone Nitro Merlin, Elysian Space Dust, Ballast Point, and Sierra Nevada Hazy Little Hazy IPA.
If you don’t start your visit off at Britannia Arms with a beer, maybe one of their cocktail will be in the cards for you. A Washington Apple, Jager Bomb, or a Ketel Cucumber Mule may be just what you need to go along with your appetizer of choice. There’s everything from onion rings and chicken wings to fries and chips and salsa.Bulldog Sports Pub
Looking for sports bars in Monterey, California? Bulldog Sports Pub is on Lighthouse Avenue in Monterey. This bar offer classic British pub fare from cottage pie to Scotch eggs. You can sit and enjoy your meal and drinks while you watch sports on TV.
You can go light here at Bulldog Sports Pub with a Cobb Salad or a Big Tuna Salad, or try something a bit hardier like a rib dinner, an Irish stew, or a steak and mushroom pie. And for those who are only stepping in for a little bit to have a drink and something small, the pig skins or the nachos may be more your speed!
Bulldog Sports Pub proclaims to not only be the best sports bar in town, but also have the best Guinness around. So, be sure to swing by and check it out if you find yourself in the area.Turn 12 Bar & Grill
Turn 12 Bar and Grill offers American classics in their open dining room decorated with vintage raceway decor. The elevated pub fare, the Late Night Menu, drink selection, and vibe here are what makes Turn 12 one of the most popular bars in Monterey.
On the Late Night Menu at Turn 12, you’ll find truffle fries, chicken wings, jalapeno poppers, and a large selection of pizzas. The Turn 12 pizza comes with pepperoni, sausage, black olives, and green peppers while the Manchego Apple comes with two types of cheeses, balsamic onions, bacon, Alfredo sauce, and roasted apples.
A trip to Turn 12 wouldn’t be complete without trying one of their killer cocktails. The T-12 Margarita is stunning, but there’s also the MI-6 which is made with Grey Goose, Lillet Blanc, and St. Germain and served with an orange twist. Draft and bottle beer are available as well.Hellam’s Tobacco & Wine Shop
This has to be one of the most unexpected bars in Monterey. Hellam’s Tobacco and Wine Shop gives you the opportunity to shop cigars, wines, liquors, and more in a bar environment. A long bar along with tables and chairs fill half of this Monterey CA bar while the other half is dedicated to shopping.
If you want a cool place to do some souvenir shopping while you are in Monterey, you really can’t beat Hellam’s! Having a place to shop and lounge with a good drink is super exciting and lucky for you, there is such a place right here in Monterey!The Salty Seal Brewpub and Sports Bar
This restaurant and sports bar in Monterey is a popular place to visit on Cannery Row. The bar is in a rustic building that was built in 1929. The Salty Seal serves up English bar bites and local draft beers in the cozy indoor space and outdoor seating areas.
Like many of the best bars in Monterey, The Salty Seal Brewpub and Sports Bar serves local drinks alongside international favorites. Here, you can get drafts from California breweries like Alvarado Street Brewery, English Ales Brewery, Dust Bowl Brewery, and others.
If you are more of a cocktail person, you will be excited to see the cocktails on the menu at the Salty Seal. Interesting twists on classics create an interesting menu. They offer Mexican Mules which is made with tequila, ginger beer, and lime juice, a Bermuda style rum and coke that is made with Gosling’s Black Seal Rum, and a honey whiskey iced tea that is made with lemonade!
They serve lunch and dinner at the Salty Seal along with light bites, and kids meals as well. Small bites here include vegan cauliflower bites, chips and salsa, wings, and Gilroy garlic parmesan fries. Soups, salads, and West coast favorites like fish tacos are all on the menu. The Salty Seal rarely disappoints!Dust Bowl Brewing Co. Tap Depot
This staple brewing co. near the water is among the top bars in Monterey. Dust Bowl Brewing Co. Tap Depot has a super inviting indoor and outdoor dining space and they offer mind blowing burgers, taco, and loaded nachos to go with your beer.
You can get Baja fish tacos, hot agave, carnitas, barbacoa, or veggie tacos here at the Dust Bowl. Or you can grab a metal tray full of loaded nachos and share them outside with a friend as you sip your beers around a fire pit. However you choose to spend your time here, it is always a really satisfying visit.
Dust Bowl beers are available in California, Vermont, Texas, Nevada, and other states as well. Some of their top beers include the Dirty 30’s, the Hobo Pilsner, the Hops of Wrath India Pale Ale, the Taco Truck Lager, the Lemon Shandy, and the Dump Truck of The Gods Mega India Pale Ale.LindaRose Rooftop Bar & Grill
Does a rooftop lounge in Monterey sound appealing? LindRose Rooftop Bar and Grill. LindaRose is located on Del Monte Avenue overlooking the water. They have a small yet spectacular menu that has hummus spreads, charcuterie boards, salads, fish tacos, kebabs, baked brie with honey, and few entrees like lamb ribs and steak frites.
While the rooftop vibes and great views are idyllic, the beautiful and carefully crafted cocktails at LindaRose are what make it one of the best bars in Monterey. Some beautiful and tasty drinks that you can try here include the 1110 Pink Hawaii which is made with vodka, rum, cranberry and orange juice, and grenadine, and the Dark N Stormy which is made with dark rum, ginger beer, and transatlantic bitters.
Of course, you can find classic cocktails like a Paloma and Margarita here as well. Plus, a selection of shots, beers, and wines. If you are looking for a place to relax and chat with your friends, the grazing platters and drinks offered at LindaRose are perfect for this!Mellville Tavern
Melville Tavern is an American gastropub on Washington Street. Easily one of the most beautiful bars in Monterey, Melville Tavern has a welcoming neighborhood feel to it. They are open until 9 pm on weekdays and 10 pm on weekends. And if your are interested in a heavy sneaky drink or two in the morning, they have brunch on Saturdays and Sundays as well.
You can bite into yummy appetizers at Melville Tavern like artichoke hearts, taquitos, loaded potato skins and nachos before moving on to a salad, pasta, or entree. The choices here are drool worthy! They have loaded salads like blackened shrimp salads as well as dishes like the fish n’ chips, duck fettuccine, and baby back ribs!
Surely, if you are looking for bars, you probably are most concerned with the drink selection here. However, we’ve got to talk about the burger, sandwiches, and pizzas available at Melville too! The over the top sandwiches here like the bacon-wrapped chili dog and the lamb burger will blow your mind! There’s also a stunning selection of wood fired pizzas.
When it comes to drinks, you can choose between bottled beers, wine by the glass, draft beers, and on weekends, bottomless mimosas! Whether you are looking for a white or a red, a stout or a porter, or a wheat or mixed ale, you are sure to love the Melville Tavern.Now that you have heard about the best bars in Monterey, which of these do you think you will visit first? We would love to hear from you!
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25 Phenomenal Places To Stay In Monterey [beachfront, resorts, & more!]
Are you looking for the best places to stay in Monterey? Luckily for you, this stunning coastal town has a lot of awesome places to choose from. There’s bed and breakfasts, resorts, cozy cottages, and more scattered throughout the city in great locations for easy access to the best most popular parts of the city.
Finding the right place to stay while you explore all of the great things to do in Monterey is crucial so that you can get the most out of your time spent in the city.
If you are looking for hotels in Monterey, there’s a lot of range for you to browse through. In terms of price, you can find hotels for under a hundred dollars as well as luxury stays is resorts on the beach. The variety here is one of the best things about Monterey, so you can rest assured that you can find a place that fits your travel needs and your budget.
So, let’s get started and learn about where to stay in Monterey!25 Phenomenal Places To Stay In Monterey [beachfront, resorts, cabins!]
Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa
The Monterey Plaza Hotel and Spa is among the most romantic hotels in Monterey CA. Right on the water on Cannery Row, this hotel is a stunner. Here, you will have remarkable views of the Monterey Bay and receive world-class service from the staff.
You couldn’t ask for a better location than at the Monterey Plaza Hotel. You are just steps away from the beach and from all of the shops, restaurants, and activities on Cannery Row, and you are about a ten minute walk from the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium.
What really makes this one of the best places to stay in Monterey are the amenities. You are given a lovely bathrobe and nightly turndown service to make your stay more comfortable. And you have access to a rooftop fitness center, the European Vista Blue Spa, an elevated dinner restaurant, a causal oceanfront restaurant, as well as the lobby bar and cafe.
You can check prices here.source: Booking.com/Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa Mariposa Inn and Suites
One of the unfussy, three star hotels in Monterey, Mariposa Inn and Suites gives you the best of both world. While they are there, you have simple rooms a laid back atmosphere with a fantastic seating area, fire pit, and pool outside.
Like most of the places to stay in Monterey, Mariposa has a fitness area and breakfast included in your stay. The rooms here have basic appliance like a coffee machine, microwave, and refrigerator.
Mariposa Inn and Suites is back away from the busier areas in Monterey. This gives you a quieter stay than you could get if you were near the Old Fisherman’s Wharf or Cannery Row. However, this does mean you have to travel a bit to reach the top attractions in Monterey .
From Mariposa, you are 1.2 miles from Dennis The Menace Park, 1.5 miles from the Old Fisherman’s Wharf, and 2.3 miles from the Monterey Bay Aquarium. So, this stay is better suited for those with a vehicle. If you want to be able to get around on foot, a stay closer to the coast between Cannery Row and the wharf is a better fit.
You can check prices here.Source: Booking.com/Marisposa Inn and Suites Cannery Row Inn
If you are looking for places to stay near the Monterey Bay, Cannery Row Inn may be perfect for you. Located on Foam Street, this hotel is just a five minutes walk from the heart of Cannery Row. And you can get to the Old Fisherman’s from on foot in about ten minutes, so a stay here is totally doable for those visiting Monterey without a car.
The Fisherman’s Wharf and Cannery Row are two of the best free things to do in Monterey, so being so close to them when you stay at this hotel is a real treat! The places to stay in Monterey around the top attractions tend to fill up pretty quickly, especially on weekends, holidays, and busy times, so be sure to book in advanced if you are going to need a room during one of these times.
You can check prices here.Source: Booking.com/Cannery Row Inn Hotel Abrego
While the Hotel Abrego isn’t one of the cheapest hotels in Monterey, you can usually find rooms for less than two hundred dollars a night here which is great for its location, making it one o the best places to stay in Monterey.
The Hotel Abrego is near the Old Fisherman’s Wharf, Coast Guard Pier, beaches, and many of the other top places to visit in Monterey. From the hotel, you can easily reach the top attractions in town, plus the amazing shops and boutiques in Carmel-By-The-Sea as well.
When you stay here, you will have access to the fitness center, heated outdoor swimming pool, business center, and the on site lounge. There’s also a beautiful outdoor area with furniture and a fire place for you to relax around in the evenings.
You can check prices here.Source: Booking.com/Hotel Abrego Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
Arguably the best hotel in Monterey, for those looking to relax, the Portola Hotel and Spa is among the most idyllic places to stay in Monterey. When you stay at the Portola, you will be just a short five minute walk from the Old Fisherman’s Wharf and just a mile from the historic Cannery Row.
When you arrive at the hotel, you will be greeted by a welcoming lobby with a beautiful glass ceiling and stunning design. The rooms are light and airy, many of them giving you views of the water.
The spa here is the largest day spa in Monterey County and Monterey County Weekly has voted it the Best Spa more than five times and the Best in Skincare more than ten times. There’ are eleven treatment rooms here and a relaxing lounge, so y’s a relaxing lounge here along with eleven treatment rooms where you can receive spa services like massages, body wraps, and facials.
You can check prices here.Source:Booking.com/Portola Hotel and Spa Monterey Tides
Monterey Tides is one of the amazing places to stay on the beach in Monterey CA. Guests at this dreamy hotel can enjoy the outdoor heated pool that is opened all year around. There’s also a great restaurant at the hotel called Tides Waterfront Kitchen which is one of the best places for breakfast in Monterey.
This hotel is away from the hustle and bustle of the busiest areas of Monterey and offers you views of the bay and gives you quick and easy access to the beach as well. Plus, when you stay at Monterey Tides, you are only a ten minutes drives from the Old Fisherman’s Wharf. So, despite being away from busyness of town, you are still fairly close to the top attractions.
It would be a shame not to tell you a bit more about Tides Waterfront Kitchen as it is a huge part of what makes Monterey Tides one of the top places to stay in Monterey. There is a casual vibe at the restaurant and they serve up bold meals in a dining room with sweeping views of the Monterey. The food, drinks, and decor here are all inspired by the California coast!
You can check prices here.Source:Booking.com/Monterey Tides Hotel 1110
Are you looking for cool places to stay in Monterey? If so, Hotel 1110 should be on your radar! The rooms here are unique and cozy. There’s a Tina Turner room, a Audrey Hepburn room, a Norma Jean Room, and more for you to choose from. There are wait lists for the rooms, so, be sure to join the list far enough in advance to ensure you get a room for your stay.
The rooms have a variety of amenities, including spa tubs, and you can order special experiences for your stay like having a bouquet of roses, champagne and a poem, or chocolate covered strawberries waiting for you in your room when you arrive.
Above the hotel, you will find one of the best bars in Monterey. Called LindaRose Bar & Grill, this dreamy bar has delicious small bites, fun cocktails, and views of Monterey. Even if you choose not to stay at Hotel 1110 during your time in town, you should still head to LindaRose for a bite to eat and an exciting drink!
You can check prices here.Green Gables Inn
Green Gables Inn is among the top places to stay near Monterey. This lovely inn is in Pacific Grove, which is just a couple minutes from the Monterey Bay Aquarium. The building has a bed and breakfast feel to it and it gives guests seriously mind blowing views of the Monterey Bay.
With the uniqueness of this accommodation and the magnificent views the rooms, it is easy to see why this is one of the best places to stay in in Monterey CA. When you stay year, you are provided wit ha full breakfast as well as afternoon wine and hors d’oeuvres.
Other amenities include gas fireplaces in each guest room, ocean views and jet tubs in select rooms, water, coffee, and tea available to you all throughout the day, and turn down service with chocolates. For those looking for a unique stay, Green Gables Inn is a great option.
You can check prices here.Source:Booking.com/Green Gable Inn, A Four Sisters Inn Hilton Garden Inn
One of the best places to stay in Monterey is at the Hilton Garden Inn on Aguajito Road. This hotel is in an exceptional location on highway 1, so if you are looking for a place to stop on your Pacific Coast Highway road trip, Hilton Garden Inn has you covered!
You will be just moments from gorgeous beaches and top attractions when you stay at this Monterey hotel. You will be close to Cannery Row, top-rated golf courses, great restaurants, and more while you are at the Hilton Garden Inn.
Some of the attractions within one mile of the hotel include the Larkin House, the Monterey Museum of Art, Jack’s Park, the Stevenson House, and Del Monte Beach. And if you are arriving in Monterey via the Monterey Regional Airport, you will have just a short 2.1 mile drive to the Hilton Garden Inn!
You can check prices here.Source:Booking.com/Hilton Garden Inn Monterey Monterey Bay Inn
Looking for rooms in Monterey with a view? The Monterey Bay Inn is one of the best places to stay in Monterey for those who are looking for a good location with amazing views that allows you to walk to the top attractions on Cannery Row, then the Monterey Bay Inn is where you want to be.
This hotel has a lovely whirlpool on the rooftop, direct access to the San Carlos Beach, plus each room has its own balcony. What I really love about this hotel is that the free continental breakfast is served to your room each morning on fine China.
From the Monterey Bay Inn, you can walk to the Monterey Bay Whale Watch and the other attractions and restaurants that are on the Old Fisherman’s Wharf, The Coast Guard Pier where you can see sea lions and seals hanging out, The Monterey Bay Aquarium and all of the other top attractions and restaurants on Cannery Row. All within a fifteen minute walk from your hotel!
You can check prices here.Source:Booking.com/Monterey Bay Inn Arbor Inn
Places to stay in Monterey CA that are a bit more low-key can be hard to come by as waterfront accommodation and historic inns are quite plentiful here. However, if budget is important to you, the Arbor Inn has you covered. Located more inland than most Monterey hotels, the Arbor Inn is just a few miles from top points of interest like the Monterey Bay Aquarium.
The hotel is on Munras Avenue which is a great place to find budget accommodation that is not too far away from everything you will want to see while you are in town. They have all of the no fuss amenities you need and you can reach restaurants in the area via a short ten minute walk.
You can check prices here.Source:Booking.com/Arbor Inn Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa
This Monterey CA hotel knows relaxation. The Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa has everything you need for a relaxing retreat while you are in the Monterey area. With all of the incredible amenities that the hotel has to offer, it is easy to see how the Hyatt Regency is among the top places to stay in Monterey.
It is a short two-mile drive from the Monterey Peninsula Airport for those who are flying into town, and the hotel offers a free shuttle service from the airport for guests. Now, once you arrive, you will be blown away by what this hotel has to offer!
The hotel has two hot tubs, a spa, gym, currency exchange services, a bar and restaurant, complimentary Tesla charging stations, and more. When you are here, you will be nearby to the Fisherman’s Wharf, Bargetto Winery, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium.
Staying here is also an excellent jumping off point for a trip south to check out the best things to do in Carmel-By-The-Sea or to drive the famous 17 Mile Drive.
You can check prices here.Source:Booking.com/Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa The Jabberwock Bed and Breakfast
Another unique accommodation option for those looking for romantic places to stay in Monterey, the Jabberwock Bed and Breakfast is among the most unusual stays here in the Monterey Bay area. This B and B definitely caters to a specific type of traveler. Budget and luxury travelers both will probably want to opt out of this one while travelers who love a good unusual stay will likely love The Jabberwock.
Antiques cover the shelves at this hotel, green carpet covers the floors, and history fills the halls. Unique wallpaper, a cozy sun room, and peaceful garden await you at the Jabberwock Bed and Breakfast. There are seven bedrooms, a yard with water features and a Bocce ball court, gourmet breakfast, and a wine and hors d’oeuvres offered each evening on the sun porch.
You can check prices here.Source:Booking.com/The Jabberwock Bed and Breakfast Old Monterey Inn
For travelers looking for a homier option when visiting the Monterey Peninsula, I think this bed and breakfast in Monterey will really seal the deal. To say this cozy little inn is idyllic is an understatement. Old Monterey Inn is known for its charm. The vines climbing the building outside, the romantic design on the insides, and all of the charming features of this inn make it one of the best places to stay in Monterey.
This Monterey B and B offers massages, a lovely outdoor dining area, and lush gardens for you to explore. You can have breakfast delivered to your room here and you can enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres each day. The charm, attention to detail, and amenities won’t soon disappoint.
Old Monterey Inn is just a ten minute walk from the Monterey Museum of Art, Cotton Hall, the Monterey Moon Tree, and the Old Monterey Jail. Depending how much walking you want to do, this hotel may be best suited for those who will have a care while in town as it takes around twenty five minutes of walking to reach the Wharf and around forty minutes to reach Cannery Row.
You can check prices here.Source:Booking.com/Old Monterey Inn Hotel Pacific
Hotel Pacific is in the best area to stay in Monterey CA. A five-minute walk from the Old Fisherman’s Wharf, this hotel is close to an abundance of things to see, places to go, and restaurants to visit. You can walk to California’s First Theatre, Adventures By The Sea, and Monterey History and Art at Stanton Center with ease.
This hotel is a boutique option and is best suited to those who want places to stay in Monterey that aren’t basic, yet not over the top either. The Spanish style architecture and decor, luxurious bedding, and lush private garden make this one of the top hotels in Monterey.
You can check prices here.Source:Booking.com/Hotel Pacific Victoria Inn
If you are planning a honeymoon or a couples getaway, Victoria Inn is one of the top romantic places to stay in Monterey. This beautiful coastal inn has impeccable Victorian charm with all of the modern conveniences that you could ask for.
Also one of the best hotels in Monterey in terms of location, you will be staying in the heart of Cannery Row when you book a room at the Victoria Inn. A short walk will take you to the shore of the Monterey Bay and many of the cities top attractions.
Plus, When you stay here, you not only get complimentary continental breakfast, but there is also a cheese and wine hour from five to six that you can take advantage of. This property has excellent ratings and is perfect for those looking for hotels in Monterey for couples.
You can check prices here.Source:Booking.com/Victoria Inn Merritt House Hotel
An incredible stay in Monterey, the Merritt House Hotel is what we all imagine when we hear enticing central coast cottage. If a stunning boutique hotel is on your bucket list of places to stay in Monterey, be sure to look into the Merritt House Hotel!
Each room here has its own fireplace and there is a relaxing garden and common room where you can enjoy the coastal atmosphere and carefully crafter designs at the hotel. Free breakfast is served here daily and you can read some of the most highly visited areas in town via a ten minute walk.
When you stay at the Merritt House Hotel, you get the best of both worlds. You can reach Cannery Row and Fishermans Wharf easily, but you are also back from the main strip a bit so you have grocery stores, museums, coffee shops, and other locations close by as well.
You can check prices here.Source:Booking.com/Merrit House Hotel Stage Coach Lodge
The Stage Coach Lodge should be on your radar if you are looking for budget hotels in Monterey. Located near the El Estero Park where you can go paddle boating or visit the Dennis The Menace Playground which is one of the best parks in the area.
Easily one of the top places to stay in Monterey for scuba divers, Stage Coach Lodge gas a divers’ quarters with full equipment, drying hooks, and more. There is also a fantastic garden, pool, and sun deck for you to enjoy during your stay. The amenities here are spectacular considering that rooms here can be booked for half the price of the hotels on the water.
You can check prices here.Source:Booking.com/Stage Coach Lodge Wave Street Inn
Accommodation in Monterey that is close to the aquarium and the beach? We’ve got you covered! Wave Street Inn is among the top places to stay in Monterey. Couples in particular are fans of this property, rating it very highly for the staff, comfort, and location.
Across the street from the hotel is. theMonterey Bay Coastal Trail which runs through Monterey near the water and will take you along beautiful landscapes and through fun areas of the city. You are also just a block away from McAbee Beach which is also known as the secret beach on Cannery Row.
Also across the street from the hotel is the Wave Street Cafe which is a nice places for breakfast in Monterey. Then, next door to the hotel is Sea Harvest Restaurant. One of the best restaurants in Monterey, Sea Harvest has a mind blowing seafood menu!
You can check prices here.Source:Booking.com/Wave Street Inn Munras Inn
Munras Inn is the answer to where to stay in Monterey for budget travelers. Located on Munras Avenue, you will have quick access to shopping, restaurants, and a movie theater. Plus, you are only three minutes by car from the Monterey County Youth Museum or fifteen minutes on foot. The museum is just down the street from one of the top bakeries in Monterey, Paris Bakery Cafe.
The location, beautiful dark interior, price, family rooms, and the “very good” rating from guests make this one of the best places to stay in Monterey for budget travelers and families. Plus, free parking and complimentary breakfast is provided. If you are going to be flying into Monterey, the Monterey Peninsula Airport is less than two miles from the Munras Inn!
You can check prices here.Source:Booking.com/Munras Inn InterContinental The Clement
One of the top places to stay near the Monterey Bay Aquarium, The Clement is divine. If location is important to you, it does not get any better than this hotel! The accommodations are elegant, there are on-site dining and spa services, a children’s club, and more.
From the hotel, you can see the expansive bay, wildlife like seals, sea otters, and sea lions poking their heads out of the water, and exciting nightlife. There’s also many nice shops for you to browse near the hotel. Souvenirs, hand crafted goods, local honey, wine, and olive oil, chocolate, and more can be found at the shops near The Clement.
While pricier than other hotels in the area, with a 9.6 out of 10 rating, guests agree that this is an incredible hotel on the bay. I think it goes without saying, but this hotel is absolutely one of the best places to stay in Monterey on the beach. Just steps away from the water, you can’t go wrong with a stay at The Clement.
You can check prices here.Source:Booking.com/InterContinental The Clement Blu Pacific Hotel
If you are looking for hotels near Monterey State Beach, check out the Blu Pacific Hotel! Just four minutes by car, the Blu Pacific Hotel is a lovely choice of hotel near the state beach. You can also reach the Monterey Pines Golf Course in around three minutes, the shops and restaurants on the Fishermans Wharf in ten minutes, and Pebble Beach in about fifteen minutes from the hotel.
Another one of the budget friendly places to stay in Monterey, the Blu Pacific Hotel is just a three minute drive to the Monterey Peninsula Airport. While getting around town on foot from this hotel isn’t really possible, it is just a couple minutes walk to a bus stop to take you into town if you are flying in and don’t want to rent a car.
You can check prices here.Source:Booking.com/Blu Pacific Hotel Sand Castle Inn
Watching your money while traveling is so important and when you stay at Sand Castle Inn, it helps you stick to your travel budget as it is one of the cheapest hotels in Monterey County. Located in nearby Seaside, California, this hotel is next door to Gusto Handcrafted Pasta and Pizza which is. a great place to stop in for a quick lunch or a late dinner if you are getting into your room late in the evening.
For budget travelers, Sand Castle Inn is among the top places to stay in Monterey. Despite being a little further away from the top attractions in Monterey, there is a bus stop that is just a couple minutes walk from the hotel so you can easily get into town to experience everything that Monterey has to offer.
You can check prices here.Source:Booking.com/Sand Castle Inn Monterey Bay Lodge
When it comes to places to stay in Monterey Bay area, the Monterey Bay Lodge should be on your radar. This three-star hotel has an outdoor pool, a hot tub, and an ideal location. Resting on Camino Aguajito near El Estero Park, you can enjoy the lake, go paddle boating, visit the skate park, take advantage of the workout equipment, and visit the fun Dennis The Menace Playground right across the street from your hotel room.
You will also be near many historical sites in Monterey when you stay at the Monterey Bay Lodge. The Larkin house, Casa Serrano, and the Colton Hall Museum are within a mile of the hotel.You can see these sites along with many others when you follow the Path of History through town.
If you have plans to visit other towns around Monterey like Pacific Grove, Seaside, and Carmel, the Monterey Bay Lodge can act as an ideal central location to explore the area. If you are going to stay primarily in Monterey, the lodge still works for you too as it is just a five minute drive to the Monterey Bay Aquarium and whale watching tours both.
You can check prices here.Source:Booking.com/Monterey Bay Lodge The Monterey Hotel
The Monterey Hotel is one of the hotels in Monterey with a major wow factor. The exterior of this hotel is truly stunning and makes you feel like you are in a movie when you walk through the front doors! I love that when you stay at The Monterey Hotel, you have a lot of restaurants just steps from the front door. Plumes, Sur Burger, and Kuma Sushi are all within a hundred feet from the hotel!
For those looking for places to stay in Monterey that allow them to have a unique experience, The Monterey Hotel can give you just that. Built in 1904, this hotel can give you turn-of-the-century charm and all of the modern amenities that you expect from a hotel.
The area that The Monterey Hotel is in is called Old Monterey. This part of town has museums, historical sites, envy inducing bakeries and cafes, and shopping opportunities. Just down the street from the hotel is Old Capital Books which is a top used bookstore in Monterey. If you stay at the hotel, be sure to walk down to Revival Ice Cream as it is a remarkable place to get ice cream in Monterey!
You can check prices here.Source:Booking.com/The Monterey Hotel Whether you are looking for resorts, a bed and breakfast, a romantic getaway, or cheap places to stay in Monterey CA, you should have no problem at all finding a place that fits your needs as the options are vast in Monterey.
From Monterey Bay views and spa treatments to perfect locations and unfussy rooms, you can find it all! Which of these awesome places to stay will you be booking for your trip to Monterey?
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17 Sensational Beaches in Monterey You Shouldn’t Miss (With Map!)
Visiting the beaches in Monterey is a major US bucket list item! The blue water, white sandy beaches, and views of the Monterey Bay and mountains in the distance is an experience that you shouldn’t miss when in town.
This is a town full of history, good food, and natural beauty. There is so much to see and do while you are exploring the area. Hands down though, enjoying the beautiful beaches is one of the top things to do in Monterey.
You can find dog-friendly beaches, kid-friendly beaches, hidden beaches, undisturbed beaches, and more. There truly is something for everyone. So, no matter who you are traveling with or what type of beach you are looking for, you are sure to have a good time in Monterey.
Ask yourself what to do in Monterey California no longer, the answer is beach-hopping! Let’s get started and learn about the top beaches in the idyllic Monterey County, California.Monterey Beaches Map
Monterey Beach Clean Ups
If you are interested in doing a beach clean up while you are in Monterey, the Surfrider Foundation does monthly beach clean ups at various beaches in Monterey.
Each month, they are cleaning a different beach and they always meet at 10AM. So you can check their website for what days and beaches they will be cleaning. There’s no need to sign up ahead of time, just show up and they will provide bags, gloves, and anythings else you will need to participate in the clean up.Top Dog Friendly Beaches in Monterey
Here are the top dog-friendly beaches in Monterey!
- Monterey State Beach
- Asilomar State Beach
- Carmel River State Beach
- Garrapata State Park
17 Amazing Beaches in Monterey You Shouldn’t Miss
San Carlos Beach
Easily one of the best beaches on the Monterey Bay, San Carlos Beach can be found at Reeside Avenue and Cannery Row. Scuba divers and those looking to see wildlife favor this beach in Monterey.
Right next to the beach is the Coast Guard Pier. This pier is one of the most well known places in Monterey to see sea lions and seals. So, if the idea of sunbathing on a sandy beach while watching scuba divers and sea lions in the water, San Carlos is a must-visit!
Unfortunately, this is not one of the dog friendly beaches Monterey, so you doggos will have to skip visiting this bay gem. There is plenty of parking for this beach, but as you know, Monterey weather can be a little tricky with fog cover for days followed by a bright sunny day. On these sunny day, you can expect the parking lot to fill up pretty quickly.
When there are great weather days and you know others are going to want to be out enjoying the sunshine and pleasent temperatrues as well, head to San Carlos Beach earlier in the day to secure your parking spot. Parking is paid for by the hour.
If you haven’t already, download the Park Mobile app to pay for parking while you are at San Carlos Beach (like with most highly visited areas in the US, the Park Mobile app will be used for parking in the majority of Monterey.)
Beaches in Monterey are beautiful, there’s no doubt about that, but what makes this one so appealing, other than the obvious, is that there is also plenty of green space and picnic space. Picnic tables and a grass area make this a great place to have a picnic or throw a frisbee around.Del Monte Beach
Del Monte Beach is among the best beaches in Monterey CA, it has vibrant blue water and an abundance of space so you aren’t likely to feel crowded here. This beach is sometimes listed as a hidden gem. This is only true for part of the beach! Either way, you should definitely check it out while in Monterey if you are wanting to get away from the beach going crowds.
This should also be on your radar if you are traveling with your doggos as this is one of the best dog friendly beaches in Monterey County. This beach has multiple access points with one of them being much busier and more touristy than others.
If you park at the Monterey Bay Parking Lot near Monterey Bay Kayaks you will have access to Del Monte Beach and a public restroom. You will also be able to see piers and the wharf from the beach. This is a good option if you want to walk to dinner afterwards or if you are traveling with little ones who need close access to a bathroom.
However, if you want something more secluded, park at the Monterey Peninsula Recreational Trail Parking. This is a free parking lot across from the entrance to the Naval Post Graduate School. From the parking lot you can take a long staircase up to the top of the sand dunes and then follow along the trail on the black top and then the sand trail.
This path takes you to a better stretch of beach that is wide and much less packed. Here, dogs are running free, people are scuba diving, sunbathers are lounging against the dunes, and you can have much more space to yourself to enjoy the beach.Monterey State Beach
Monterey State Beach is among the nice beaches in Monterey CA that you should visit while you are in Monterey County. The beach stretches from Monterey to Seaside and is popular with paragliders.
If you drive along the stretch of Highway 1 that runs along the beach, you will see gliders in the air above the sand dunes. This beach can be seen from a part of the highway as well and it absolutely breathtaking when you see it for the first time. (Especially on a sunny day when the water looks translucent blue!)
Like with most beaches in Monterey Bay, parking can fill up pretty quick on good weather days. You can find parking off of the Cabrillo Highway on San Dunes Drive. The parking lot if called Seaside State Beach Parking Lot. From here, it is a short walk to the beach.
The Monterey Peninsula Recreational Trail runs alongside the beach. You can follow it one direction and you will pass another beach or you can take it the other direction and it will take you to the Portola-Crespi Monument and more views of the monument.Asilomar State Beach
Asilomar State Beach makes its way into the race for best beach near Monterey effortlessly as its white sandy beaches are in between lines of intense rocky coastline. Around the rocks are tidepools and on the sand, sea lions visit. This dreamy beach is something you won’t want to miss while on the Monterey Peninsula.
Undoubtedly one of the best beaches in Monterey to visit on your next visit, Asilomar State Beach is a great place to see these stunning natural features and wildlife up close. Even referred to as the Refuge By The Sea, Asilomar is a celebrated area on the Monterey Bay that is known for its dune ecosystem as well as its architectural significance.
Asilomar State Park was used as a young woman’s leadership camp in the early 1900s where many of its buildings were built by architect Julia Morgan. You can find parking all along Sunset Drive which runs alongside the beach. There’s also a lovely walking trail called the Asilomar Coastal Trail that you to follow as you explore the area and take in the sights along the beach.
Keep your eye out for the quaint little gazebo along the pathway. It is a great place to sit and rest while you enjoy the remarkable blue water and marine life playing below. The trail is a mixture of sand, wooden steps, and wooden boardwalks. You will see people of all ages and abilities along the trail.Lovers Point Beach
Home to a top beach in the city and a beautiful rocky coastline, Lovers Point Park is among the best swimming beaches in Monterey. While this location is actually in Pacific Grove, it is only a few minutes’ drive away and well worth the visit.
This beach has soft sand, perfect coastal and bay views, seal and sea lion watching, crystal clear waters near the beach, and deep blue water further out into the bay.
Around the beach, there is a walking and biking trail that is very popular. You can also walk out to the water’s edge on strips of land that reach out into the bay from the trail. You are almost guaranteed to see either seals or sea lions so keep an eye out while you are relaxing on the beach.McAbee Beach
Are you looking for beaches near Monterey Bay Aquarium? McAbee Beach can be reached a couple of ways. One is via a skinny alleyway on Cannery Row near Lalla Grill and a staircase that drops off into the sand will make you feel like you are accessing a secret beach that not everyone knows about.
You can also reach it from the other side of Lalla where you will see an old concrete wall with a painting of two fishermen. At this famous Cannery Row mural, start walking down to the water and you will find yourself on McAbee beach in front of the buildings on Cannery Row.
Beaches in Monterey genuinely come in every shape and size. McAbee Beach is not a huge beach; it is actually quite small, but the crystal blue water and beautiful views draw heaps of tourists and locals down to the water from Cannery Row every day.Carmel Beach
If bold briny blue waters and wide sandy beaches is something that appeals to you, you need to make your way to Carmel Beach. One of the best beaches in Monterey area by a mile, Carmel Beach can be seen from down on the sand or from Scenic Road.
Scenic Road is a famous road on the Monterey Peninsula that gives you sensational views of the Carmel Bay. You can walk or drive this route to see the beach and surrounding areas. Or head on down to the beach where you can sunbathe, do some wildlife viewing, walk your dog, or simply enjoy the remarkable beauty of the area.
If you are looking for dog-friendly beaches in Monterey, it doesn’t get much better than Carmel Beach. Your dogs can be walked on a leash or if they are under voice-control, you can let them off the leash. This makes this beach one of the best things to do in Carmel if you are going to take a day trip to Carmel-By-The-Sea from Monterey.
If you choose to walk Scenic Road, there are benches along the path were you can rest. Parking can be found at the end of Ocean Avenue. Additional parking can be found along the street on Scenic Drive. One visit here, it is easy to see why this is widely considered to be one of the best beaches on the Monterey Peninsula.Salinas River State Beach
Among the good beaches in Monterey CA is Salinas River State Beach. This Monterey County beach has what hidden-gem hunters all long for. The isolation and beauty in this area are idyllic for those looking for undisturbed coastal beauty.
Other than finding solitude and natural beauty here on the beach, you will also find what appears to be a ship wreck. It is actually not a ship wreck, but a barge that washed ashore. This beached barge can be reached after a several mile walk on the Salinas River State Beach.
The barge washed ashore during a storm in December of 1983 and has been there ever since, despite initial efforts to remove it. If you like finding secret spots while traveling, this is probably the perfect beach for you!Spanish Bay Beach
Spanish Bay Beach has a lovely wooden boardwalk that takes you through the sand dunes near along the beach that you can walk from north to south. If you head south, you will reach Moss Beach which is similar to Spanish Bay Beach. If you head north, you will reach the rugged coastline of Asilomar State Beach.
Like with other Monterey beaches, you get a bit of variety when you visit Spanish Bay Beach. You will find rocky portions, sandy sections, and boardwalk-lined parts as well.
If you are looking for beaches in Monterey for swimming, Spanish Bay Beach isn’t the best for it; its more popular with surfers.
To find parking here, you can go via Sunset Drive and park there to avoid paying the entry fee to Pebble Beach. Parking here will also keep you from having to make the long walk from the closest public lot in Pebble Beach at Moss Beach along 17 Mile Drive.
This beach is in front of the Spanish Bay Golf Course and close to the popular 17 Mile Drive. (A drive that you should totally check out if you haven’t yet!) Keep in mind that this isn’t a dog-friendly beach.Sand City Beach
Sand City Beach is a nice beach in California that is sandwiched between the water and a series of sand dunes. Sand City is a small community of just over three hundred people near Monterey. This area used to be quite industrial but now it is mostly residential behind the protected dunes.
The Monterey Bay Coastal Trail runs along the Sand City Beach. Renting a bike to explore this trail is a popular pass time for locals and visitors, so if you have this on your itinerary, consider peddling down to Sand City Beach to check it out for yourself.
Beach combing is fantastic here. Sea glass can be found all along this long beach making it one of the best sea glass beaches in Monterey. You might not want to walk barefoot here due to all of the glass along the beach.
Sand City Beach isn’t one of the best beaches in the county for swimming, but if you are looking for a place to walk or a place to sit and read on the beach, Sand City Beach is a great place for it!Carmel River State Beach
Carmel River State Beach offers some of the best views in Monterey. The beach is in a state park near the start of the Carmel Valley. It is highly protected and stretches on for one mile. Bird watchers will love this beach as it has a lagoon that draw migratory birds to the area.
This beach is just 7-8 minutes south of Carmel Beach. Here at Carmel River State Beach has public restrooms and is just north of some incredible Carmel walking trails. These trails are the Carmel Meadows Trail and they offer incredible views of the coastal landscape.
This is one of the dog-friendly beaches in Monterey, so if you are traveling with their furry friends, you and your doggo are welcome at Carmel River State Beach! Just stay aware of those around you, especially of families with small children and other dogs.
Like with most areas in Monterey, the weather can be unpredictable around this beach. You can have a foggy and chilly afternoon and then find yourself sweating in the bright sun in the evening. So, be sure to dress in layers and carry sunscreen or a hat with you so you can enjoy the beach without worry of the weather.Garrapata Beach
Garrapata is one of the most seriously underrated Monterey beaches. It is a stunning beach off the iconic Highway 1. It got its name from the Spanish word for tick which can be found in the Garrapata State Park, along with mountain lions, rattlesnakes, and other wildlife.
There are no entry fees for Garrapata State Park and parking is easily accessible from the road. If you are wanting to do some swimming, head to the north end of the beach which a calmer area. If you head to the south side, there are large rocky areas that create a lovely environment for wave watching or taking pictures.
The beach is right across from the beautiful Calla Lily Valley. Here, white Calla Lily’s bloom from January to April. This is a popular attraction off of the Cabrillo Highway and worth a visit, especially if you are visiting during peak bloom time.
Garrapata Beach is also among the best beaches in Monterey for watching the sunset!Marina State Beach
Sticking the landing on the list of Monterey Bay best beaches is the blissful Marina State Beach. Hang gliders, sunbathers, beach walkers, and photographers rejoice, this is a beach that keeps on giving. While dogs are not welcome on this beach, it still worth a visit for those who are able to go.
The beach winds through Marina Dunes Natural Preserve giving visitors a scenic panoramic view of the Monterey Bay. This beach has a swimming area for kids or anyone for that matter. This area is protected by a breakwater that starts at the Ventura Harbor entrance.
Here you will also find picnic tables, volleyball courts, pubic restrooms, grills, and more that make this one of the most family-friendly beaches in Monterey. On top of all these amenities there is also a playground and a grassy area for picnic, sunbathing, or throwing a ball or frisbee around.
The beach is just a few minutes from a Starbucks, McDonalds, Taco Bell, KFC, and several Asian restaurants, making it really easy to run out for a quick lunch or dinner after time spent on the beach. There’s also a Walmart and other grocery stores just a few minutes drive from the beach if you need to pick up anything for your beach day.Monastery Beach
Monastery Beach is consistently considered one of the best Monterey beaches, one of the best beaches in California actually! Also sometimes called San Jose Creek Beach, it is a third of a mile long and is mega popular with scuba divers.
Parking is kind of limited here but you can find extra parking along Highway 1 as well. There’s a restroom on the south end of the beach and there’s also a lifeguard tower that is staffed during the summer months. While this is a really pretty beach that is well worth the visit, it isn’t the best for swimming due to a steep slope and rough waves.
The beach is actually a small section of the Carmel State Beach, north of Point lobos State Natural Reserve. It gets its name from the monastery across from it on Highway 1. If you decide to visit during your trip to Monterey, this is a lovely option for those wanting to stay out late as it is open until 10pm everyday.
One of the things that make this one of the top beaches in Monterey is the nearby Carmel Meadows Trail. Surrounded by wildflowers and the sounds of waves crashing make for a fantastic place to stay active while you are exploring the area.Fort Ord Dunes State Park Beach
Fort Ord Dunes State Park Beach is among the top Monterey hidden gems. The top beaches in Monterey are often packed which can make it difficult to enjoy the blue water and vibe on the beach. At Fort Ord Dunes State Park, there is plenty of room on the beach for hundreds of visitors to stretch out and have their own space.
There is a parking lot where around thirty cars can park at the main parking lot. From there, you will follow the paved walking path in the state park until you reach a sandy off shoot from the trail. Take this little sandy trail and it will take you down to the beach.
The trail to the beach goes through the sand dunes before reaching a final sand dune canyon as the trail opens up to the beach. This alluring and expansive beach is one of the most underestimated places to watch the sunset in Monterey.
Whether you are watching the sunset, taking a walk, or just looking for a place to enjoy a classic undisturbed California beach, a trip to the Fort Ord Dunes State Park Beach is in order. The trail in the park is also a nice place to go biking or walking.
If you are traveling with your dogs, they are welcome on the paved trails, but not on the beach. If you want more information about the park or other California state parks, you can download the Outer Spatial app for maps and information about each of the state parks in California.Seal Rock Creek Beach
Monterey beaches like Seal Rock Creek Beach are known for their dramatic appearance. In fact, millions of people come to visit the beaches in the CA each year. Seal Rock Creek Beach is in Pebble Beach along the beautiful 17 mile. The white sand at the mouth of Seal Rock Creek is something you will want to see for yourself.
You can find parking behind the beach where there is pull-through parking or at the Seal Rock Overlook area. While you are there, you can expect to see seals, sea lions, sea birds, and other wildlife. Seal Rock and Bird Rock are both near this beach and offer visitors excellent wildlife viewing.
Tide pools are here as well! Sea anemones, star fish, crabs, snails, and other marine life call these tide pools home. Outdoor enthusiasts, nature-lovers, and families will love checking out the tide pools at Seal Rock Beach on 17 Mile Drive.
There are picnic tables, restrooms, and fire rings here as well. This is perfect for those looking to stay on the beach for a good amount of time. Pack your cooler or picnic basket and enjoy lunch with the sounds of the waves in the background and the salty breeze on your cheeks.
Keep in mind that there is a fee to get into the Pebble Beach community and Seal Rock Creek Beach isn’t one of the dog-friendly beaches in Monterey. If you can’t find parking at Seal Rock Beach, you can drive right down the road on 17 Mile Drive to Fanshell Beach which is one of the top pupping grounds for Harbor Seals on the central coats!
This beach is fairly flat and has some small tide pool areas. They’re not as good as Seal Rock Beach, but you may be able to see some small creatures chilling in the water around the rocks here as well.China Cove Beach
China Cove Beach is one of the best beaches near Monterey CA! Located in the envy-inducing Point Lobos State Nature Reserve, China Cove Beach has pristine emerald water in a photo-worthy setting. The striking color of the water, sandy beach where seals like to lounge, and the rock tunnels around the cove make this one of the most mind blowing beaches in California.
To reach this beach, you will need to pay the entry fee for Point Lobos then head to the parking lot for the Bird Island Trail. The trail is pretty easy and takes you to a long stair case that leads down to China Cove Beach. The stairs are pretty steep so if you have mobility issues, you should have a look at the stairs before choosing to visit this beach.
Seals love to lay on the beach here. If you see seals resting on the beach once you arrive, be sure to keep your distance! You also have a chance to see wild flowers, sea otters, black cormorants and other sea birds here as well.
This is a great beach for nature and wildlife photography. If you are looking for a place to take an Insta-worthy shot, China Cove is perfect for it as it is one of the prettiest beaches in Monterey!These Monterey County beaches showcase the world-famous Monterey coast and the effortless natural beauty that it graciously gifts visitors.
From the rocky and turbulent sections of the coast to the white sandy beaches that stretch into the varying shades of blue water, there’s nothing like the beaches of central coast California and the ones in Monterey are no different.
Now that you have learned about some of the prettiest beaches in Monterey, which ones will you check out first? Are you more of an adventurer looking for beaches off the beaten path or do you like to check out the most highly visited beaches that were made popular for a reason?
No matter what type of traveler you are and which beaches you choose to visit, Monterey rarely disappoints!
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35 Enchanting Things To Do in Carmel-By-The-Sea, California
These incredible things to do in Carmel-By-The-Sea bring Californians and visitors from all over the world onto the Monterey Peninsula to enjoy the breathtaking natural beauty, fairytale cottages, and award-winning wines, beers, and cuisine.
If you are wondering how to spend a day in Carmel, you have a lot of sites to activities to choose from. The idyllic blue water, historic buildings, and overall vibe here in Carmel-By-The-Sea are something that visitors to the peninsula shouldn’t miss.
Whether you are looking for a relaxing beach town excursion, an art-focused exploration, a foodie vacation, or an outdoor adventure, Carmel has you covered with everything you could want from a California beach getaway.The vibe in Carmel is a lovely mix of a laid-back beach lifestyle, a modern city, and a calm historic small town. The locals care about preserving the history of the town and it shows as you walk around town and enjoy the beautiful architecture and offerings of the city.
The attractions in Carmel are some of the best places to see and things to do in Central Coast California. Carmel-By-The-Sea is a hub for travelers taking a Pacific Coast Highway road trip so the town is rarely dead.
With all of the incredible things to do here, it can be hard to know where to get started. So, we’re here to help! Keep reading and we will discover all of the best streets, museums, galleries, and more for you to check out while you are in town.Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Carmel-By-The-Sea
Where is Carmel-By-The-Sea?
Carmel is on the south end of the Monterey Peninsula. It is located on the beautiful Carmel Bay and is just north of the famous Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. Inland from Carmel, you will find Jack’s Peak Park which gives visitors impeccable views of The Monterey Bay.
How many days do you need in Carmel-By-The-Sea?
If you really wanted to, you could enjoy the top sights in Carmel in just two days. However, you can easily spend more time as well as there are so many restaurants, art galleries, shops, and outdoor sights to see that you could easily spend longer as well.
But, if all you have is a weekend to spend in Carmel-By-The-Sea, fret not! You will have plenty of time to see the most popular places in town.When is the best time to visit Carmel-By-The-Sea?
The central coast is famous for its mild climate year around. This part of the California coast can also be quite gloomy so if you want to up your chances of having sunny weather during your visit, you should visit during the fall months.
How far is Monterey from Carmel?
Monterey to Carmel is roughly a 10-20 minute drive depending on you are coming from and where you are heading in these two towns. If you want to make a little excursion from Cannery Row in Monterey to Carmel Beach, the drive is about twenty minutes.
Is it worth taking a day trip to Carmel from Monterey?
100%! Monterey is an absolute dream, if you are going to be spending some time in the area checking out some of the best things to do in Monterey, taking a day trip to Carmel is a wonderful idea.
Carmel-By-The-Sea is beautiful and is home to even more blue water, white sandy beaches, envy-inducing restaurants, and historical architecture for you to enjoy.
While Monterey has several walkable areas in town like the area around the Old Fisherman’s Wharf and Cannery Row, Carmel has areas that are more walkable with more attractions all close together making it easier for you to explore the town on foot.Interesting Facts About Carmel-By-The-Sea, California
- Ice cream used to be illegal here! It is an urban legend that all ice cream was banned. But take-and-go ice cream that visitors would be eating on the street was banned in Carmel to keep the streets clean and tourists at bay. Clint Eastwood put an end to this rule when he became mayor in the 80s.
- Buildings here don’t have addresses! The town’s founders preferred the idea of a central post office as opposed to house mail delivery. They hoped this would keep the small-town vibes in Carmel and avoid it being citified.
- High heels are banned in Carmel. The trees that line the sidewalks in town have roots growing over the sidewalks and around the streets. The local government thought of this as a hazard to people’s safety so they banned heels. You can go to City Hall and get a permit to wear a heel over two inches for free. This makes for a cool souvenir from your time spent in Carmel-By-The-Sea.
- Many celebrities have called Carmel home over the years. From Betty White and Doris Day to Clint Eastwood and Ian Bohen, Carmel is no stranger to famous inhabitants.
Things To Do In Carmel-By-The-Sea Map
35 Enchanting Things To Do In Carmel-By-The-Sea
Carmel Mission Basilica
One of the top things to do in Carmel-By-The-Sea is to visit the Carmel Mission Basilica. This stunning historic site is a good place to visit for photography and historical information, and it’s an important location for some as they travel here for religious reasons.
The grounds are beautifully cared for and create a gorgeous area for visitors to enjoy while they are there. Cactus, succulents, vining plants, and flowers surround the building making it a lovely place to sit and rest or take travel photos.
You are welcome to take a self-guided tour through the Basilica, museums, and the grounds or you can take a guided tour by appointment only. Keep in mind that this is an active church and as such there are often events being held that visitors have to work around.Padre Junipero Serra arrived in Monterey by ship in 1770 and founded Mission San Carlos Borromeo the next year. When he decided to leave Monterey, he established another mission in Carmel.
A bit more on the history of the mission and of Junipero Serra; in 1985, Junipero Serra was declared venerable by Pope John Paul II and in 1988, he was recognized for his heroic virtues. Then, in 2015 Saint Junipero Serra was canonized at the National Shrine in D.C.
Today, the Carmel Mission Basilica is one of the most popular pilgrimage sites in the United States for religious travelers from all over the world.Carmel Beach California
If bold briny blue waters and wide sandy beaches are something that appeals to you, you need to make your way to Carmel Beach. One of the best beaches in Monterey area, Carmel Beach can be seen from down on the sand or from Scenic Road.
If you head on down to the beach where you can sunbathe, do some wildlife viewing, walk your dog, or simply enjoy the remarkable beauty of the area, you will see why visiting this Carmel Beach is one of the top things to do in Carmel-By-The-Sea.
If you are looking for dog-friendly beaches in Carmel, it doesn’t get much better than Carmel Beach. Your dogs can be walked on a leash or if they are under voice control, you can let them off the leash. This makes this beach one of the best things to do in Carmel.
Parking can be found at the end of Ocean Avenue. Additional parking can be found along the street on Scenic Road. One visit here, it is easy to see why this is widely considered to be one of the best beaches on the Monterey Peninsula.Walk or Drive Scenic Road
Among the top things to do in Carmel-By-The-Sea is to walk or drive along Scenic Road. This road runs along the coast of Carmel, following Carmel Beach.
Depending on what time of the year and day you are visiting, it can be difficult to find parking at Carmel Beach. If you aren’t able to find parking at the beach, there is more parking on Scenic Road and San Antonio Avenue. You can also try the parking lot at Mara Beach Carmel where there are 25+ parking places at the end of Scenic Road.
The drive along this road is beautiful and gives you views of the coastline that you can’t get elsewhere in Carmel. You will also get views of famous houses that are perched on the rocky coastline of Carmel and the world-famous Pebble Beach Golf Links.
Visitors and locals walk along Scenic Road every day enjoying the weather, views, and salty air. If you are only in Carmel for a short amount of time, be sure to check out Scenic Drive along Carmel Beach.Little Napoli
Little Napoli is one of the best restaurants in Carmel. At this Italian restaurant, guests are served generous portions in a cozy dining room. You will find this restaurant six blocks from Carmel Beach on Dolores Street.
When you visit Little Napoli, you are within walking distance of Picadilly Park, coffee shops, art galleries, and boutiques. This is perfect if you are going to be exploring the area on foot.
On the menu at Little Napoli, you’ll find delicious starters like meatballs, sautéd mussels and clams, fried artichoke crocchette, and calamari. Then, you can have something light like an Amalfi salad or a roasted red pepper soup or something heavier like one of their burgers or paninis.
On their dinner menu, there’s Cioppino Rosso which was made famous by the Italian fisherman of the Monterey Bay and the mouth-watering four-hour braised New Zealand lamb shank served with parmesan mash and gremolata.
No matter what you order at Little Napoli, it is sure to leave a lasting impression! The mind-blowing dishes here are what make a meal here one of the top things to do in Carmel-By-The-Sea.Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is a must-do in Carmel-By-The-Sea. This is one of the most popular attractions on any Pacific Coast Highway road trip and definitely one of the top things to do in Carmel-By-The-Sea. There is a small entrance fee that is totally worth the cost.
Point Lobos is home to incredible hiking trails, great beaches, beautiful views, bluish-green water, and diverse wildlife. This is an extremely busy part of Carmel, so if you plan on visiting during your time spent in town, be sure to arrive early in the day so that you can get a parking spot.
Even better, visit on a weekday if possible. On good weather days, parking can fill up by 10 am on weed days so do your best to arrive as early as possible. Once parking fills ups, cars start parking in the sandy areas along the Cabrillo Highway. You can see people walking along the highway to get to the entrance of Point Lobos so be careful driving around this part of Carmel.While in Point Lobos, check out the Whalers Cabin. This cabin was built by Chinese fishermen in the 1850s and today it acts as a cultural history museum for visitors. There are also dreamy beaches in Point Lobos that are worth checking out.
A couple of the best are Gibson’s Beach and China Cove Beach. China Cove is one of the best beaches in Monterey County!
To get to China Cove, you take the Bird Island Trail. This trail takes you down a long wooden and stone staircase to the beach below. This cove has natural rock tunnels and cliffs around the beach, creating a mystical area that photographers and outdoor enthusiasts love.
There are often seals laying on the beach here so be sure to keep your distance if they are present while you are there.If you have plenty of time to spend at Point Lobos, consider hiking the Point Lobos Loop Trail. This trail is a combination of trails that make a loop of nearly seven miles. This path will allow you to see many of the best parts of the state natural area.
For those who need a shorter, more accessible trail, the Sand Hill Trail is wheelchair and stroller-friendly. This trail is only 0.4 miles long and gains less than twenty miles in elevation making it super easy.
On the Sand Hill Trail, you will get views of Sand Hill Cove and Sea Lion Cove. Binoculars or a monocular would be great to bring along with you on this trail and to all of Point Lobos as you can spot wildlife in the water and on the rock cliffs throughout the area.Mission Ranch Restaurant
The views from Mission Ranch Restaurant are a must-see in Carmel-By-The-Sea. Sunsets and the food both are spectacular here, making a meal at Mission Ranch one of the top things to do in Carmel-By-The-Sea.
The menu is full of elevated dishes like sea scallops with roasted squash and fried leeks, prime rib sandwiches, roasted half Jidori chicken served with exotic mushrooms and fingerling potatoes, and coriander seasoned King Salmon.
You can sit inside or outside at Mission Ranch Restaurant. The dining room has a stone fireplace and large windows overlooking green fields and the water. outside, the wooden furniture overlooks sheep in the field and the water in the distance.
If you have been looking for sunset spots in Carmel, dinner on the outdoor patio at Mission Ranch is one of the best! It should also be on your radar if you are looking for date night spots in Carmel.Hunt for Murals Around Town
Walking around town and hunting for murals and other artwork is one of the best free things to do in Carmel-By-The-Sea. The Carmel Shell is among the fan favorites in town, but there are several others as well.
Murals in Carmel to visit:- Carmel Shell
- Mural at Hofsas House
- Charlie Chaplin Mural at Cypress Inn
Admire Carmels’ Historic Buildings
If you’ve been wondering what to do in Carmel California for history lovers, you are in luck! There are countless historic buildings in Carmel. The oldest one can be found on San Antonio Street between 5th and 6th streets. This home was built by the Murphy family and was occupied by some of the earliest Carmel city dwellers.
You can also stop by Cottage of Sweets. Not only is visiting this candy store one of the most popular things to do in Carmel-By-The-Sea, but it is also a chance to see one of the oldest buildings in town. It was built in 1922 and originally acted as a weaving shop before becoming a theater box office before it was a candy store.
Another historical building to check out is the Carmel Art Association Gallery. It was founded in the 1920s and is the second oldest nonprofit art organization in the United States.17 Mile Drive
Seventeen Mile Drive is among the most popular road trips in California. There is an $11.25 admission fee for driving this scenic stretch of road along the dramatic coastline of the Monterey Peninsula. There are loads of stops along this drive where you can get out and enjoy the natural beauty of central coats California.
This is by far one of the best places to visit in Carmel-By-The-Sea!
One of the must-see places along the 17-Mile Drive is Spanish Bay. Spanish explorers stopped here to camp in 1769 when they were trying to find the Monterey Bay based on a description of the bay from 1602. This is one of the beach beaches in Monterey County! There’s a lovely wooden boardwalk along the beach and benches where you can sit and enjoy the view of the waves coming in.Something else worth a stop along 17 Mile Drive for is the Pebble Beach 17 Mile Drive Gingerbread House. This cutesy and unique house is a must-see for travelers who like to see the strange and unusual on their adventures.
Other overlooks and information stops can be found along 17 Mile Drive, including Fanshell Beach Overlook where you get views of a beautiful beach and see the pupping habitat for harbor seals. If you want to see wildlife while you are in the area, this is one of the best things to do in Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA.Cafe Dal Mare
Grabbing coffee is one of the most underrated things to do in Carmel. Delicious pastries and coffee are a great way to add to your time spent in town. And at Cafe Dal Mare, you can sink your teeth into sugary pastries and sip on a gourmet coffee before you start your day exploring Carmel.
Coffee in Carmel comes in a lot of different flavors and sizes. You can find all the classics like cappuccino, latte, americano, and cafe au lait on the menu at Cafe dal Mare. There’s also lemonade, hot chocolate, and other beverages as well.Sweets like cookies and cannoli are served alongside savory options like sandwiches and tapas. If you want tasty treats and coffee or a quick place to grab a light lunch, visiting Cafe Dal Mare is among the best things to do in Carmel-By-The-Sea.