Monterey
Fine dining meets coastal charm in California's gourmet paradise
Highlights
Explore the legendary Monterey Bay Aquarium with its iconic kelp forest and interactive exhibits along Cannery Row
Experience sustainably-sourced culinary artistry at award-winning restaurants like Passionfish and The Sardine Factory
Drive through pristine coastal landscapes with dramatic rock formations, cypress groves, and ocean vistas in nearby Pacific Grove
Stroll the legendary waterfront district immortalized by John Steinbeck, now home to galleries, shops, and fine dining
Visit nearby Carmel and Carmel Valley for world-class wineries and tasting rooms within 30 minutes
Where to Stay
2 picks
Plaza Hotel & Spa
Historic luxury hotel located on Cannery Row in a beautifully restored 1926 building. Features old-world elegance, ocean views, on-site fine dining (Coastal Kitchen), and spa services. Walking distance to shops, galleries, and attractions.
Monterey Bay Inn
Contemporary beachfront boutique hotel with modern rooms featuring Tempur-Pedic beds, private balconies with ocean views, and a rooftop hot tub overlooking the bay. Walking distance to waterfront dining and Cannery Row attractions.
Where to Eat
6 picks
Passionfish
Sustainably-sourced seafood with creative presentations like scallops with caper-walnut relish and mussels in bacon-fennel broth. The aquarium-inspired décor with illuminated fish sculptures creates a romantic ambiance. Exceptional wine list with half-bottles starting at $20.
C restaurant + bar
Contemporary seafood-focused restaurant with excellent tuna main courses and great selections of fresh fish and meats. Highly-rated for quality and presentation.
Fish Hopper
Casual waterfront restaurant on Cannery Row with spectacular bay views and fresh seafood. Great for clam chowder and fish & chips with an accessible, laid-back vibe.
The Sardine Factory
Classic steakhouse with over-the-top opulence featuring high-backed monogrammed velvet chairs, elegant sconces, and signature items like an enormous prawn cocktail served with dry ice vapor. Top-notch menu without being fussy.
Coastal Kitchen
Located in the historic Plaza Hotel with incredible oceanfront views. Frequently-changing menu features beautiful plating and creative flavor combinations like poached white asparagus with charred avocado and wasabi, plus miso black cod with creamy coconut milk.
Alejandro's
Upscale Mexican with neon-lit ambiance, private c-shaped cenote booths, and an impressive tequila collection. Signature dirty horchata and guacamole are must-tries. Great for cocktails and sophisticated Latin cuisine.
What to Do
7 picks
Monterey Bay Aquarium
World-class aquarium featuring the iconic kelp forest, interactive tide pools, sea otters, jellyfish galleries, and innovative exhibits showcasing local marine ecosystems
Cannery Row
Historic waterfront district with galleries, boutique shops, sea otter watching, and restaurants. Stroll the wooden boardwalks, explore art galleries, and experience the area that inspired John Steinbeck's famous novel.
Old Fisherman's Grotto
Historic waterfront restaurant and landmark on Cannery Row featuring classic steakhouse fare with scenic bay views. Popular for both dining and casual observation of sea otters and wildlife.
Monterey State Historic Park
Self-guided walking tour of historic adobe buildings and museums in downtown Monterey, including the Royal Presidio Chapel and Casa del Oro. Explore California's colonial past.
17-Mile Drive
Scenic toll road through Pacific Grove and Pebble Beach featuring dramatic rocky coastlines, twisted cypress groves, pristine beaches, and spectacular ocean vistas. Multiple pullouts for photos and short walks.
Carmel-by-the-Sea Village
Charming European-style village 30 minutes south with art galleries, boutique shops, beachfront parks, and fine dining. Browse galleries, enjoy coffee at local cafes, and relax on pristine Carmel Beach.
Carmel Valley Wine Trail
Visit 3-5 boutique wineries and tasting rooms in scenic Carmel Valley, 20-30 minutes from Monterey. Picturesque countryside settings with award-winning Pinot Noirs, Chardonnays, and Cabernets.
Good to Know
5 picks
Make Reservations Early
Book fine dining restaurants at least 2-3 weeks in advance for weekends, especially at Passionfish, The Sardine Factory, and Coastal Kitchen. Many top restaurants are fully booked on weekends.
Pack Layers for Coastal Weather
Monterey experiences cool ocean breezes, morning fog, and temperature swings of 15-20°F throughout the day. Bring a light jacket, sweater, and waterproof windbreaker even in summer.
Plan Parking Strategically
Cannery Row parking fills quickly (especially 11am-3pm). Use the paid parking garages at Cannery Row or arrive before 10am. Consider staying within walking distance of dining and attractions to minimize driving.
Visit Off-Peak Times
Monterey is busiest on weekends April-October. Consider Tuesday-Thursday visits for shorter restaurant wait times, easier reservations, and smaller crowds at attractions.
Explore Local Wineries with Sommelier Recommendations
Most fine dining restaurants have exceptional wine lists with knowledgeable sommeliers. Ask for wine pairings or local Monterey County wine recommendations to enhance your culinary experience.
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