Monterey Bay, at the northern edges of California’s Central Coast, is a haven for marine life enthusiasts. From the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium to the breathtaking preserves filled with wildlife, this itinerary focuses on immersing you in the wonders of the Pacific Ocean’s bounty. Begin your day with either a visit to the famous aquarium OR a whale watching expedition, and dive into a day of oceanic exploration. You’ll discover marine animals in their natural habitats, learn about preservation efforts, and witness the stunning beauty of California’s coastline.
Monterey Bay Aquarium, Cannery Row, Monterey, CA, USA
First Awakenings, David Avenue, Monterey, CA, USA
Wave Street Cafe, Wave Street, Monterey, CA, USA
Monterey Bay Whale Watch, Fishermans Wharf, Monterey, CA, USA
Princess Monterey Whale Watching, Fishermans Wharf, Monterey, CA, USA
Fish Hopper, Cannery Row, Monterey, CA, USA
Schooners Monterey, Cannery Row, Monterey, CA, USA
Passionfish, Lighthouse Avenue, Pacific Grove, CA, USA
InterContinental Monterey
Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa, Cannery Row, Monterey, CA, USA
Wild Fish Restaurant, Lighthouse Avenue, Pacific Grove, CA, USA
Pacific Grove Marine Gardens Park, Ocean View Boulevard, Pacific Grove, CA, USA
Monterey Bay Eco Tours - Elkhorn Slough Eco Nature Tour, Clam Way, Moss Landing, CA, USA
Elkhorn Slough Safari, Moss Landing Road, Moss Landing, CA, USA
Monterey Bay Kayaks, California 1, Moss Landing, CA, USA
Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve, Moss Landing, CA, USA
Best Places for Breakfast in Monterey Bay, Carmel & Pebble Beach
Best Things To Do in the Morning in Monterey Bay, Carmel & Pebble Beach
We’ve suggested two morning activities, the Monterey Bay Aquarium and a whale watching tour, that you should definitely split into two separate mornings. Each consumes not only a good chunk of time, but also a lot of energy. In addition to Monterey Bay Whale Watch highlighted below, you might also want to check out Princess Monterey Whale Watching and Fast Raft Ocean Safaris, with tours on a 33-foot RIB (rigid inflatable boat).
Monterey Bay Aquarium
Dive into an exceptional hands-on underwater adventure at this incredible aquarium — one of the best on the planet. Plan to spend at least half a day communing with sea otters that frolic in their tank and out in the bay; sharks and giant tuna in the humungous Into the Deep exhibit, with the largest collection of deep sea animals in North America, and local fishies in the three-story living Kelp Forest. This place gets CROWDED, especially during peak summer months. Buy your tickets online (this was the only option to get tickets in summer 2023), and try to come as soon as the aquarium opens or after 2 pm, when the crowds thin out (tykes nap, and schoolchildren head home).
Best Places for Lunch in Monterey Bay, Carmel & Pebble Beach
Best Things To Do in the Afternoon in Monterey Bay, Carmel & Pebble Beach
Poke around the shores of the Monterey Peninsula this afternoon. Or ride a boat into the Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve. In addition to the Elkhorn Slough Safari highlighted below, you can opt for a Monterey Bay Eco Tour into the slough, on a custom, super-quiet, electric-powered catamaran. Or rent a kayak and power your adventure yourself.
Pacific Grove Marine Gardens SMCA
This state marine conservation area stretches about 1.5 miles between Lover’s Point in Pacific Grove to Point Pinos. It’s perfect for tide pooling and bird watching. You can spot a variety of marine life, including starfish and sea anemones, in the kelp forest habitat. The views are spectacular. Plan for 1-2 hours.
Best Places for Dinner in Monterey Bay, Carmel & Pebble Beach
Wild Fish
Fresh seafood practically swims to your table at Wild Fish, a 100 percent organic restaurant in Pacific Grove. The menu lists the source of the ingredients and often the purveyor, plus wine pairing suggestions. Try to dine on a Friday or Saturday evening, when a local jazz band plays out front.
Best Places to Stay in Monterey Bay, Carmel & Pebble Beach
Time Travel Trek through Historic Monterey