Plan a trip and get out of San Diego for a while. But instead of stopping in L.A. or cruising to Vegas, check out the stunning coastline of Monterey County. This city has an endless list of places to explore, and the season to visit Monterey is the upcoming summer months!
Here are some great attractions to see and upcoming festivals that will surely delight all visitors looking for a relaxing break from the regular weekend routine. Loaded with history, activity, and a whole lot of fun, a trip to Monterey is a priceless vacation you’ll be boasting about for years to come.
Monterey Bay Aquarium
Uncover the mysteries of Monterey’s ocean life without plunging into the Pacific. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is dedicated to assisting in marine life research and preservation. It has landed high remarks by Forbes Traveler as one of America’s most interesting aquariums. Make sure to stop by the Monterey Bay Aquarium during your stay for an out-of-this-world experience.
Cannery Row
Cannery Row plays a crucial row in Monterey’s unique makeup. Officially renamed Cannery Row in 1958 to pay homage to John Steinbeck, Cannery Row is a piece of history that you must visit on your Monterey vacation. Located along the gorgeous waterfront, Cannery Row is lined with great restaurants, shops, wine tasting rooms, art studios, and special boutiques. If you’re the adventurous type, Cannery Row also offers kayaking, biking, and scuba diving at the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.
CANNERY ROW BLOCK PARTY, JUNE 2, 2013
Cannery Row is hosting their annual block party this Sunday, June 2nd. With live bands, games, food, and quirky entertainment, the Cannery Row Block Party is a must-see! Cannery Row is also home of the Cherry Jubilee that takes place in September!
Fisherman’s Wharf
The impressive Fisherman’s Wharf of Monterey is the heart and soul of the beloved town. Located in downtown Monterey, Fisherman’s Wharf holds the essence of Monterey with its thriving fishing industry and bay front culture. This is a top attraction in Monterey. Stop by to watch the fishermen loading up their prized fish, warm up with a bowl of clam chowder soup, and go on an adventurous ride in a glass bottom boat for a tour of Monterey’s marine life! Visit Fisherman’s Wharf online for more activities and things to do at the Wharf.
Pebble Beach Scenic Drive
Monterey County is notorious for one of the most scenic drives in the entire world! The 17-mile stretch along Highway One is considered a “dream road trip.†The 17-Mile Drive in Pebble Beach passes by swanky homes, world-class golf courses, the Del Monte Forest and the stunning waterfront. You’ll see some of these monuments along the way: Lone Cypress, Spanish Bay, Spyglass Hill, and Carmel Bay.
Monterey Wine Festival
There’s nothing better than a glass of fine wine in a gorgeous historic park. The Monterey Wine Festival will present hundreds of wines to taste for all wine enthusiasts June 7-8, 2013. Known as California’s longest standing wine festival, the Monterey Wine Festival will celebrate its 37th anniversary at Monterey State Historic Park. Stop by for some light appetizers, fantastic wines, and lots of chatter about the region’s greatest wineries.
Carmel Bach Festival
If you can’t sneak away to Monterey just yet, think about planning a trip to Monterey from July 13-27 for the Carmel Bach Festival. Celebrating its 76th anniversary, the Carmel Bach Festival will host classical performances of Mozart, Handel, Bach, and many others in various concerts and free events around Monterey, Pebble Beach, and Carmel. Dive into a more sophisticated trip to Monterey when you experience this long-lived classical celebration!
Photo Credit: Ahniwa