Monterey: Nature, Coast and History

Monterey offers different perspectives on the coast, wildlife and history. In Monterey County, the range extends from wetlands and birdwatching to coastal landscapes and historic sites. In Monterey itself, the aquarium and State Historic Park offer their own highlights. As you plan, consider whether nature, water activities or culture should be the focus of your trip.

Nature and Wildlife

At the Elkhorn Slough Reserve, six miles of trails lead through oak forests, wetlands and meadows. The visitor center and picnic areas round out the experience; guided walks are offered on Saturdays and Sundays. More than 346 resident and migratory bird species are found at Elkhorn Slough. Kayaking is possible on the seven-mile main channel and in smaller side channels. This lets you explore the landscape on foot or from the water, with each activity offering a different view of the area.

At Pinnacles National Park, the terrain is shaped by rock spires and deep canyons formed by ancient volcanic eruptions. The park is also known for its rare talus caves. Hiking options range from short, family-friendly trails to challenging treks. This variety makes the park appealing if you want to consider both the geological landscape and the type of hike you prefer when planning your visit.

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park features redwood, tan oak, madrone and chaparral. There, an 80-foot waterfall plunges from granite cliffs into the waters of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Asilomar Dunes Habitat Natural Preserve offers a different coastal perspective: it sits above a coastal trail that runs alongside white sand beaches and rocky tide pools.

Activities On and In the Water

The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary offers opportunities for sailing, fishing, whale watching, kayaking, surfing and scuba diving. It is home to 26 species of marine mammals and 94 species of seabirds. You can watch whales and dolphins in Monterey County year-round. The species mentioned include blue, humpback, fin, minke and sperm whales, as well as orcas. One specific option, the Daily Monterey Bay Whale Watch Tour, is offered daily in Monterey Bay; check the schedule before your trip.

There is a clear location restriction on diving at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve: it is permitted only at Whalers Cove and Bluefish Cove. The Cabin Trail is one of the trails starting at Whalers Cove. If you are interested in the history of whaling, Whalers Cabin is a cultural history museum.

The tanks at Monterey Bay Aquarium also have specific dimensions: the Kelp Forest tank is 28 feet tall, while the Open Sea tank holds 1.2 million gallons. These figures describe different measurements—height and capacity—and offer two notable points of reference for a visit focused on the aquarium exhibits.

History, Architecture and Culture

Monterey State Historic Park includes more than ten historic buildings and sites within a half-mile radius of Custom House Plaza. Guided history walks and house tours offer a way to explore these topics. On July 7, 1846, Commodore John D. Sloat raised the American flag at the Custom House, marking the official takeover of California by the U.S. military.

Another historic stop is Point Sur Lightstation. It sits on a large volcanic rock 361 feet above the Pacific Ocean and first went into operation on August 1, 1889. Asilomar State Beach is home to the historic Y.W.C.A. conference facilities, designed by architect Julia Morgan. At the National Steinbeck Center, you can learn about the life and work of John Steinbeck.

Routes and Other Interests

The 17-Mile Drive runs from Pacific Grove to Pebble Beach; its natural features include The Lone Cypress. Fort Ord has more than 80 miles of trails through terrain of scenic and historic significance. To navigate Monterey County, California Highway 101 crosses the county and provides access to all the cities in the Salinas Valley and to the Monterey Peninsula. Highway 1 offers scenic views of the California coast in the county.

Wine can also be part of your trip: Monterey County has tasting rooms in Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea, as well as wineries and vineyards along River Road and in Carmel Valley. You can choose among these places and activities to suit your interests, without every trip needing to have the same focus.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Monterey, Big Sur, Carmel Valley, Carmel-By-The-Sea, Marina, Sand City, King City, Greenfield, Salinas, Seaside, Soledad, San Lucas, Spreckels, Moss Landing, Las Lomas, Pacific Grove.

For the broader travel overview: California.