Free Things To Do in

Monterey County

Now is the moment to experience Monterey County without making a dent in your budget!

Having fun in Monterey doesn't require a lot of money; in fact, many things to see and do are absolutely free! With an array of beautiful beaches, priceless backdrops, and an abundance of unique activities, Monterey County offers a fun and inexpensive getaway, for everyone.

1. The weather in our destination is gorgeous for most of the year. Take advantage, pack a picnic and enjoy the scenery at one of our many beautiful beaches.

2. Stretch your legs and walk or jog along our Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail. See the beautiful boats and marine life along the way or take a seat and enjoy the view from one of the many benches.

3. Follow the Path of History through downtown Monterey to see the historic adobe buildings and gardens. 

4. Window shop all of the art galleries in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Explore the hidden courtyards and passageways in this picturesque village. 

5. Get a taste of the town and sample clam chowder provided by several restaurants on Old Fisherman’s Wharf. 

6. Let the kids run off some steam at Dennis the Menace Park at Lake El Estero. 

7. Grab your binoculars and do some birding at Carmel River State Beach, Garland Ranch Regional Park, and Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve. 

8. Head down to Seaside and Sand City and browse local stores and art galleries. 

9. Drive down the Big Sur coastline to see the unspoiled natural beauty and dramatic vistas.

10. See migrating Monarch Butterflies in Pacific Grove at the Monarch Grove Sanctuary during their annual migration, October- February.

11. Run with the frolicking dogs on the white sands of Carmel Beach. While you are there, build a sandcastle, fly a kite or watch the water for dolphins. And, yes, your dog is allowed off-leash.

12. See artichoke plants growing in Castroville, the Artichoke Capital of the World. 

13. Check out antiques and collectibles at the Cannery Row Antique Mall .  

14. Take a short drive north to Moss Landing to see their unusual and interesting storefronts which house several unique collectibles and antiques. Or visit Elkhorn Slough to see (and hear) the sea lions relaxing on the pier.

15. Visit Colton Hall Museum in Monterey to learn about the building where California’s first constitution was drafted in 1849. Nearby is the Old Monterey Jail where no one ever escaped from the thick granite walls during its history from 1854-1956.

16. Drive to Carmel Valley Village to find the sun and warmer weather. See the horse and cattle ranches, wineries and rolling hillsides as well as wildflowers in springtime. 

17. Take photos of the colorful Victorian B&Bs along Ocean View Boulevard in Pacific Grove. 

18. Bike along the many miles of trails at Fort Ord National Monument, truly a mountain biker’s paradise. 

19. Play basketball, softball, and hike in Toro County Park in Salinas. 

20. Fly a kite on Marina State Beach. 

21. Watch the sunset at Asilomar Beach. 

22. Peruse local produce and sample fresh fruits at a Monterey County Farmers Market. 

 There's so much to explore in Monterey County on a budget, so you can indulge in experiences without worrying about your wallet. View our list of things to do in Monterey County on a budget for more information!