With California's reopening on June 15th, there is no better time to rekindle your sense of adventure in Monterey County. The area is filled with not-to-miss moments to experience this summer, including unparalleled outdoor adventure, a growing food and wine scene, immersive cultural experiences, renowned scenic drives, and the opportunity to explore the fascinating marine life that call the Monterey Bay home.
Choose from our ʻNow is the Momentʻ exclusive offers, new itineraries made up of must-experience moments and fresh ways to take advantage of the boundless wide-open spaces and iconic experiences along California’s central coast. Explore our curated a list of reasons ‘Now is the Moment’ to plan a soul-satisfying trip to Monterey County:
New and Limited-Time Experiences
Carmel Food Tours
Book the new Bikes, Bites & Bevs Tour, offered by Carmel Food Tours and Mad Dogs & Englishmen Bike Shop, which includes an e-bike ride to picturesque Point Lobos State Reserve followed by a walking food tour in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Monterey Bay Skydive
Seize the moment from 15,000 feet over the Monterey Bay with Monterey Bay Skydive's new Silver Package. The package celebrates Skydive Monterey Bay’s 25th anniversary and offers adventure seekers the chance to experience “California’s Highest Tandem Jump.” After jump completion, receive a framed first jump certificate, a gear store gift and mini gear bag. The special package offers visitors more than 35 percent off normal rates. Book now for $229 per person with an advance reservation.
The Sardine Factory
The Sardine Factory, located within Monterey’s historic Cannery Row, is offering a new ‘Monterey Moment’ cocktail through June. Made with limoncello, lemon juice, orange juice, blue curacao and topped with champagne, the refreshing drink has hints of blue to convey the Monterey Bay and comes complete with a personalized jingle from the award-winning restaurant’s resident entertainer, David Conley.
we.Art
The new we. Art installations in Sand City have recently transformed the coastal town into one of the most accessible outdoor public art galleries on the peninsula. Take a self-guided walking tour around the West End to see the new public art, completed by local and national artists.
Recently Opened
Monterey Bay Aquarium
The famed Monterey Bay Aquarium is dedicated to marine research and conservation, featuring 35,000 creatures representing over 550 sea life and marine species.
Los Padres National Forest
Big Sur’s beloved Pine Ridge Trail recently reopened after being closed for five years. Located in the Ventana Wilderness of the Los Padres National Forest, the 19.5-mile trail leads hikers from Big Sur Station to Sykes Camp with a cover of redwoods, pine and oak along the way.
WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca
WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca announced its 2021 line-up of events. Tickets are on sale now with anticipation that spectators will be able to attend all events at the world-famous race track.
National Steinbeck Center
The National Steinbeck Center is dedicated to legendary author John Steinbeck who was born and raised in Monterey County’s agricultural hub. Steinbeck drew on his experience growing up in the region for novels such as “Cannery Row” and its sequel “Sweet Thursday.”
Seasonal Secrets
Pinnacles National Park
Spring is one of the best times to visit Pinnacles National Park where adventurers can enjoy mild temperatures and a variety of wildflowers. Hoping to spot a magnificent California condor? Set out for a hike on the strenuous 8.4-mile High Peaks-Balconies Loop or opt for the Bench Trail’s spotting scopes in the early morning or early evening.
Kayak Connection
Kayak Connection’s Starlight Bioluminescence Tour in Moss Landing starts before sunset for easy viewing of resident marine life frolicking and feeding at dusk. Once the sun goes down, visitors enjoy the glow while paddling through the bioluminescent waters.
Purple Carpet
May is the prime month to spot Pacific Grove’s majestic purple phenomenon, dubbed the “Purple Carpet.” View thousands of magenta ice plants take over the coastline along Ocean View Boulevard by foot, bike, car or boat.
Whale Watching
A renowned whale-watching destination, Monterey County offers visitors the opportunity to see the great gray whale migration and the return of the humpback whales to the Monterey Bay this spring. The spring season also brings greater sightings of killer whales to the area as well. Book a whale watching tour from Monterey or Moss Landing.
Carmel Valley Wineries
There is no better place to kick off the start of Rosé season than sunny Carmel Valley. Located in the Santa Lucia Highlands AVA, Carmel Valley wineries offer an abundance of varieties with several specializing in Grenache Rose. Must-tries include the sparkling Rosé at Folktale Winery and Vineyards.
Latest Lodging Offers
Monterey Tides
The beach at Monterey Tides becomes guests’ backyard during a stay at the centrally located boutique property. Head to nearby Monterey State Beach, Del Monte Beach or Sand City Beach to grab a moment in the sun.
Hofsas House Hotel
Now through June 30, 2021, the Hofsas House Hotel is offering a “sweet” deal to guests. Stay for at least two nights and receive a box of locally made Lula's Chocolates and a Hofsas House tote bag. Indicate "Sweet Internet Special" when reserving online or calling to make a reservation.
Sanctuary Beach Resort
Nestled between Monterey Bay and the Marina Dunes Preserve, the ultra-romantic Sanctuary Beach Resort in Marina is offering a Love, Stay & Namaste package including overnight accommodations, a private beach yoga session, chilled sparkling wine and breakfast delivered to the property’s private beachfront cottages.
Embassy Suites Monterey Bay-Seaside
Embassy Suites by Hilton in Seaside is offering a Stay & Play package complete with 36 holes of golf at Bayonet and Black Horse. Overlooking the Monterey Bay, the course was built in the 1950s by General Bob McClure and has since been the host site of two PGA Professional Championships.
Travel Responsibly
Travel responsibly in Monterey County by following all current health and safety guidelines and respecting the area’s iconic landscapes by staying on trails and leaving no trace behind. For more information on events, hotel special offers, promotions, and to learn more ways to grab your moment now, visit SeeMonterey.com/NOW.
