Must-Visit Photo Ops
There is no shortage of beautiful photo ops in Monterey County–Everywhere you look there's another breathtaking view waiting to be captured, but few places are downright iconic for the destination. Here is a list of the top spots for photographers to get that quintessentially Monterey shot. Whether you're taking Holiday photos, family portraits, or simply chasing that epic Instagram-worthy photo, you're sure to find it here in Monterey County.
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1. 17-Mile Drive (Pebble Beach)
Scenic 17-Mile Drive is one of the most iconic routes in the world, offering panoramic views of rugged cliffs, lush golf courses and the Pacific Ocean. Bird Rock, Lone Cypress and Spanish Bay are standout locations along the drive that make for unforgettable photos. The Lone Cypress, in particular, is one of the most photographed trees in the world!
2. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Often referred to as the "crown jewel" of California's state parks and "the greatest meeting of landing and sea in the world", Point Lobos offers a treasure trove of photo opportunities. From its dramatic cliffs to the crystal-clear coves, there's something beautiful at every turn. Be sure to capture the beauty of China Cove and Gibson Beach, where the contrast of the dark rocks against the turquoise waters is mesmerizing.
3. Carmel Beach
Evening sunsets are a community event at Carmel Beach, offering sweeping views of the Pacific and framed by the charming town of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Capture the classic image of surfers riding the waves, the iconic cypress trees lining the shore or the pastel-colored sunset sky. It’s especially stunning at sunset–Join the locals on the beautiful white sands and bring a picnic meal and a bottle of wine while you watch the greatest show in nature's evening schedule.
4. Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail
The waterfront Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail is a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the beauty of the coastline on foot or on wheels. The epic pedestrian and bike path hugs the coast, offering uninterrupted views of the bay, and passes through charming coastal towns. During the spring, a phenomenon known as the "Magic Purple Carpet" springs up along Pacific Grove's coastline–magenta ice plant blankets the rocky coast for a truly neon spectacle.
Hit iconic hot spots along the Coastal Recreation Trail:
- Monterey Bay Aquarium – No visit to the aquarium is complete without a silhouette pic in the Open Sea Gallery. The Aquarium's largest exhibit is home to all sorts of sea creatures sure to photobomb your next profile pic including glittering schools of sardines, massive prehistoric sunfishes, majestic hammerhead sharks and more. Your friends are going to be so jelly!
- Cannery Row – For a more urban photo op, Cannery Row in Monterey is a historic and vibrant area that offers a glimpse of old-world California. The iconic Cannery Row sign, the Monterey Bay Aquarium (with its captivating ocean views), and the colorful fisherman’s wharf all make great backdrops for capturing Monterey’s lively coastal spirit.
- Lovers Point – Lovers Point is one of the most beloved and photogenic spots in Monterey County. Nestled in the town of Pacific Grove, this charming cove is known for its clear, turquoise waters, rocky outcrops, and panoramic views of the Monterey Bay. Whether you're capturing the golden hues of a sunset or the peaceful early morning light, the view here is always stunning.
- Asilomar State Beach – This pristine beach in Pacific Grove offers stunning coastal views, with its unique rocky shorelines and calm waters. It’s a great spot for long exposure shots of the waves or for capturing the dramatic granite rocks that line the beach. The nearby Asilomar Conference Grounds and the iconic Asilomar Dunes also offer lovely photo opportunities with their scenic paths and coastal backdrop.
5. Pinnacles National Park
With its unique jagged formation and rock spires from weathered remains of an ancient volcano, Pinnacles National Park offers so many great opportunities for photographs, especially while catching your breath on the strenuous High Peaks Loop. Traverse the unique landscapes to discover spectacular views of rock formations, sweeping vistas, and opportunities to view the protected California Condor in its natural habitat. The park also features cool cave systems that make for interesting and unique photos, particularly in the Bear Gulch Caves, where you can capture the mystical shadows and light play inside.
Afterwards, reward yourself with a plate and glass full of local food & wine. Nearby Downtown Soledad and Monterey Wine Trail offer up the best of the region's bounty.
6. Garrapata State Park
Another gem along the Big Sur coast, Garrapata State Park offers an excellent spot for capturing the rugged beauty of Monterey County’s coastline. Whether you're photographing the cliffside views, the wildflowers in spring, or the rocky shorelines, Garrapata is less crowded and offers spectacular, raw natural beauty.
7. Pacific Grove's Butterfly Grove (October-February)
If you visit Monterey County between October and February, the Pacific Grove Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary is a must-visit. Each year, thousands of monarch butterflies flock to the area, and the sight of these colorful insects resting in the trees makes for an enchanting and unique photo opportunity.
8. Elkhorn Slough (Wildlife Viewing in Moss Landing)
For wildlife and nature lovers, the Elkhorn Slough offers fantastic opportunities to capture local wildlife, including sea otters, harbor seals and countless bird species. Kayaking or walking along the slough allows for up-close photos of these playful creatures in their natural habitat, framed by the peaceful marshland and distant hills. Sea otters flock to a particularly protected cove near the dunes at Moss Landing State Beach where you can often find them huddled together in "rafts" which can contain up to 40 otters. A tour with Elkhorn Slough Safari and Monterey Bay Eco Tours on the Elkhorn Slough offer unique opportunities to hear from expert naturalists on a guided tour.
9. Marina State Beach
With expansive sandy beaches, rolling waves and graceful hang gliders overhead it's hard to mess up a picture at Marina State Beach. Take the Reservation Road exit off Highway One which leads to a convenient parking lot with easy access to the beach below. If you're lucky you might even spot a migrating whale spout or a few twirling dolphins in the distance!
10. Bonus–Whale Watching
We may be biased, but an opportunity to see these gentle giants out on the open sea is completely unmatched. Monterey Bay is one of the best places in the world for whale watching, with sightings of gray whales, humpback whales, blue whales and orcas throughout the year. Plan a whale watching tour with Monterey County's many expert guides for an unforgettable experience you'll cherish forever. Snap a few pics, but take some moments to just be with the whales and the sea.
