Monterey in One Day

With so much to see and do in just one day, guests may need to choose between exploring Monterey's coastal region or driving inland to the destination's rolling hills and lush valleys. Either way, the rocky shoreline between Fisherman's Wharf and Cannery Row in Monterey is a sensible place to begin.

After breakfast, explore Cannery Row, immortalized by John Steinbeck's well-loved novels, Cannery Row and Sweet Thursday and today home to intimate shops, restaurants and art galleries. Anchoring one end of the famous street where the sardine was once king is the Monterey Bay Aquarium, known throughout the world for its interactive exhibits and ability to present marine life on a truly grand scale. Exploring its fascinating galleries will absorb most of the morning.

Guests can then walk (or bike, roller-skate or guide a surrey) toward Fisherman's Wharf, departure point for a veritable fleet of whale watching boats. Cruises run between two and four hours, depending on which whales the group will be watching - many different species call the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary "home" throughout the year. Upon their return, guests can sample rich, steaming clam chowder at tasting stations outside the various restaurants along the Wharf.

Back on shore, explore the Path of History in Old Monterey. Don't miss Colton Hall, where California's state constitution was drafted in 1846. Pacific House, Custom House and the Maritime Museum of Monterey offer valuable history lessons, as well.

‘Weather not the best for boating? Walk the Path of History first and then stop in at the Monterey Museum of Art, just steps from many landmarks along the Path of History. Celebrating the rich artistic heritage of Central California, the museum offers exceptional collections of early California painting, photography, and contemporary art in a unique historic setting. The museum houses significant collections of work by Armin Hansen, William Ritschel, Ansel Adams, and Edward Weston, and these collections are supplemented by year-round exhibitions, lectures and classes.

The children will enjoy MY Museum (Monterey County Youth Museum) that features exhibits that awaken the creativity and sense of discovery in adults and children.

Cap off the day back on Cannery Row with a wine tasting at one of the many tasting rooms in the area where you'll sample wines from a selection of Monterey County's fine wineries. Taste and purchase your favorite vintages or shop for gifts in the gift shops nearby.