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Monterey California Travel Guide 2025: What to Do, Where to Stay & How to Get There
- Alyssa
- May 13, 2024
- 11 min read
Updated: 1 day ago
Planning a trip to Monterey, California? This Monterey travel guide covers everything you need to plan the perfect visit, what to do, where to stay, how to get there, and whether Monterey is worth visiting. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a Highway 1 road trip, Monterey Bay offers coastal views, fresh seafood, scenic drives, and wildlife experiences you won’t find anywhere else.
In this guide, you’ll find our best tips based on dozens of personal trips over the years, including the top things to do, the best areas to stay, how many days you need, and the distances from San Francisco, San Jose, and Los Angeles. Let’s dive into everything Monterey Bay has to offer.
How Many Days Do You Need in Monterey?
Most travelers need 2–3 days in Monterey to see the major sights without rushing. It’s possible to visit in a single day, but you’ll miss a lot of what makes the area special.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
1 day: Cannery Row, the Monterey Bay Aquarium, and a quick stop in Pacific Grove
2 days: Add 17-Mile Drive, Lovers Point, and a sunset along the coast
3 days: Include Carmel-by-the-Sea, Carmel Beach, and a half-day in Big Sur
4+ days: Perfect for slow-paced trips, Highway 1 hikes, or a whale-watching tour
Best Time to Visit Monterey Bay
We think spring is the best time to visit Monterey Bay, especially from March to early June. The weather is warming up, but the summer crowds haven’t arrived yet. Plus, the wildflowers are blooming, local agriculture is vibrant, and the coast feels fresh and alive after the winter rain. If you’re visiting for whale watching, spring is also a great time to catch gray whales migrating north.
Distances & Drive Times to Monterey Bay
Starting City | Distance (miles) | Drive Time | Notes |
San Francisco | ~120 miles | 2–2.5 hours | Fastest via US-101; most scenic via Highway 1 |
San Jose | ~75 miles | 1–1.5 hours | Easiest and quickest route |
Oakland | ~110 miles | ~2 hours | Usually light traffic heading south |
Sacramento | ~185 miles | ~3.5 hours | Mostly highway driving |
Los Angeles | ~330 miles | 5–6 hours | Best done as part of a coastal road trip |
Fresno | ~150 miles | ~3 hours | Straightforward inland route |
Modesto | ~140 miles | ~2.5 hours | Consistent drive time outside rush hours |
Getting To The Bay of Monterey, California:
Getting to Monterey Bay is fairly easy, whether you’re flying directly into the area or starting from San Francisco or San Jose. Below are the most common transportation options, based on convenience, cost, and how much time you want to spend traveling.
Flying Into Monterey Regional Airport (MRY)
The most convenient way to reach Monterey is by flying into Monterey Regional Airport (MRY), which receives daily flights from United, American, and Alaska Airlines. These routes connect from select cities such as San Francisco, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Seattle, Denver, and Phoenix. While flights into MRY can be more expensive, the trade-off is convenience, Cannery Row and the Monterey Bay Aquarium are only about eight minutes from the airport. Depending on what you plan to do, you may not need a rental car at all.
Flying Into San Francisco (SFO) or San Jose (SJC)
For most travelers, flying into SFO or SJC offers the best mix of availability and affordability. These airports have far more flight options and often cheaper fares. From either airport, you can choose to book a shuttle or rent a car to reach Monterey, depending on your budget and comfort level.
Taking a Shuttle From SFO or SJC
If you don’t want to rent a car, Groome Transportation operates daily shuttle service from both major Bay Area airports. Prices are around $62 per person from SFO and $51 per person from SJC, and each passenger gets two free checked bags. Shuttles offer a convenient, no-stress connection into Monterey and are ideal if you prefer not to drive after a long flight.
Driving to Monterey (Recommended for Most Travelers)
Renting a car is often the most flexible and enjoyable way to reach Monterey, especially if you want to visit nearby highlights such as 17-Mile Drive, Pacific Grove, Carmel-by-the-Sea, or Big Sur. You can take the scenic Highway 1 route, which winds along the coast with beaches and overlooks, or the faster inland options via US-101 or CA-156. Expect about 2–2.5 hours from SFO and 1–1.5 hours from San Jose. Having a car makes it easier to explore the entire Monterey Peninsula at your own pace.
Taking the Train to Monterey
Travelers who prefer not to drive can reach Monterey by train, though it’s the slowest option. From San Jose, the Amtrak Coast Starlight goes to Salinas, and from there an Amtrak Thruway Bus connects directly to Monterey. This route is straightforward and usually costs around $26 one way. Traveling from San Francisco by train is technically possible but not recommended, it requires taking BART into the city, transferring to an Amtrak bus, and then continuing through multiple transfers that can take up to six hours. After a flight, it’s simply too long to be practical
Best Areas to Stay in Monterey Bay
Monterey has options ranging from budget-friendly chain hotels to luxury oceanfront resorts. Prices vary widely depending on the season, you’ll find rooms from $190–$1,000+ per night.
Here are our top personal picks based on multiple stays across different budgets:
1. Monterey Plaza Hotel (Luxury Oceanfront Stay)
What we paid: $607.72 for a king ocean-view balcony
You’ll also get access to rooftop hot tubs overlooking the ocean, which feel like a private coastal spa session.
Why we like it:
Incredible balcony views
Walkable to Cannery Row
Rooftop hot tubs
Great for anniversaries, birthdays, or splurges
Full Review Here: Monterey Plaza Hotel
If you want a true coastal experience, Monterey Plaza is hard to beat. The ocean is literally beneath your balcony, we fell asleep to waves crashing and woke up to seagulls gliding past the deck. The hotel is walking distance to Cannery Row, beaches, shops, and restaurants, so we never needed the car.
2. Hampton Inn Monterey (Budget-Friendly + Free Parking)
What we paid: $221.25 for one night during spring break
If you want something simple, clean, and reliable, this is our go-to affordable option. Free breakfast and free parking alone can save you a surprising amount in Monterey. The location is convenient, close to the beach, local walking trails, and a shopping area if you need snacks or essentials.
Why we like it:
Great price for Monterey
Includes breakfast + parking
Easy access to the coast
Calm, quiet area
3. The Sanctuary Beach Resort (Private Beach Feel + Great Sunsets)
What we paid: varies from $400 to $1,800 depending on season & night
Why we like it:
Private, quiet atmosphere
Fire pits + onsite dining
Great for families or couples
Amazing sunset views
We’ve stayed here a few times, and always tell friends: book midweek if you can. Weekend prices spike heavily. Sanctuary has a private-beach vibe, fire pits, bocce ball courts, a pool, and an onsite restaurant , plus one of the best hotel sunset views we’ve had anywhere in Monterey County.
4. Hyatt Carmel Highlands (Woodsy Retreat With Ocean Views)
What we paid: ~$450 per night (summer)
If you want something tucked away and quiet, Hyatt Carmel Highlands sits in the trees overlooking the Pacific. Rooms have huge windows, the property has pools and hot tubs, and the atmosphere feels like a coastal cabin retreat.
They’ve been undergoing renovations (as of April 2024), so check recent reviews before booking.
Why we like it:
Woodsy, secluded atmosphere
Big ocean-facing windows
Great for unwinding
Ideal for couplest to unwind outside of town. Just know it’s a little farther from downtown Monterey.
What to do in Monterey Bay, California:
The Monterey area has something for everyone, beautiful coastlines, sandy beaches, great seafood, hiking, bike trails, and, of course, whale watching and a world-famous aquarium. Below are our favorite things to do in the area, with real prices and local tips from our visits!
Monterey Bay Aquarium
The Monterey Bay Aquarium is one of the top attractions in California and easily worth half a day. It’s known for its open-ocean exhibits, deep-sea creatures, jellyfish displays, and rotating research exhibits. The sea otter program is one of the highlights, and the aquarium often rehabilitates rescued pups before releasing them back into the wild.
Admission:
Adults: $59.95
Youth (13–17): $49.95
Children (5–12): $44.95
Children 4 and under: Free
You can buy tickets online here!
What to know: Plan for 2–4 hours depending on crowds. Weekday mornings are the quietest time to visit.
Cannery Row
Cannery Row is a historic oceanfront stretch packed with restaurants, souvenir shops, small beaches, and scenic pullouts. It used to be home to active sardine canneries but is now one of Monterey’s most photographed areas. Even if you’re not shopping, it’s a great place for a relaxed walk with ocean views.
Whale Watching
Whale watching in Monterey Bay is one of the best experiences on the West Coast. Depending on the season, you may see humpback whales, blue whales, gray whales, dolphins, and huge groups of sea lions. All tours leave from Old Fisherman’s Wharf, which has several reputable operators.
Price Range: $75–$100 per person
Tour Companies:
Chris’ Fishing & Whale Watching
Discovery Whale Watch
Monterey Bay Whale Watch
Princess Monterey Whale Watching
Find our experience review with Monterey Bay Whale Watch here!
Pacific Grove & Lovers Point
Pacific Grove is one of Monterey’s most underrated areas, known for quiet coastal paths, tide pools, and some of the best sunset spots on the peninsula. Lovers Point Park is a beautiful oceanfront area with a small beach, picnic tables, restrooms, and calm water that’s great for kayaking or paddle-boarding. In spring, the coastline bursts with pink ice plant blooms, creating some of the most photographed views in the area. Parking is usually easier here than on Cannery Row, and the coastal walking trail stretches all the way to the aquarium.
Kayak in Monterey Bay
Kayaking in Monterey is one of the easiest ways to get close to wildlife. Sea otters, seals, and harbor porpoises frequently swim through the protected kelp forests just off the beach. There are plenty of kayak rental shops along the waterfront, so you can book ahead or walk up when the weather is good.
Big Sur / McWay Falls
If you have time for a short drive, Big Sur is one of the most scenic coastal regions in California. The pullouts along Highway 1 offer panoramic views of cliffs, wildlife, and turquoise water. One of the most popular stops is McWay Falls, a short walk from the parking lot where you can view a waterfall pouring onto a protected beach below.
Carmel-by-the-Sea
Just a few minutes south of Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea is one of the most scenic small towns on the California coast. The downtown area feels like a European village, with boutique shops, art galleries, bakeries, and wine tasting rooms. Carmel Beach is the highlight, a wide stretch of white sand with views of Pebble Beach and dramatic cliffs along the coastline. It’s an easy half-day or full-day add-on to any Monterey itinerary and pairs perfectly with 17-Mile Drive or a Big Sur day trip.
Old Fisherman’s Wharf
Old Fisherman’s Wharf is a lively pier with restaurants, snack stands, gift shops, and oceanfront lookouts. It’s also the launching point for whale-watching and sailing trips. The wharf gets busy during peak season, so parking can fill up quickly.
Parking Tips:
Fisherman's Wharf Waterfront Lot WF#1 is our go-to spot
Downtown Garage West is a reliable backup
Go Sailing
Sailing is a great way to explore the bay without needing to kayak. We booked with Sail Monterey, and it remains one of our favorite water-based activities in the area. The crew was friendly and knowledgeable, and we saw tons of wildlife.
We sailed with: Sail Monterey,
Day sail: $55/person
Sunset sail: $85/person
The crew was friendly and knowledgeable, and we saw tons of wildlife!
17-Mile Drive
17-Mile Drive is a scenic coastal route that passes Pebble Beach Golf Course and the Del Monte Forest. There are plenty of viewpoints along the road, and it's common to see sea lions, harbor seals, and grazing deer. Expect to stop several times to take photos.
Entrance Fee: $12 per vehicle
Local Tip: Many Pebble Beach restaurants reimburse the fee with qualifying purchases ($35+). Sticks even has live bagpipe music in the evenings.
Best Restaurants in Monterey
We have tried a lot of food in the Monterey area, and sometimes we have left places disappointed, or feeling like we had been tourist-trapped! Below are some places we have tried on multiple occasions that have never failed us. Our favorite of all is Heirloom Pizza!! If you try one thing from the list, it should be their deep-dish pizza. Our family from out of state brings it up every time we see them!! Honestly, I think about it once a week!! It is seriously so good!!
Heirloom Pizza Co (Our #1 Pick):
This is deep-dish pizza done right. We like to order a build-your-own with garlic and pepperoni, but honestly, everything we’ve tried is good. It’s near downtown, easy to get to, and every time family visits, this is the one place they still talk about months later.Not exaggerating, we think about this pizza every week. Find it on Google Maps here!
First Awakenings (Breakfast + Lunch):
Right near Cannery Row, this place always hits the spot for breakfast or a casual lunch. Big portions, fast service, and the kind of menu where everyone finds something they like. Great for fueling up before a full day out. Find it on Google Maps here!
Schooners Monterey (Oceanfront Drinks + Light Bites):
Located right over the water, this is our go-to for a drink and appetizers with a view. The patio is unbeatable, great for sunset, and you’ll usually catch seals or otters bobbing nearby. We don’t go for full meals here, but the vibe and drinks are top tier. Find it on Google Maps here!
Chart House (Dinner with Ocean Views):
Upscale steak and seafood spot with huge windows, and on our last visit, we got to watch a mom and baby sea otter play right outside while we ate. The food is solid, but the views make it a dinner experience, not just a meal. Find it on Google Maps here!
Sardine Factory (Old-School & Fancy):
If you want something more classic and formal, this spot has themed dining rooms, seafood, steak, and some surprisingly fun desserts. We go for the chocolate ice cream bonbons, and they’ve never disappointed. Find it on Google Maps here!
Whaling Station Steakhouse (Classic Steakhouse Vibes):
Tucked close to Cannery Row, this is where we go when we want a classic steakhouse feel, dim lighting, heavy silverware, and old-school energy. The beef Wellington is our favorite here. Find it on Google Maps here!
Is Monterey Worth Visiting? (Travel Guide Summary)
Yes, Monterey is absolutely worth visiting, whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a full coastal road trip. It’s only about two hours from San Francisco and offers a mix of ocean views, wildlife, food, and scenic drives that make it one of Northern California’s most rewarding destinations.
Here’s what makes Monterey worth the trip:
Easy access from San Francisco (2–2.5 hours) and San Jose (1–1.5 hours)
Iconic highlights like Cannery Row, the Monterey Bay Aquarium, and 17-Mile Drive
Beautiful coastal scenery along Highway 1, including beaches and overlook points
Great wildlife, sea otters, harbor seals, whales, and tidepools
Walkable dining areas with fresh seafood, cafés, and ocean views
Close to Carmel-by-the-Sea and Big Sur for easy day trips
We recommend 3–4 days in Monterey to see everything the area has to offer. You can visit in a single day, but you’ll miss the slower coastal pace that makes this place memorable.
When it comes to hotels, Monterey has plenty of options. For budget-friendly trips, we stay at the Hampton Inn Monterey, which includes free breakfast and parking. For a luxury weekend, Monterey Plaza Hotel is our top pick, the ocean is literally under your balcony. And if you visit, be sure to try Heirloom Pizza Co.’s deep-dish pizza, it’s our favorite spot to eat in the city.