Monterey County Travel Guide
California
Popular cities in Monterey County
Monterey
Known for Beaches, Sea and Aquariums
Forests of towering redwoods, dramatic seascapes, a thriving arts scene and premier local wines; this community hits the perfect balance between rugged and refined.
Reasons to visit
- Monterey Bay Aquarium
- Fisherman's Wharf
- Cannery Row
Carmel
Known for Beaches, Sea and Scenery
This charming oceanfront town is a perfect day-trip for art, food and relaxation.
Reasons to visit
- Carmel Beach
- Carmel Mission Basilica
- Bixby Bridge
Big Sur
Known for Sea, Hiking and Nature
Romantic Big Sur is calling! Discover its oceanfront, hiking, beaches and more.
Reasons to visit
- Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
- Pfeiffer Beach
- Sand Dollar Beach
Pacific Grove
Known for Beaches, Sea and Aquariums
Soak up the old-style charm of this small seaside city, which is famed for the monarch butterflies that stop here on their great migrations.
Reasons to visit
- Lovers Point
- Monarch Grove Butterfly Sanctuary
- Point Pinos Lighthouse
Pebble Beach
Known for Pebble beaches, Beaches and Golf
Experience the beaches, golf and history in Pebble Beach!
Reasons to visit
- Spyglass Hill Golf Course
- Cypress Point Golf Club
- Moss Beach
Salinas
Known for Dining, Family-friendly and Business
Discover the rich literary heritage of this agricultural city, the birthplace of Nobel Prize-winning author of The Grapes of Wrath, John Steinbeck.
Reasons to visit
- Toro County Park
- National Steinbeck Center