Things to do on the Monterey Bay

A view of Old Fisherman’s Wharf in Monterey

A view of Old Fisherman’s Wharf in Monterey

by Shawn Cavlan

If you are thinking of trying to get that one last hurrah before the school year begins….I strongly recommend you come and visit us in the Monterey Bay.  Santa Cruz to Carmel, there is so much to see and do for a fun weekend away.

The Monterey Bay is one of the most picturesque areas in the country.   It has a bounty of activities that range from enjoying the outdoors, to museums, dining,  and shopping. There is truly something for everyone.

Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

400 Beach St Santa Cruz, CA 95060

This is the premier attraction in Santa Cruz.  Come enjoy surf, sand, and rides!!

Roaring Camp Railroad

5401 Graham Hill Rd, Santa Cruz, CA 95018

Ride through the Santa Cruz redwood forests aboard a steam locomotive on this alternative sightseeing tour, a great choice for travelers with limited time. 

Wilder Ranch State Park

1401 Coast Rd, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

831-423-9703

An excellent choice for varying levels of hikes, scenery, and touring historic buildings.

Seymour Marine Discovery Center

100 Shaffer Rd, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Touch tanks, interactive exhibits, and knowledgeable docents make this a fun and informative activity.

Santa Cruz Surfing Museum

West Cliff Dr @Lighthouse 

Come and learn about the history of surfing in Santa Cruz and the mainland U.S.  

Monterey / Carmel

Monterey Bay Aquarium

886 Cannery Row @David Ave

One of the premier aquariums in the entire country.  Something not to be missed!

17 Mile Drive

Follow 17-Mile Drive’s red-dotted line to arrive at an enchanting world full of dramatic coastal cliffs, snow-white beaches, mystical forests and iconic golf courses. Discover one of the most scenic drives in the world as you meet the inspiring Lone Cypress, ponder the giant trees at Crocker Grove, digest the untouched beauty at Fanshell Beach, behold the power of the Restless Sea at Point Joe, stroll the boardwalk above the beach at Spanish Bay, and much, much more.

Old Fisherman’s Wharf

A visit to the beautiful Monterey Peninsula just isn't complete without a rendezvous with Old Fisherman's Wharf.

Pacific Grove Oceanview Boulevard

A gorgeous walk hugging the coast in the city of Pacific Grove.  (note: Don’t be surprised if you run into SIM founders Adrian &/or Raffi walking along this path with their lovely wives : )

Cannery Row

Cannery Row & Wave Streets  Monterey, CA

With its picturesque charm and colorful history (immortalized in John Steinbeck’s book of the same name), Cannery Row captivates visitors from all over the world. The unique appeal of this fabled street is what makes Cannery Row the most popular vacation destination on California’s Central Coast. With luxurious waterfront hotels, enticing restaurants and captivating boutiques, Cannery Row is the ideal place to soak up the culture and beauty of Monterey Bay.

Discovery Monterey Whale Watching

66 Fisherman’s Wharf Monterey, CA 93940 

1-800-987-9852

Expert guided tours of the bay where you almost certainly will encounter some of our most famous residents!


Adrian Cavlan