Monterey: Coast, Nature and Special Discoveries

Monterey combines impressive coastal landscapes, diverse wildlife and a multifaceted history. In Monterey County, you can watch whales and dolphins all year round, including blue whales, humpback whales, fin whales, sperm whales and orcas. There are also trails through wetlands, historic sites, museums and opportunities for water sports. Those looking for a holiday apartment in Monterey can therefore choose between active days in nature, cultural discoveries and excursions along the coast.

Landscapes Between Rocks, Forest and Coast

Pinnacles National Park features rock spires and deep canyons formed by earlier volcanic eruptions. For planning your day, you can choose between short, family-friendly hikes and challenging trekking routes. One of the park’s special features is its rare talus caves. They give the nature experience a distinctive character without all trails requiring the same level of effort.

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park also offers striking landscapes. Redwood, tanoak, madrone and chaparral grow there. In addition, an 80-foot-high waterfall plunges from granite cliffs into the waters of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. On the coast, the Asilomar Dunes Habitat Natural Preserve lies above a coastal trail that runs along white sandy beaches and rocky tide pools. Point Sur Lightstation stands on a large volcanic rock 361 feet above the Pacific; it was first put into operation on August 1, 1889.

Ocean, Wetlands and Special Wildlife-Watching Opportunities

The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary offers opportunities for sailing, fishing, whale watching, kayaking, surfing and scuba diving. It is also home to 26 species of marine mammals and 94 species of seabirds. In the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, diving is permitted only at Whalers Cove and Bluefish Cove. This specific restriction should be taken into account when planning a stay that includes underwater activities.

The Elkhorn Slough Reserve is suitable for a variety of nature experiences. Six miles of trails lead through oak forests, wetlands and meadows. The reserve has a visitor center and picnic areas; guided walks are offered on Saturdays and Sundays. Kayaking is possible on the seven-mile main channel and in smaller side channels. With more than 346 resident and migratory bird species, the area is also interesting for birdwatching. The McWay Falls Overlook Trail is closed through 2026 due to a project involving a retaining wall.

History, Literature and Regional Culinary Experiences

Monterey State Historic Park encompasses more than 10 historic buildings and sites within a half-mile radius of Custom House Plaza. Guided historic walks and house tours make this area interesting for travelers who want to get to know Monterey beyond its landscapes. On July 7, 1846, Commodore John D. Sloat raised the American flag at the Custom House, marking the official takeover of California by the U.S. military.

The National Steinbeck Center provides insights into the life and work of John Steinbeck. Interactive, multisensory exhibits for all age groups, rare artifacts and seven themed theaters offer different ways to explore literature and regional history. Whalers Cabin is a museum of cultural history; the artifacts there were consistent with Chinese settlement. Asilomar State Beach also includes historic Y.W.C.A. conference facilities designed by architect Julia Morgan.

Culinary discoveries can also be incorporated into your trip. Monterey County has walk-in tasting rooms in Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea, as well as winery and vineyard facilities along River Road and in Carmel Valley. When choosing your holiday apartment, you can therefore consider whether nature, culture, the coast or wine country should be the focus of your trip.

Which Base Suits Your Travel Plans?

California Highway 101 crosses Monterey County and provides access to all the cities in the Salinas Valley as well as the Monterey Peninsula. Highway 1 offers scenic views of the California coast in Monterey County. These two roads are therefore important reference points when choosing your accommodation based on different excursion destinations and landscapes.

For further orientation, you also have Big Sur, Carmel Valley, Carmel-By-The-Sea, Marina, Monterey, Pacific Grove, Sand City, King City, Greenfield, Salinas, Seaside, Soledad, San Lucas, Spreckels, Moss Landing and Las Lomas.

For the higher-level travel overview: California.