Things to Do in the Southern Part of Monterey Bay
Written/Edited by: Northern Latitudes Editorial Team
Updated: 8/18/2026
Photo Source: Northern Latitudes
Introduction
Often overlooked by tourists, Monterey Bay is without doubt one of the best destinations of California. The small inlet in the coast of the Golden State is not only beautiful, but also a fun destination for all. Here is our guide to the best things to do in the southernmost part of the bay (Monterey, Carmel By The Sea, etc…). During our trip, we had the opportunity to try some of the sites presented below.
1- The Monterey Bay Aquarium
Monterey Bay is well-known for its incredibly diverse wildlife. You can discover it by taking on tours, or/and simply by visiting the Monterey Bay Aquarium. The aquarium welcomes a vast variety of marine species and a large forest of kelp. It does not re-invent the aquarium concept, but it's a great visit though.
Directions
There is multiple parking lot around the aquarium. The website of the aquarium list them (click on link to see). After parking, you will have to walk just a little bit to get to the aquarium. You can also ride the free trolley to the aquarium during certain seasons.
Address:
886 Cannery Row
Monterey, CA 93940
2 - Old Fisherman’s Wharf
Likely you know what a wharf is, and let’s say it right from the start, the Old Fisherman’s Wharf of Monterey is not different from most wharfs. There are restaurants, souvenirs shops, and a handful of wildlife. Yet, isn't that why people like wharfs? We also found the wharf to be a fairly good spot to see the wildlife like sea lions or sea otters.
Directions
There is a very large paying parking lot adjacent to the wharf. You can also ride the free trolley to the aquarium during certain seasons.
Photo Source: Northern Latitudes
Admission
FREE
Address:
1 Old Fisherman’s Wharf,
Monterey, CA 93940
3 - Carmel-By-The-Sea
Carmel By The Sea is located a little bit south of Monterey and is — in our opinion — an underestimated destination. The small towns feature European architecture mixed with a relaxed coastal atmosphere. It is a popular spot for art lovers (thanks to the many galleries) and for tourists looking for a cute place to eat at. We didn’t spend much time in Carmel By The Sea during our visit, but we should have.
Directions
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Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons
There's multiple parking lots around town. Note that Carmel-By-The-Sea is hilly, meaning that you might have to walk up or down steep hills.
4 - Point Pinos Lighthouse
According to the city of Pacific Grove, the Point Pinos Lighthouse is the oldest continuously operated lighthouse on the West coast. It was built in 1855, meaning that it is older than the Golden Gate Bridge or Statue of Liberty. You may go around the building for free, or get inside for a fee. A great place to see for its historical value.
Directions
The access to the lighthouse is located along Asilomar Ave where you will also find parking spots.
Address:
80 Asilomar Ave,
Pacific Grove, CA 93950
Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons
Admission
Regular tickets prices as given by website of City of Pacific Grove:
-
Adult (17+) - $7
-
Childrens (7 - 1 yrs) - $3
-
Childrens (Under 3) - FREE
5 - Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
​Point Lobos is a personal favorite in Monterey Bay, and in our opinion, the one we would keep if we had to only choose one. The park has a stunning coastline characterized by turquoise water, sand beaches, mixed with forests of cypress and cliffs. Many are those who come to the park for photography, hiking or scuba diving. It’s truly a stunning park.
Directions
The entrance is located along the Highway 1. Parking inside the reserve is very limited and get full very quickly. The website of the Point Lobos Foundation recommend to park only in designated pullouts along the road, or designated areas. Entering the reserve on foot is free.
Address:
Plaza de Monterey, 380 Cannery Row,
Monterey, CA 93940
6 - Lone Cypress
The “Lone Cypress” is not really one big attraction, but rather a landmark of the bay. The cypress seating on a rocky cliff is one of the most iconic pictures of Monterey bay. The hundreds of years old tree can easily be seen from an overlook.
Directions
You cannot walk close to the tree. However, a designated lookout is located along the 17 Mile Drive. The access to the scenic drive is managed by the Pebble Beach Company and cost $12.50 per vehicle as of 2026. You can check for the most up to date cost on the official website of the company.
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Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons
Admission
Entrance for the 17-Mile Drive:
-
$12.50 as of 2026 (Price subject to change)
7 - Observe Monarch Butterflies
Each year, the Monarch butterflies come into Monterey Bay as part of their migratory path. One of the most well known spots to see them is next to the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History. According to their website, the orange butterflies start to arrive in mid October and stay there until January.
Directions
The sanctuary is located next to the Butterfly Grove Inn (property with white fance). A small sign indicated the direction of the sanctuary. Parking spots are located along the road.
Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons
Admission
FREE
Address:
250 Ridge Rd,
Pacific Grove, CA 93950
8 - Get on the Water
Each year, the Monarch butterflies come into Monterey Bay as part of their migratory path. One of the most well known spots to see them is next to the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History. According to their website, the orange butterflies start to arrive in mid October and stay there until January.
9 - Cannery Row
Once very active in the canning industry, Cannery row is one of Monterey’s most iconic places. The street was originally called “Ocean View Avenue”, but later renamed “Cannery Row” after John Steinbeck’s eponymous novel. As time went by, the canneries closed and were turned into what we know today; a vibrant street with restaurants, shops and activities.
Directions
There is several parkings around Cannery Row. You might find some free parking spots in the nearby residential areas. Be sure to check for signs though. Some meters zones around Lighthouse Avenue allows for free short-term parking (free). You can also park elsewhere and ride the free trolley during certain periods.
Address:
Cannery Row
Monterey, CA 93940
10 - Rocky Creek Bridge
If you type “California Pacific Coast Highway” on the web, it’s almost sure that one of the first couple of pictures will feature the Bixby Bridge. But many don’t know that the slightly shorter Rocky Creek Bridge located about a mile away offers an equally beautiful view. You can park along the highway (space is very limited though) and take an amazing picture of the scenery.
Directions
The Rocky Creek Vista point is located along the highway and offers nice views of the bridge. Parking is free but very limited. Be careful as the vista point is located on the side of the highway and on the edge of an unguarded cliff.
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Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons
Admission
FREE
Address:
38462 CA-1, Monterey, CA 93940
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