Which Path Will You Take?
Which Path Will You Take?
Find Your Way Here.
Come to Monterey County for a trail-hiking, kayak-paddling, wine-sipping, bike-pedaling, putt-sinking, otter-spotting adventure like none other. Crisp coastal air, golden vineyards, and harvest flavors set the scene as Monterey County’s cultural riches and iconic landscapes shine even brighter. From the rugged coastlines of Big Sur to the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium, now is the perfect season to explore. Charming towns and endless adventures beckon travelers for romantic retreats, family vacations and festive getaways.
Activities In Monterey
Seasonal Draws
17-Mile Drive
Farmers Markets
Best Hikes in Big Sur
Seasonal Draws
Plan a vacation in Monterey County during the ideal time of year for your travel musts. Discover seasonal draws, including popular annual events, things to do and suggested places to stay.
PLan Your Vacation
17-Mile Drive
The famed 17 Mile Drive is a breathtaking stretch of roadway that hugs the Pacific coastline, featuring awe-inspiring points of interest, including The Lone Cypress (one of the most photographed trees in North America!) and the world-renowned Pebble Beach Golf Links.
17-Mile Drive
Farmers Markets
Earning the name "Salad Bowl of the World," it's no surprise that Monterey County is home to many farmers markets of varying sizes and specialties.
Farmers Markets
Best Hikes in Big Sur
Discover the best Big Sur day hikes for many levels and abilities, ranging from easy, accessible paths to challenging backpacking routes.
Big Sur Hikes
Signature Events
Monterey County is home to signature events that draw in visitors from around the country and around the world. There’s always something happening to keep your calendar (and camera roll!) full.
AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am
2/9/2026
Recurring daily
Held every winter on the stunning Monterey Peninsula, the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am blends world-class golf, scenic beauty and relaxed California charm. Taking place across Pebble Beach Golf Links and Spyglass Hill, this event draws PGA pros and amateurs alike for four days of elite competition and coastal vibes. The tournament offers breathtaking ocean views, fan-friendly access and a lively atmosphere....
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Rancho Cielo's Culinary Round Up
2/22/2026
Since 2010, Rancho Cielos annual Culinary Round Up has provided a unique opportunity for guests to meet and support the culinary students of Rancho Cielo Youth Campus. This is an evening of fun, food and libations with a Western flair, including an exciting raffle and live auction. Proceeds from the event benefit the culinary program at Rancho Cielo, where the...
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Jazz Bash By The Bay Monterey
3/6/2026 - 3/8/2026
Recurring daily
The Jazz Bash By the Bay Monterey takes place in eight venues and across six dance floors, featuring over 20 bands and more than 100 musicians. Enjoy the colorful forms of American Classic Jazz, including Traditional, Ragtime, Swing, Gypsy and Blues.
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Pebble Beach Food & Wine
4/9/2026 - 4/12/2026
Recurring daily
Pebble Beach Food & Wine is the West Coasts premier epicurean lifestyle event, featuring four days of wine tastings, cooking demos and some of the most exclusive, unique dining opportunities available in the world. 250 acclaimed wineries and 100 celebrity chefs assemble to bring you the culinary experience of a lifetime on one of the most picturesque strips of coastline...
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Whalefest
4/11/2026 - 4/12/2026
The 16th Annual Whalefest Monterey will take place Saturday and Sunday, April 1112, 2026, at and around Old Fishermans Wharf and Custom House Plaza Monterey State Historic Park. This free, family-friendly festival features interactive exhibits, live music, research and rescue vessel tours, and educational activities for all ages. The popular Symposium, with renowned marine experts, is scheduled for both...
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Sea Otter Classic
4/16/2026 - 4/19/2026
A four-day "Celebration of Cycling," the Sea Otter Classic is regarded as the largest and most comprehensive gathering of cycling enthusiasts in the world. Part recreational biking, part competitive event, part festival, part expo and 100% fun. This action-packed cycling extravaganza features amateur and pro cycling events as well as family activities for all ages. New in 2026, the weekend will...
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Big Sur International Marathon
4/26/2026
The Big Sur Marathon is 26.2 miles of the most beautiful coastline in the world - and, for runners, the most challenging. The athletes who participate may draw inspiration from the spectacular views, but it takes major discipline to conquer the hills of Highway 1 on the way to the finish line. Named "Best Marathon in North America" by The Ultimate...
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Monterey SportsCar Championship
5/1/2026 - 5/3/2026
Recurring daily
The most technologically advanced sports cars in the world return to Monterey. Featuring the advanced GTP (Grand Touring Prototype) from such makes as Acura, BMW, Cadillac and Porsche, they are setting new performance benchmarks and bringing highly contested racing excitement. The IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship showcases its top classes, familiar names and teams where fans of all ages can see,...
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Good Old Days Street Festival
5/2/2026 - 5/3/2026
Recurring daily
Good Old Days Street Festival is Pacific Groves premier community event. Each year, this FREE event draws a great crowd of locals and visitors, rain or shine! Vendors from multiple states display their arts and crafts alongside a wide variety of food booths, stretching down historic Lighthouse Avenue, for the largest gathering of arts and crafts vendors in Monterey County. ...
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Santa Lucia Highlands Sun, Wind & Wine Festival
5/2/2026
Your favorite growers and vintners pour some of the world's best Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Sparklers and Syrah - all from the Santa Lucia Highlands. Meet the winemakers and taste 90+ point limited-release gems from the likes of Caraccioli Cellars, Mer Soleil, Morgan, Siduri, Hahn, Belle Glos, McIntyre, Puma Road, Pessagno, ROAR, Talbott Vineyards, Pisoni, Wrath and many more. The setting...
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Itineraries
Monterey County is a destination designed for every type of traveler. Explore paths to find the picture-perfect vacation you’ve been searching for, with expertly curated itineraries, travel resources and top-rated attractions that have created your ultimate coastal guide.
Finding your way in Monterey
No matter if you’re seeking a chance to reconnect and relax with family, are on a solo wellness retreat, or have simply come to soak up the charms of coastal living, Monterey has the perfect path for you. Browse based on interest or need and use our in-depth travel guides to arrive (and stay!) inspired.
Choose your own travel path
Need some inspo?
Looking for travel inspiration? Our blog is packed with insider tips, destination guides and local stories to help you make the most of your Monterey adventure.
Paths visitors have found
Monterey is your Luxury liaison
Monterey County offers luxurious experiences for the discerning traveler. Indulge in world-class amenities, from top-rated resorts and MICHELIN-star dining to exclusive activities and curated itineraries.
Discover your own Luxury experience
Don’t Just Meet, Connect
If you’re looking to plan a one-of-a-kind retreat or a meeting to remember, look to Monterey County. With cutting-edge venues, spaces for groups of all sizes and no shortage of stunning backdrops, we’re all in on making your event all inspired.