Now is the moment to experience Monterey County without making a dent in your budget!
Having fun in Monterey doesn't require a lot of money; in fact, many things to see and do are free! With an array of beautiful beaches, priceless backdrops and an abundance of unique activities, Monterey County offers a fun and inexpensive getaway, for everyone.
Free Things to Do in Monterey on a Budget
1. Picnic on the Beach
The weather in our destination is gorgeous for most of the year. Take advantage, pack a picnic and enjoy the scenery at one of our many beautiful beaches.
2. Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail
Stretch your legs and walk or jog along our Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail. See the beautiful boats and marine life along the way or take a seat and enjoy the view from one of the many benches.
3. Take the Path of History
Follow the Path of History through downtown Monterey to see the historic adobe buildings and gardens.
4. Window Shop in Carmel-by-the-Sea
Window shop all of the art galleries in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Explore the hidden courtyards and passageways in this picturesque village.
5. Sample Clam Chowder at Old Fisherman's Wharf
Get a taste of the town and sample clam chowder provided by several restaurants on Old Fisherman's Wharf.
6. Take the Kids to Dennis the Menace Park
Let the kids run off some steam at Dennis the Menace Park at Lake El Estero.
7. Go Birding in Top Nature Spots
Grab your binoculars and do some birding at Carmel River State Beach, Garland Ranch Regional Park and Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve.
8. Browse Local Stores & Art Galleries
Head down to Seaside and Sand City and browse local stores and art galleries.
9. Take a Road Trip Down the Coastline
Drive down the Big Sur coastline to see the unspoiled natural beauty and dramatic vistas.
10. Watch Migrating Monarch Butterflies
See migrating Monarch Butterflies in Pacific Grove at the Monarch Grove Sanctuary during their annual migration, October- February.
11. Take Your Dog to a Dog-Friendly Beach
Run with the frolicking dogs on the white sands of Carmel Beach. While you are there, build a sandcastle, fly a kite or watch the water for dolphins. And, yes, your dog is allowed off-leash.
12. Visit Artichoke Fields in Castroville
See artichoke plants growing in Castroville, the Artichoke Capital of the World.
13. Go Antique-Hunting
Check out antiques and collectibles at the Cannery Row Antique Mall.
14. Take a Scenic Drive to Moss Landing
Take a short drive north to Moss Landing to see their unusual and interesting storefronts which house several unique collectibles and antiques. Or visit Elkhorn Slough to see (and hear) the sea lions relaxing on the pier.
15. Visit History & Free Historic Landmarks
Visit Colton Hall Museum in Monterey to learn about the building where California's first constitution was drafted in 1849. Nearby is the Old Monterey Jail where no one ever escaped from the thick granite walls during its history from 1854-1956.
16. See the Ranches in Carmel Valley
Drive to Carmel Valley Village to find the sun and warmer weather. See the horse and cattle ranches, wineries and rolling hillsides as well as wildflowers in springtime.
17. Take Photos of Classic Victorian Architecture
Take photos of the colorful Victorian B&Bs along Ocean View Boulevard in Pacific Grove.
18. Go Biking along Fort Ord National Monument
Bike along the many miles of trails at Fort Ord National Monument, truly a mountain biker's paradise.
19. Get Active in Toto County Park
Play basketball, softball and hike in Toro County Park in Salinas.
20. Fly a Kite
Fly a kite on Marina State Beach.
21. Watch the Sunset
Watch the sunset at Asilomar Beach.
22. Check Out Monterey's Farmers Market
Peruse local produce and sample fresh fruits at a Monterey County Farmers Market.
More Things to Do in Monterey County on a Budget
There's so much to explore in Monterey County on a budget, so you can indulge in experiences without worrying about your wallet. Check out our ideas on things to do to enjoy the beautiful city on the bay with activities for two under $40.
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- Enjoy Free Transportation. During certain days in the summer, visitors can enjoy FREE transportation around Monterey with MST’s Monterey Trolley. Check their website for the most up-to-date schedule. Ride in style and leave the stress of driving and parking to your trolley conductor. The trolley makes convenient stops at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, designated parking garages, Old Fisherman’s Wharf and downtown Monterey.
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- Visit the Monterey Peninsula Chamber Visitors Center. Stop by the Monterey Peninsula Chamber Visitors Center located at Lake El Estero for free information and coupons for local attractions and restaurants. Download the Free See Monterey App to find the best itineraries and must-see activities in the area.
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- Dennis the Menace Park. Traveling with kids? Take them to Dennis the Menace Park at El Estero Park. The creator of the Dennis the Menace comic strip, Hank Ketchum, designed the children’s stomping ground himself. It includes three large slides, a climbing wall, a suspension bridge, a giant adventure ship and a Southern Pacific steam engine.
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- Path of History Tour. History buffs can get a taste of what Monterey was like in the early days during a self-guided “Path of History” tour. Visitors can simply download the walking map or utilize the cell phone tour. On any day, Visitors to Monterey State Historic Park may take a cell phone tour of historic buildings by dialing (831) 998-9458, followed by a Stop Number when prompted. For a guided tour of Old Monterey, catch a Monterey Walking Tour Thursday through Sunday starting at 2 pm. Curious historians will embark on a 2-hour excursion with snippets of Monterey’s history beginning with the Spanish explorers.
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- Jacks Peak. Outdoor enthusiasts on a budget can experience some of the best views of the Monterey Peninsula at Jacks Peak. This county park offers great day hikes throughout its 8.5 miles of trails. Pack a lunch and relax at one of the several picnic benches. For more great outdoor excursions in Monterey County check out the list of top hikes. Another way to see the views is to enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the scenic coastal recreational trail. Rent a bike at one of the fine bike rental companies along the trail and cruise hot spots such as Old Fisherman’s Wharf and Cannery Row. For those with a larger party try the surrey, a four-wheeled bike carriage that can seat up to six. For other bike rides check out the list of the top 10 bike rides in Monterey County.
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- Beachcombing at Monterey Beaches. The flat beach at Monterey State Beach is an excellent spot for beachcombing. The long stretch of sand provides treasure hunters of all ages with the thrill of the hunt. Sea glass is among one of the more popular finds. Don’t forget to pack the marshmallows, graham crackers and chocolates because it’s time to make smores! Del Monte Beach off Casa Verde Way permits bonfires in designated fire rings until 10 pm.
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- Clam Chowder Sampling. Head to Old Fisherman’s Wharf and get your fix of fresh clam chowder. Whether you’re buying a bread bowl full of creamy goodness or trying multiple samples from wharf restaurants you are sure to stay on budget.
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- Fabulous Wine Tastings. While you’re in Monterey don’t miss out on the fabulous wines that Monterey County has to offer! Several tasting rooms are located on Cannery Row including Bargetto Winery and A Taste of Monterey.
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- Explore the Monterey Mirror Maze. Another great adventure to explore in Cannery Row is The Monterey Mirror Maze. Adults and youth are challenged as they try to find their way out of the psychedelic labyrinth.
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- Oldtown Farmers' Market. Is it Tuesday? If so, then mosey over to Alvarado Street in Oldtown Monterey for the freshest produce on the peninsula. The Oldtown Farmers' Market not only features great fruit and veggies but arts and crafts, musical performances, handmade jewelry, clothing, international food, flowers and pastries as well. The market runs 4 pm-8 pm during the summer months and 4 pm-7 pm during the winter.
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- Happy Hours in Monterey. Several great happy hours are to be had in Monterey but those at Esteban’s and Hula Island Grill and Tiki Room stand out amongst the crowd. These local eateries will get you in and out for under $40, even with a beverage or two.
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- Check Out Vibrant Art. Get a glimpse of art and culture in Monterey County and head to the Monterey Museum of Art. Linger among their exhibits dedicated to American and early California paintings, photography and contemporary art. Another museum to explore is The Monterey History & Art Association at Stanton Center in the Custom House Plaza. This museum provides a space dedicated to showcasing the skills and talents of individuals who have made significant contributions to Monterey's history.