The waterfront Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail stretches 18 miles, from Castroville in the north to Pacific Grove in the south. This popular paved path hugs the coast, following the same route as the old Southern Pacific Railway. The rec trail is a great way for families to reach the Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row, the American Tin Cannery shopping and outlet mall, Fisherman's Wharf and much more - avoiding busy roads and parking hassles.
History
Much of the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail is located where the tracks of the Southern Pacific Railroad once ran. The Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District saw the potential of this abandoned railway right away and, with financial assistance from the Coastal Conservancy and aid from the cities of Pacific Grove, Monterey and Seaside, began transforming it into the much-loved Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail in 1986.
Biking, Kayaking and More
Along the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail, visitors can rent bikes and surreys (canopied quadricycles capable of seating up to six people), in-line skates and kayaks from several local businesses including Adventures by the Sea and Monterey Bay Kayaks. There are several places to stop and get a bite to eat on the trail or you can pack a picnic and spread a blanket out on one of the trail's many grassy areas. All the while, you will enjoy beautiful views of Monterey Bay, where you can watch sea lions and sea otters in their natural environment.
Rules and Regulations
The Monterey Bay Coastal Recreational Trail has two lanes, just like a regular street. Please stay in the right lane, as you would if you were driving. If you're traveling with a large group, leave enough space for others who are enjoying the trail to get by. All dogs must be leashed on the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail. For your safety, look both ways before crossing any road.
The Pacific Grove section of the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail has separate sections for cyclists and pedestrians. Please be respectful of others who are using the Recreation Trail and stick to the area that is specific to your activity.
See the City of Monterey's page on the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreational Trail for more details on rules and regulations.