The icons of Monterey County are surely not to be missed, but there is much to be uncovered beyond the beloved favorites. If you’re a returning visitor looking for new things to do or a first-timer with an itch for off-the-beaten-path experiences, an authentic and well-rounded visit to Monterey County can be found in these little-known treasures and local insider tips.
Marina
For the foodie craving culinary experiences beyond the classic clam chowder bread bowl on Old Fisherman’s Wharf, the city of Marina just might be the way to your heart! With the most diverse food scene in the region, it is likely that Marina has at least one restaurant serving up the dish to satisfy your appetite. Find Mandarin, Hunan and Szechuan dishes at Ho Wah Chinese Restaurant, Hawaiian-style plate lunch, poke and shave ice at Keoki's Hawaiian Barbeque, thick and fluffy pupusas at El Salvadoreño Pupuseria, Korean fare at mom & pop shop Nak Won Korean BBQ House and comforting Vietnamese favorites at Noodle Bar just to name a few. Find more restaurants to eat your way through Marina's foodie scene.
Seaside
A tremendous amount of history makes this city on the Monterey Peninsula worthy of exploration. The former site of Fort Ord United States Army post is an up-and-coming destination complete with a revitalized downtown, 60+ family-owned eateries, Fort Ord National Monument and Bayonet & Black Horse golf courses, formerly only open to service members.
Among the diverse food options stands a hidden gem among hidden gems: Chef Klaus Georis’ recently opened Maligne Restaurant, an unmarked cement building serving up wood-fired seafood with unexpected flair. Sit down for a special meal before exploring everything the city of Seaside has to offer.
Sand City
Awe-inspiring works of art can be appreciated all over Sand City as the town continues to grow its transformative public art gallery! Use this map to roam the streets of the West End and take in all of the vibrant outdoor murals created by local and visiting artists. Visitors to the area can also explore the SandBox, an artists' warehouse space for cultural events like concerts, spoken word, film screenings, art parties and more.
Moss Landing
Moss Landing is a popular spot for antiquing, kayaking and nature watching, but did you know it's also home to the Shakespeare Society of America? Plan your epic road trip along Hwy 1 and stop by the Shakespeare Society of America to peruse thousands of artifacts (some dating back 500 years!), rare books, memorabilia, art and more.
Moss Beach Picnic Tables in Pebble Beach
What could be better than spending a few hours at the beach enjoying a picnic with friends and family? Escape the crowds and head into picturesque Pebble Beach to one of the most scenic picnic spots along the coast — Moss Beach. Set at the base of the Inn at Spanish Bay, this easily accessible beach features multiple picnic benches, a recreational trail and ample parking. Pack a picnic lunch at home or stop by The Pebble Beach Market on your way to the beach to pick up a gourmet lunch.
Salinas
Photo credit: @carodeosalinas
As the largest rodeo in California and #9 in the U.S. of 600 professional rodeos, the California Rodeo Salinas is THE rodeo to see. In Salinas, it is pronounced roDAYo....a nod to the Spanish ranchero heritage ʻrodearʻ meaning “to round up” in Spanish. To learn about the history of the rodeo and to see memorabilia from past rodeos and more, visit the California Rodeo Heritage Museum at Salinas Sports Complex during the four-day rodeo and by special appointment throughout the year.
King City
Photo credit: @mcarlmuseum
As the “Salad Bowl of the World,” Monterey Countyʻs history is undoubtedly rooted in agriculture, with the Salinas Valley growing much of our nation's produce and a healthy local food supply. Get off the beaten path and delve into this local history at the Monterey County Agricultural and Rural Life Museum within San Lorenzo Park. The museum has 6 historic structures, turn-of-the-century artifacts and exhibits of antique farm equipment waiting to be explored.
If you're the type of traveler that likes to take guided tours, local historian guides Karen and John Jernigan of King City Historic Walking Tours lead the way for a tour of King City's history and local gems, showing old photos of buildings and site and identifying names of people in murals.
Castroville
Photo credit: @seemonterey
Can you guess which famous 50s/60s celebrity was crowned the inaugural “Artichoke Queen”?...
If you guessed Marilyn Monroe, you're correct! Who better to represent the iconic artichoke of the “Artichoke Capital of the World” than this iconic actress! Make sure to stop in Castroville on your visit to Monterey County and in honor of Miss Monroe, visit Pezzini Farms for amazing produce and unique bites including artichoke cupcakes! You can also take a tour of the farm with local tour operator & destination expert Evan Oakes of Ag Venture Tours & Consulting on select days.
Pebble Beach
Photo credit: @pebblebeachresorts
Have you heard of the bagpiper at Spanish Bay? The bagpiper has played along the Pebble Beach coastline every day, rain or shine, since The Inn and Links at Spanish Bay opened back in 1987. Come and witness this must-experience sunset tradition!
Big Sur
Photo credit: @bigsurriverinn
In a destination as popular as Big Sur, it is hard to imagine there are many “hidden gems,” but the area’s unquestionable glory has the special ability to make every experience seem remarkable and rare for visitors and locals alike. With all that said, a monster-sized burrito from a general store and ice cream from a bus made the cut for seriously hidden gems from this well-known region. Stop by the Big Sur River Inn for both!
Point Sur Lightstation in Big Sur
If you’re cruising down the Pacific Coast Hwy toward Big Sur, as you gaze out toward the crashing sea below, you’ll probably notice a building in the distance set atop the hillside, only 361 feet above the Pacific Ocean. This magnificent spot is known as the Point Sur Lightstation. This historic lighthouse (which was built in 1889) is open to the public and offers regular walking tours (on Wednesdays and weekends) that educate visitors about the operating lighthouse.
Carmel-by-the-Sea
Photo credit: @casanova_carmel
For those lovers of the arts, a seat at Van Gogh’s Table at Casanova Restaurant is an inspired addition to an already superb dining experience. “Van Gogh’s table” meaning the actual table where influential artist Vincent Van Gogh enjoyed his meals at the Auberge Ravoux, has found its new home in the artistic community of Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Drink-for-a-Dime Happy Hour at La Playa Hotel
If you’ve heard the phrase “It’s 5 o’clock somewhere”, it probably got started in Carmel-by-the-Sea at the famed La Playa Hotel. As one of the most popular local hangouts, every Sunday at 5 p.m., the hotel hosts a “Dime-for-a-Drink” Happy Hour in honor of the hotel’s founder, Howard “Bud” Allen. As a traditional homage to the glory days of yesteryear, La Playa asks all guests to pay with only dimes during this special happy hour. In addition to the $0.10 drinks, the hotel also offers a variety of tasty appetizers. Plus, the sweeping ocean and garden vistas make it a beautiful place to unwind after a long week.
Palo Corona Park Hiking Trail in Carmel
When it comes to hiking trails, Monterey County has no shortage of great places. But, if you’re looking for a secret spot to explore (that mostly only locals know about), then you need to explore Palo Corona Park Hiking Trails. Located near Monastery Beach in Carmel, this beautiful hiking area offers scenic panoramic views from the top and the serenity that can only be found in a place as secluded and private as this.
Carmel Valley
Artisan Workshop Series at Folktale Vineyards in Carmel Valley
If you’re into creative projects, then you’ll find inspiration at the Artisan Workshop Series hosted at Folktale Vineyards in Carmel Valley. In collaboration with Tacklebox Creative and Carmel Valley Mercantile, these regularly hosted workshops teach attendees how to do a variety of unique and interesting arts & crafts projects, such as DIY Wall Art and Crepe Paper Flowers. Each guest receives a glass of wine (included in the purchase of tickets), which is definitely worth toasting about. These workshops are offered throughout the year at different times; check Folktale's website calendar for details.
Monterey
Photo credit: @aspiringmaven
Though Monterey is certainly the most recognized city within the destination, hidden gems can still be discovered in this popular coastal town. If you’re in the mood for a sandwich (and who isn’t at any given time really?), La Sala’s BiRite Market serves up some really spectacular ones. This family-owned and operated market is a neighborhood favorite mom-and-pop shop worthy of a stop.
“Sip & Paint Night” at Sovino Wine Bar & Merchant in Monterey
If the idea of sipping on wine while learning how to paint a masterpiece sounds like a fun evening, then head down to Sovino Wine Bar & Merchant in downtown Monterey for a “Sip & Paint Night”. These regularly-hosted art events teach attendees how to paint while encouraging everyone to feel carefree and creative. They’re great outings for groups and to commemorate special celebrations, such as birthdays and anniversaries.
Soledad
Smith Family Wines Tasting Room in Soledad
Since Monterey County is quickly gaining recognition as a rapidly growing, award-winning wine-producing region in California, one of the best local hangouts in Soledad is the Smith Family Wines Tasting Room in the Santa Lucia Highlands. Known for producing top-quality wines, this family-owned winery offers everything from palette-pleasing Pinots to Chardonnays. The vineyard views, indoor and outdoor seating and shabby chic decor make this destination tasting room, set along the River Road Wine Trail worth the trek.