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Meet Monterey County
Monterey county regions
You would never tire of driving the 99 miles of Monterey County coastline in either direction. But as hard as it might be to take your eyes or mind off the coastal splendor, our 3,324 square miles of magnificence beg for exploration. You know about Carmel-by-the-Sea and Big Sur, but have you ever considered the agricultural diversity and bounty of the Salinas Valley or the funky allure of the arts district Sand City? You should. From sea level to elevations of over 5,500 feet, Monterey County affords you an almost inexhaustible array of things to see and do. Explore the regions here.
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Big Sur
Big Sur is a majestic stretch of rocky cliffs, lush mountains, panoramic beaches and coastal redwood forests (plus the Big Sur River) located off the famous Pacific Coast Highway. Outdoor adventure is abundant with epic hiking trails, picturesque camping and breathtaking historic & state parks to be explored. Learn how to travel responsibly in Big Sur.
Meet Big SUR
Carmel-by-the-sea
With whimsical storybook architecture, hidden-passageways and tucked-away courtyards, there is much to be explored in this charming village by the sea! Stroll the town’s main block, Ocean Avenue to discover unique boutiques, local art galleries and adorable inns and hotels –many of which are pet friendly. You’ll also find metropolitan shopping at Carmel Plaza and plenty of diverse restaurants, bakeries, coffee shops and markets.
MEET carmel-by-the-sea
Carmel valley
Sun-kissed Carmel Valley is a breath of fresh air wrapped in a rustic California getaway. Luxury resorts, indulgent spas, breathtaking scenery and world-class wineries await! Pay a visit to Carmel Valley Village for a walkable stretch of art galleries, wine tasting rooms and award-winning restaurants crafted to showcase local vintages.
Meet carmel valley
Marina
Comfortably explore Fort Ord Dunes State Park on the site of the historic military base, now home to local flora and fauna. Hike or bike through Marina’s rolling hills, oak woodlands and pockets of chaparral at Fort Ord National Monument, which extends into Marina and offers more than 86 miles of serene trails and panoramic vistas.
Meet marina
monterey
This coastal town is home to many California firsts, including the first state capital, the first brick house, the first public library and the first printing press, which printed The California, California’s first newspaper. Monterey is known for its coastal beauty, as well as top attractions like the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Cannery Row and Old Fisherman’s Wharf.
Meet monterey
moss landing
When Charles Moss and his family journeyed from Texas to California in 1866, he homesteaded in a lovely spot that today is known as Moss Landing. This quaint fishing village features several antique shops, art studios, fresh seafood markets and delightful restaurants all within strolling distance of each other. Take a look at a sample Moss Landing itinerary for ideas on how to spend a quiet getaway weekend.
Meet moss landing
pacific grove
Pacific Grove has a classic Main Street, USA feel, nicknamed “America’s Last Hometown.” With a historic downtown, beautifully curving coastline and even a romantic spot affectionately named Lovers Point, Pacific Grove is the place to be in any season. With sweeping panoramic ocean views boasting one of the oldest continually operating lighthouses in the US and a classic 1932 Neville municipal golf course, Pacific Grove holds many sought after and bygone charms.
meet pacific grove
pebble beach
Big Sur is a majestic stretch of rocky cliffs, lush mountains, panoramic beaches and coastal redwood forests (plus the Big Sur River) located off the famous Pacific Coast Highway. Outdoor adventure is abundant with epic hiking trails, picturesque camping and breathtaking historic & state parks to be explored. Learn how to travel responsibly in Big Sur.
meet pebble beach
salinas
The hometown of Nobel and Pulitzer Prize winning author John Steinbeck, Salinas houses the nationally renowned National Steinbeck Center Museum featuring multi-sensory exhibits, rare artifacts, film clips and special exhibitions, as well as Steinbeck House, a now favorite eatery—especially if you’re headed to one of the many annual Salinas festivals like California Rodeo Salinas or California International Airshow.
meet salinas
Salinas Valley
Stretching through the heart of Monterey County, the Salinas Valley - immortalized by Nobel and Pulitzer Prize - winning author John Steinbeck - is celebrated as the "Salad Bowl of the World" for its rich agricultural bounty. The valley is home to the River Road Wine Trail where you can sample award-winning wines from family-owned vineyards nestled amidst rolling hills. Don't miss the opportunity to dine at charming farm-to-table restaurants that showcase fresh, local produce especially if you're planning to attend one of the valley's annual events like the Salinas Valley Food & Wine Festival or the vibrant Steinbeck Festival.
sand city
Nestled in the sand dunes is a transformed warehouse district with a close-knit community of artists and creatives. Sand City has a flourishing public art gallery of dozens of street murals to be appreciated. Stop in to Post No Bills Craft Beer House before taking an inspiring self-guided art walk in the West End to see work created by local and visiting artists.
meet sand city
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.
meet seasideNeed some inspo?
What path do you take? Out here, it’s a whole world of paths….and each one takes you to something incredible. From the dramatic panoramas of Big Sur to the fairytale cottages of Carmel-by-the-Sea, these paths tie all of Monterey together, creating one big, epic journey. A visit to the iconic Monterey Bay Aquarium and a trip through time on historic Cannery Row merely scratch the surface of things to do on California’s central coast. No matter what path you take, it’s sure to lead to inspiration. For additional inspiration, stay in the know with our e-Newsletter.
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Top Places to Take Photos in Monterey County
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Restaurants with Private Event and Meeting Spaces
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Monterey County's Unique Indoor Team Building Adventures
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