South Monterey County Cities

King City, Salinas Valley and Soledad

South Monterey County offers wide open spaces, lush scenery and the agricultural bounty of the entire region. Campers, hikers and outdoor enthusiasts will fall in love with Los Padres National Forest, San Lorenzo Park in King City and Lake San Antonio south of King City. Southern Monterey County is also home to Pinnacles National Park in Soledad, a California gem not-to-be-missed. Hiking trails throughout the park offer spectacular views of rock formations, sweeping vistas, and opportunities to view the protected California Condor in its natural habitat.

Traveling with kids? Get up close and personal with wild, exotic animals from around the world in a beautiful natural setting at the Monterey Zoo. Plus, you can spend the night at Vision Quest Safari Bed & Breakfast for an unforgettable family adventure!

Salinas Valley, also known as the "Salad Bowl of the World," has a rich heritage of agriculture, growing much of our nation's produce and a healthy local food supply of more than 150 crops, including lettuce, strawberries, artichokes, wine grapes and more. Stop by the Agricultural and Rural Life Museum in King City to learn about the history of South Monterey County's agriculture.

For history buffs, two of California’s most historic establishments, the San Antonio de Padua Mission and Mission Nuestra Senora de la Soledad (the Soledad Mission) are also located in South Monterey County.

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