Your Guide to Responsible Travel in Monterey County
Travelers from around the world seek out Monterey County for its awe-inspiring natural beauty, from its verdant fields to its majestic redwoods to the hypnotic waves of the Monterey Bay Sanctuary. With more than 2 million acres of diverse, fragile lands and ecosystems, we ask visitors to join us in making a positive impact by protecting, supporting and respecting our destination for generations to come.
While Monterey County is made up of endless paths, the right path is one where we each do our part to follow guidelines, make sustainable choices, support local businesses and leave no trace behind. Taking the right path means enjoying all of the wonders that Monterey County has to offer – and doing so responsibly. Let’s take the right path together.
Eco-Friendly Travel Experiences – The Path to Sustainability
Whether it’s taking the road less traveled, visiting during a quieter time of year, or reducing your carbon footprint, there are plenty of ways to travel more sustainably in Monterey County. Consider choosing eco-friendly experiences, like:
- Outdoor Adventures:
- Explore designated, low-impact hiking trails
- Rent SUPs (stand-up paddle boards)
- Take a guided bike tour
- Sustainable Dining:
- Support local, farm-to-table restaurants
- Participate in Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch
- Visit local wineries and vineyard tasting rooms
- Eco-Tours:
- Go whale watching
- Take a guided kayaking tour
- Enjoy guided wildlife excursions with operators like Monterey Bay Eco Tours
- Conservation-Focused Attractions:
- Visit sites like Monterey Bay Aquarium
- Explore Pinnacles National Park
- Play golf at Pebble Beach golf courses, each designated as a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary by Audubon International
- Eco-Friendly Transportation:
- Enjoy walkable destinations like Carmel-by-the-Sea
- Rent a bike to traverse Pacific Grove
- Arrive by train at Monterey-Salinas Transit Center
- Eco-Hotels and Lodging:
- Stay at LEED Certified lodging
- Seek out nature-focused resorts
- Choose a Kind Traveler participating hotel
Cultural & Community Respect – The Path to Preservation
One rewarding aspect of travel is learning about and participating in local traditions. Monterey County boasts a rich history, marked by unique cultures and customs, as well as numerous California firsts. Empower yourself by learning about our destination before you visit to help preserve and honor the people and stories that continue to shape our communities.
- Visiting Big Sur? Learn about the Big Sur Pledge and help protect and preserve its natural resources. Leave only footprints.
- Discover more about Monterey County's rich history and heritage, including the indigenous peoples who have called Monterey County home.
Respect for Local Communities – The Path to Responsible Travel
Part of being a conscientious traveler means being mindful of every part of your trip planning process – from what you pack in to what you pack out. As you explore our communities, we ask that you travel with kindness and respect for the lands and one another. Here are some eco-friendly travel tips to help you visit responsibly:
- Leave No Trace, Including:
- Plan ahead and prepare (review road conditions, book in advance, follow signage and local regulations)
- Travel and camp on durable surfaces on public, designated land
- Dispose of waste properly (including bodily waste and recyclable items)
- Leave natural elements where you find them
- Minimize campfire impacts
- Respect wildlife at safe distances and stay on marked trails
- Be considerate of others
- Reduce single-use plastics (pack reusable water bottles, toiletry items, bags)
- Stay out of closed parks, trails and private property
- Turn off the lights and unplug electronics in hotel rooms
- Opt out of daily housekeeping
- Conserve water when brushing your teeth or taking a shower
- Consider volunteer opportunities (like a beach clean-up)
- Walk, bike or use EVs when possible
- Follow Visit California’s Responsible Travel Code
If your travel plans will be taking you to Big Sur, please visit our Travel Like a Big Sur Expert page.
Thank you for choosing Monterey County as your travel destination. We look forward to welcoming you and having you join us on The Right Path.