Monterey County is a dream destination for those who love scenic drives and road trips. Our winding coastal roads offer stunning views of the Pacific, while routes through the rolling hills lead you past expansive vineyards and charming towns. A road trip here gives you the freedom to explore Monterey’s natural beauty at your own pace, stopping to enjoy local wineries, restaurants, shops and hidden gems along the way! Here’s our handy guide to some of the best scenic drives and road trips in Monterey County.
Explore Moss Landing and Castroville Along Highway 1
As you cruise down the stunning coastline on Highway 1, Moss Landing is an essential pit stop. This charming village is a great place to unwind on your trip. Enjoy antiquing, surfing and fresh cuisine. Start your adventure at The Haute Enchilada Café & Gallery, where you can indulge in locally sourced food, craft beverages and a top-notch wine list – all while surrounded by unique artwork from local artists!
Next, head to The Power Plant Coffee & Store, a welcoming shop offering fresh coffee and local goods. The ambiance is cozy and the friendly staff makes for an inviting experience. Don’t forget to check out Woodward Marine Market, a little spot on the harbor where you can find a variety of fresh seafood, snacks and local wines.
Just a short drive from Moss Landing, Castroville is an agricultural town with a unique claim to fame as the “Artichoke Capital of the World.” Stop by Pezzini Farms to learn about their 80 years of cultivating artichokes (and the veggie’s journey from field to fork). Likewise, you can’t miss the iconic Giant Artichoke statue at The Giant Artichoke Restaurant – the perfect place to take a road trip selfie! For more artichoke goodness, check out the Monterey County Artichoke Trail – a delightful nod to the area’s farming history, where you can explore other artichoke-related attractions nearby.
Keep exploring Monterey County by traveling along Highway 1, which stretches the length of the county’s stunning coastline and discover more hidden beaches, scenic lookouts and charming coastal towns along the way.
Scenic Drive to King City and Parkfield: The Southern Tip of Monterey County
Continuing south, the drive from Monterey to Parkfield unfolds through rolling hills and sprawling valleys. Along the way, stop in King City for a bite at Cork & Plough and take a tour of the Agriculture & Rural Life Museum at San Lorenzo Park in King City. And when you get to Parkfield, you can’t miss the V6 Ranch, a quintessential California Wild West experience to cross off your bucket list. With over 50 miles of trail, you can participate in activities like horseback riding or take a ranch tour to immerse yourself in the rustic charm of cowboy life (with modern perks, of course!). The stunning landscapes and western charm make this part of Monterey County a road trip highlight.
Discover Wineries on the Monterey Wine Trail: Salinas Valley to Soledad
For wine enthusiasts, the Monterey Wine Trail along River Road is a must-explore area with 12 wineries to choose from! Wrath Wines is known for its exquisite Pinot Noir, while CRŪ Winery offers a cozy tasting room experience with a range of red and white wines suited to the region, including their popular Chardonnay. Don’t forget to stop at Rustiqué Wines, where you can enjoy tasting sessions paired with stunning vineyard views on the foothills of the striking Santa Lucia Mountain Range.
Carmel-by-the-Sea to Carmel Valley: Tasting Local Flavors
Start along the coast and head inland to the town of Carmel Valley. For an authentic farm-to-table experience, visit Bear + Flag Roadside for fresh California cuisine or stop by Earthbound Farm to pick up locally sourced produce and enjoy their organic farming tours. For wine tastings, don’t miss the beautiful vineyard views at Folktale Winery and Joullian Vineyards (known for its award-winning Zinfandel). Beyond Carmel Valley, drive until you reach the Oliver Observing Station in Greenfield. This telescope offers stunning stargazing opportunities and a chance to explore the wonders of the night sky.
Pack your bags, hit the road and dive into everything Monterey County has to offer. From breathtaking coastal views to world-class wineries and one-of-a-kind local experiences, our scenic drives promise unforgettable moments at every turn!