Visit Santa in his Toy Factory Weekends on Cannery Row

Families and children of all ages can visit Santa Claus for FREE in his toy factory located inside on the second floor of 685 Cannery Row (by Oscar's Playground, the Candy Factory, Sharky's Shirts, and Adventures by the Sea). Bring a camera to get a free photo with Santa! -- Saturdays and Sundays through December 22^th from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.  

Holiday Cheer on Cannery Row: Seasonal Sales, Events, and Experiences

The holidays are just around the corner, and Cannery Row is buzzing with festive spirit! From exclusive sales to delightful events, there’s no better time to explore Monterey’s most iconic street. Whether you’re shopping for the perfect gift, enjoying a memorable family outing, or treating yourself to holiday-inspired flavors, Cannery Row has something for everyone. Check out our roundup of holiday happenings and seasonal promotions, ordered by date, so you don’t miss a thing! 

Where is Cannery Row Located?

Cannery Row is a street set along the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, in Monterey, California. The waterfront district is named for the 1945 John Steinbeck novel, Cannery Row. Today, this former sardine fishing hub tops the list of Monterey County’s most-visited attractions. 

Cannery Row Walking Map App

Discover the rich history of Cannery Row with the new mobile app developed by the Cannery Row Business Association. Immerse yourself in the storied world of Monterey’s iconic waterfront district through a self-guided walking tour that brings history to life with 27 informational displays, all within easy walking distance. 

Celebrate Spooky Season on Cannery Row!

October on Cannery Row is shaping up to be one unforgettable adventure for Halloween lovers of all ages! With thrilling events and spooky activities happening across our iconic attractions, there’s no better place to immerse yourself in the spirit of the season. Whether you're seeking pulse-pounding scares, family-friendly fun, or Halloween-inspired contests, Cannery Row has something for everyone. Here’s a look at the spooktacular experiences awaiting you: 

Haunted Harbor: Four Nights of World-Class Halloween Thrills

This October, Treasure Hunt: The Ride, Escape Room 831, and Monterey Mirror Maze invite you to experience the Haunted Harbor on Cannery Row! With one ticket, enjoy thrilling adventures across these world-class attractions. Get ready for ghostly pirates, eerie clowns, and surprises around every corner! 

Kids Golf FREE and Black Light Mini Golf at Tipsy Putt

Families visiting Cannery Row have a new go-to spot for fun and excitement. Tipsy Putt, Monterey’s premier mini-golf bar, is offering an unbeatable deal that’s sure to delight both locals and visitors. Every day until 2pm, kids under 12 can golf for free with the purchase of one adult game play. 

Unlock New Thrills on Cannery Row at Escape Room 831's "Pier of Fear"

Escape Room 831's "Pier of Fear" is a thrilling new attraction that promises visitors an unforgettable experience for groups of 2 to 8 on Cannery Row. Whether you're an avid escape room fan or simply searching for adventure, Pier of Fear guarantees a gripping journey that will leave a lasting impression. 

Fun Ways for Kids and Parents to Party on Cannery Row

Interested in ideas for spectacular, stress-free kids’ birthday parties? Trade the traditional cake and candles for roving festivities on Cannery Row. Within a few walkable blocks, you’ll find interactive games, arcade favorites and treats to please every taste! 

5 Inspiring Outdoor Adventures on Cannery Row

Cannery Row hugs the coast of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, a biologically rich area that’s larger than Yosemite National Park. An underwater canyon in the bay extends more than two miles down at its deepest point, while nearly 35 types of marine mammals and 180 bird species live near the surface. 

Treasure Hunt: The Ride is Filled with Pirate Lore and Fun

Legend, curiosity, and fun come together at Treasure Hunt: The Ride. A one-of-a-kind, theme park ride built exclusively for Cannery Row, Treasure Hunt draws inspiration from the history and legend of Monterey, California. 

10 Discoveries for Curious Kids

Dreaming of a getaway that makes the whole family happy? Head to Monterey. Cannery Row offers fun for all ages, and all within a quick walk of comfortable, budget-minded hotels. 

8 Great Gifts from Small Businesses on Cannery Row

Visit Cannery Row and start gathering gifts for your loved ones, guided by this shop-small checklist. 

What3Words Navigation

Cannery Row has teamed up with what3words to help visitors locate popular destinations along Cannery Row. You can use what3words in your browser or through the free what3words app to find precise locations without requiring a street address. 

Monterey Movie Walk

Cannery Row stars in several movies, including a silver screen adaptation of the Steinbeck novel that showcases the district. By visiting the backdrop for these blockbusters, you’ll see Cannery Row through a whole new lens. Recreate the silver screen magic with this guide to movie sites on Cannery Row. 

Spring Break Inspiration

Spring break is a great time to visit popular attractions before the busy summer travel season, and savvy travelers can also take advantage of attractive off-season deals, too. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing weekend away or a more amped-up adventure, you’ll find plenty of options in Monterey. 

A Family Fun-For-All

From four-wheeled surrey adventures to shareable ice cream sundaes to prime beachfront picnic spots, Monterey offers classic elements for family fun. 

Rooms with a View

For many travelers, summer vacation calls to mind sun, waves and sand…and that vision is real on Cannery Row, where several hotels and resorts boast Monterey Bay views and convenient access to the waterfront. Here’s your guide to some of the neighborhood’s most noteworthy places to stay. 

20 Ways to Greet The New Year

When the clocks and calendar pages turn to the new year, revelers will reflect on the year that ends and anticipate all that’s ahead. Families, couples and friends looking for a fresh way to commemorate the new year will find many memorable options on Monterey’s Cannery Row. 

Looking Back

John Steinbeck’s Cannery Row spotlights Monterey’s legendary district during its fishing industry boom, but the street’s story begins long before canneries lined the former Ocean View Avenue. On your next visit, look for the sites and structures that played a role in this neighborhood’s extraordinary evolution. 

Holiday Thrills at Oscar’s Playground

Glittering trees. Holiday shopping. Making lists and sharing with Santa. December means seasonal fun on Cannery Row, and Oscar’s Playground will host some especially exciting activities. Here are a few highlights. 

Shop Small

When it comes to buying gifts, small businesses are a big draw. Here are just a few great places to shop small with locally based retailers on Cannery Row. 

Food Comes First

It’s no secret that food plays a major role in travel planning. After all, who isn’t inspired by the idea of a weekend in wine country, a pasta-tasting journey through Italy or an overnight stay at a farmstead inn, complete with fresh scrambled eggs for breakfast? 

Halloween Haunts for Adults

During this season of ghosts and goblins and ghouls, why should children have all the fun? Monterey’s Cannery Row offers plenty of tricks and treats for grown-ups, giving adults exciting options for festive Halloween adventures that can be enjoyed as a couple or with a group of friends. 

Labor Day Travel Lists

Summer may be winding down, but September in Monterey means sunny days and quieter streets than you’ll find during peak travel season. Plan a long Labor Day weekend on Cannery Row, where you can park the car and sample shopping, dining, cultural highlights and outdoor fun all within a few walkable blocks. 

Welcome to Oscar’s Playground

Cannery Row's newest attraction is part arcade, part escape room, part low-key family lounge and ALL fun. 

The Inside Track

Coastal Cannery Row is central to all the action, so it’s a great home base for car enthusiasts. Get up to speed on the district’s top hotels, dining options and activities with this handy guide for car week guests. 

Family Journeys

As parents outline upcoming spring break adventures, many will look to maximize those days off—both economically, and in terms of educational impact for young students. When it comes to making family travel plans, what other factors influence the decision-making process? 

Take Five: Outdoors

Here are five fun ways to take in the sun, stars and scenery along Cannery Row. 

Authentic Experiences

In Monterey, guests can experience local history and sample regional cuisine before tucking in at boutique inns geared toward travelers of all stripes. Here’s a guide to the destination’s small hotels, plus activities that provide genuine, like-a-local experiences. 

Outdoor Dining on Cannery Row

As spring sunshine brightens the landscape, open-air patios are drawing diners to Cannery Row. Spacious seating areas and unbeatable Monterey Bay views distinguish this waterfront district, where menus showcase farm-fresh local ingredients and wines from more than 85 Monterey County producers. 

Snack Attack

With so many activities, attractions and shops along Cannery Row, it’s easy to work up an appetite while exploring. And, given that there’s so much to see and do, it’s important to stay fueled up for adventure. Plan your day around quick stops at Cannery Row’s casual cafes and snack shops with this at-a-glance guide. 

What’s Trending: Wellness

Looking for a little personal renewal this season? Schedule some spring refreshment in the form of a pampering spa treatment. Luxury Travel Magazine surveyed spa experts at several top American resorts, discussing what’s new and what’s in demand now, and the results include a wave of innovative wellness offerings: treatments tailored to an individual’s needs, farm-to-table spa products, mind-body balance, and unique combinations of adventure and relaxation, just to name a few. 

Fighting Vacation Inertia

Summer remains the traditional time for vacations, but are American workers taking advantage of those long, sunny days? 

Going Solo

In our always-on, always-connected world, traveling solo generates a host of unique benefits. Whether you’re a busy professional in need of some solitude, or a student looking for new perspectives on the world around you, the experience of going it alone can enrich your life in many meaningful ways. 

Travel Trends: Boomers

A full 99 percent of Baby Boomers expect to schedule at least one leisure trip this year, according to a recent survey by AARP researchers, and much of that travel will take place this summer. What are these individuals looking for as they vacation? 

All in Good Taste

When Cigar Aficionado writer Fredric Hamber recently visited Monterey, he ticked through a list of the “trappings of the good life” available to Monterey Peninsula residents and guests. From international auto events, to a storied jazz festival celebrating 60 years, to top-rated golf courses, there’s no shortage of luxurious delights in this waterfront destination. 

A New Wave

Monterey’s hottest summer destination is a hip boutique hotel set just steps from Cannery Row and the sparkling Monterey Bay. 

Eco-Friendly Made Easy

Generations on the Go

Considering your own multigenerational trip? Follow these tips as you plan. 

Haute Hotel Bars

From speakeasy-inspired additions at intimate boutique inns, to luxe lounges in waterfront resorts, Cannery Row promises toast-worthy hotel lounges to suit every taste. Here are three to try on your next visit. 

One Hour, Endless Options

By mid June, when the summer sunshine is at its peak, we’ll all have a little extra daylight guiding our schedules. Why not capitalize on those extra hours?  With so many attractions, shops, hotels and cafes in close proximity, the most challenging part of filling an extra hour on Cannery Row is deciding how to pass the time. Got 60 minutes to spare? Treat yourself to something tasty, try a new adventure or follow one of these suggestions. 

Time Off Pays Off

Whether you’re looking for a quick weekend refresh or an extended disconnection from work, here are some tips to help you maximize your time. 

One of Hottest Trends in Interactive Entertainment Comes to Cannery Row

One of the hottest trends in interactive or immersive entertainment — escape rooms — has come to Cannery Row in the form of the Exodus Escape Room on Wave Street, just above and behind The Whaling Station restaurant. 

The Sanctuary Turns 25

Twenty-five years ago, the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary received federal designation under the National Marine Sanctuaries Act. Protected for its cultural and biological significance, including rare habitats and threatened species, it’s one of America’s largest marine sanctuaries – and, it’s a natural wonder that’s a major Monterey attraction. 

A Century of Seafood

With a prime location along the country’s largest national marine sanctuary, plus a rich fishing heritage that spans several generations and a robust agricultural valley located just down the road, it’s no surprise that Monterey is a first-class culinary destination. 

Natural Adventures

Make the most of Monterey’s warm days and clear nights with these six stay-and-play itineraries. 

Why We Travel

What motivates you to pack a bag and hit the road? Are you more comfortable on hiking trails or in a hammock? Do you want to spend time with family or schedule some solitude? Do luxury hotels suit your style, or are you a budget-minded traveler? 

A New Twist on New Year’s

With a new year just around the corner, now is the time to start planning an unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebration. Cannery Row offers exciting options for traditional midnight toasts, along with unexpected surprises that put a new spin on the annual festivities. 

A Colorful Approach

As social media becomes an increasingly important part of both big-picture marketing campaigns and consumers’ daily lives, it’s no surprise that restaurants are serving up photo-ready dishes and cocktails. 

Celebrate Love

Americans spend an estimated $136.57 per person on Valentine’s Day gifts, according to 2017 National Retail Foundation numbers. That’s a total of $18.2 billion dished out on jewelry (gifted by 19 percent of shoppers), evenings out (37 percent of shoppers), flowers (35 percent) and candy (50 percent). Experiential gifts are also popular, with shoppers seeking out concert and sports tickets, fitness club memberships and introductions to outdoor adventures. 

Hotel News

It's been a busy year for Cannery Row hotels, with new additions and renovations providing fresh reasons to visit the district’s classic favorites. 

New Resolutions

The new year is a prime time to outline dietary changes, engage in a new hobby or add some challenges to a tired exercise routine. But, why not supplement the goals by setting aside time to take a break and try something truly different? 

Off-Season Value

Planning off-season excursions is one way to extend a slim budget while enjoying unforgettable adventures. 

Cultural History

Cannery Row’s modern success stems from a rich history of contributions by residents of various cultures. Long before settlers moved to the Monterey Peninsula shores, approximately 40 different tribes in the Ohlone community populated the central California coast between Big Sur and the San Francisco Bay. They lived off the area’s plants and wildlife, maintaining distinct languages and traditions. 

Green Getaways

As Earth Day approaches, destinations are touting their eco-friendly attributes. While industry insiders say that sustainable tourism is on the rise, earth-friendly adventures are about more than just a green footprint. 

Making the Most of Vacations

As you explore potential destinations and outline trip itineraries, there are a few things you can do to savor that happy anticipation. 

Meetings Gain Momentum

Though new technologies make video calls and phone conferences easier than ever, professionals continue to prioritize in-person meetings. 

Spring Cleaning

If you’re not feeling immediately inspired to dust, vacuum, sweep and deep clean that kitchen, why not treat yourself to some extra motivation? Link your spring cleaning goals to a special treat, so there’s a reward waiting at the end of that hard work. Here are a few ideas to get the mops moving. 

Opt Outside

In Monterey, memorable outdoor activities abound—and travelers will find options that appeal to all ages, interests and fitness levels. Take advantage of the spring season’s fresh air and sunshine by choosing your own coastal California adventure.

Planning with Instagram

Scrolling through pretty Instagram photos of faraway locales is a great way to take a quick mental vacation, wherever you find yourself. But, those picture-perfect snapshots can also be useful tools for planning real trips. 

Retro Reboot

Vacationers are feeling especially nostalgic these days, suggests research from the hotel website Booking.com. That means they’re choosing destinations with a bit of retro appeal—or simply returning to the destinations they’ve always adored. 

Social Studies

By revamping shared public spaces, innkeepers and others offer new opportunities for dining, interacting with others or simply unwinding. 

Escape the Same Old Graduation Party With An Exciting Adventure at an Escape Room

Graduation is just around the corner and grads and their families and friends are always on the lookout for unique and creative ideas for a graduation celebration. 

A Maritime Legacy

The story of today’s Cannery Row traces back to before California statehood, when members of the Ohlone community fished the region’s fertile shores. They were followed by individuals from a collection of cultures—including Spanish, Chinese, Portuguese, Japanese and Italian families who brought their own whaling and casting traditions to the coast. 

Cannery Row Wine Walk

Cannery Row offers five distinct ways to sample the region’s best, and a full menu of district restaurants also highlight the work of regional vintners. 

Celebrating 60 Years

To explore the neighborhood through a historic lens, start with this timeline of major Cannery Row events. 

Spotlight on Luxury

While luxury travel might call to mind posh suites and traditional turndown service, modern travelers have wider expectations. 

Art Experiences

Artists of all kinds have taken inspiration from the coastline, characters and culture of Cannery Row. John Steinbeck’s novel of the same name put a fictional spin on life in the district’s canning heyday, of course. And, plenty of painters, photographers and others have found themselves enchanted by the neighborhood’s dramatic shores and dynamic structures. To engage with Cannery Row’s creative side, start by exploring some of its galleries, studios and art-minded attractions. 

In Steinbeck’s (and Doc Ricketts') Steps

Monterey’s old Ocean View Boulevard was once the heart of the area’s fishing industry. Canneries and processing plants lined the waterfront lane in the early 1900s, and the district bustled with workers, boats and whistles signaling the start and end of each shift. 

Naturally Nice

Rocky coastline, windswept beaches and lush, tree-studded hills make the Monterey Peninsula a picturesque destination that’s popular with nature lovers, photographers and travelers simply looking to disconnect. 

Travel Planning the Social Way

Social media tools have changed how a number of travelers plan their trips. For many of us, destination research is inspired by Instagram browsing sessions and we crowd-source restaurant suggestions from Facebook friends. 

Summer's Last Hurrah

As summer winds down, you may be looking for ideas for an end-of-summer gathering or party. Why not think outside the box, try something unique, but also highly entertaining and stimulating? 

A New Generation Unplugs

Whether you’re considering full social media disengagement or simply want a weekend-long break from the screen, here are four immersive experiences to enjoy without a mobile device. 

Five Facts: Cannery Row

Today, Cannery Row is one of Monterey’s most popular visitor destinations. Still, a closer look reveals a rich heritage with unexpected details that might surprise even locals. Did you know these five Cannery Row facts? 

Menu Matters

With an array of award-winning restaurants serving everything from casual snacks to splurge-worthy classics to local wines and sophisticated small plates, Cannery Row’s culinary scene promises memorable options for every budget and taste. Here is your guide to the district’s offerings. 

All That Jazz

For over 61 years, the Monterey Jazz Festival has brought a dynamic group of performers and spectator to Monterey, making it an especially appealing time to mix and mingle with fellow music fans. Here are four simple tips for making the most of your festival experience. 

World of Wellness

Nearly one in five people plan to incorporate health and wellness into this year’s travel plans. That’s nearly double the amount outlining health-themed trips just one year ago. 

Wine Watch

With summer wrapping up and shorter days just ahead, Monterey County’s grape growers are preparing for another busy harvest season. More than 40 different varietals are grown locally, thanks to microclimates that create ideal growing conditions for both reds and whites. 

Why We Chase Adventure

What does “adventure travel” mean to you? For some, it’s climbing distant peaks or parachuting from a plane. For others, adventure simply means discovering an under-the-radar destination. 

Revitalizing Cannery Row

In 1908, decades before Cannery Row became a buzzing destination that draws some four million guests annually, the Pacific Fish Company established a location along the old Ocean View Boulevard. Similar operations followed, and the local fishing industry flourished. By 1918, the district produced 1.4 million cases of sardines. 

A New Year’s Toast

As this year winds down, it’s time to pause and acknowledge all that went well over the past 12 months. Coastal Monterey is a sublime place to reflect on the good, prepare for new challenges and celebrate victories big and small. As you consider how to kick off the new year, why not plan a festive toast with friends or a surprise your family with a special treat? Explore your options with this at-a-glance guide. 

Cannery Row at 60

Over the past 60 years, Cannery Row has evolved from a diamond in the rough to a storied destination that welcomes millions of guests each year. The former coastal fishing hub that saw new life through the words of John Steinbeck today features historical highlights, culinary treasures, upscale inns and extraordinary scenic beauty. 

Fishing for a Future

Individuals from many cultural backgrounds helped shape Monterey’s fishing history, including both native residents and immigrants from Asia and Europe. As they arrived from different homelands, these early settlers sought out different fishing opportunities—and, each community added to the cultural vibrancy of today’s Cannery Row. Here’s how the Monterey Bay’s fishing timeline unfolded, aided by the efforts of immigrants from around the globe. 

Engaging Options

Sweethearts everywhere will celebrate their love on February 14, but some couples will go beyond traditional roses and candy by getting engaged on Valentine’s Day. Looking for unique ways to pop the question? Monterey’s spectacular coastline, romantic inns and one-of-a-kind activities make this destination an ideal place for making things official. Take Valentine’s Day to an unforgettable new level with these engagement-minded mini-itineraries. 

Resolution Roundup

It’s resolution season, and that means many of us are busy recording goals and dreaming about a happier, more productive year ahead. 

Super Sunday

Sports bars and restaurants pack this five-block coastal lane and the surrounding avenues, offering pedestrian-friendly options for an afternoon gathering or a full weekend getaway. 

Spring Breaks

Just in time for the spring break season, hotels in Monterey are offering packages that provide fun, budget-friendly new ways to experience the California coast. These are just a few of the latest offers. 

Earthy Adventures

On Cannery Row, visitors can experience nature in surprising ways throughout the year. Here are seven only-in-Monterey ways to commemorate Earth Day every day. 

A Taste for Adventure

Millennials are booking trips based on opportunities to indulge in local flavors and immerse themselves in outdoor adventure, reports the website MillennialTraveller.com. A recent article explores several other trends related to this increasingly influential generation of travelers. 

Weekend for Two

With leisurely summer days lingering just around the corner, many parents are starting to outline seasonal family adventures. Before you pack the kids in the car and head out for summer vacation, however, why not schedule a weekend getaway for two? Monterey promises unforgettable options for couples interested in luxury, relaxation, recreation or romance. 

Spring Shopping Guide

Monterey’s Cannery Row is home to several independent boutiques and gift shops clustered within in a few pedestrian-friendly blocks. Here is your at-a-glance guide to five of the neighborhood’s most exciting shops for the home. 

Feel Like A Kid Again

With historical gems, striking natural scenery and restaurants serving old-fashioned favorites, Monterey promises moments of wonder and childlike awe for travelers of all ages. Looking to reclaim your carefree childhood feelings? Start with these lighthearted activities. 

Small-Town Charms

As popular tourism destinations and urban centers around the globe grapple with long lines and crowded streets, some travelers are looking to smaller cities for their own vacations. A recent Yahoo News article that chronicled top travel-related Pinterest search terms noted a 267-percent increase in the number of searches for “small-town travel.” “Travelers are seeking respite from urban, concrete jungle life and looking up small towns, bucolic views and bed and breakfast accommodations for a quaint holiday,” reports the piece. 

Say Cheers

Craft beverages will be big this year, according to results from the National Restaurant Association’s 2019 What’s Hot survey. More than 650 American Culinary Federation-member chefs shared insight for the report, which uncovered several drink-related trends. From house-roasted craft coffee to refreshing rosè cider, demand for interesting and unique options will only continue to expand in the months ahead. 

Make it a Mini-Break

Located just a few hours from the San Francisco Bay Area and major central California cities like Sacramento and Fresno, Cannery Row is ideally situated for a quick weekend escape. And, planning a mini-getaway is easy with these classic itineraries. 

Expansive Experiences

In Monterey, memorable experiences range from waking up to the sound of sea lions, to tasting wine made from locally grown grapes, to purchasing jewelry that you personally design. As you plan your own adventures on the California coast, consider these surprising and spectacular experiences. 

Bringing the Outdoors In

Several local hotels capitalize on the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary’s natural beauty, bringing the outdoors in through unique design features, thoughtful spa treatments and menus headlined by fresh-caught bounty. Read on to learn about four waterfront lodging properties that promise an only-on-the-Monterey-Bay experience. 

Chardonnay Central

There’s a very simple reason Monterey County is the country’s #1 Chardonnay-growing region. The reason is readily apparent from almost every vantage point along Cannery Row – it’s the cold, deep waters of Monterey Bay! The Bay’s cooling winds and fog extend far inland, blanketing the area’s vineyards and creating perfect conditions for growing America’s favorite white wine grape. 

10 Ideas: Monterey Meetings

As event planners and conference managers outline events for the upcoming holiday season and key gatherings, many will look for fresh new venues, activities and themes to inspire and reward attendees. With an exciting mix of ballrooms, boardrooms, hotels, restaurants and activities all within in a convenient, walkable coastal neighborhood, Cannery Row promises compelling options for groups of all sizes. 

Adventures on the Bay

With a rooftop hot tub, private balconies, convenient beach access and a prime location along the Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary, the Monterey Bay Inn has long been a favorite of nature lovers and active travelers. Now, the 49-room Cannery Row property makes outdoor recreation even more enticing with the new Adventure Package. 

Indulgence in Focus

Surrounded by the art-minded community of Carmel, the famed Pebble Beach golf courses and vineyards that stretch across rural Monterey County, the city of Monterey is perfectly positioned for first-class travel experiences. Cannery Row presents an ideal base for exploring the region’s sophisticated side, thanks to several waterfront resorts as well as spa, wine, shopping and fine dining options all in close proximity. 

Millennial Micro-cations

With a scenic location on California’s Central Coast, Monterey is an enticing micro-cation destination. Plan your next getaway with these three starter itineraries. 

On the Road

In California, road trip opportunities range from coastal cruises to mountain journeys to drives that wind past lush farm fields and vineyards. Monterey County offers all three of these scenic settings: rugged, forested hills hug the Big Sur shoreline, grapevines and lettuce rows stretch across the Salinas Valley, and rocky coves distinguish the Monterey Bay coast. 

Packing Tips from the Pros

Packing for vacation can be daunting, given the unknowns that can range from unpredictable weather to unplanned detours and beyond. Here are four tips to keep in mind as you plan your summer adventures 

Six Sanctuary Adventures

Summer means sunny, leisurely days ideal for boating, fishing and spending time on the water. In Monterey, aquatic activities center on the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. It’s one of the country’s largest marine sanctuaries, covering an area larger than Yosemite National Park and containing an underwater canyon that measures more than two miles deep. The sanctuary occupies 276 shoreline miles between Marin and Cambria, and extends 30 miles out from the coast. Here are six ways to explore this scenic natural wonder. 

Holiday Shopping Made Simple

This season, Cannery Row offers an alternative to traditionally hectic shopping centers. With unique galleries and boutiques clustered on a few pedestrian-friendly blocks, you can park the car and plan a leisurely stroll along the Monterey Bay—while crossing plenty of shopping off your seasonal to-do list. 

50 and Fabulous

Behind the bar of the Whaling Station Steakhouse, a mainstay in the heart of Monterey’s Cannery Row district, the cocktail shakers and corkscrews come to life late each afternoon. Staffers greet happy hour guests who settle in at the restaurant’s U-shaped bar and order classic Manhattans or pours of flavorful petit verdot. By the time dinner service kicks off at 5 p.m., the spacious destination is buzzing with patrons who consider whether they’ll savor slow-roasted prime rib, creamy lobster fettuccine or sesame-crusted ahi tuna. 

A Literary Retreat

To celebrate Steinbeck’s birthday, plan a weekend walking tour of Monterey’s novel attractions. His 1945 book Cannery Row fictionalized the characters of the famous Monterey fishing district; in 1958, city officials renamed Ocean View Boulevard as Cannery Row to honor those connections. Today, you can book rooms at a waterfront inn surrounded by refurbished canning facilities and explore the spots that shaped Steinbeck’s work. 

Driven by Dreams

If your California dream involves cruising the Pacific coast in a classic car, the Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa can help bring that fantasy to life. 

Hole in One

The annual AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am draws celebrity players and professional golfers to the scenic Pebble Beach Golf Links early each February. 

Nature on Display

A soothing slant of sunlight. Water that trickles gently through a stone fountain. An interior wall lush with leaves and blooms. As hotels study guest preferences, such connections to nature frequently rise to the top. That’s why properties are incorporating biophilic design elements – features inspired by the organic world around us – into guest rooms and public spaces. 

Off-Season Exhale

January is an especially good time to visit Monterey, where the slower winter season typically means smaller crowds and more personal attention for guests. It’s a relaxed experience this time of year, without the summer-season lines that sometimes pop-up at headlining attractions and restaurants. The easy access also means that travelers can make the most of their limited vacation hours without outlining a rigorous schedule. 

Seven Romantic Surprises

As sweethearts plan their Valentine’s Day getaways, couples looking to make the weekend extra special might be seeking some fresh inspiration. Monterey’s breathtaking coastal setting makes it a naturally romantic place to celebrate love, while the community’s elegant resorts, white tablecloth restaurants and unforgettable activities add to the charm. 

An Interest in Instagram

The reasons we use Instagram vary from entertainment to information to inspiration. For some individuals, images offer travel, decorating or wellness inspiration. Others scroll through photos as a simple break during a busy day. 

Earth Day by the Bay

April 22 marks the 50th anniversary of Earth Day. Launched in 1970 in response to oil spills, smog, pollution and other challenges, the initial presentation united 20 million Americans in rallies staged across the country. By the year 2000, 5,000 environmental groups in 184 nations led demonstrations designed to raise awareness and make a difference in the natural world. 

Lunch, the Local Way

The deli serves a takeaway menu of build-your-own sandwiches and house favorites named for Coniglio family members and friends. The Uncle Philly, with dry coppa, provolone, lettuce and pepperoncini on a seeded role, honors their uncle who first established the Mediterranean Market. The Uncle Peter, piled high with Black Forest ham, Emmentaler Swiss, lettuce and pickle, is named for another uncle, the former mayor of Monterey. The Uncle Johnny, made with Genoa salami, provolone, Dijon and lettuce, honors Jason and John’s late father. 

Free and Fresh

When summer sunshine beckons, few places are more enticing than coastal Monterey. 

Monterey Mementos

Traveling leads to priceless memories, whether you’re enjoying a quick day trip or a long, leisurely week away. Sometimes, however, we want to remember those adventures with more than great stories and some framed photos. 

Open-air Dining

Fans of Monterey County’s low-key cafes and white-tablecloth establishments know that local flavors headline menus of all types. Here, Salinas Valley produce and fish caught fresh from the Monterey Bay are among the top menu items. Wine lists spotlight reds and whites from some 85 Monterey County vintners and growers.