Perched on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, you’ll find a spectacular window into life both above and below the waves.
Back when Steinbeck was a local, this waterfront stretch of Monterey was just called Ocean View Avenue. Eighty-plus years and a Pulitzer later, the famous author might still recognize the old place.
Take a whale tour, admire the ocean views from seafood restaurants and browse the souvenirs for sale in this thriving marina.
You’ve seen the tour professionals and celebrities tempt fate with the mighty Pacific as they tee-off on the iconic seaside 10th hole at Pebble Beach Golf Links. While the participants in the annual pro/am tournament can make it look easy, your stomach will undoubtedly be churning like the surf against the cliffs below as you begin your backswing. With steady resolve and a calming breath, you cleanly strike the ball it rises into the California sky, then gently comes to rest in the middle of the fairway. You got lucky…this time. Ride that wave of good fortune throughout the remainder of your stay in Monterey. Often referred to as California's "First City," a vacation in Monterey, CA, offers an enchanting mix of historical appeal and modern energy. Travelocity makes it easy for you to experience the northern California peninsula by taking all the hassle out of the booking process when you bundle your travel and accommodations together with one of our Monterey package deals. Whether you prefer to browse historical exhibits, try your luck on the golf course, or lounge on the beach, there are plenty of enjoyable activities that will keep a smile on your face during your memorable Monterey vacation.
No matter if you are taking the family on a northern California adventure, are planning a romantic beach vacation near Monterey, or will be embarking on an epic golf getaway, finding the right hotel can make all the difference. Here are some of our favorite hotels on the Monterey Peninsula:
With gorgeous scenery and even better weather, Monterey is the perfect destination for the outdoors enthusiast. After enjoying a great night's sleep at one of several peaceful hotels in Monterey, begin your day with a brisk walk on the Monterey Peninsula Recreational Trail. There, you'll be greeted by glimpses of seals, otters, whales, and other local sea life. The trail also offers easy access to several award-winning restaurants for a lunchtime pit stop. If you're not in the mood for walking, you can also access these with an auto rented from one of the many Monterey car rentals available. After a laid-back lunch, hit up the renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium, which offers magnificent views of the coast off the deck of one of the best aquariums in the world. Combine your time outdoors with a history lesson and stop by the fascinating Monterey State Historic Park. You'll come away equipped with a new understanding of California's beginnings.
Celebrate Monterey's heritage as California's capital at the annual First City Festival, which takes place near the end of August. In addition to several live performances from the region's hottest artists, the event features a Vaudeville variety stage, where you'll have a side-splitting good time. Use that money you've saved on Monterey vacation packages to score valuable records at the festival's exclusive Beat Swap Meet.
For a unique and affordable California getaway full of fresh air and delicious food, plan a relaxing trip to Monterey. By booking your flight and hotel at the same time on Travelocity, you’ll save enough to buy a couple of rounds for your foursome at the clubhouse after your round at Pebble Beach.
Whether you're venturing out alone or going on vacation with your loved ones, traveling's all about trying different things, throwing yourself into amazing new adventures and collecting memories along the way. Are you all set to go?
Looking forward to some fun adventures while you're in Monterey? We recommend testing out a few of these things: