Venture into beautiful Monterey by land or sea! You can take a passive or active role in the Monterey environment through a number of activities throughout the city.
By Sea...
For those who want to experience the Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary first hand, take a whale watching cruise on Monterey Bay. Skilled guides leave their docks at Old Fisherman's Wharf to lead seasonal grey and humback whale viewing trips, and observe a host of other marine animals, as well. Separate fishing trips take fisherman out to catch the locally available (seasonal) Salmon, Pacific Rock and Ling Cod, Halibut, Tuna and Sea Bass. Or, try a sailing adventure aboard one of Monterey's finest.
A closer inspection is available by taking a self-guided or guided kayak tour. Kayaks can be rented from locations in Cannery Row or near Old Fisherman's Wharf, and they are a great way to gain a different perspective on the Monterey seashore and allow you to get closer to otters, birds, seals and sea lions, and even the tops of kelp forests. (But, not too close!) Take an underwater view by renting SCUBA gear and diving in Monterey Bay, one of the most popular diving destinations on the West Coast.
By Land...
The Monterey Bay Coastal Trail is Monterey's recreation Main Street. The trail runs for 18 miles from Castroville to Pacific Grove. A great way to use "green" transportation between Cannery Row and Old Fisherman's Wharf, the trail is used by runners and walkers, bikers and in-line skaters. And, bike and 4-person, pedal-powered surreys are available to rent in Portola Plaza near Fisherman's Wharf and in Cannery Row.
Monterey has a number of public parks, and one of the childrens' favorites is Dennis the Menace Park. This famous playground is known throughout the state for its whimsical equipment, which includes a drinking fountain inside the mouth of a lion, a swinging rope bridge, a roller slide, and a life-sized hedge maze, among others. Young conductors can climb all over the real steam train engine and pretend they are rolling down the track. Created in 1956 by cartoonist Hank Ketcham, the park celebrates the right of kids to be kids. Nearby, tweens and teens can catch air at the skateboard park.
In partnership with Monterey County and the cities of Carmel-by-the-Sea, Del Rey Oaks, Marina, Monterey, Pacific Grove, Salinas,
Sand City, Seaside, Soledad, Pebble Beach, Moss Landing, Carmel Valley, Big Sur, and Salinas Valley.
