First Time Monterey: Top Places to Add to Any Itinerary

This aquarium really is all it's cracked up to be. Enjoy incredible views of the bay, interactive exhibits to learn more about local wildlife, and see them in real life in their customized habitats. Tickets are $60 for adults for a day and memberships are about $90. So if you're thinking about going to the aquarium multiple times, consider just buying a membership! Keep in mind that there are more visitors in the mornings so consider visiting in the afternoon to avoid the crowds. Fun fact: this is the aquarium featured in the movie Finding Dory!

Stop in for a meal or just for Rosine's famous, delicious desserts! Grab a pie, brownie, or GIANT slice of cake to-go from their front dessert display. You really can't go wrong no matter what you order.

This was by far my FAVORITE activity that I did in Monterey! Book a private or part of a group tour and explore the bay with your guide. They can answer any questions about the area, the wildlife, and give local recommendations for where to eat and what else to do in town. Spot sea lions, cormorants, pelicans, seals, otters, and if you're lucky, even whales! Local tip: the wildlife are more active in the early mornings, so book a 9 am tour if you can!

A favorite spot of locals to grab a deluxe loaded hot dog or side of tater tots! The 90's skater vibes and the food at this restaurant are both totally wicked!

You have GOT to book a stay at OMI in Monterey! This bed and breakfast is stunning, intimate, and filled with local history and charm. The innkeeper makes you feel right at home and can give you the best recommendations for local sights and activities. Plus a gourmet breakfast is included every morning of your stay! I was delighted with the food, the service, and historical beauty of this inn. Fun fact: the manor house is the home of Monterey's first mayor! Check out my blog post all about my stay at the inn! (link below)

Immerse yourself in local food and fun at this classic Monterey hotspot! The wharf can get pretty crowded with locals and tourists, especially on weekends, but it's definitely worth a visit. The pier is lined with lovely restaurants that have dine-in or take out window options. Dive into a local tradition and pick up some clam chowder in a NorCal sourdough bread bowl! I tried the one from Old Fisherman's Grotto (the best clam chowder I've ever had), but my local friends told me you can't really go wrong with chowder from any restaurant on the wharf!

The perfect place to grab a snack during your shopping spree in Carmel! These donuts are melt-in-your-mouth delicious and made-to-order! They have dozens of unique flavors to try, so there's something for everyone.

This stunning nature reserve has the best classic Monterey Bay views. Hit the park in the morning before the fog rolls in to appreciate all the inlets, islands, and wildlife surrounding this little peninsula. The walking trail has some steep parts and isn't paved, so be sure to keep that in mind when setting out on your adventure. If you park outside the reserve and walk in, it's free! Otherwise there's a $10 entry fee per car. Local tip: don't miss the whaler's cabin along the trail! This little structure is still the original construction and has been turned into a museum depicting the history of whaling and abalone fishing in the area. Keep an eye out for docents (volunteer guides) along the trail who can tell you about local wildlife and history!

My new favorite beach and a MUST for your day trip down to Big Sur. This beach feels so secluded and peaceful. Definitely one of the highlights of my trip! I loved the purple sand and beautiful rock formations - it feels like a scene from a Pirates of the Caribbean movie! Entry fee to the beach is $15 per car. Try to arrive in the morning and on weekdays for this experience; the parking lot is small and once it's full, you'll be turned away at the gate to come again another day.