Wander through Monterey, and you’ll see the stamp of John Steinbeck all over town. The famed writer of Depression-era novels took inspiration from this storied spot. Monterey honors the artist with a series of nods, including a change of name for one of the town’s beloved destinations. Iconic Cannery Row, now famous as a vibrant stretch of haute cuisine eateries and notable chef-driven bistros, once had a decidedly industrial air. Steinbeck chose the sardine canning backdrop as the setting for his eponymous novel. The story, about friendship and camaraderie, evokes the atmosphere of present-day Monterey, and the town happily renamed the revitalized area Cannery Row in honor of the writer.

This historic spot has morphed into a coveted vacation destination, with Cannery Row and the Monterey Aquarium serving as attractions. Monterey’s proximity to international airports and California’s most cosmopolitan cities is another major draw. Perhaps the most exquisite attraction of all is what Monterey was born with — wild, unadulterated coastal beauty. Perched on the banks of Monterey Bay, this spectacular town boasts incredible ocean views and some of the nation’s most breathtaking coastline.

 

Breezy beach vibes blend with luxe sophistication in Monterey. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming. While residents are accustomed to the best coastal life has to offer, the attitude of Monterey denizens is laid-back and relaxed.

Monterey cultivates a lifestyle of casual elegance and healthy, active days. Residents can often be found strolling the rugged coastline or out on one of the area’s impeccably maintained golf courses. This is a town where fresh seafood is the star of the culinary show, and the famous Cannery Row serves as a hotspot for fine dining.

 

Time is relative in Monterey, where the past brushes against the present like a wave on the shore. The area’s factories of yesteryear have been infused with new life in the form of the revitalized Cannery Row. Once home to a booming fish industry, Cannery Row is now known for luxe hotels and five-star restaurants featuring plenty of fresh seafood from the Pacific. The C Restaurant + Bar commands prime real estate on Cannery Row, and an expansive wall of windows looks out onto the sparkling Monterey Bay waters. Serving only sustainably sourced seafood, the chefs at this elegant eatery excel in fresh flavors and artful dishes like Ora king salmon with cauliflower gratin and black trumpet mushrooms.

The lavish interior at The Sardine Factory is fit for Poseidon himself and features grand tableaux worthy of the gods. The cuisine lives up to the surroundings, with decadent choices like the chilled seafood boat of Maine lobster, prawns, oysters, sardines, and shrimp. Just three blocks from Cannery Row, you’ll find Lighthouse Ave, a dynamic new collection of restaurants and pubs spanning eight blocks and a wide range of cuisine. This new culinary superstar is on the rise and is home to the famous Monterey Aquarium.

 

Situated on the rocky coastline of the bay, Monterey Bay Aquarium shines as a beacon of aquatic preservation and deep-sea adventures. Fascinating educational programs and exhibits will enchant visitors of all ages, and the underwater habitats are truly spectacular. Monterey ushers in autumn with the sultry sounds of jazz at the Monterey Jazz Festival. Held at the majestic Monterey County Fairgrounds, this celebrated event is the world’s longest-running jazz festival and features beloved artists from around the globe.

Take in the glittering turquoise views of the bay from the stunning Monterey Bay Coastal Trail. Spanning 18 miles, this scenic pathway invites hikers, picnickers, and cyclists to explore the wild beauty of Monterey. Bring your best furry pal for a stroll, or load up the kids and kayaks for a beautiful day on the water.

The Monterey area has long been revered as a world-class golf destination, and Bayonet & Black Horse offers one of the region’s most celebrated courses. This prestigious golf club hosts the PGA tournament every June.

 

Families living in Monterey benefit from excellent public schools through the Monterey Peninsula Unified School District, as well as prestigious private academies, including: