27 Best Things to Do in Monterey and Carmel 2023 [2-Day Itinerary]

LOOKING FOR THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN MONTEREY AND CARMEL? Then we’ve got you covered.

From a world-class aquarium to the charming wine country, there is so much to do and experience on a trip through the California central coast.

A visit to Monterey and Carmel will surely satiate your wanderlust and leave you wanting just one more day to explore these fun-filled coastal towns. 

This post covers the best things to do in Monterey and Carmel so you can make the most out of your visit.

27 Best Things to do in Monterey and Carmel

Whether you are looking for a place to enjoy a sandy beach, a glass of locally made wine, or explore local spots teeming with history, Monterey and Carmel are must-visit coastal towns in California. 

Located by the ocean, Monterey and Carmel will provide easy access to numerous stunning beaches, nature preserves, and mindblowing stretches of trails. 

There are also lots of opportunities to relax, from a visit to a craft brewery to an afternoon at the spa for a little pampering.

To ensure that you will see the best of both places on your visit, we created an itinerary for spending 2 days in Monterey and Carmel.

Things to do in Monterey: Day 1 Itinerary

Journey through Monterey and experience everything it offers, from its sandy beaches and abundant marine wildlife to its historic locations and amazing food and drinks.

Whether you plan to spend just a day seeing the highlights or you plan to spend a weekend in Monterey enjoying the sights, you will easily find plenty to keep you entertained.

Out of all the activities that you can do in Monterey, you shouldn’t skip the Monterey Bay Aquarium as well as cruising the 17-mile Drive. 

This itinerary will allow you to tour this town as much as possible to help you make the most of your day trip to Monterey.

1. Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium

Known worldwide for its marine wildlife and ocean preservation, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is, without a doubt, one of the best things to do in Monterey.

What was once a sardine cannery is now the epicenter of ocean conservation and home to one of the most biologically diverse stretches of coast in the world.

The aquarium has over 200 exhibits and around 80,000 plants and animals. 

The Open Sea Wing will take your breath away as you gaze at the marine animals in this exhibit, and great white sharks were once displayed here.

You also need to check out the Kelp Forest Exhibit, a living forest of giant kelp maintained in an artificial setting and home to various fish species indigenous to Monterey Bay. 

Perfect for families with kids, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is a famous destination and receives around 2,000,000 visitors each year. 

If you want to avoid the crowds, visit the aquarium a few hours before it closes. 

2. Walk around Cannery Row

After visiting the aquarium, it’s time to explore its historic location. 

What was once lined with sardine canning factories is now home to restaurants, hotels, and historical attractions.

Cannery Row is famous worldwide and considered one of the most popular tourist destinations on California’s central coast.

No matter what kind of visitor you are, there is something for you to do here. 

Nature lovers can immerse themselves in nature by scuba diving or kayaking at the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. 

If you want to stay dry, you can appreciate the views on land by hiking the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail. 

After these activities, there are a lot of restaurants in the row where you can grab a bite and enjoy the scenery. 

Remember to stop by one of the coffee shops such as Tidal Coffee to enjoy their brews inspired by the California Coast. 

3. Stop by the Old Fisherman’s Wharf

If you are on the hunt for fresh seafood, whether you want to eat them or hook them, you need to stop by the Old Fisherman’s Wharf. 

Enjoy good food, sweet handmade treats, and one-of-a-kind souvenirs all in one place. 

If you still need more of Monterey Bay and its marine population, the Old Fisherman’s Wharf is a great jump-off point for water activities such as deep-sea fishing and whale watching. 

For those who love food, there are tons of restaurants on the wharf that you can check out. 

Whether you want a simple home-style meal or something fancy, grab a bite of the wharf’s famous clam chowder and fried calamari. 

After checking everything out, grab a few souvenirs to remember your visit. 

4. Pick up some pastries at Parker-Lusseau Pastries

To give you additional energy to visit the places you need to see in Monterey, head over to Parker-Lusseau Pastries. 

This small bakery is run by a husband and wife tandem who have worked as pastry chefs at some of the best establishments throughout the United States and Europe. 

Everything they sell is baked fresh daily, from flaky and buttery croissants to delicious cakes. They also serve sandwiches, soups, salads, and quiches. 

Their drink menu has hot and cold drinks to quench your thirst or to provide a pick-me-up before exploring Monterey. 

If baked goods and pastries are not your things, head over to Revival Ice Cream to grab a scoop of their hand-made organic ice cream. 

5. Cruise through the 17-Mile Drive

One of the best things to do on your visit is to cruise through one of the most scenic drives in the Monterey Peninsula. 

The 17-Mile Drive is located beyond the gates of Pebble Beach and passes by golf courses, luxury hotels, and multiple scenic landmarks as it hugs the Pacific Coastline. 

There are five gates you can use to access the route, and you will be given a map when you enter. 

There are 17 points of interest that you can check out, but if you are pressed for time, you can always opt only to see the locations that pique your interest, like the Lone Cypress. 

If you have more time, another fun way to experience the 17-mile drive is by going on this guided E-bike tour.

The best time to go on this scenic drive is when the weather is clear.

LOCAL TIP: Avoid going in the morning because the fog will obscure your views. Go in the afternoon instead, and dress in layers and use sun protection. 

6. Visit Lovers Point Park

Whether traveling with your significant other or not, you should visit Lovers Point Park at Pacific Grove. 

It’s a great starting point for those who want to enjoy water activities, and it’s also perfect for those who want to enjoy the scenery and relax on land. 

Lovers Point Park is also an excellent spot for a picnic. 

With a gorgeous view of the ocean and the surrounding rock formations, your meals will taste extra special here. 

After your picnic, stroll the park to view the wildflowers and soak in the scenery. 

7. Watch the waves crash on Ocean View Boulevard

Take the scenic route and casually stroll on Ocean View Boulevard, enjoying great views and the ocean breeze. 

Pack a picnic lunch and find a nice spot to relax while watching harbor seals play in the crashing waves. 

Ocean View Boulevard is an easy stroll, and it is also wheelchair accessible. Catch a glimpse of the “kissing rocks” formed by the ocean’s waves. 

Plaques are scattered along the way that tells the story of this historic place. 

If you want to go on a slightly longer walk, you can hike about 2.5 miles roundtrip from the parking lot until the starting point of the Asilomar Trail.

While you’re here, take the time to visit Point Pinos Lighthouse, the oldest continuously operating lighthouse on the West Coast. 

There is a museum inside the lighthouse that you can tour if you want to know more about its history and how it is operated. 

8. Walk along the ocean on the Asilomar trail

If you are traveling with your dog, hiking the Asilomar Trail is the perfect activity for both of you. 

Whether you want to go on a long walk or a quick run, this trail is easily accessible for all kinds of hikers. 

Head across the road from the beach to change scenery to reach the Asilomar Dunes Natural Preserve. 

You can walk along the boardwalk to enjoy the dunes, which have over 25 native species of plants.

For those not fond of walking, you can explore the trails on a bike instead. 

If you head south, you can easily access Spanish Bay Beach. Make sure to dress in layers because this place can be windy. 

LOCAL TIP: The Asilomar Conference Grounds is nearby, and you can park there for free. There are no restrooms on the trail, and the closest facilities you can use are the ones in this building.

9. Explore tide pools on Asilomar State Beach

One of the unique things to do in Monterey is to go explore the tide pools.

Aside from going on a hike, Asilomar State Beach is also a great place for those who want to take a closer look at marine animals in their habitat. 

When the tide is low, it’s the perfect time to go tidepooling. This is the perfect activity for families with kids, but keep your eyes on the water in case of a large wave. 

After going on a hike, you can take your kids here to get to know more about the ocean. You may also catch a glimpse of sea lions basking in the sun. 

LOCAL TIP: Check the tide charts before you head here, and dress in layers if it gets cold. 

10. Watch the sunset at Sunset Beach

Catching a golden sunset at Sunset Beach is the best way to end your day exploring Monterey. 

If you want to spend the night here, they have a well-maintained campground and picnic facilities for those only staying for a bit. 

Stretch your legs and relax as the day ends on the wide sandy shores of Sunset Beach. 

As the sun sets, take this time to appreciate the day you just had, from the marine animals you saw, the historic locations you toured, and the great food you ate.

If you want to, you can always return to downtown Monterey for a fun night out. 

11. Visit a local brewery – Alvarado Street Brewery

If you still have some energy left after all the exploring, what better way to end your day than having a great beer at a local brewery? 

Alvarado Street Brewery has been serving locals and tourists alike with one-of-a-kind craft beers since 2014. 

They also serve delicious food that pairs well with their brews which you can enjoy in their beer garden or on a patio overlooking historic Alvarado Street. 

Other Things to do in Monterey, California

12. Walk or bike the Monterey Bay Recreation Trail

The Monterey Bay Recreation Trail is perfect for those who want to enjoy the outdoors and the breathtaking views of Monterey. 

It follows the old route of the Southern Pacific Railroad and passes through beaches, state parks, and historic locations. 

This trail is open year-round and can be enjoyed by everyone, your dogs included.  

13. Go on a Whale Watching Tour

If you are visiting Monterey for its diverse marine wildlife population, your trip will not be complete if you don’t go on this whale watching tour. 

Unlike in other locations, you don’t have to travel far from the shore to view the marine mammals living in Monterey Bay.

The whale watching season lasts all year round. From lone whales to pods of dolphins, there is a very high chance that you will spot these creatures during your visit. 

14. Go kayaking in Monterey Bay

The calm waters of Monterey Bay make it a perfect spot for those who want to view its marine habitats and wildlife up close and see Cannery Row from a different perspective from the comfort of their kayak. 

If this is your first time trying this activity, Adventures By the Sea offers guided tours or you can also just rent your own kayak. 

15. Visit Monterey State Historic Park

Learn more about the history of Monterey and the state of California by touring Monterey State Historic Park. 

Begin your journey at the Monterey Custom House, the historic location where the American flag was first raised over California. 

Visit this state park to take a break from nature and enjoy history and architecture. 

16. Stop by Fort Ord National Monument

What was once a military base is now a great place for hiking and biking. 

Fort Ord National Monument has over 86 miles of trail that can be toured on foot, bike, or horseback. 

The trails in this property pass through various terrains, such as grassy hills and coastal shrublands. Stay on the designated path to avoid damaging your surroundings.

Things to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea: Day 2 Itinerary

After being one with nature in Monterey, it’s time to be romantic and artsy in Carmel-by-the-Sea. 

Visit art galleries, enjoy sweets and pastries, taste wine, and immerse yourself in this city’s storybook ambiance. 

Dubbed one of the “World’s Best Cities for Romance,” Carmel-by-the-Sea is a perfect destination for couples. 

But even if you are not traveling with your significant other, this coastal town is still worth visiting as there are plenty of things to do in Carmel by the sea to keep you entertained.

Complete your weekend excursion to California’s central coast by exploring this city and experiencing everything it offers. 

17. Stroll around Ocean Avenue at Carmel-by-the-Sea

Explore the heart of Carmel by going on a stroll along Ocean Avenue. 

Lined with boutiques, coffee shops, and restaurants, visiting this location is a great way to start your day. Grab a free map of the area and begin your tour.

Ocean Avenue is also the location of numerous art galleries. Carmel is a haven for artistic souls, so it’s no wonder that there are over 100 galleries in this small city. 

Whether you are looking for paintings, sculptures, or photographs, there is an art gallery here that will fit your personal taste. 

If you’re a food lover, you can join this small group food and cultural walking tour to learn more about Carmel while tasting delicious bites along the way. 

If you are not up for too much walking, you can enjoy a scenic drive along this road to view the heart of the city and the ocean. 

18. See the Fairytale Cottages in Carmel

Born from a husband’s love for his artistic and lovely wife, the Fairytale Cottages of Carmel should not be missed when you visit the city.

Hugh Comstock built the first fairytale cottage in the area as a showroom for the dolls that his wife made. The cottage was named “Hansel .” 

He then built a second cottage on their property and named it “Gretel.” These two cottages served as the inspiration for Carmel’s whimsical and dreamy aesthetic. 

Comstock built several more fairytale cottages for himself, his wife, and the townsfolk of Carmel, most of which still stand today. 

While these buildings look like they’ve been pulled from a children’s story about magical creatures in faraway lands, the people that live in these cottages are real. 

Make sure to be respectful and not invade their privacy when you view their cottages.

LOCAL TIP: This charming town is one of the best Christmas towns in California.

19. Savor Some Sweets at a Unique Chocolate Shop

Down a curious little alleyway is a quaint shop with a magical garden where you will find every kind of chocolate you can imagine and more. 

The Xocolatl Garden is what heaven looks like for chocolate lovers, and it is located in Carmel-by-the-Sea. 

This shop carries different kinds of chocolate from all over the world, including vegan options. 

The owner is not only friendly and welcoming, but he is also very knowledgeable regarding his products. 

If you are a fan of classic candies, there is a candy shop down the road that you should check out. 

Housed in a small fairytale cottage, Cottage of Sweets carries fudge, chocolates, British sweets, gummies, novelty candies, and licorice. 

20. Stop by The Cheese Shop

If you’re not a fan of sweets, you may enjoy savory cheese instead. 

Cheese connoisseurs and enthusiasts should head to The Cheese Shop in Carmel Plaza to sample their world-class cheeses, gourmet food, and wines. 

When you enter the store, you will be greeted by the delicious aroma of cheese. 

If you need help deciding which cheese you should get, they allow you to sample as many kinds of cheese as you like. 

21. Go Wine Tasting

Another activity that you should not be missed when you are in Carmel is wine tasting. 

You can either sample wines at a tasting room in Carmel-by-the-Sea or visit a winery in Carmel Valley. 

Carmel has more than 20 local wineries and wine tasting rooms, making it a perfect destination for wine lovers. 

Another great thing about wine tasting here is that most of the tasting rooms are within walking distance. 

For first-time visitors, it’s a good idea to go on the Carmel-by-the-Sea Wine Walk, a self-guided tour that will take you to eleven wine tasting rooms throughout Carmel. 

Whether you prefer a full-bodied red wine or a crisp white wine, you will surely find a bottle that perfectly suits your taste. 

22. Have a one-of-a-kind relaxation at Refuge

If you want to take a break and briefly relax, the best place to visit is Refuge, America’s first co-ed outdoor spa. 

Located in Carmel Valley, go here to forget about your problems and enjoy their natural setting and exquisite services. 

One of the things that you should try here is their thermal therapy cycle. 

This involves heating up in a sauna, steam room, or hot or warm pool and then you cool down in a cool or cold pool. The final step of the cycle is relaxation. 

They also offer massages that you can enjoy before or after a thermal cycle to enhance the experience. 

To help their guests relax to the fullest, they do not allow electronic gadgets on their premises and enforce a silence policy. 

23. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

• Cost: $10 per car

A trip to Monterey and Carmel is only complete if you visit Point Lobos State Reserve. 

Also known as the “crown jewel of the California state park system,” you’ll be greeted with breathtaking views, plenty of interesting trails, and a thriving ocean habitat when you arrive. 

If you’re only here for a quick stop, you should head to China Cove, one of the best sights to see in the park. 

While this cove’s emerald waters and sandy shores are not always open to the public, the views from above are still spectacular and worth the trip. 

You should also hike the Cypress Grove Trail. Despite its short distance, this trail will take you to beautiful places. 

You’ll be hiking through a grove of old-growth cypress trees, stunning ocean vistas, and trees covered in red moss. 

This is one of the best stops along Highway 1, so if you want to avoid the crowds, get there as soon as the park opens or a few hours before it closes.

LOCAL TIP: If you want to explore further, you can drive south and do a road trip down to Big Sur to see breathtaking views of the California coast.

Other things to do in Carmel, California

24. Get some pastries at Carmel Bakery

Replenish your energy by getting a few pastries at Carmel Bakery. 

Established in 1899, this bakery is Carmel’s oldest running a retail business. If you do not like baked goods, they also serve ice cream in waffle cones and fresh brewed coffee. 

25. Visit Carmel Beach

After exploring Ocean Avenue, head over to the iconic Carmel Beach. 

Go into the ocean to surf or explore the sandy shores with your dog before the day ends, cozy up next to a warm beach fire and watch the sun disappear into the horizon.

If you want to get away from the crowds, you can take the Scenic Road that runs alongside the coast and visit Carmel River State Beach.

If you love being close to the ocean, you can choose to stay at one of these ocean view hotels in Carmel.

26. Visit the Carmel Mission Basilica Museum

Even if you are not religious, it’s still worth your time to visit the museum of the Carmel Mission Basilica. 

Four museum galleries showcase the history of the Monterey Peninsula and the California Missions. 

After touring the museum, you can head to the Carmel Mission’s courtyard and gardens to rest and meditate. 

27. Explore Garrapata State Park

If you love to hike and can’t get enough of the coastal views, visit Garrapata State Park.

Just a short drive from the town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, this dog-friendly state park is best visited in the spring when the wildflowers are in full bloom.

This is one of the best spots along the Pacific Coast Highway, where you will find hiking trails offering panoramic views of the ocean.

If you have more time, definitely drive down the Big Sur coastline for some panoramic ocean views.

Things to do in Monterey and Carmel by the Sea Map

Best Places to Stay in Monterey and Carmel

• Spindrift Inn – for a luxurious stay with ocean view rooms and a private balcony.
• The Jabberwock Bed & Breakfast – for a quiet retreat in a charming inn.
• La Playa Carmel – a full-amenities hotel in Carmel with ocean views that’s perfect for a couples’ romantic getaway.
• Candle Light Inn – charming B&B located in the heart of Carmel.

Monterey and Carmel Travel Planning Guide

Which one is better: Monterey vs Carmel

If you can only explore one city, which should you choose? Monterey and Carmel are unique places to visit, but some will enjoy Monterey more than Carmel and vice versa. 

The question is, which city will you enjoy better? If you love the ocean and everything in it, Monterey will be the better fit for you. 

Here, you can enjoy many water-related activities like whale watching, kayaking, and surfing. Nature lovers will enjoy Monterey’s hiking trails, beautiful beaches, and scenic drives. 

If you’re visiting with your family, you will find that Monterey has plenty of things to keep everyone entertained.

Carmel is a great destination to visit for couples, as well as art and history lovers. 

More than a day may be needed to explore this one-square-mile city, from its fairytale cottages to its numerous art galleries. 

Cheese, chocolates, and wine are also plentiful here and a necessary part of a visit to Carmel.

Determining which places you should visit will depend on the activities you want to experience and the sights you want to see. 

Monterey to Carmel

Getting from Monterey to Carmel is an easy 10-minute drive so you can easily visit both places on a weekend trip.

If you’re looking for a scenic drive between the two towns, you can stop at Lover’s Point Park and Asilomar State Beach at Pacific Grove and then continue on to Pebble Beach for the 17-mile drive.

Should I stay in Monterey or Carmel?

You should stay in Monterey if you want budget-friendly accommodations and you’re visiting as a family.

If you’re visiting as a couple on a romantic weekend getaway and don’t mind splurging on a place to stay, then choose Carmel-by-the-Sea.

How to Get to Monterey and Carmel

• BY AIR

The Monterey Regional Airport is the closest airport to both Monterey and Carmel. 

However, it is only serviced by three airlines, and the flights are a bit expensive compared to flying to a major airport like SFO or SJC.

• BY CAR

The best way to get to Monterey and Carmel is by car, which gives you the most flexibility with your time and travel plans.

If you’re visiting from San Francisco, you can go on a scenic road trip via the Pacific Coast Highway.

There are plenty of beautiful stops along Highway 1 to make the 2-hour drive more enjoyable.

If you don’t have a car, you can check out Rentalcars.com to shop for the best deals. If you’re under 21 and renting a car, read our guide here.

Best time to visit Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea

The best time to visit Monterey and Carmel is during the fall. The weather is still warm, but there are fewer people because the vacation season is over.

Monterey and Carmel have fairly temperate climates, making them prime destinations year-round. But each season has something to offer which can affect your vacation plans. 

If you can only go here during the summer, be prepared to deal with long lines and larger crowds. 

There are fewer visitors during spring and winter, but you must deal with colder temperatures and the occasional downpour. 

Plenty of events happen throughout the year in Monterey and Carmel. Here is a list of some notable events that you might want to take note of.

• Carmel Culinary Week, January
• Jazz Bash by the Bay, March
• Winemaker’s Celebration, May
• Carmel Art Festival, May
• California Roots Festival, May
• Monterey Beer Festival, May
• Monterey Jazz Festival, September

FAQs: Monterey to Carmel

How far is Monterey from Carmel?

The distance from Monterey to Carmel is only 4.3 miles, which is only a 10-minute drive without stops. 

If you plan to use public transportation, it will take around 20 minutes to reach your destination. 

Is the 17-mile Drive in Monterey or Carmel?

The 17-mile Drive is not in the cities of Monterey and Carmel but in Monterey County. 

The scenic route is beyond Pebble Beach’s gates, a small coastal unincorporated community on the Monterey Peninsula. 

Monterey and Carmel share borders with the community of Pebble Beach.

Is Carmel worth visiting?

Yes, Carmel is worth visiting. This small city offers much is an art and cultural hub on the central coast with amazing wineries, art galleries, and elegant restaurants.

The town is incredibly charming, with cobblestone streets and cottages that house small stores and cute coffee shops.

An added bonus is that Carmel is also a beach town which is located on a gorgeous stretch of the California coast.

Wrap-Up: Things to do in Monterey and Carmel

Now that you know the best things to do in Monterey and Carmel, you can easily plan your trip. 

These two towns have a lot to offer, whether you are looking forward to gallivanting in nature or exploring the streets of a charming coastal town. 

One of the best ways to explore California’s central coast is from Monterey to Carmel by the sea. 

Begin planning your vacation now to prepare for one of the best weekend trips of your life.