Attractions and Things to Do in Monterey Bay California
From whale watching and wine tasting to golfing and leisurely coastline drives, Pacific Grove, California attracts travelers with picturesque ocean view landscapes and premier local attractions.
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Hearst Castle.
Once the magnificent estate of newspaper tycoon William Randolph Hearst, the Hearst Castle is a stunning showcase of European-style architecture and design. In its heyday, this hilltop mansion attracted Hollywood’s elite during the 1920s and 30s.Nestled within the hills of San Simeon, visitors can explore Hearst Castle’s shimmering Neptune Pool, gothic inspired rooms, tennis courts and even a private zoo.
17-Mile Drive.
Stretching from Pacific Grove to Pebble Beach, 17-Mile Drive hugs the Pacific Ocean coastline. Discover breathtaking natural landscape, golf courses, mansions and the local flora and fauna that thrive in this area. Pass the cool waters of Spanish Bay, the inspiring Lone Cypress and the world-renowned Pebble Beach Golf Links. 
Fisherman’s Wharf.
Old Fisherman’s Wharf was constructed during the 1870s as a landing spot for regular passenger and freight ships. Today, plenty of restaurants, shops and art galleries are found along this maritime thoroughfare. Many whale watching cruises depart from Fisherman’s Wharf. Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca.
Formerly known as the Laguna Seca Raceway, the events on this 2.2 mile racetrack will surely get your heart pumping. Catch high-speeding sports cars and motorcycles zoom along the infamous Corkscrew turn. [Top]
Asilomar State Beach.
Asilomar State Beach offers plenty of sun, surf and sand to relax and take in the natural beauty of the Monterey Peninsula. Enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving and walks along its one mile stretch of beaches and trails. Rocky reefs and coves dot Asilomar State Beach offering perfect opportunities to explore the marine life during low tide.Carmel Mission.
When founded in 1771, the Carmel Roman Catholic mission church was headed by Junipero Serra until his death in 1784. Surrounded by the stunning beauty of Carmel-by-the-Sea, the Carmel Mission today stands as a National Historic Landmark complete with its original bell tower dome. [Top]
Point Lobos State Reserve.
Point Lobos State Reserve is south of Carmel-by-the-Sea off the coast of the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can take advantage of its many outdoor offerings, trails and scenic vistas. American Tin Cannery.
Built in 1927, the American Tin Cannery is Monterey’s premier outlet shopping center. Located across from the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, the American Tin Cannery offers a variety of specialty shops, restaurants and even a mini golf course. [Top]Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History.
Those looking to uncover the historic past of this coastal town should go no further than the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History. Discover permanent and temporary exhibits featuring the unique plant life, animals and human populations which have inhabited the Pacific Grove area throughout the years. Pinnacles National Monument.
Discover the remains of a once active volcano at the Pinnacles National Monument in the Salinas Valley. Gigantic monoliths, sheer-walled canyons and rock formations dominate the area as well as beautiful wild flowers, talus caves and plenty of places to rock climb. Pinnacles National Monument is also a release site for the endangered California Condor. [Top]
California Scenic Drive/ Highway 1.
Stretching 655 miles along California’s Pacific Ocean coast, this California highway is one of the most stunning scenic drives in the country. Discover breathtaking ocean views and beautiful sights along scenic Highway 1.Lover’s Point Beach.
Nestled along the coast of the stunning Monterey Peninsula and only minutes from the Centrella Inn, Lover’s Point Beach provides romance, beauty and relaxation. Stroll along its rocky shores, explore the marine life found during low tide or enjoy a picnic along the cliffs above. [Top]Pacific Grove.
Situated along California’s Pacific Ocean coastline, Pacific Grove is a quaint seaside community in the heart of Monterey Bay. Discover breathtaking ocean views, art galleries, boutique shops and amazing historic sights that depict the history and diversity of the region. Wine Tours/ Wine Tasting.
Discover the finest wines and vineyards in Monterey County. Wine lovers and connoisseurs can sample regional specialties and enjoy the aromatic flavors of local wine favorites.Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.
The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary is the largest marine sanctuary in the nation and protects a variety of habitats and marine life including harbor seals, otters, whales, pelicans, fish and sea urchins. Explore the sanctuary’s rocky beaches, kelp forests and the Monterey Submarine Canyon, which descends visitors 2 miles into the deep dark abyss. [Top]
