Located by the oceanfront, the Monterey Bay Aquarium offers a window into the rich marine life of the area with over 200 exhibits and 80,000 plants and animals on display. Here, you can see leopard sharks weave through kelp forests at one of the tallest aquarium exhibits in the world, sardines swimming past a 90-foot aquarium window, and cute sea otters frolicking. Tickets are only available online so be sure to book before you go. There’s also a behind-the-scenes tour for an exclusive peek behind their world-class exhibits. – Tripadvisor

Take in the stunning coastal scenery of Monterey along the 17-Mile Drive. This scenic road, which winds through Pebble Beach's gated community, offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and other natural landscapes. Amid the beautiful mansions and golf courses, you can see pelicans diving from sea stacks, have a refreshing dip at Fanshell Beach, and watch the seals and sea lions from the Pescadero Point lookout. And don't forget the iconic Lone Cypress tree. There is a toll for non-residents to access 17-Mile Drive, but you can get it reimbursed with a minimum spend at Pebble Beach. Consider a driving tour from San Francisco or a bike tour of Monterey's beautiful coastline. – Tripadvisor

Designed by the creator of the 'Dennis the Menace' comic, this expansive park promises great fun for kids of all ages. Here, you'll find tons of slides and large play structures, a maze, an old steam engine, a baseball field, a skate park, and even a rock-climbing wall. Plus, a little bronze statue of Dennis the Menace himself. There's even a lake (where you can ride a pedal boat) and a beach right across the street. The park is popular for birthday parties, picnics, and barbeques, especially over the weekends—visit on weekdays for fewer crowds. – Tripadvisor

Popular hiking trail running along the Pacific Grove and Monterey coast.

Cannery Row is the Central Coast’s premier visitor destination. Home to some of the most luxurious hotels, world-class restaurants, boutiques & galleries, spas, premium wine tasting & exciting recreation Monterey has to offer, including the best nightlife. Walk everywhere. The breathtaking coastline of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary is the backdrop for every Cannery Row experience. Parking is never a problem, and everything is within walking distance.

Gift shops and stores fill this part of town.

The Monterey Museum of Art expands a passion for the visual arts and inspires appreciation of California art—past, present, and future. At MMA Pacific Street, 559 Pacific Street, Monterey, CA 93940, masterpieces of early California painting and photography including works by Ansel Adams and Edward Weston are showcased in this downtown landmark. Family-friendly with activities for children.