Top 10 Best Things to Do in Monterey County
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Top 10 Best Things to Do in Monterey County

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Trip.Best is a collection of travel rankings that takes into account the travel choices and genuine preferences of hundres of millions of Trip.com users. It is updated monthly based on real data.
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  • 17 Mile Drtop_1
    󰺂6.6
    Del Monte Forest61.9 km from downtown
    Highlights:
    󱓊Pebble Beach & 17-Mile Drive
    17-Mile Drive around Pebble Beach
    4.5/5
    生长在海边的果果生长在海边的果果

    It is a privately owned coastline that requires money to enter. The scenery is not too beautiful. It is best to go on a sunny day. We are always cloudy and sunny. There are several attractions inside. It takes half a day to drive and stop. Although it belongs to the scenic spot that costs very little to enter along Highway 1, it is also worth it. Inside is a rich area, and you can see many rich people building luxury houses along the coast.

  • CA-1top_2
    󰺂6.4
    Monterey County61.3 km from downtown
    trip best TravelHotspot logoCalifornia State Route 1 has been rated as a must-drive route
    trip best small logoAchieved a 2-year streak on the annual lists
    Highlights:
    󱨜Parking & scenic views available
    󱓊Unique purple beach in the world
    󱨠Saved by 120 users󱨠126 positive reviews
    4.9/5
    生长在海边的果果生长在海边的果果

    The essence section is the section from San Francisco to Los Angeles, and it must be opened from San Francisco to Los Angeles, because the road on the right is facing the sea, this direction is open, and the scenery is beautiful. It is really the most beautiful road. We drove for 3 days, the first day from San Francisco to Monterey, the second day to Pismo Beach, the third day to Los Angeles, all the way to stop, while walking, playing, the sea view is invincible, a lot of flowers that have not been seen in China, really beautiful. The main attractions passing by are Half Moon Bay, Dove Point Lighthouse, Monterey Town, Carmel Town, 17 Mile Bay, Big Sur McVeigh Falls, Bixby River Bridge, Elephant Seal Beach, Pismo Beach, Solvan Danish Town, Santa Barbara, Santa Monica Beach, etc.

  • Monterey Bay Aquariumtop_3
    󰺂5.2
    Monterey59.6 km from downtown
    trip best small logoFeatured in 2025 Americas 50 - Family-friendly Attractions
    Highlights:
    󱓊Family-friendly marine life interaction
    󱓊Unique jellyfish & manta ray exhibit
    󱨠121 positive reviews
    4.7/5
    _TI***vd_TI***vd

    First purchase on here and the ticket sounded almost too good to be true. Took my chance on them, and they worked without issue. Got scanned into the aquarium and had a blast with the kiddo. Took a family of 5 for the price of 2 people. Very good deal. Will buy from again.

  • Monterey Bay
    4
    󰺂4.5
    Monterey County75.8 km from downtown
    trip best small logoNo. 2 of Family-friendly Attractions in Monterey County
    Highlights:
    󱓊Explore historic cannery district
    󰋄Sea lions & seals frolicking
    4.5/5
    一數一數

    Monterey Bay is the most beautiful bay in central California, and along California Highway 1 from San Francisco to the south of more than 100 kilometers, you can reach the famous marine protected area of California Monterey Bay. The coastline walkway is 30 kilometers long and can see seagulls, sea lions and various seabirds.

  • Old Fisherman's Wharf
    5
    󰺂4.4
    Monterey58 km from downtown
    Highlights:
    󰋄Colorful boats & vintage shops
    Statue commemorates past prosperity
    4.0/5
    DEAR张小球DEAR张小球

    The old Fisherman's Wharf is like two different worlds from the Fisherman's Wharf in the San Francisco Bay Area. It is very comfortable here. There are many private yachts moored at the pier, and there are also many seagulls flying, which makes people feel particularly comfortable.

Best things to do in Monterey County (2025)

Looking for the ultimate experiences in Monterey County? From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, Monterey County offers an exceptional collection of activities and attractions that cater to every type of traveler.

Whether you’re here for sightseeing, adventure, or cultural exploration, these top-rated activities promise unforgettable memories.

Top-rated things to do in Monterey County

If you want to make the most of your trip, these activities deliver the full Monterey County experience. Expect popular attractions, unique local experiences, and must-see spots that capture the essence of the city.

17 Mile Dr

• Del Monte Forest | 61.9 km from downtown

• : Pebble Beach & 17-Mile Drive,17-Mile Drive around Pebble Beach

CA-1

• Monterey County | 61.3 km from downtown

• : Parking & scenic views available,Unique purple beach in the world

Monterey Bay Aquarium

• Monterey | 59.6 km from downtown

• : Family-friendly marine life interaction,Unique jellyfish & manta ray exhibit

Things to do for unique experiences

These activities provide memorable experiences beyond the ordinary. Enjoy cultural tours, adventure sports, guided excursions, and immersive local experiences designed for all interests.

Things to do near Monterey County

If you want to explore attractions just outside Monterey County, there are plenty of activities that combine scenic surroundings with convenient access to the city, perfect for day trips or short excursions.

Each of these activities offers a unique escape within 1–3 hours of Monterey County, ideal for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with local experiences.

What makes things to do in Monterey County special

• Iconic landmarks: Visit must-see sights that define the city.
• Local experiences: Engage in culture, crafts, and unique activities.
• Accessible adventures: Easily reachable attractions for all travelers.
• Diverse options: From relaxing experiences to adventurous outings.

Tips for booking things to do in Monterey County

1. Plan ahead for popular attractions to avoid long queues.
2. Book early for guided tours or seasonal events.
3. Compare prices and packages on Trip.com for exclusive deals and bundled experiences.
4. Consider weekday visits for a quieter and more personalized experience.

Experience the best things to do in Monterey County

Ready to explore the best of Monterey County? Discover Trip.Best's curated list of things to do and experience adventure, culture, and unforgettable memories.

Book your perfect activities on Trip.com today, where excitement and discovery awaits.

What Best Things to Do are there in Monterey County?
These are all Best Things to Do in Monterey County:17 Mile Dr, CA-1, Monterey Bay Aquarium, Monterey Bay, Old Fisherman's Wharf
What are some highly-rated Best Things to Do in Monterey County?
Some highly-rated Best Things to Do in Monterey County include:17 Mile Dr:4.5, CA-1:4.9, Monterey Bay Aquarium:4.7, Monterey Bay:4.5
At what locations in Monterey County can Best Things to Do in Monterey County be found?
The Best Things to Do in Monterey County are mainly located in:17 Mile Dr:Del Monte Forest, CA-1:Monterey County, Monterey Bay Aquarium:Monterey, Monterey Bay:Monterey County, Old Fisherman's Wharf:Monterey
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