15 Most Romantic Things to Do in Monterey, California
Seeking one of the best places for a romantic getaway in the United States? Look no further than Monterey! With outdoor activities, wine-tasting rooms, beautiful beaches, renowned golf courses, and romantic hotels — this city along the California Coast offers plenty for couples. My husband and I celebrated our wedding anniversary here and fell in love with Monterey (and with each other, all over again)! You’ll fall in love, too, with this list of the most romantic things to do in Monterey.
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1. Cannery Row
In downtown Monterey, you’ll find picturesque Cannery Row. This bustling historic street offers pretty ocean views and is the main street through the city.
Made famous by John Steinbeck’s book, Cannery Row, Monterey pays tribute to the sardine factory workers who worked here from 1908 until the last cannery closed in 1973.
The Presidio of Monterey Museum includes three interesting Cannery Workers’ Shacks, representing three migrant ethnic groups who lived and worked here during the canning heyday.
Located in the center of Cannery Row, you’ll find the Cannery Row Monument. It features eight figures sculpted from bronze that represent Monterey’s canning past, including Steinbeck himself.
Shoppers will be pleased to explore Cannery Row Antique Mall, located within the former Carmel Canning Company warehouse. You can also wander through a multitude of gift shops along Cannery Row to purchase t-shirts and other souvenirs of your Monterey romantic retreat.
2. Old Fisherman’s Wharf Clam Chowder
Seafood restaurants abound along Cannery Row and the Old Fisherman’s Wharf shopping and dining district. You will probably be offered free samples of clam chowder from just about every eatery in town.
If it’s a bowl of the town’s best clam chowder you’re after, then I must recommend the Fish Hopper or its sister property, Old Fisherman’s Grotto. I had never been much of a clam chowder lover, but after a taste of their delicious soups, I became a convert! For a delicious taste of San Francisco, order yours served in a sourdough bread bowl.
3. Monterey Bay Aquarium
The most popular attraction in Monterey is its world-renowned aquarium. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is one of the most impressive aquariums in the world. It’s set on 3.3 bay-front acres and is home to over 75,000 animals and plants. Couples will enjoy exploring the aquarium’s hands-on, educational displays of marine life together.
Skip-the-Line Tickets
The world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium is very busy, and rightfully so. Expect long lines to get in, especially during high travel season, like summer weekends. I recommend purchasing Skip-the-Line Monterey Bay Aquarium Tickets before arrival to cut wait times.
Sea Otters
In addition to a vast array of fish, the aquarium’s sea otters are a non-stop swirling, swimming, diving frenzy of entertainment. Take a look at what I mean in the video above!
Penguins
The resident penguins are less active but intriguing as well. My husband and I watched one tuxedoed, indecisive gal waddle about and ponder diving into her exhibit’s chilly waters for a full 15 minutes.
4. Seventeen-Mile Drive
At some point during your Monterey vacation, you must embark on the famous 17-Mile Drive. This winding private oceanfront road charges a nominal fee, but it’s well worth it for the views.
Plan to pause a lot along the scenic drive to snap photos of the rocky ocean cliffs and sandy beaches frosted with misty clouds. One required stop is at The Lone Cypress, which stands alone on a rocky peninsula in Pebble Beach.
Adventurous couples may want to take on the 17-Mile Drive via bicycle. Sign up for an e-bike tour with a local guide in advance.
5. Pebble Beach Golf Links
Top off your drive with a stop at Pebble Beach Golf Links. If you love golf and have deep pockets, then make a reservation to play a round or two at this popular spot during your trip to Monterey County. The golf courses here are regularly voted among the best in the United States.
Or, do as my husband and I did, and live the rich life by sipping cocktails at their golf club instead. Take in a magnificent view of the course and ocean while you enjoy your refreshments. Browse high-end retail shops at Pebble Beach before or after your treats.
6. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
About six miles from Monterey, you’ll find the incredible Point Lobos State Reserve at the northern end of Big Sur. This nature sanctuary on the Monterey Peninsula feels otherworldly, with orange-colored moss, twisted trees, flower-festooned boulders, and a wealth of animals.
Take in the reserve’s sounds of waves crashing, birds singing, and barking seals and sea lions. My husband and I saw sea lions lazing on a beach, dolphins diving in the water, hundreds (if not thousands) of birds, and a rather outgoing mama doe and her fawn.
Lucky visitors can often spy on sea otters playing in kelp forests at this nature reserve too, but we were not among them. To get a better view of the area’s animal residents, bring binoculars or give your car keys to the information center to borrow a pair.
There are several trails for hikers to choose from at Point Lobos. Pack a picnic basket to pause mid-hike to enjoy a romantic picnic along some of the most stunning landscape along the West Coast.
7. Whale Watching Tour
Set sail from Old Fisherman’s Wharf to see majestic whales in their natural habitat in the waters of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.
Depending on what time of year you visit, you might see humpback whales, dolphins, porpoises, orcas (killer whales), gray whales, and the world’s largest animal — blue whales. Winter and spring are best for spotting migrating gray whales. Meanwhile, summer and fall are best for humpbacks and blue whales.
This is one of the most memorable and fun things to do during a Monterey romantic getaway. Book your 3 to 4-hour whale-watching cruise with our trusted partner, GetYourGuide now!
8. Beautiful Beaches
One of the best ways to enjoy Monterey’s many outdoor activities is to head to the beach.
During your Monterey romantic vacation, a stop at Lovers Point Park is a must. It offers pretty views, soft sand, and access to water sports like stand-up paddleboarding, swimming, and fishing.
Alternatively, San Carlos Beach is conveniently located near Cannery Row. It is known more for scuba diving and tide pools than lazy beach days, however.
Meanwhile, Del Monte Beach is regarded as the best spot in Monterey for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. Add excitement to your trip with private surf lessons at Del Monte.
9. Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail
Outdoorsy couples can’t miss Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail. This two-lane paved path stretches 18 miles from Pacific Grove in the south to Castroville in the north, passing popular sites like Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row along the way.
Rent bicycles and surreys from local outfitters to traverse the trail, taking in views of Monterey Bay as you pedal. You can also rent kayaks to paddle through the bay.
10. Wine-Tasting Rooms
Monterey County boasts over 349 unique vineyards. Couples can sample many varietals right in the heart of Monterey at wine tasting rooms along Cannery Row. Stop by A Taste of Monterey or Bargetto Winery to sip and shop for local wines.
What could be more romantic than sipping wine with your sweetheart in Monterey? Creating your own custom blend at The Wine Experience, that’s what! Reserve your Blending Session for Two in advance, which includes a cheese and charcuterie board. You’ll leave with your own unique bottle of wine with its own custom label as well.
11. Monterey Jazz Festival
Couples who appreciate jazz will be happy to learn the world’s longest continuously running jazz festival takes place in Monterey every fall. The Monterey Jazz Festival features an array of renowned jazz artists performing on four stages over the course of three days in September.
In addition to amazing live music, expect jazz panel discussions and workshops, international food booths, shopping, and festivities at the Monterey County Fairgrounds.
12. Monterey State Historic Park
Part of the Monterey Old Town Historic District, Monterey State Historic Park features government buildings and old-time houses that tell the story of California’s earliest capital. History buffs will want to embark on a self-guided audio tour of the park.
13. Carmel-by-the-Sea
One of the best things about Monterey is its proximity to the neighboring town, Carmel, and vice versa. This charming place in Carmel Valley offers art galleries, romantic restaurants, and the beautiful Carmel Mission. Carmel-by-the-Sea is the perfect place for a romantic walk with your partner among quaint shops and fairy tale houses.
Stop by as a day trip from Monterey. Better yet, extend your romantic road trip along California’s Central Coast with a few nights. Learn more about romantic things to do in Carmel and read my review of the darling Hofsas House Hotel for couples in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
14. Romantic Restaurants
The Monterey Peninsula has no shortage of restaurants where you can enjoy a romantic meal.
Aquarium Restaurant
Monterey Bay Aquarium’s sit-down dining option, Aquarium Restaurant, boasts one of the best ocean views in town. It came highly recommended to us by locals and did not disappoint. You may view otters, sea lions, dolphins, and ocean birds during your meal so plan to come pre-sunset.
In an effort to lower the aquarium’s carbon footprint, you’ll only find sustainable seafood here as well as ingredients from local ranchers and farmers.
Fandango Restaurant
For a romantic fireside meal, make reservations at Fandango. This Mediterranean eatery in Pacific Grove is one of the best restaurants on the Monterey Peninsula. Couples dine on dishes like their signature Osso Buco or local Sautéed Sand Dabs. Save room for Soufflé Grand Marnier or Chocolate Mousse for dessert.
Pacific’s Edge Restaurant
Be sure to make reservations for a romantic dinner at Pacific’s Edge Restaurant at Hyatt Carmel Highlands. Menus change with the seasons at this extra-special restaurant.
You might start with Baked Oysters Rockefeller or a Roasted Beet Carpaccio. Then celebrate your love with Surf and Turf of filet mignon with red wine reduction and Maine lobster with bearnaise. Desserts like Profiteroles with homemade espresso ice cream are not to be missed.
The knock-your-socks-off views of Point Lobos Reserve, incredible service, and impeccable cuisine will impress the most discerning couples. If this place doesn’t put you in the mood for romance, then I don’t know what will.
15. Monterey Peninsula’s Most Romantic Hotels
Whether you’re planning a long weekend or a more extensive vacation, your romantic getaway in Monterey deserves a romantic hotel stay.
Spindrift Inn
The waterfront Spindrift Inn on Cannery Row receives high marks for romance on Booking.com. Expect Monterey Bay views, charming antiques, and included silver tray-served continental breakfasts. Many guest rooms include wood-burning fireplaces, perfect for couples to cuddle by.
Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa
Beach lovers will want to stay at Monterey Plaza Hotel. Pacific waves crash on the shores below this beachfront property located on Cannery Row. Hot tubs, fire pits, complimentary bicycles, modern amenities, and the on-site Vista Blue Spa make this hotel one of the most popular places for couples to stay in Monterey.
Hyatt Carmel Highlands
The luxurious, yet woodsy Hyatt Carmel Highlands is situated beside the Pacific Ocean and Point Lobos State Reserve. The rooms are not large, but the views sure are. Take a dip in their heated outdoor pool or warm up after a day of hiking in a steaming hot tub. Then, pull up a seat at one of their blazing fire pits for s’mores and a glass of vino.
Explore Additional Romantic Destinations
Plan a romantic Disneyland vacation.
Learn about things for couples to do in New Orleans.
Discover why you should plan a romantic Royal Caribbean Cruise.
Take a peek at activities for couples in Basel, Switzerland.
Save These Activities for Couples in Monterey
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Do you have other suggestions for couples visiting Monterey? Let us know in the comments below!
A Note from The Travel Mama: My husband and I were hosted by Monterey Bay Aquarium, Fandango, Pacific’s Edge Restaurant, and Hyatt Carmel Highlands for the purpose of this story about romantic things to do in Monterey. We paid full price for everything else we did in the Monterey area. All opinions are my own, as always.
First of all i would like to wish you a very auspicious Anniversary …and thanks a lot for giving me an idea about my wedding anniversary coming on 11th. as usual I enjoyed your post very much thanks a lot for sharing.
We stopped by Monterey on our road trip in Cali a couple of years ago around the same time. It was gorgeous. Great drive, very nice area. Did the 17 mile drive. Was a bit cloudy on that day, but we still got to enjoy the scenery
Dmitry – Thanks for your comment! It was cloudy most days when we were in the area too, but the clouds add to the scenery in a way.
This does all look lovely. I drove along the 17-mile drive a few years ago with a friend and when we stopped to take photos our rental car wouldn’t start! There was nobody else around and we panicked a bit, didn’t know what to do at all and then it magically started, much to our relief.
Mums do travel – So glad it all worked out OK! There are less attractive places in the world to be stranded tough for sure!
Hi Colleen. Happy Anniversary.
I lived in Monterey for 2 1/2 years. Spectacular place. and great choice for surprise anniversary getaway.
A correction to your Monterey info. Cannery Row is in an area called New Monterey. Downtown Monterey is distinct and about a mile and a half southeast. The Presidio separates New Monterey from (old) Monterey.
The area certainly has fantastic clam chowder. Best I have ever had is from Vivolos, a block from the aquarium. In fact, one of my favorite things (in the whole world) is watching the sunset from Ocean View Drive with take out Vivolos clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl.
Take care. Wonderful write up.
Charles – Thank you for the correction! I’ve made the change. Guess I should check my research a little better, eh? (Mmm…clam chowder in a bread bowl sounds fab!)