This post is sponsored by See Monterey.
Monterey County has always been a beautiful place to visit, whether I’m at the beach or in the town, nature plays a big part of that beauty. After all of my recent travels near and far, I’ve been a little desperate for some time along the coast and most importantly, some much-needed family time. This weekend we took a daytrip to Monterey County, and I’ve partnered with See Monterey to share our 12 hour Monterey City Guide with you. Whether you’re headed down from the SF Bay Area, or just stopping during a Highway 1 roadtrip, these activities will give you a good feeling for the Monterey area.
8AM Hike at Fort Ord Dunes State Park
An early morning hike at Fort Ord Dunes. You can park and hike in anywhere, but my favorite place is the trail from the end of Ninth Street. It heads up and over the dunes, beyond the old shooting range, and to the beach. The views are breathtakingly beautiful.
11AM Lunch along Cannery Row
After the hike, make your way over to Cannery Row for an early lunch. We had lunch at Johnny Rockets because it’s quick and easy, and was not crowded at all during our early lunch. If we wanted to spend a bit more time, we would have checked out Bubba Gump Shrimp Company, or the Fish Hopper for a great ocean view lunch.
12P Tour the Monterey Bay Aquarium
A must-see for us is always the Monterey Bay Aquarium. There is so much to learn about the coastal eco-system, and others far away. Their newest exhibit about Baja California is definitely an eye opener as well. I love that they’ve also incorporated some land-animals as well.
3PM Cruise down Ocean View Boulevard
Just west of the Aquarium, you’ll find Ocean View Boulevard. It is a beautiful coastal road that heads toward Lover’s Point, and the entrance to 17 Mile Drive. Take your time to take in the sights and enjoy the view of Monterey Bay.
4PM 17 Mile Drive
A bucket-list item for any proper Central Coast trip should be a drive down the famed 17 mile drive. Along it you will see many sights like Point Joe, Pebble Beach, and the Lone Cypress. Most are quick stops, but some of the beaches make the perfect spot to stretch your legs.
5PM Dinner in Downtown Monterey
There are so many delicious restaurants in downtown Monterey, and 5PM is the perfect ahead-of-the-crowd time to enjoy dinner at one.
7PM Sunset at the Old Fishermans Wharf
It’s not often we have a true full day in Monterey, but when we do, we love to watch the sunset over the point from the Old Fisherman’s Wharf. There is plenty of sea life along the water, and the views toward the pacific are beautiful.
Giveaway time! See Monterey will be giving away one trip package, which includes two nights at Monterey Tides, two tickets to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, and a wine blending at Joullian Vineyards.
To enter, simply leave a comment below with where in Monterey County you’d love to visit! See Monterey will randomly select a winner from the comments.
This post is a part of my City Guide series, click here to see them all.
This post is sponsored by See Monterey but the content and opinions expressed here are my own.
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