Fun Things to Do near Carmel, California

Bay Aquarium Cannery Row Lobos State Reserve Jacks Peak County Park Hawk Tower Tours Fairgrounds

Well-appointed lodging and one of the most spectacular settings in California will be yours when you’re registered at the affordable Comfort Inn Monterey Bay near the quaint village of Carmel. Enjoy a boatload of attractions like the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Fisherman’s Wharf and Cannery Row. Find out more about these fun vacation things to do as well as several others that complete our neighborhood picture.

Monterey Bay Aquarium. Discover the largest marine sanctuary in the United States. Explore the bay’s different habitats through a variety of exhibits that recreate shallow tide pools, sandy beaches and the deep blue sea. Get an up-close-and-personal look at kelp forests, sea otters and creatures from the outer bay including soupfin sharks, yellowfin tuna and sea turtles.

Fisherman’s Wharf. Fisherman’s Wharf was built in 1846 for many trading vessels bringing goods from around Cape Horn. During that time, Monterey California was the major port on the Pacific Ocean. Monterey’s commercial fishing fleet is now based on the municipal wharf, while Fisherman's Wharf #1 is a very popular destination for visitors seeking a taste of history and the finest fresh seafood dinners. Whale watching and fishing excursions also originate from the Wharf, which boasts unique shops selling nautical items from local artisans. For more information, visit www.monterey-carmel.com/Fishermans_Wharf_Monterey_CA_Photo_Tour.htm  [Top]

Cannery Row. Experience the best of Monterey’s shopping at the 84 retail stores that dot this historic area brought to life in the writings of Monterey Bay native John Steinbeck. When the shopping’s finished, it’s time to head over to Restaurant Row for incredibly fine wine and delectable dining. For more information, visit www.canneryrow.com

National Steinbeck Center. Relive the life and times of one of America’s literary giants, John Steinbeck. The National Steinbeck Center explores Steinbeck’s work, philosophy and themes via interactive, multi-sensory exhibits, educational programs and research archives. Themed theatres showcase “East of Eden,” “Cannery Row,” “Of Mice and Men” and “The Grapes of Wrath.” For more information, visit www.steinbeck.org/MainFrame.html

Big Sur. Within an hour of our hotel, you can be among one of the most beautiful natural wonders on the planet. Big Sur is an outdoor lovers’ paradise with its superb beaches, awe-inspiring mountains, tantalizing hiking and amazing views.  [Top]

Point Lobos State Reserve. Often referred to as “the crown jewel of the state park system,” Point Lobos State Reserve offers a setting that’s conducive for just about everything including sightseeing, photography, painting, nature study, SCUBA diving and jogging. In addition, many scientific opportunities flourish thanks to the rare plant communities, endangered archeological sites, unique geological formations and incredibly rich flora and fauna. For more information, visit http://pt-lobos.parks.state.ca.us

Santa Cruz Surfing Museum. Experience more than 100 years of surfing history from a Santa Cruz perspective. Displays include crude surfboard models to modern high-tech designs, as well as early wetsuits, photographs featuring Santa Cruz surfers and wave riding from the 1930s to the present day. Enjoy continuous videos showing the sport’s ever-changing styles. For more information, visit www.santacruzsurfingmuseum.org  [Top]

Jacks Peak County Park. Outdoor enthusiasts will be very enthusiastic about Jacks Peak Country Park. Almost 8.5 miles of horseback riding and hiking trails wind through the park’s abundance of trees and native plants. Discover fossils from the Miocene epoch along the Skyline Self-Guided Nature Trail. For more information, visit www.co.monterey.ca.us/parks/Jacks_Peak.htm

Old Monterey Market Place. Every Tuesday afternoon, rain or shine, you’ll find a certified farmer’s market on Alvarado, Monterey’s historic main street. Fresh fruit and vegetables from farmers throughout California’s Central Valley and coastal regions are on display. Plus, breads and pastries along with flowers, arts and crafts, jewelry, clothing and handmade soaps will tempt you. For more information, visit www.oldmonterey.org  [Top]

Tor House and Hawk Tower Tours. Take a tour of Tor House and Hawk Tower. The cultural and literary legacy of the Californian poet Robinson Jeffers (1887-1962), Tor House was built by Jeffers for himself and his family from 1918-1919. He began building Hawk Tower, which is reminiscent of ancient Irish stone towers, the following year as a retreat for his wife and sons. For more information, visit www.torhouse.org/tours.htm

Moss Landing and Elkhorn Slough.  Approximately 20 miles from Monterey is the location of one of California's second largest marine wetlands, the Elkhorn Slough, in the quaint fishing village of Moss Landing. The Slough offers a spectacular array of over 250 migratory and resident Bird species. Harbor Seals and sea otters enjoy permanent residency at the Elkhorn Slough. Rent a Kayak and paddle through the easy flat waters. End the day with a lunch/dinner and antique shopping in Moss Landing. For more information, visit http://montereybaykayaks.com/info/moss_landing.php  [Top]

Monterey Fairgrounds. Whether you’re coming to the area for the world-famous Monterey Jazz festival, a favorite since 1958, or the Monterey Bay Blues festival, or any one of the major horse shows, it’s all happening at the Monterey Fairgrounds. Host your next company party, receptions, family gatherings at the Fairgrounds, where its tranquil location will make that special day a memorable one. For more information, visit http://www.montereycountyfair.com/

Mazda Laguna Seca Raceway. Located between Monterey and Salinas on highway 68, Mazda Laguna Seca Raceway is home to the Red Bull U.S. Grand Prix, Monterey Historic Automobile Races, the Honda Grand Prix, and much more. It’s a world-class raceway and county park where several festivals and concerts happen throughout the year. For more information, visit http://www.laguna-seca.com/
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