Location & Transportation
As cruise ships cannot dock directly in Monterey, you will be tendered ashore right in the center of town. Be aware that weekends can get quite crowded, so plan your visit accordingly.
Nearby Lodging
Monterey offers a wide variety of accommodations—from charming bed & breakfasts to well-known hotels along Cannery Row. For instance, Spindrift Inn is a popular choice that puts you right in the heart of the action.
Nearest Airport
The nearby Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) is just a few miles north of downtown. It serves domestic flights, and taxis or rideshares can easily take you from the airport to the cruise terminal.
Sightseeing
Monterey’s rich history and stunning coastal views make it a delight to explore. Established in 1770 by Father Junipero Serra, the city has been California’s state capital for a brief period and is forever linked with the literary legacy of John Steinbeck. Highlights include:
- The world-class Monterey Bay Aquarium on historic Cannery Row.
- A stroll along Cannery Row itself, where you can enjoy ocean views, local shops, and vibrant street life.
- Visiting the old Mission to get a glimpse of Monterey’s past.
- Enjoying the scenic coastal pathways teeming with local wildlife.
Tours & Excursions
Monterey is extremely walkable, and its neighborhood attractions are best enjoyed on foot. You might consider these day trips and excursions:
- Explore the enchanting village of Carmel, famous for its fairy tale cottages, art galleries, and beautiful Carmel Beach.
- Visit Pacific Grove, known as "Butterfly Town USA," which hosts charming festivals and boasts graceful Victorian architecture.
- Drive the iconic 17-Mile Drive. This scenic route takes you past Pebble Beach’s lush fairways, Cypress Rock, Bird Rock, and the famous Lone Cypress.
- Take a scenic drive along Highway 1. Enjoy breathtaking coastal vistas, hiking in Big Sur, and attractions such as the Point Sur Lighthouse, Henry Miller Memorial Library, and Pfieffer State Park.
For local travel, Monterey-Salinas Transit provides daily bus services throughout Monterey County, including a seasonal trolley service along the waterfront.
It‘s a good idea to compare shore excursion costs between what your cruise line offers and options like Viator and GetYourGuide. They often provide lower prices and include customer reviews and ratings to help you choose the best option. They may also offer more more flexible cancellation or rescheduling policies than those available through your cruise line. However, while booking independently might give you more variety and potentially better rates, be mindful of your schedule - cruise line excursions are typically coordinated to match your ship‘s schedule with guaranteed pick-up and drop-off times.
There is also a great resource for finding local guides at Tours by Locals. Tours by Locals connects you with local guides who can help you plan a private personal tour, guide you, and get you back to your ship on time. You can also check out Rome2Rio for local transportation options. It is a great resource for finding how to get from one place to another, including public transportation, taxis, ferries, and more.
Shopping
Downtown Monterey features an assortment of unique boutiques, art galleries, and souvenir shops. Whether you're searching for a memento to remember the coast or a special gift, you’ll find plenty of options strolling along the charming streets.
Dining
Monterey is a food lover’s paradise, especially if you’re a seafood fan. Enjoy fresh catches of the day at waterfront restaurants along Cannery Row, sample clam chowder or fish tacos, and savor local specialties in a relaxed, coastal atmosphere.
Culture & Local Events
Here are some cultural and practical tips to help you make the most of your visit:
- Currency & Payments: The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). While credit cards like Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted, it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand. Remember that sales tax—typically 4-6%—is usually added at the register.
- Tipping: Tipping is customary. Standard rates are 15-20% at full-service restaurants, with similar guidelines for taxi drivers, hotel staff, and tour guides.
- Language: English is the main language here, and locals are known for being friendly and helpful.
- Business Hours: Most local shops and restaurants open around 10 a.m. and close by 9 p.m. Do check ahead on holidays as hours may vary.
- Safety: In any emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance.