This was a pleasant stop! We had 2 little ones with us as well. (6 year old and 3) They did great…read moreand enjoyed it. We walked around the whole grounds and paid for the museum. I recommend checking out the museum. The history was so interesting and beautiful. We will go back when visiting the area. Everyone who worked there (docents) were so friendly and knowledgeable. It was beautiful and clean.

I didn't know that I loved lighthouses until I had the tour of the Point Pinos Lighthouse in…read morePacific Grove. Now I am drawn to lighthouses for their beauty, their history, and their unique mystique. The docents at Point Pinos Lighthouse were extremely knowledgeable and friendly. The grounds are impeccable, and the exhibits within the lighthouse are a slice of living history. The setting is stunning, right at Asilomar Beach. You'll want to leave time to walk along the water after you explore the lighthouse. Even if you are not into history or the military or lighthouses, you should definitely drop in to visit this space. You will walk away having digested a bit of unique beauty. Check the hours online -- they are very specific and limited, and it's easy to get shut out. Many people don't know that women often worked the lighthouses back in older times. This is just one fact that stayed with me after my visit. A candle on the water helps lost sailors find their way home.

History Seeker…read more Monterey State Historic Park is quite possibly the most under-the-radar CA State Park in existence; located directly adjacent to Monterey's Old Fisherman's Wharf, it's literally been under our noses this entire time. Admittedly, it's not the sexiest State Park in existence, as it's mostly compromised of historic buildings and museums, and that's not to mention it's not what most would imagine when you say the words "State Park." But that's what makes this place even more interesting, in my opinion. The Good: *It's free! My favorite price. :D *The Pacific House and Custom House are full of fantastic relics and information about this area, and you'll soon quickly realize why this place is a State park. *Free tours are given (Thu-Sun 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.) *Lots of historical "secret" gardens to explore, including the Memory Garden, Custom House Davis Garden and many more! Check out this link for more info: https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=952 *Located adjacent to the Old Fisherman's Wharf, so no need to pack a lunch. :) *One can also access the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail from here, as well. The Meh: *Semi Dog-friendly (allowed outside but not in the buildings) The Ugly: *Parking can be a bit of a hassle, as the adjacent paid City of Monterey Lot fills up quickly on weekends, and the street parking is limited to two hours (read the signs carefully). TLDR: Great place to visit, especially if you're already in the area. It's definitely a must-see for all fans of history, and especially CA history.

Nice little bit of history here. Very nice volunteers and knowledgeable. There's a store where…read moreyou'll find gifts, books and trinkets.

Such a beautiful spot to lay a picnic out and walk around catching beautiful scenery of the sun set…read moreand wildlife. We saw many chipmunks, seagulls, and otters! I will say if you bring food, beware of the very brave and bold seagulls and chipmunks who are not scared of humans! We lives how accessible it was as we were able to stroll around with our stroller very easily.

This park is great for a first stop before heading out for an adventure or watching the sunset…read morewhile dining on some pizza from Gianni's. Lover's point offers plenty of opportunities for the kids to get worn out, like a public beachside swimming pool, beach volleyball, an actual beach area just inside the cove, and a grassy area for picnicking. even though this beach/park was packed, the vibe was still super chill and didn't feel overcrowded. This beach also offers some great opportunities for people to enjoy tide pools, watch wildlife, and take-in gorgeous views. There is a public bathroom here, but if you can avoid. Not the most clean.

This was our first visit to the playground. I saw the size and diversity of structures here and…read moreknew we had to visit. Since we were going to be in the area, it was added to our agenda for the day. From the parking lot, you see a baseball field, life size train behind black gates and restrooms. The parking lot was adequate in size and held about 20-25 cars. We were fortunate to obtain the last open parking space while others circled and departed. At the entrance of Dennis the Menace, there are the restrooms, a case for free books to leave or take, a stand on the background of the playground, an oversized lion who's mouth serves as a water fountain (so cool!) and a Dennis the menace comic strip page. Directly behind the train, to your right as you enter, is an oversized figure of Dennis the Menace enclosed in the gate. There are 2-3 stands sharing the history and significance of the trains presence. There are large rocks to climb with two tunnels to walk through, a rock climbing wall, a cross bridge connecting two large rocks, swings, slides, a maze made from gates leading to a smaller play structure, a tube based slide, an oversized sunshine staircase, a boat, and so much more. This space is incredible to experience as an adult, our daughter ran around for hours allowing us to share in her fun running along side her. There were few spots offering refuge from the sun and seating was minimal. There are a few benches, but mostly the stone structure surrounding the play area was used. The gnats...they were everywhere in swarms making it difficult to navigate and fully enjoy. We were constantly swatting at the tiny buggers, our daughter was existing free as a bird making her way around the park - doubt she noticed. There were a few spots on the park we were able to find relief, very few. It would be great if the park implemented some bug deterrent to lessen the presence of the gnats. Other than that, it was an incredible experience we all enjoyed. We were there for a few hours and only departed because she needed to eat dinner. 4.5 due to the presence of the gnats. In their absence a solid 10.

Dennis the Menace Playground, Monterey…read more August 2026 I've been here a few times with my family. This is an awesome park and it's pretty big! This park is great for all ages even for adults too! I highly recommend going on the weekends, although there are a lot of people, I think they close during the weekday since there's a preschool nearby. Right next to this playground entrance, there's a baseball field and there's a small snack bar, it's called El Estero Snack Bar, they sell hamburgers, fries and drinks. We ordered the nacho cheese fries with jalapeno peppers on the side. It came out piping hot! Although it seems so basic, it was really good on a cold day! Highly recommend this playground and would come back if I'm in the area. This place is awesome!

The historic Old Fisherman's Wharf in Monterey is a beautiful spot that is definitely worth…read morevisiting. Try to get a meal at one of the nearby restaurants and then enjoy a walk along the pier. Try to catch the sunset while you are there. There shops, restaurants, a marina, and charter services around the area. But the real highlight is watching the playful sea lions lounging around by the pier.

Again, my tourist trip brought me to a popular spot just north of Cannery Row on a Friday around…read morenoon. After walking from my hotel to downtown and exploring, I planned to have lunch at a place here. When I reached here, I was surprised with the number of restaurant and shops there are as it reminded me of a place back home, not the one by the same name in my hometown. As I walked down the pier to the very end, I looked at the various themes and cuisine types that were offered, naturally with seafood being the emphasis here. When I got to near the end, I saw a line for an attraction that my local friends recommended to do in my free time. Unfortunately, my schedule on this trip was limited so I was unable to go. As I headed back to the starting point, I walked into the restaurant that I bookmarked for lunch. I was fortunate that, despite the foggy morning, the weather was blue skies and sunny as I sat down for lunch. As I walked back towards Cannery Row, I looked at the other food stands more carefully, looking for possible future meals here. The attraction that I plan to do on my next visit is whale watching. I saw at least two companies that offered this on staggered schedules and I will try to work this into my next trip to the area. The wharf is friendly for locals and tourists and again family friendly. I noticed a sign about a special event happening for Halloween and the Festa Italia was being held just a few steps away on this particular weekend. Do stop here to shop, eat, and catch some of the sights and sounds of Monterey.

Nice, old church and looked newly renovated with some preservations. The mass was good, lively and…read morefull. This church is older than the USA and is a nice place to visit when in Monterey.

My review is not for the active San Carlos Cathedral church services. Instead it's for the Royal…read morePresidio Chapel historic federal landmark. They are both the same building. Currently the San Carlos Cathedral Catholic Church uses the Presidio Chapel. When services are not occurring, visitors can explore the interior and outside facade. There is no charge to walk about, it's free. The present sandstone chapel construction was completed in 1795. The native Americans labors built the chapel. The Monterey Presidio was founded in 1770 as the second of four Spanish Presidios. At that time, the presidio's chapel served for the Spanish soldiers and dignitaries. It's the oldest stone building in California. When walking about the exterior of the chapel take note of the marked lines to the right of the building. Those lines indicate chapel construction (where, what, and when). The current building is shaped as a cross. Directly in the back there is a plaque memorializing where the Oak tree stood in 1770 where Father Junipero Serra broke ground for the chapel construction. The tree was removed in 1905 when it was damaged. But the tree holds important place in Monterey history. In 1602, it is said that Spanish explorer Vizcaíno followed the creek from the Bay and noticed this majestic oak tree. Under that tree he and with the friars, traveling in his expedition, held Mass under the tree and claimed the area for Spain. Father Serra followed Vizcaino's directions to the site in 1770 to establish a mission and presidio. But a year or two later he decided to build the mission in Carmel instead. But the presidio continued with building the chapel. Pieces of the grand tree have been preserved and are located in various local museums. Now let's talk about out the interior. The church doors are left open during the day welcoming all inside. Inside there are paintings and statues including are originals such as the Stations of the Cross, St John, Sorrowful Mother, and Spanish Madonna. As you enter the church, look up and the exterior and take notice of the Our Lady of Guadalupe statue; it's still the original making it the oldest non-indigenous statue in California. Also throwing it out there that there are cameras all over and everything is monitored. So don't be a doofus. Just enjoy and soak in the history.

It's beautiful! In a neighborhood, so be quiet, park respectfully, take your photos and don't…read morelinger. The story of the house and artist is there. Definitely worth a visit if you are in the area.

Great place for interesting and unique photo opportunities. Very colorful and fun. It exists for…read moresuch a touching and loving reason; gives one a sense of love and caring between a couple. I'm so glad the people who have this property now have kept it up.

Great spot to watch sea lions sunbathe!…read more Parking: Paid via app We found this spot randomly while exploring Monterey. We came on a weekday and it was fairly empty. We saw several people fishing off the pier. We walked along the pier and saw one sea lion and got super excited until we walked further and saw a TON of sea lions napping on the rocks. They were so cute and it was very cool to see them up close. I would definitely bookmark the spot for future visits!

Nice little area to walk with loads of wildlife to watch. Starfish all over, seals, otters. If you…read morelike to fish, this is a spot for fishing. Nice spot to stretch your legs and take in the ocean air.

Just tried to use our gift certificates. Called and spoke to the owner who was gracious and…read moreapologetic as he informed us the business had closed last year. We are bummed but understand and respect his kind response and explanation. Closed business

Doug is the owner/operator of this fun and informative tour. His knowledge and love for what he…read moredoes shines thru. This is a must do not just for old movie lovers but Doug really brings the area to life with his wealth of knowledge and history of the area me and my family would otherwise not know. The tour was approximately 3.5 hrs and it flew by!