Monterey, California
Showcasing California's quaint seaside culture and rich historical past, Monterey is a perfect destination for anyone wishing to get a real "California experience." Often overlooked by many visitors due to its proximity - only about 150 miles from the metropolitan Northern California headliner city of San Francisco - this town is truly a hidden gem with a fabulous mix of natural features and family-appropriate attractions that will keep your whole family entertained for as long as you stay.
But in addition to being an exciting destination to explore currently, Monterey also has a rich history as part of Monterey Bay's historic fishing waters and the California mission system. Monterey Bay is widely known as one of the best-situated and most abundant fishing waters in the entire California coastline. These waters formed the livelihood of those who originally settled in the area, the Rumsen Ohlone tribe of Indians. Although they lived a life of hunting and gathering, the tribe also took substantial advantage of the diverse kinds of fish who dwelled in the lush Monterey Bay. Archaeologists have excavated numerous sites near the shore of the Monterey Bay, right in the center of town.
Additionally, Monterey was also an important site in California's rich process toward statehood. Originally colonized by Mexican priests who were spreading Father Junipero Serra's vision for a mission system that traveled up and down costal California,
the group established a mission directly in what is now the bustling commercial center of Monterey, just blocks from the water, Cannery Row, the Monterey Bay Aquarium, and more. For serious history buffs, the area contains many exciting sites dating back to the Mexican-American War and even the days of Mexican colonization. Monterey served as the capital of California under General Portola, who led the Spanish forces against invasion during multiple wars, eventually falling to Commodore John Sloat, an act which established Monterey and actually all of California as the official territory of the United States of America.
But for those interested in a more typical site-seeing experience, Monterey also provides plenty of modern-day fun for the whole family. The center of fun and excitement in Monterey is most definite Cannery Row, the area in "downtown Monterey" that houses many stores, galleries, restaurants, a movie theatre, and the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium. Cannery Row gets its name because the area used to house one of Monterey's main industries - the sardine canning business. During its heyday in the mid twentieth century and especially during World War II, Monterey was supplying most of the country with the convenient food. This era is chronicled in famed California author John Steinbeck's book by the same name - Cannery Row - which follows the life of fictional workers during this important time in the state's history. A museum to Steinbeck can be visited year-round in Cannery Row. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is also a site not to be missed while you are in Monterey. A world-renowned attraction known for its record-breaking tanks and exhibits.
A fun, educational experience for kids and parents alike, the Aquarium provides an in-depth look into sea creatures from all walks of life - from everybody's favorite the starfish to rarities like the first California Giant Kelp to be grown in a controlled tank. Don't miss this amazing teaching experience with your kids, as the fun, friendly staff will make anyone's seaside experience one to remember and educate the entire family on the importance of preserving the ocean's delicate ecosystem.
Another great seaside experience that is not to be missed while visiting the quaint little town of Monterey is Fisherman's Wharf and the pier. Especially at sunset, the views you can get from the pier and the beach are unparalleled as the busy harbor's spindly boats stick up through your vista of the magnificent Pacific ocean, giving you a classic California coastal snapshot for your scrapbooks! Fisherman's Wharf is also a great area because of the fun coastal cuisine you can sample on the pier. From fancy Italian restaurant, to casual roll-up-your-sleeve-and-tie-on-a-bib lobster shops, there's something for everyone. These kitschy destinations and their friendly staffs will surely be an enjoyable addition to your Monterey, California coast experience for the whole family!
