Historic waterfront · Downtown Monterey
Old Fisherman's Wharf
Monterey's historic wharf, with seafood restaurants, harbor views, sea lions, and the departure point for whale-watching and fishing trips.
Photo: King of Hearts, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Old Fisherman's Wharf reaches out into the harbor next to downtown Monterey. Seafood restaurants and shops line the wharf, and many of the bay's whale-watching, sightseeing, and sportfishing boats leave from here.
Even without a boat trip, it is worth a stroll for the harbor views and the sea lions that often haul out on the rocks and pilings nearby. Custom House Plaza and the adobes of Old Monterey are a short walk away.
Good to know
- Book whale-watching trips ahead in peak season and choose a morning departure if you are prone to seasickness, when the bay is often calmer.
- Combine it with Custom House Plaza and the Path of History walk through Old Monterey.
- The Coastal Recreation Trail connects the wharf with Cannery Row.
For current hours, tickets, and conditions, check the official source: montereywharf.com.
Where to stay
Stay close to Old Fisherman's Wharf
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Monterey Peninsula Stargazer Hotel
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A newly renovated coastal retreat in the heart of Monterey.
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Monterey Peninsula Scottish Fairway Inn
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A warm Monterey stay with easy Highway 1 access.
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