The 30 Best California outdoor spots in Monterey, California

The Bluebird Inn in Cambria, California is a cozy and inviting lodging option located at 1880 Main Street. This charming inn is surrounded by the natural beauty of Cambria, known for its majestic Monterey Pines, pristine beaches, and abundant sea life. Guests can easily visit nearby attractions such as Hearst Castle, Moonstone Beach, and the Elephant Seal Rookery. The Bluebird Inn offers a variety of well-appointed guestrooms, each featuring comfortable amenities such as pillow-top mattresses, remodeled bathrooms, and in-room coffee makers. Guests can relax in the creekside gardens, enjoy the outdoor fire pit, or explore the nearby shops, wineries, and museums that Cambria has to offer.

The El Estero Duck View Parking Lot is a unique institution located in Monterey, California. Situated at 633-683 Camino El Estero, this park and zoo offers visitors the opportunity to observe a variety of ducks in their natural habitat. With ample parking space and designated viewing areas, visitors can enjoy a peaceful and educational experience as they observe these fascinating waterfowl up close. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or simply looking for a relaxing way to spend the day, the El Estero Duck View Parking Lot is a must-visit destination in Monterey.

Cayucos State Beach, located at 99 5th Street in Cayucos, California, is a popular tourist attraction known for its beautiful beaches, historical buildings, and charming beach town atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy activities such as surfing, swimming, tidepooling, windsurfing, jogging, bird watching, and wildlife viewing. The beach is equipped with picnic tables, play equipment, restrooms, and outside showers. Dogs are allowed on leash in permitted areas. The town of Cayucos offers a variety of shops, restaurants, antique stores, and specialty items for visitors to explore. The fishing pier is a popular spot for night fishing, and a fishing license is not required while fishing on the pier. Lifeguards are on duty during peak summer months, and junior lifeguard training is available through the County Parks of San Luis Obispo.

The Jewel of Morro Bay Trail is a picturesque park located at 5010 California 1 in Morro Bay, California. This stunning trail offers visitors the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the area, with breathtaking views of the coastline and Morro Rock. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, The Jewel of Morro Bay Trail has something for everyone. Come and experience the beauty of this hidden gem in the heart of California's Central Coast.

Nomad Sailing Charters is a travel agency located at 789 Mariner Park Way in Santa Cruz, California. We offer exclusive boat tours that provide unforgettable experiences with wildlife, sailing, and adventure. Our sailing adventures include whale watching, sunset sails, youth sailing, and more. We also offer youth sailing courses, adventure sailing tours, and sailing instruction in Santa Cruz. Whether you're looking to learn new sailing skills or simply relax and enjoy the views, our Santa Cruz boat tours have something for everyone. Come aboard Nomad for a unique sailing charter that takes you to see dolphins, sea lions, and other marine life in a peaceful setting. Experience the beauty of Monterey Bay with a sunset sail on Nomad, where you can watch the sun set above the water. Our team is dedicated to helping you create lasting memories at sea. Captain Brian and First Mate Dias provide exceptional service and ensure that every guest has a fantastic experience. Join us for a day on the bay, a sunset sailing tour, a swim in Monterey Bay, or any other adventure you desire. Nomad Sailing Charters is the perfect choice for all your sailing needs in Santa Cruz.

Kayak Rentals & Tours is a travel agency located at 299 Cannery Row in Monterey, California. We offer a variety of adventures for those looking to explore the beautiful Monterey Bay. From private kayak tours through the kelp forest to electric bike rentals along the coast, we have something for everyone. Our location is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, as we are situated right across from the beach and next to the Recreation Trail. Whether you want to paddle through the kelp forest canopy, spot local wildlife like otters and sea lions, or bike along the coast, we have the perfect adventure waiting for you.

The Lower Presidio Historic Park, located in Monterey, California, is a park and tourist attraction that is considered by many to be the most historically significant site on the West Coast. With stunning views of the Monterey Bay and Harbor, this 25.3-acre site is undergoing restoration to become a true historic public park for locals and visitors to enjoy. The park features interpretive signs, ADA accessible pathways, picnic tables, benches, and more amenities. Visitors can relax, walk, run, bike, hike, play disc golf, and enjoy picnics while taking in the beauty of the area. The Presidio of Monterey Museum on site offers exhibits and artifacts that highlight the area's military history. The park is open to visitors at any time, and once the restoration project is complete, it will offer even more facilities for visitors to enjoy. The Old Monterey Foundation is seeking public donations to help complete the project and invites everyone to become members of "Friends of the Lower Presidio." Various community partners have supported the project, and there are opportunities for artists, photographers, students, and other groups to visit and learn about California history. The park is a perfect destination for a variety of activities and events, including weddings, reunions, and more. With its rich history and beautiful surroundings, the Lower Presidio Historic Park is a hidden gem in Monterey that is worth exploring.

Easy Street Billiards is a popular bar located in Monterey, California, where billiards enthusiasts and casual players alike can enjoy a fun and laid-back atmosphere. With a variety of pool tables, a fully stocked bar, and a friendly staff, Easy Street Billiards is the perfect spot to unwind with friends or challenge someone to a game of pool. Whether you're a seasoned player or just looking to have some fun, Easy Street Billiards has something for everyone. So grab a drink, grab a cue, and head on over to 511 Tyler Street for a great time at Easy Street Billiards.

Bargetto Winery of Cannery Row is a charming establishment located at 700 Cannery Row in Monterey, California. This cozy bar and food venue offers a selection of delicious wines produced by the renowned Bargetto Winery, as well as a menu of delectable dishes to pair with your drinks. With a welcoming atmosphere and stunning views of the Monterey Bay, Bargetto Winery is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a glass of wine with friends or family. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or just looking for a unique dining experience, Bargetto Winery of Cannery Row is sure to delight your taste buds.

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, Central Coast Fly Fishing is more than just a store - it's an experience. Stay updated on local fishing, new products, classes, and area events by signing up with us. Skip the online sites and come in or give us a call for a personalized shopping experience. Our owner, Malloway, not only offers top-notch fishing gear and great conversation, but also creates the "world's WORST homemade English toffee" that you won't be able to resist. We proudly sell Bauer reels, known for their durable design and excellent customer service. Explore the best saltwater fly fishing spots in Monterey Peninsula, where you can enjoy stunning views while casting for striped bass and surf perch. Join one of our unique classes, whether you're a beginner or looking to improve your fly casting or tying skills. And don't forget about your furry friend - we offer products for your canine companion as well.

Castle Rock Climbing School is a premier institution offering rock climbing lessons and guided trips in the beautiful Bay Area of California. Located at 3248 Shadow Springs Place, San Jose, our school is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including Castle Rock State Park and Indian Rock in the Santa Cruz Mountains. With views overlooking San Jose, Mountain View, Fremont, and even all the way to Monterey Bay, our location provides the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventure. In addition to our local climbing spots, we also offer trips to Pinnacles National Park, a natural geological wonder located south of Hollister. This park features a unique landscape formed by a cinder cone volcano split in half by the movement of tectonic plates. Whether you're a beginner looking to learn the basics or an experienced climber seeking new challenges, Castle Rock Climbing School has something for everyone. Join us for an unforgettable experience in the great outdoors!

Number One Cleaner is a top-rated laundry institution located at 5308 Monterey Street in San Jose, California. With a reputation for excellence and reliability, we are dedicated to providing high-quality laundry services to our customers. Our experienced staff ensures that each item is treated with care and attention to detail, leaving your clothes fresh, clean, and perfectly pressed. Whether you need a quick wash and fold service or delicate dry cleaning, Number One Cleaner is the go-to destination for all your laundry needs. Visit us today and experience the difference of our exceptional service.

Lighthouse Field State Beach, located in Santa Cruz, California, is a popular park and tourist attraction. This area, also known as Point Santa Cruz, offers stunning views of Monterey Bay and is one of the last open headlands in any California urban area. Visitors can enjoy surfing, bird watching, and even spot sea lions on the offshore rocks. The park is also home to the rare Black Swift and wintering Monarch butterflies. One unique feature of Lighthouse Field State Beach is the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum, located in the Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse on West Cliff Drive. This museum showcases over 100 years of surfing history in Santa Cruz with photographs, surfboards, and other interesting items.

Andrew Molera State Park is a stunning natural oasis located in Big Sur, California. This park is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors the opportunity to explore miles of trails that wind through meadows, bluffs, beaches, and hilltops. With panoramic views of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, guests can enjoy hiking, beachcombing, and wildlife spotting in this relatively undeveloped park. Visitors have the option to reserve campsites and lodging up to six months in advance, ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable stay. Please note that the Trailcamp at Andrew Molera State Park is closed for the season until June - campgrounds can be reserved through www.ReserveCalifornia.com. Be aware that after heavy rainfall, the Big Sur River may be impassable due to high water levels.

Aliso Beach is a picturesque tourist attraction located at 2 Monterey Street in Laguna Beach, California. This stunning beach is known for its crystal clear waters, golden sand, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can enjoy a day of sunbathing, swimming, surfing, and exploring the tide pools. Aliso Beach is also a popular spot for picnics, beach volleyball, and bonfires at sunset. Whether you're looking to relax or have some fun in the sun, Aliso Beach is the perfect destination for a day of leisure and enjoyment.

Larkin Park is a charming and picturesque tourist attraction located at 227 Clay Street in Monterey, California, United States. This tranquil park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush greenery, colorful flowers, and scenic views of the surrounding area. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the winding pathways, relax on the benches, or have a picnic on the grassy lawns. Larkin Park is the perfect spot for nature lovers, families, and tourists looking to unwind and soak in the beauty of the outdoors.

Eolian Dunes Preserve is a park located on the Monterey Peninsula Recreational Trail in Sand City, California, United States. This District open space has a rich history dating back to the Depression era, when it was used as a burn dump and later converted into a landfill. After years of being abandoned, the Park District acquired the property in 1995 and conducted remediation work to restore the area to its natural state. The park now offers visitors the opportunity to explore native coastal dune habitat and enjoy stunning views of the bay. The property was renamed Eolian Dunes Preserve in 2007, paying homage to the wind-swept dunes that define the landscape. Visitors are encouraged to stay on designated trails, take only memories, and leave only footprints.

Marina Dunes Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 3325 Dunes Drive in Marina, California, United States. The coastal dunes along the south Monterey Bay create a unique and constantly changing landscape that is home to a diverse array of plant and animal species. The park district is working to restore and protect the native vegetation in order to stabilize the dunes and enhance wildlife habitat. The preserve was once an abandoned sand mining site, but has since been transformed into a public access area for visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the Monterey Bay seashore. Visitors are encouraged to stay on designated trails, respect restoration efforts, and help preserve the delicate ecosystem of the dunes.

Devendorf Park is a charming oasis located in the heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea, California. Situated at the corner of 6th and Mission Street, this tranquil park offers a peaceful retreat for visitors and locals alike. With its lush greenery, beautiful flowers, and inviting benches, Devendorf Park is the perfect spot to relax, unwind, and enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding area. Whether you're looking for a quiet place to read a book, have a picnic with friends, or simply take a leisurely stroll, this park provides a serene setting for all to enjoy. Come visit Devendorf Park and experience the tranquility and beauty of this hidden gem in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

San Antonio Reservoir Recreation Area is a beautiful park located at 2610 San Antonio Road in Bradley, California, United States. This tranquil oasis offers visitors a chance to relax and enjoy the great outdoors. With stunning views of the reservoir and surrounding scenery, the park is the perfect spot for picnics, hiking, fishing, and birdwatching. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an active adventure, San Antonio Reservoir Recreation Area has something for everyone. Come explore this hidden gem and experience the natural beauty of California.

Ragged Point - Scenic View is a must-visit tourist attraction located at 19019 California 1, Ragged Point, California, United States. The stretch of highway between San Simeon and Ragged Point offers some of the most picturesque views in the world, where the Santa Lucia Mountains meet the Pacific Ocean. The drive is filled with breathtaking views at every turn, making you feel like a star in your own car commercial on Highway 1. Ragged Point Inn, originally an outpost of the Hearst Ranch, offers lodging, dining, a gift shop, and a gas station, making it an ideal stop for a day or an extended stay. The property's well-manicured gardens and grounds complement the natural beauty of the surroundings, and outdoor concerts are held during the summer. The Inn boasts some of the finest views along Highway 1, with outlook points facing both north and south, making it a romantic spot for special occasions.

River Oaks Park is a charming and picturesque park located at 12608 Monterey Beach Drive in Bakersfield, California. This park is a popular tourist attraction known for its beautiful scenery and serene atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the river, have a picnic on the lush green lawns, or simply relax and take in the stunning views. With its well-maintained walking paths, playgrounds, and picnic areas, River Oaks Park is the perfect destination for a day of outdoor fun and relaxation.

Sequoia Park, located at 750 Ridgecrest Street in Monterey Park, California, is a picturesque five-acre park that serves as a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can enjoy the serene beauty of a Japanese garden complete with an Azumaya View Deck, as well as a softball field, children's play area, lighted tennis courts, and an outdoor basketball court. The park also features restrooms and picnic facilities, making it the perfect spot for a day of outdoor fun and relaxation.

Covington Park is a beautiful outdoor space located at 15138 Monterey Avenue in Chino Hills, California. This park offers a serene and peaceful setting for visitors to enjoy nature, take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply relax and unwind. With lush greenery, shady trees, and well-maintained walking paths, Covington Park is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you're looking to spend time with family and friends or simply enjoy some time alone in nature, Covington Park is a welcoming and tranquil oasis in the heart of Chino Hills.

Bear River Park is a beautiful outdoor space located at 1043 Monterey Way in Olivehurst, California. This park offers a serene and peaceful environment for visitors to enjoy nature and relax. With lush greenery, walking trails, and picnic areas, Bear River Park is the perfect place for a family outing or a peaceful solo retreat. Whether you want to take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the fresh air, Bear River Park is the ideal destination for outdoor recreation in Olivehurst.

Welcome to Del Monte Shopping Center, your premier shopping destination in Monterey, California! Conveniently located at 1410 Del Monte Center, right at the intersection of Highway 1 and Munras Avenue, our open-air regional shopping mall offers a vibrant and inviting atmosphere for all your retail needs. Spanning an impressive 675,000 square feet, Del Monte Shopping Center boasts an array of popular stores, dining options, and entertainment facilities, making it the perfect place for a day out with family and friends. Explore our diverse selection of shops, from well-known brands to unique local boutiques, and discover incredible deals and exclusive offers. Don't forget to click below to follow your favorite stores and watch the savings grow! Whether you're looking for the latest fashion trends, a delicious meal, or a relaxing spot to unwind, Del Monte Shopping Center has something for everyone. Visit us today and experience the best of shopping in Monterey!

Welcome to Friendly Plaza, a charming oasis nestled in the heart of Monterey, California. Located at 534 Pacific Street, this delightful park and tourist attraction offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and community spirit. Friendly Plaza is an inviting space where visitors can unwind amidst lush greenery, enjoy a leisurely stroll, or simply soak up the serene atmosphere. Whether you're a local resident or a traveler exploring the scenic wonders of Monterey, Friendly Plaza is an ideal spot for relaxation and recreation. Discover the vibrant flora, enjoy a picnic with family and friends, or partake in one of the many community events hosted throughout the year. With its welcoming ambiance and picturesque setting, Friendly Plaza is more than just a park—it's a place where memories are made. Come visit us and experience the warmth and charm that define Friendly Plaza.

Welcome to Stone Creek Village Shopping Center, your premier shopping destination located at 451 Canyon Del Rey Boulevard in the charming city of Del Rey Oaks, California. Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of the Monterey Peninsula, our shopping center offers a delightful blend of convenience, variety, and community charm. Discover a vibrant array of retail stores, from well-loved national brands to unique local boutiques, catering to all your shopping needs. Whether you’re searching for the latest fashion trends, home goods, or specialty items, Stone Creek Village has something for everyone.

Welcome to Studio Cafe, your ultimate destination for a vibrant blend of culture, cuisine, and community in the heart of Monterey. Nestled at 774 Wave Street, just a stone’s throw from the iconic Monterey Bay Aquarium and McAbee Beach, our venue is a multi-faceted gem designed to cater to a variety of experiences. At Studio Cafe, we pride ourselves on being more than just a bar and cafe. We are Monterey's premier venue for weddings, events, and live music. Our space transforms effortlessly from an independent broadcast studio to a lively concert hall, hosting an array of talented musicians and performers. Enjoy unforgettable performances from renowned artists like pianist Javier Santiago, drummer Justin Brown, and bassist Luca Alemanno, among others. Our stage is graced with the quick wit of comedians and the soulful sounds of jazz ensembles, providing a fresh and fun atmosphere for all.

Welcome to Bar Cart Cocktail Co., your premier destination for exquisite cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Monterey, California. Nestled at 214 Lighthouse Avenue, our bar is the perfect blend of classic charm and modern sophistication. Whether you're a local resident or visiting the beautiful Monterey Peninsula, Bar Cart Cocktail Co. offers a unique experience that will tantalize your taste buds and provide an unforgettable evening. Our expert mixologists are passionate about crafting the finest cocktails using top-shelf spirits, fresh ingredients, and innovative techniques. From timeless classics to our signature creations, our diverse menu caters to every palate. Enjoy your drink in our cozy indoor setting or take in the fresh ocean breeze on our outdoor patio.