Monterey

The main sightseeing attractions in Monterey are in two areas: the old town and the marina, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row. A bayside walking and biking path runs from the Marina beside Cannery Row to the Aquarium and beyond to the adjoining town of Pacific Grove. A fun way to explore Monterey is to rent a side-by-side tricycle near the aquarium and pedal to the Marina. Kayaking lets you enjoy another perspective of Monterey—looking back at the town and gorgeous beaches from the bay. Open-deck kayaks make the sport easy even for the inexperienced and paddling out amongst the seals and otters is quite memorable. We rented from A B Seas Kayak and found owner Geoff Hand and his team to be very helpful and accommodating. All equipment, loose-fitting rain gear (although plan on getting wet), life jackets, and instruction are included in the rental price. Geoff has generously offered any of our readers a 20% discount on the $30 per person, three-hour package if our guide is presented. A B Seas Kayak is conveniently located at 32 Cannery Row, on the coastguard pier. (831-647-0147) In Old Town a 3-mile walking tour links the restored buildings of early Monterey. The old adobe structures are interesting and a sharp contrast to the bustle of nearby Fisherman’s Wharf, a quaint wooden fishing pier lined with shops and restaurants. At the end of the pier huge sea lions vie for the fish cast off the fishing boats.