Monterey sits on California’s rugged central coast and combines maritime history with unforgettable Pacific views. Its famous Cannery Row was once the booming center of the sardine-packing industry and later became world-known through John Steinbeck—today it’s a lively waterfront strip lined with gift shops, seafood restaurants, and bars set inside old factory buildings.
Beyond Cannery Row, the coast is the real star: you can follow beautiful oceanfront paths with constant sea breezes, rocky coves, and wide panoramas over Monterey Bay, often with seabirds and sea lions nearby. A special highlight is riding the legendary 17-Mile Drive, where dramatic shoreline scenery, iconic viewpoints, and the mix of sporty cars and classic old-timers turn the route into a scenic experience that feels both elegant and adventurous.