Attractions Near Carmel-by-the-Sea

Take a drive down the coast to Big Sur over the Bixby Bridge and spend the afternoon. It's as magnificent as you've heard, with majestic hiking trails at Andrew Molera State Park and Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. Afterwards, linger at breathtaking hillside restaurants with panoramic ocean views, such as Nepenthe, Big Sur River Inn, or the Post Ranch Inn.

Named in honor of the legendary John Steinbeck novel about Monterey's once-bustling sardine industry, Cannery Row offers more than 25 restaurants, numerous shops, and luxury hotels that line its colorful, historic oceanside streets. Cannery Row is anchored by the Monterey Bay Aquarium, one of the leading marine life attractions in the world.

Lovers Point Park and Beach in Pacific Grove is a popular spot for shoreline recreation, picnics, and more. Because of its east-facing location, it is also one of the only spots on the West Coast where you can watch the sun rise over the water.

Warm and sunny Carmel Valley offers great hiking, wine tasting, golfing, incredible dining, art and more.

Located at the ocean's edge on historic Cannery Row, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is your window to marine life. Visit sea otters, penguins, sharks, jellies, and much more within minutes from downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea.

The crown jewel of the State Park system. Walk or hike through dense groves of Cypress forest leading to hidden coves, beaches, and overlooks where the many shades of Pacific blues and greens will dazzle your senses. Enjoy great hiking, perfect picnic spots, vistas, and wildlife.

17-Mile Drive takes you on a leisurely driver's seat tour of some of the world's most scenic natural treasures. This leisurely road winds its way through pristine Del Monte Forest and quietly luxurious Pebble Beach — and their incomparable beauty spots, world-ranked golf courses, dream homes, restaurants, and world-class shops.

For world-class auto and motorcycle racing, Weathertech Raceway Laguna Seca offers thrilling races throughout the year.

This landmark has something for everybody. Taste clam chowder, go whale-watching, explore unique shops, and experience the sights and sounds of Monterey's past.