Port Guide | USA | Dive Deep
Monterey
Alexis Tonken | Editor
Published on 2025-03-02
Welcome to Monterey, a breezy slice of Californian charm perched between rugged coastlines and vineyards so good they'll make you believe in miracles-or at least in lunch. True, Steinbeck famously immortalized the gritty sardine-canning factories of Cannery Row, but today the air is blissfully free from fishy aromas, replaced instead by the fresh scent of Monterey cypress, artisanal coffee, and mildly overpriced tourist knickknacks. As your ship eases into Monterey Bay-essentially marine life's bustling Grand Central Station-keep an eye out for lounging sea otters drifting lazily like furry, whiskered tourists themselves. You've got two to five glory-filled days here, which means there's ample time to stroll Cannery Row's slightly kitschy streets, pay your respects to the hypnotically lovable jellyfish at the legendary Monterey Bay Aquarium, and maybe even drink a local Pinot while contemplating whether whales get equally annoyed by boat traffic. So, shake off your sea legs, grab your sunglasses, and dive-I mean, step boldly-ashore. Monterey awaits, and trust me, it's way better than sardines.
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Notes from the Editor
Monterey Bay is famous for its marine life, including sea otters and whales. Visitors should explore Cannery Row and the Monterey Bay Aquarium.
Where do cruise ships dock in Monterey?
Port Name Monterey
Country USA
Region California
Ship Terminal Monterey Cruise Terminal
Port Type Dedicated Port
Accessibility The terminal is located just a mile from downtown Monterey, easily accessible by foot or a short taxi ride.
What's the weather like in Monterey?
Best Season to Visit Summer (June to August)
Climate Mediterranean, characterized by mild, wet winters and dry summers.
Weather Notes Fog is common in the summer months, especially in July and August, which can affect visibility.
Temperature Range 60-70 F (15-21 C)
High Temp 75F
Low Temp 40F
Average Temp 58F
What do I need to know about Monterey?
Language English
Currency United States Dollar (USD)
Card Widely Accepted 1
Population 30,000 (approx.)
Timezone Pacific Standard Time (PST) / Pacific Daylight Time (PDT)
How do I get around Monterey?
Public buses, taxis, and rental cars are available. The area also has bike rentals and pedestrian-friendly paths.
What are The Best Things to do in Monterey?
Discover what you should do while you're in Monterey.
Historical and cultural landmarks
Cannery Row Exploration
Cannery Row, Monterey, CA
Explore historic cannery buildings, shops, and restaurants inspired by John Steinbeck's novel.
Distance from Terminal: 0.5 miles
Carmel-by-the-Sea Village Visit
Ocean Ave, Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA
Visit the charming, artsy seaside town known for unique cottages and art galleries.
Distance from Terminal: 5 miles
Pacific Grove Feast of Lanterns (summer festival)
Lovers Point Park, Pacific Grove, CA
Annual cultural summer festival honoring the city's Chinese heritage with parades and festivities.
Distance from Terminal: 2 miles
Experiences you can't replicate elsewhere
Monterey Bay Aquarium
886 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA
Experience the renowned aquarium showcasing marine habitats of Monterey Bay.
Distance from Terminal: 1 miles
17-Mile Drive Experience
Pebble Beach, CA
A scenic drive showcasing coastal cliffs, golf courses, and landmark Lone Cypress.
Distance from Terminal: 4 miles
Laguna Seca Raceway Event
1021 Monterey Salinas Hwy, Salinas, CA
Renowned racetrack hosting motorsport events and festivals year-round.
Distance from Terminal: 10 miles
Artichoke Farm Tours in Castroville
N/A
Discover the heart of artichoke country with informative tours and seasonal tastings.
Distance from Terminal: 16 miles
Glass Bottom Boat Tour
84 Fisherman's Wharf, Monterey, CA
View marine life through a glass-bottom boat tour showcasing Monterey Bay's underwater treasures.
Distance from Terminal: 0.3 miles
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
Big Sur Scenic Drive
N/A
Drive the breathtakingly scenic route along the rugged California coastline.
Distance from Terminal: 30 miles
Surfing at Asilomar State Beach
Sunset Dr, Pacific Grove, CA
Catch waves or watch surfers in action at this beautiful beach known to locals.
Distance from Terminal: 4 miles
Kayaking at Elkhorn Slough
1700 Elkhorn Rd, Watsonville, CA
Kayak through serene waters observing sea otters, seals, and abundant birdlife.
Distance from Terminal: 24 miles
Horseback Riding in Pebble Beach
3300 Portola Rd, Pebble Beach, CA
Enjoy peaceful horseback rides through coastal forests and beaches of Pebble Beach.
Distance from Terminal: 6 miles
A Little Extra
Wine Tasting in Carmel Valley
N/A
Discover local wines in boutique wineries, enjoying California's wine country charm.
Distance from Terminal: 12 miles
Fisherman's Wharf Food Tasting
Fisherman's Wharf, Monterey, CA
Taste the freshest seafood dishes and clam chowder samples from local eateries.
Distance from Terminal: 0.2 miles
Ghost Tour of Old Monterey
N/A
Explore mysterious historical stories of Old Monterey on unique guided evening tours.
Distance from Terminal: 1 miles
Overnight Trips
Camping in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
Pfeiffer Big Sur Rd, Big Sur, CA
Camp amidst California redwoods along relaxing trails in spectacular natural settings.
Distance from Terminal: 31 miles
Ventana Wilderness Backpacking
N/A
Experience multi-day backpacking in rugged coastal wilderness offering pristine beauty.
Distance from Terminal: 34 miles
USA Regional Tip
N/A N/A