Most visits to the Monterey Bay Area start with a stroll to the iconic Fisherman’s Wharf; no trip is complete without it. Fortunately, many of our luxurious beachfront rentals are within an easy drive of the wharf itself. Known for its historical roots dating back to before California became a part of the Union, this stretch of Monterey Bay antiquity has undergone many changes, from abalone harvesting to commercial sardine canning to the renowned tourist attraction it is today.

The perfect place to enjoy the salty sea breeze, shop, dine on the freshest seafood, and come face to face with the vast array of sea life, The Old Fisherman’s Wharf offers something for everyone and is a must-see attraction for any trip to this stunning bayside area.

Getting to Know The Fisherman’s Wharf

• Address: 1 Old Fisherman’s Wharf, Monterey, CA
• Website: montereywharf.com
• Entrance: Free to enter and enjoy!

The wharf area was established over 170 years ago, making it older than the state of California itself! Visitors can embark on whale-watching tours, where sightings of magnificent humpbacks and orcas are common, or explore the nearby Monterey Bay Aquarium to learn about the region’s diverse marine ecosystem.

With a rich history dating back to the 19th century, the wharf has evolved into a bustling marketplace filled with artisanal goods, local crafts, and delectable treats, providing a perfect blend of history and modern-day charm.

Best Time to Visit Fisherman’s Wharf

The wharf is open year-round, with summer and late spring bringing the ideal temperatures along with the crowds. But truthfully, Monterey is temperate and lovely year-round, with pleasant weather and temps in the 60s and 70s.

Popular tours like whale watching are also an all-year affair, and the harbor’s restaurants and shops will be open from early morning to evening most days of the year. With annual celebrations like Halloween or Christmas and Whale Fest in April, it’s worth looking at the official events list before your visit.

Most visitors like to spend the early morning or evening hours on the wharf enjoying the California breeze without the daytime crowds.

Things to Do on The Fisherman’s Wharf

There’s far more to do on the wharf than stoll the gift shops and enjoy the scenic views. Although both those are perfectly acceptable pastimes. Here are some of our favorite things to do on the wharf.

1. Visit the Historic Customs House

Before the Monterey Wharf was transformed into a multi-million dollar sardine and fishing center, the Customs House was the only sign of government within the state. It still stands today as a symbol of a bygone era where the creation of this town began.

2. Pay a Visit to the Sea Lions

Humans aren’t the only ones who call this stretch of beach home. As you walk towards the wharf entrance, you’ll be greeted by the boisterous barking and a distinct smell of a large colony of California Sea Lions. These sociable and fuzzy ambassadors are a symbol of the Bay Area, and watching them laze away on the rocks and play in the surf is a show all on its own and great family fun!

Remember that these animals are wild and should never be approached, touched, or fed. This is to protect you as well as the wildlife.

3. Visit to the Old Fisherman’s Grotto

Many restaurants along the wharf offer similar food, but the Old Fisherman’s Grotto stands out among the rest. With the air of an upscale steakhouse, this old-school wood and leather establishment offers ocean views, top-tier quality seafood, and impeccable service. Try their oysters on the half shell for a starter and then dive head first into their award-winning clam chowder bread bowls. Voted the best clam chowder in town year after year, it is so good that they even can it up and sell it for takeaway!

4. Dine at Abalonetti’s World-Famous Seafood Restaurant

If you want something different, Abalonetti Bar and Grill is your place. An institution of the wharf, it’s been around since 1951 and specializes in Italian and seafood fare. From Cioppino, an astounding five different styles of calamari, to scrumptious crab cakes, this place serves something delicious for everyone. No Italian restaurant would be complete without an extensive wine and draft beer list to pair.

5. Go Whale Watching!

Known as the ‘whale watching capital of the world,’ one of the best things to do in Monterey County is join a whale watching tour. It’s an experience offered year-round, and boat tours leave daily from the pier. Monterey Bay Whale Watch runs the most popular tours, a renowned business working exclusively with marine biologists and captains with decades of experience.

Morning tours are highly recommended because you are likely to spot whales and maximize your time with them.

6. Explore the Ocean on a Glass Bottom Boat Tour

Want to observe Monterey Bay’s abundant sea life without getting wet? Little Mermaid glass-bottom boat cruises are the perfect way to get a submersive look at unique marine life without having to deal with the frigid waters of central California. Watch sea otters bobbing in kelp beds, frolicking sea lions, and more!

7. Try Deep Sea Fishing

Try your luck on the high seas with Chris’s Fishing and Whaling Tours, located near the Grotto Fish Market, which specializes in chartering boats out for some deep-sea fishing fun. From king salmon to cod, these fishing trips are suitable for all ages and experience levels, as charters include all necessary gear and the expertise of knowledgeable crew and captains. There’s no better way to ensure the freshest seafood than catching it yourself!

Exploring the Area Around the Wharf

Monterey’s joys are many, and there are a few places around the wharf that are well worth visiting. Here are a few more destinations to add to your list, whether you’re staying in Monterey or outside the city in nearby Santa Cruz.

Explore Monterey Bay Aquarium

Only a mile walk up the Monterey Recreational Trail on Cannery Row is an aquarium that is arguably one of the best in the country. With over two hundred exhibits, including a 28-foot kelp forest, penguins, sharks, and a newly opened deep ocean experience, the Monterey Bay Aquarium brings the underwater to a whole new level. Open every day from 10 am to 5 pm, this is one attraction you will not want to miss.

Check Out Cannery Row

Walk through the history of Monterey, the once thriving multi-million dollar sardine cannery business on which the city was built. Only a short walk from the wharf, it’s the perfect place to soak in the culture of the greater Monterey Bay area.

With boutique shops, hotels, arcades, and its own vast food scene, there’s a whole day’s worth of exploring along this historic site of Monterey. Take a walking tour from The Original Monterey Walking Tours if you enjoy the rich history of Monterey Bay.

Enjoy Iconic American Road Trips

The wharf’s central location makes it an ideal launching point for iconic road trips, such as Big Sur’s winding, dramatic cliffsides to the south and an easy day trip to San Francisco. Pack some snacks and buckle up for some of the most scenic coastlines in the entire country.

Note: The Big Sur region of Highway 1 is prone to landslides and road closures, so always check road conditions before embarking.

Just south of Monterey, take in the scenery along the famous 17-mile drive from Pacific Grove, through the iconic greens of Pebble Beach, and end in idyllic Carmel-by-the-sea. At the same time, you can stop off at boutique shops and the many art galleries that line the quaint streets.

Stay in Monterey!

The Fisherman’s Wharf is where any Monterey Peninsula vacation begins. But each day ends at our lovely vacation homes. From here, you can set off onto the high seas to explore the diverse sea life, enjoy extensive seafood dining options that range from white tablecloth to classic takeout joints, go window shopping, or take in the sights on one of California’s oldest stretches of pier on the coast.

Monterey is the perfect getaway for fun and excitement for the whole family and every occasion!

Book your Beachnest stay today!