Experiences
a man and woman playing in the water

Connect With Your Inner Wanderer

The best way to experience is by doing. Getting out there, even if it means taking a few risks. Letting yourself wander, even if it means getting a little lost. Connecting with Monterey means hiking, biking, whale watching, and wine tasting—all of that, and then some.

a glass ball with a red and white swirl

Activities Glass Blowing Classes

Learn more about glassblowing during this fun and informative beginners class designed to impress and educate. The Monterey GlassWorks' class offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the local arts scene. You’ll gain hands-on experience in the ancient art of glassblowing, guided by skilled artisans who are part of Monterey's rich artistic culture.

To learn more, visit their Instagram @MontereyGlassWorks.

a hammer hitting a piece of metal with a hammer
a hammer hitting a piece of metal with a hammer

Activities Blacksmith Classes

Our friends at Hacienda CV lead an introductory Blacksmithing Workshop utilizing the same principles of metalwork that have been used for over 3,000 years This unique workshop offers a hands-on experience, allowing you to explore the history and craftsmanship of blacksmithing while enjoying the stunning coastal surroundings of Monterey.

To learn more, visit their Instagram @HaciendaCV

a glass ball with a red and white swirl
a path with purple flowers on a rocky beach

Spring

The chill of winter quickly gives way to spring’s sunny warmth, though nights remain pretty cold. With frequent rains, the flowered landscapes quickly bloom, making this season the perfect time to take in the many hiking trails that are prominent in the area.

people walking on a beach

Summer

Foggy mornings, cool days, and sunny afternoons characterize Monterey summers. This is the best time of year to do some sightseeing, wine tasting, and relaxed exploring.

butterflies on a branch with green leaves

Fall

Surprisingly, the Indian Summer or “Second Summer” that arrives in the fall brings with it the warmest days of the year. It also rarely rains, which makes it the perfect time to visit Point Lobos and Big Sur. This is also the time of year when monarch butterflies make their annual migration, which means you may see clusters of them among varying trees in the Monarch Grove Sanctuary.

a whale tail in the water

Winter

Monterey is at its coldest between December and February, particularly along the coast with lows that dip into the 40s. Alternatively, there is less of a marine layer this time of year, so when it’s not raining it tends to be much sunnier than usual. December to April is gray whale watching season, but activity peaks in mid-January, making winter the perfect time to visit if you want a glimpse of the beautiful whales that roam the Pacific.

a building with a sign on the front

Our Partners

Monterey's natural bounty—its landscapes, its beaches, its breathtaking beauty—is rivaled only by its people. We're proud to partner with locally run organizations that love this region just as much as we do. From tour guides who know the land and waters even better than the back of their hands to dedicated artists whose work is inspired by the region, we've handpicked each and every one of our partners for their passion and their pride in Monterey.

Learn More