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Wondering about the best way to experience Monterey for one? Visitors will find a wide range of scenic and historic attractions that inspire awe, wonder, and whimsy. Monterey is renowned for its world-class museums, scenic spots, and amazing restaurants. Get started with planning your solo trip to Monterey, CA, with these tips for how to spend your time.
Shop in Carmel-by-the-Sea
It's no exaggeration to say that Carmel-by-the-Sea feels like a storybook setting that's come to life. In addition to enjoying beautiful sites and sea breezes, visitors can spend hours browsing at boutique shops, art galleries, and other fun attractions just steps from their hotels. The acclaimed boutique shops here include clothing stores, jewelry shops, bohemian retailers, surf shops, artisan cheese shops, and major fashion brands.
Stroll Along Cannery Row
Picturesque Cannery Row blends luxury and natural beauty like no other place! Nestled along the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, Cannery Row was once alive with sardine plants and canneries. While the area's marine culture's history and heritage are still strong, today's visitors enjoy amazing restaurants and lovely boutiques.
Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium
The Monterey Bay Aquarium on Cannery Row offers a glimpse into California's coastal marine life. First opened in 1984, the aquarium is home to California sea lions, African penguins, bat rays, jellyfish, brown pelicans, bubblegum coral, sea otters, sharks, and much more. The aquarium draws crowds with major exhibits like the Kelp Forest, Open Sea, Sandy Shore & Aviary, Rocky Shore, Life on the Bay, and Monterey Bay Habitats. With more than 2 million visitors coming to the aquarium each year, this spot has become a beacon of conservation and education.
Catch a Sunset at Asilomar State Beach
Declared an official California State Park in 1956, Asilomar State Beach in Pacific Grove is one of the most scenic spots in the Monterey area. A popular spot for enjoying surfing, sea kayaking, and nature walks, Asilomar State Beach is the perfect spot to walk along the shore or fly a kite at sunset. Don't miss the chance to explore the quarter-mile boardwalk at the adjacent Asilomar Natural Dune Preserve. Leashed dogs are welcome here.
Dine Near Old Fisherman's Wharf
No solo trip to Monterey, CA, is complete without an extraordinary meal! Visitors enjoy exploring the many different restaurant options along Old Fisherman's Wharf. Many eateries here offer incredible harbor views that will make your casual lunch or special dinner out even more spectacular. Enduring restaurants on the wharf like Rockfish Harbor Grill, Abalonetti Bar & Grill, Crabby Jim's, and Domenico's on the Wharf offer waterfront dining and incredible menus with fresh clam chowder, fish and chips, and classic Italian.
Planning Your Perfect Day for One in Monterey
The great thing about dipping into Monterey for a day trip or long weekend is that you'll have your pick of free nature activities and ticketed experiences. In fact, many visitors are shocked to discover just how many inexpensive things to do they can find while in town. The best part of it all is that visiting free parks or spending an afternoon strolling cozy village streets leaves room in the budget for some extravagant seafood feasts on the water.
