Monterey County - (CA) USA
The 3,324 square miles that make up Monterey County contain a broad range of attractions for the Central Coast visitor. From playing golf on one of several world class courses in Pebble Beach to explaining the literary legacy of John Steinbeck in Salanis and on Monterey's Cannery Row, from wine-tasting in Soledad, an area of gently rolling hills, to hang -gliding at Marina State Beach, the options are endless.
Many begin their tour of this fascinating county in the city that bears the same name. Monterey
The incredible beauty of Monterey.s pristine, half-moon bay and windswept cypress trees would be enough to attract visitors. The fresh ocean breezes , scenic views and sandy beaches offer a setting perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.
But Monterey offers so much more.
The world famous Monterey Bay Aquarium uncovers the hidden wonder of the undersea world off of Monterey's coast, a submarine canyon that rivals the Grand Canyon in size and is the heart of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.
The Aquarium open every day bur Christmas 10 am to 6 pm focuses on Monterey Bay habitats through
a variety of unique exhibits. Fish swim through a three-story kelp forest, the tallest aquarium exhibit in the world, and sea otters charm visitors with their antics. Hands-on exhibits delight young and old alike, and, in a permanent exhibit opened in 1991, live broadcasts from deep within the canyon are televised twice a week.
The Aquarium is located in the heart of the historic Cannery Row, made famous by author John
Steinbeck. Many of the shops, galleries, restaurants and night spots that make-up today's Cannery Row are housed in the original canneries and warehouses that were part of the Row during heyday as the heart of the "Sardine Capital of the World"
The new Maritime Museum of Monterey, located in downtown Monterey in Custom House Plaza near Monterey's historic Fisherman's Wharf, offers a fascinating look at Monterey's maritime heritage.
Custom House Plaza itself is part of Monterey's Path of History. A self-guided tour includes more than 40 restored or preserved buildings, including California's First Theatre at Scott and Pacific streets. Three guided tours through historic downtown Monterey are offered daily by the Maritime Museum.
In addition to its rich heritage, Monterey offers a wealth of activities. There's kayaking on the bay, strolling or bicycling, along the waterfront recreation trail. golfing on any of the world-famous Pebble
Beach courses, hang-gliding at nearby Marine State Beach, whale - watching cruises departing from Fisherman's Wharf (November through March) or taking a leisurely drive along the breathtaking 17 Mile Drive
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