Instantly a favorite. Purchased tickets online which made entry painless and quick. We loved all the unique exhibits. Every area of the aquarium had something different to offer, from art installations, kelp forrest, deep sea creatures, otters, outdoor area with seating, views and so much more. We loved that they sold snacks and beverages (alcoholic & non alcoholic). Passing time watching sea birds, listening to the ocean and searching for sea otters at their outdoor area was just blissful. The entire facility was absolutely beautiful. We paid $180 for our tickets and we definitely plan on returning.

My girls friends and I came into town and bought tickets in advance because we knew this was a must see and it did not disappoint. We started with the feeding of the sea otters which was so cute. Then we stopped for a quick coffee at the cafe. Everything in their cafe looked delicious. We enjoyed the many exhibits and enjoyed the touch tanks. There was do many things you could touch and see up close. I would highly recommend going. Couple tips buy your tickets online in advance and get there early it gets really crowded!

A man called Doug Doug recommended me to this place so I was in the area and decided to go. First of all the surrounding area was very nice there was a car show in the area so some luxury cars blessed my eyes. Now on to the aquarium beautiful place, there was a nice route to follow. The sea otters were definitely a highlight of my trip. In addition there was many interactive areas for children to use. Overall I was my favourite part about my trip to America. I would recommend anyone who is passing though the area to pop in and see this wonderful aquarium. Rest in peace Rosa the sea otter o7

The Monterey Bay Aquarium is an absolutely world-class institution that I believe is well worth the visit, offering a truly immersive window into the Pacific Ocean's ecosystems. I found that it excels not just as a display of marine life, but as a dedicated center for conservation and education. The standout exhibits, which I saw are beautifully maintained and thoughtfully designed, showcase the region's unique biodiversity. I think the Kelp Forest exhibit is a breathtaking, three-story spectacle, featuring towering fronds that create a dynamic, lush habitat for leopard sharks, wolf-eels, and schools of fish. Equally impressive to me is the massive Open Sea exhibit, where I was able to watch tuna, sea turtles, and dazzling schools of sardines swim past a spectacular 90-foot viewing window, which really emphasized the vastness of the open ocean. A newer, must-see addition is the Into the Deep exhibition, which successfully brings the mysterious creatures of the dark abyss to light. Beyond the major tanks, I noticed the Sea Otter exhibit is consistently a visitor favorite, allowing you to watch the playful, charismatic otters romp and groom. The mesmerizing Jellyfish exhibit was also an ethereal highlight for me, using controlled lighting to showcase the delicate beauty and graceful pulsing of various jelly species. The aquarium is perched right on the edge of the bay, and the Great Tide Pool and ocean-view decks provided a wonderful opportunity for me to spot wild marine life, including sea otters and sometimes even whales. While I know admission is on the higher end, I feel the quality of the exhibits and the aquarium's non-profit conservation mission justify the cost. Be aware that the aquarium can get extremely crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. To make the most of your trip, I recommend buying tickets online in advance and aiming to visit on a weekday or arrive right at opening time to experience the most popular exhibits, like the Kelp Forest and Sea Otters, before the large crowds arrive. I would plan to spend at least four hours to fully appreciate the two main floors and attend one of the informative animal feedings or programs. I can say this is more than just an aquarium; it's an unforgettable educational experience and a vital force in ocean protection.

It was way better when I was younger, but still a great experience for my son. The sea otters were so fun to watch! There was a tall man who was very friendly and helpful, which made our visit even better. The only downside is that the price is pretty high.

The Monterey Bay Aquarium is truly world class. The exhibits are very well cared for, thoughtfully designed, and provide an incredible opportunity to learn about marine life and conservation. I especially appreciate how accessible the aquarium is for all ages and how it inspires children to start learning about the ocean early in life. That said, the aquarium is often very crowded, which can make it difficult to move through and see the exhibits comfortably. Many of the displays are geared toward children, so if you are hoping for a calm and quiet day observing marine life, this may not be the best fit. It has more of a lively, theme-park feel than a peaceful experience. Overall, I think everyone should visit at least once. The aquarium does amazing work, and their efforts to educate the public about ocean health and marine biology are inspiring. Just be prepared for crowds and lots of families.

So many amazing marine animals to see here and it's really beautiful! There were only two sea otters though, and I wish there were more!! The aquarium also has several cafés with food and drinks, plus gift shops that kids will love. Overall, it was a really enjoyable visit, but just keep in mind that it does get pretty crowded on weekends😂

The worst meal of my life. I went over Valentine’s Day weekend. We had an 8 pm reservation. When we got there, many other groups with reservations had been waiting for 30+ minutes. We weren’t seated until 30 minutes after our reservation. Host did not warn us there would be a wait and did not apologize. Once we sat down, we weren’t served WATER for at least another 30 minutes. We asked 3 times before we finally got any water. It took even longer for us to order our meal. One table near us waited an hour before they could order. We ordered the bread as a starter. They were out. We also ordered a salad which was missing an ingredient from the menu. I ordered the carbonara. Genuinely the worst pasta dish of my life. Inedible. The guanciale was soft and uncooked. The sauce was watery. The poached egg on top was just weird but at least it was cooked. Our server didn’t ask us how our meal was once and we couldn’t flag them down. If we had been able to, we would have complained. This was an absolutely overall unacceptable experience, especially considering the price. There must have been no manager because the place was complete chaos. I will never recommend this restaurant to anyone.

For me Italian food is difficult to rate as everyone has their own "bar" as to what they prefer and each chef their own recipes. All the dishes were tasty in their own way. The servings were more than ample. Great prices. The wine list (by the bottle) is quite nice. Clam chowder - I would rate this a excellent! We've tasted clam chowder many places & this one is not too thick or soupy with plenty of delicious flavor!! YUM!! Food - Spaghetti & meat balls. The pasta was fresh & perfectly prepared, the meatballs were tasty & good size, the sauce was hearty - tasted a bit like tomato paste, good though. Our guest approved! Lasagna - a huge portion loaded with cheese of different types. Same sauce as the spaghetti. Our guest approved. Chicken & with noodles -fresh, tasty pasta loaded with nicely seasoned chicken breast & white sauce. Our guest enjoyed the dish but mentioned it needed vegetables to give it more desirability. Oso Bucco Gnocchi - I ordered & didn't realize I was ordering Gnocchi :| I have had Gnocchi only once, years ago. I do not know what it's to be, the Gnocchi was soft & laid in a Oso Bucco "gravy" with some pieces of shredded meat. It tasted just like Oso Bucco :) Service - the service was friendly, not rushed, with good suggestions. One suggestion was the cheesy garlic bread :) Ambiance - comfortable, Old world casual. Noise level - was like a busy restaurant - fun, vibrant, happy! Yes, you can hear your friends conversation:) A nice compliment was the combo band which was soft background ambiance. During the summer tourist season I'd recommend making a reservation!

Great vegetarian options and they are flexible with the menu (asked for marinara gnocchi and received!) Went here after a whale watch and it was the perfect warm, carb-heavy dinner I needed. Highly recommend the dessert too!

This meal was one of the finest I've had, we were a party of 12 and had excellent service. The squid ink pasta was one of the best pasta I've ever eaten and I spent 5 months in Italy. My wife's chicken marsala was to die for. Typically we never order chicken in a nice restaurant cuz we can make that at home. Everyone in our party was singing praises about the food and atmosphere, and since I picked the location I got a lot of attaboys

They offer a big house salad, and roasted Broccoli. They also have Chicken Cacio de pepe, which I ordered without the chicken. My wife had Carbonara, both dishes were great - good size portions, too! Great service, a little view out the front windows - a great experience!

An absolute must! I've been enjoying this place for over 10 years now. Never disappoints! Carbonara is the best I've ever had.

Had a good dinner here. Love the chill vibes this town has to offer. Ordered Lamb Pappardelle, Osso Bucco, Chicken Masala and Grilled Octopus. All of them was so good but the Chicken Marsala was our favourite! Staffs were very friendly.

Highly recommend! Great customer service from start to finish. Protective gear and wet bags included. Equipment in good shape. Post paddle there was a foot/shoe rinse station, changing area and on this chilly day warm towels. All staff super friendly and helpful. Paddling conditions were great and on our visit so many otters, sea lions and some seals. Make sure to bring your binoculars for close up views of the amazing wildlife. 👍👍👍

Truly a great adventure! We saw otters, sea lions, and a harbor seal. Our guide Jannie was very knowledgeable. We also really appreciated that they provided dry suits, dry bags, towels, changing areas, cubbies, and heated floors - all included in the price! We highly recommend Adventures By The Sea!

Had a fantastic time kayaking today- love the changing rooms, locker storage, dry bags and splash shields provided. Great customer service, friendly staff. Will do a tour next time with Sydney- she came highly recommended!

The staff were super friendly, helpful, and showed their excitement for my solo kayak rental. If you have the $40 bucks, 2 hours, and love wildlife, I highly recommend a trip through the bay!! Thank you Cannery Row Adventures by the sea staff for a wonderful adventure!!

I went for my mother's birthday with my sister and niece. It was really special to see the otters and other sea animals! I want to take my own children back to experience this kayaking adventure. Very special.

I had an amazing experience with Adventures by the Sea! Renting a kayak for my girlfriend and me was incredibly easy and hassle-free. The staff was friendly, helpful, and made the whole process smooth. Once we were out on the water, it was like stepping into a wildlife paradise. We saw so many sea otters, including adorable baby otters, as well as seals, a variety of sea birds, and plenty of other marine life. It felt like being in a nature documentary! The views from the water were stunning, and it was such a peaceful and unforgettable experience. I would highly recommend Adventures by the Sea to anyone looking for a fun and memorable outdoor activity. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, this is an adventure you don’t want to miss!

The employees were great, very helpful and informative. Towels and a heated floor pad for when you’re done (and cold!). Otters, seals and sea lions everywhere. Awesome experience!

Empanada’s - 10/10 - brisket is my fave! Apple crème roll 4/10 - was bland and not sweet enough, Yerba mate drinks are yummy, staff is friendly and quick, the cafe itself is cute and has plenty of seating. We come here every time we are in Monterey. I wish this spot was closer to home. Pro tip: grab a half dozen frozen empanadas and bake them at home.

Adorable cafe in the beautiful pacific grove, just a block from the beach. Me and the 7 year old biked here for coffee (me) and some banana bread, yogurt and apple juice (them). Everything was yummy. Best part of this place is the charming outdoor seating in back decorated with beautiful plants, whimsical wall art :) true gem

We got the breakfast empanada, Dulce De Leche Medialuna, and apple custard pastry for a snack. My husband got a latte, and I got a chia latte. The flavor was amazing! Nothing disappointed. The presentation of the food and chia was beautiful. Loved the atmosphere, employees were very kind. Next visit to Monterey, we will be back! 11/10 recommend ❤️

We came to the Monterey Aquarium and were looking for a good coffee spot. Starbucks was a bit far, so we found this small cozy café nearby. Super nice atmosphere, great coffee, and the barista was a real pro. Highly recommend!

Un pedacito de mi querido Paraguay en Pacific Grove, California. I was lucky enough to discover a beautiful and charming gastronomic cafe while I was traveling in California. From the moment I was greeted “mba'éichapa” and entered to the cafe, the atmosphere conveyed warmth and authenticity, with details that evoked Paraguayan culture and attention that made me feel at home. Just remembering gives me chills. Cafe Guarani is certainly one of those places that cannot be missed when visiting Monterey. Located in the heart of Pacific Grove, California. Cafe Guarani offers a charming oasis of peace thanks to the indoor and outdoor seats. Beautiful place with an incredible garden-patio, full of plants, flowers, trees, they even have a Paraguayan hamaca, very relaxing atmosphere! The decor has a nostalgic vibe, with ñandúti and memorabilia from my country. I felt home, immediately! Liliana the owner and her son Sebastian, were so friendly and welcoming! When we get there the restaurant was closed and after I told them that I’m Paraguayan as well, immediately open the doors for my family and me. The cafe serves delicious Paraguayan dishes and snacks. We ordered the beef milanesa sandwich that comes with fried yuca and alioli sauce, also we had baked beef and vegan empanadas that comes with chimichurri and a gluten free mbejú (Tapioca flour cheese flat bread) with Cocido (smoked Yerba mate) Sooo good!! Everything was very tasty and absolutely delicious! I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to feel the real taste of Paraguay in an extremely friendly environment. A place not to be missed! Aguyje Liliana and Sebastian!

This place was great, we got some light fare for breakfast with breakfast empanadas, coffee and pastries. Everything was delectable and the chimichurri sauce they provide for the empanadas was excellent. The atmosphere had nice decor and a calm mood. The service was very nice and helpful. Such a unique and lively experience.

This place is a must visit for me and my family, every time we come into town. Staff is friendly and efficient. The food & coffee is consistently amazing! And their empanadas are incredible! My son loves the fruit tart, with giant chunks of fruit.Even the small coffee has a double shot. 💯recommend.

This place was pretty nice. Staff was very friendly and helpful being a new visitor ☺️ awesome bartender last night. The jazz music was great too and wasn't all that bad for covering charge for the band. David was awesome at his drinks and the menu is fantastic!!

Great ambiance and drinks here. I had the American Psycho and he had the Cherry Coke Float. Both very good. The bartender was kind and personable. They have an outdoor area as well, and live music on Sunday and Wednesday nights. Definitely check it out.

Been going here for the past 5 years. Best creative cocktails, service and atmosphere in Monterey. Pearl Hour has live music almost every night of the week..jazz every Sunday and Wednesday. I often take visitors here. You won’t be disappointed!

Good spot to hang. Plenty of young people and it's lively on a Saturday night. Make sure you get here early cause seats are hard to get and they switch the menu to handle the crowd. They have events as well, check their website. Menu is easy to read and plenty of choices. Best spot for cocktail.

Great speakeasy vibe with couches and candlelight inside and an outside seating area with a huge firepit! The bathrooms were clean and it was a really relaxing atmosphere! The staff and patrons were friendly and kind!

What a gem! I went on a Sunday night. Live jazz that was spectacular. It was after 9 and I hadn’t eaten yet, but I was able to door dash a meal without any issue at all. The wait staff was friendly and remarkably attentive! I stuck to the classic cocktails all of which were outstanding! I will definitely return next to me I am in town 😎🙌

Really chill place. Drinks were well crafted and the outside had a seating next to a big fire pit. We went on a Friday night and it wasn't busy but still took a while to get our first drink order in

While traveling to celebrate our 25th wedding Anniversary, we booked a table for our special night at the Chart House in Monterey. They went above and beyond to make our celebration extra special. We were seated at a table by the windows with an amazing view of the bay and surrounding sand dunes. When handed our menus table side, we glanced down to look them over, and soon realized they had added a toast to us, printed on their menus! What a thoughtful touch. We were then treated to tables service by the bartender, who crafted us amazing cocktails… and to top it off, 3 humpback whale pods put on a sunset hour show for us all. Truly a unique and wonderful experience.

The food was amazing! We had the shrimp scampi, kimchi-sauced calamari, and lava cake — everything was delicious. The service was super friendly, and the vibe was nice and relaxing. Definitely a great spot to unwind and enjoy a good meal.

Came with low expectations of poor service and average overpriced touristy seafood but was pleasantly surprised (just the food, service was as expected). Made an online reservation a couple days in advance, but still waited about 10 minutes to get seated. Requested for a window seat in the notes of the reservation and was seated at a table near a window instead, but no big deal. I'd recommend making a reservation We ordered a bowl of chowder $14, miso sake glazed black cod $32, sole on fire $32, and mini lava cake $12. The chowder was excellent, not salty yet flavorful, loaded with ingredients, one of the best I've had. Both of the fish dishes were really good as well. Fish was fresh and perfectly cooked, even the vegetable accompaniments were of quality ingredients. Portions were reasonable. We agreed that the sole was the better of the 2. Mini lava cake was tasty, not overly sweet. Topped with ice cream. We found it interesting that there was no gooey center, it was just chocolate cake throughout. But no big deal since it was still good. Pricing felt reasonable for the quality of the food Service was mediocre. Very busy restaurant. Server didn't anticipate any needs and was hard to flag down, but she did refill waters regularly and was nice. Indoor seating only. Nice restaurant with views of the water. A bit dark inside Overall, I'd go back just for the quality food, but won't expect good service

Very nice restaurant, we ordered steaks, both the slow cooked entrenched, filled and ny strip. The steaks came overcooked (med-well when ordered med-rare) although when told the server immediately replaced with a new med-rare steaks which were very good. The shrimp cocktail was also very good. The restaurant itself lies on the coast with panoramic windows towards the beach and ocean. The views are very nice and really contribute to a great atmosphere. Eating while watching seals and seagulls on the ocean.

The wait was still over 30 minutes with a reservation on a Saturday night. We came back to this place, thinking it was the restaurant we went to 20 years ago. It may not have been. They served dungeness crabs then, but this place served king crabs. I decided to try something else and was happy with the Spicy Ahi on top of furikake rice with some soy glaze and wasabi cream on the side. We also ordered the Mama Mucci Linguini with large grilled shrimp (flavorful) and Prime rib with mashed potatoes. The mini lava cake was a little dry for my taste, but perhaps the regular size would be better. The creme brulee trio had a couple of different flavors in addition to the traditional creme brulee. We still preferred the traditional flavor. The servers were friendly, and Brian was very accommodating. Wrt space, the aisles were a bit tight in some areas - cozy room. Seating can be a bit cramped with back-to-back chairs from the other table, but we had a great dining experience overall.

We had an amazing dining experience at Chart House Monterey. The sea bass was exquisite, and the steak and salad we ordered alongside it were equally outstanding. The view, service, and atmosphere are truly special. Considering the quality and overall experience, the prices feel quite reasonable. A must-visit spot in Monterey – highly recommended!

The food and service were both disappointing. The lobster bisque was very good, but the the main, shrimp stuffed fish tasted really off and not edible. To their credit, they offered to replace it with another entree, but the service had been so slow I didn't want to wait for something else at that point. They did remove the charge from our bill however.

Absolutely AMAZING! I had vegan family members come to town and we stopped in for a bite. WOW, I was blown away! The tacos were the best I’ve ever had in the Monterey Bay Area. Everything had so much flavor and the dishes were very filling. I will definitely be back 100%

El Cantaro is absolutely amazing! 🌮💛 As a vegan, I’m always searching for food that’s both authentic and flavorful, and this place exceeded all my expectations. The menu is full of traditional Mexican favorites made 100% plant-based — and every single bite is packed with freshness and spice. The tacos were incredible (the kind you never want to end!), and the burritos are hearty, delicious, and perfectly seasoned. The atmosphere is welcoming, and the staff are kind and attentive, making the experience even better. It’s the kind of place that proves vegan food isn’t just “good for vegan food” — it’s simply great food. I can’t wait to come back! 🌱✨

El Cantaro was awesome! I've never been to another vegan Mexican restaurant, so there's nothing to really compare it to, which means that I have to compare it to all other restaurants and this place is one of the best! The food is fresh and delicious, there's a ton of options to choose from and they're all delicious!

Organic, full of flavor! The steak fajitas was good, the tacos were delicious. It seemed that they make their own corn tortillas in-house, so fresh! The pozole soup was full of nutritional vegetables and a little spicy but I loved it!

Hey, you wanna try some real tasty mexican food? You should not miss this restaurant, by all means … go for the ‚Mexican Favorites‘ with the crispy tacos (fried tacos); the crisp is just so crispy; loved the chickin‘ more than the potatoes but both are great … but don‘t forget to ask for the Hot Salsa as well (homemade); pace yourself at first because it has quite some kick but it wants you to take more and more - it‘s so excellent … Two tiny suggestions/ideas: 1. The cheese on the tacos was very chilled; can the cheese be taken out of the fridge earlier, so its just at least room temperature when its on the tacos? 2. If you stuff the cheese a slight bit ‚into‘ the taco, it becomes way easier to eat it without spilling most of the cheese (and tasty tomatoes) …

This place is a gem for those on a restricted diet -- The entire menu (and it's a big one) is vegan. I got a combo platter and was so stoked. One plate was PLENTY and I was stuffed afterwards, but wanted to order more just to try other things on the menu. I am docking one point from atmosphere because they were blasting Christian worship music which kinda spoiled the vibe, but I would go here again in a heartbeat. Maybe they'll play Slayer for me next time.

OMG their food is so good! I am in town for a few days and was excited to go to an all vegan Mexican restaurant. The first day I got a pineapple and black bean burrito and it was so delicious. The next day I got the tofu veggie burrito and I loved it so much that the third day I got the exact same thing. I would eat here all the time if I lived here. The counter staff is super friendly and helpful and my food was ready quickly, even at prime lunchtime. Highly recommend!

I booked a whale watching excursion with Discovery Whale watching. I was not disappointed. We seen all kinds of whales. I was starving and the crew was kind enough to suggest Cafe Fina in the main row of the Old Wharf. If you mention the excursion they give a free cheesy garlic bread. It did not disappoint. Delicious, fresh Italian food. They are a long time restaurant thats been there over 30 years. A must try if you can.

Old Fisherman’s Wharf is a charming spot filled with great restaurants, shops, and unforgettable views of the sea. A highlight of our visit was seeing a whale and sea lions in their natural habitat, which made the experience truly special. The atmosphere is lively yet relaxing, perfect for strolling, enjoying seafood, and creating lasting memories.

We did whale watching tour here. It was amazing experience. We pre booked our trip and really enjoyed the 3 hour tour. The deck has so many restaurants, shops. You will get most of the stuff here. Overall quite a good experience

Fisherman’s Wharf in Monterey is always a fun stop! Great place to hang out and people-watch—especially spotting the tourists braving the weather in shorts. 😄 The restaurants serve up some fantastic food (can’t go wrong with the clam chowder!), and the views are absolutely picture-perfect. You can even spot seals lounging around, which makes the experience even better.

It’s small and charming, like you’re stepping back in time. However, with so many other options with more selection of shops and scenery, this one wasn’t a favorite. I preferred Cannery Row.

I absolutely love this area! I come here whenever I can great restaurants beautiful views. Places to shop and whale watching is offered as well.

It was nice to come back here again. This Wharf offers an assortment of restaurants and shops. A few candy and ice cream shops. Seafood galore! Souvenir shops at every turn, it seems! Individual vendors at the entrance. It provides a stage for talented musicians. It's even a popular hangout for wildlife from seagulls, pigeons, squirrels, otters, and sea lions. Lots to see and do for sure!

Nancy (owner) and her sweet pup Skipper were superb hosts. We saw at least 5 whales, tons of sea lions and common murres and other sea birds. Crew was kind and fun. The naturalists were very knowledgable, and they even have a kind photographer Daniele who captures great shots of the wildlife that we could buy for a small fee. Coolest part is that Nancy also runs a killer whale research project, and contributes data from whale sightings to Happy Whale to help ID and track the animals across the world. Highly recommend!

From check in to disembarkation, everything was smooth as silk. The marine biologist was awesome in explaining the nuances of Monterey Bay. We saw humpback whales, breaching, fin slapping, tail slapping and just cruising along. There was a mother and her calf, really cool...sea lions, seals,otters, and one moon fish. It was an awesome morning on the water. The crew was great. We won't hesitate to book with them. 🐋🪼

Had an amazing day with Monterey Bay Whale Watch on a recent pelagic seabird trip. The staff was very welcoming and a host of spotters helped identify birds and sea life throughout the day. Seaworthy vessel with loads of places to view from the edges or benches. Excellent value for the price.

Booked online before our vacation and I’m glad we did. This was a fantastic experience for all of us. They did a great job telling us what to expect before we departed. We came with warm clothes but many people did not read the warnings. It was COLD on the water in July. They found the whales and did a great job giving us the views we want. They told us a photographer was on board that we could buy her photos after but didn’t give us specifics. If I’d known the price and quantity beforehand, I would’ve spent less of my energy trying to get my own pics and just relied on hers. She did a phenomenal job and buying the 35 images for $40 was a no brainer once we got back.

An exceptional experience with Monterey Bay Whale Watch. Easy to find on Fisherman's Wharf in Monterey. You can pay more to go up top and get a better view of the animals. Check in was quick and simple. The Whales were everywhere. The captain, in communication with other boats, knew exactly where the hotspots were. In the video below you can see 6-8 Humpback Whales, 60-100 Sea Lions and so many species of birds - all surrounding and bounding through a school of fish. The biologist/narrator was clear and did not talk through all the majestic moments. Go on a sunny day!

This is the best tour in Monterey. It’s ethical, highly educated with naturalists on board. The captain takes care to guide passengers comfortably and you will see whales. We saw humpbacks, and then rafts of sea lions. A great tour, we will be back.

We seen a bunch of humpback whales and sea lions. Definitely a great experience for my family and I! We did the 4 hour tour and it was perfect! The crew was super friendly and knowledgeable. I highly recommend!

I've lived here five years and have passed this playground and park probably hundreds of times. Finally stopped by and wish I had earlier. Easy and close parking. It feels safe, fenced with a good mix of people and ages. Can't get on the train engine, but fun to look at. A fenced maze with shrubbery along the fence was fun. My favorite is the swinging bridge. Pond next to the park often has paddle boats which are fun to watch. Parking does get a little crowded when there is a baseball game. Highly recommend a visit!

First went here as an elementary age kid and got to bring my 8 month old 20 years later. It's an incredible playground park with various climbing structures, swings, a suspension bridge, tunnels, and plenty of open space for running around. This really is one of the best playgrounds I've ever been to, and the design is incredible.

A massive playground for kids. Baseball field and concession stand for fresh hot food and cold drinks. If not McDonald's nearby. This place is awesome. I had a fresh burger at the concessions and it was better than McDonald's. Props to the City of Monterey and those who help build this amazing park.

This park was so cute. Lots of structures for little ones to explore and run around. My 2 yr old did not want to leave

This park is SPECTACULAR! Tons of play structure that are both fun and engaging, including a small maze. The park is huge! It has a beautiful pond that wraps around it, complete with giant petal powered swan boats and docks along the park. It is both family and pet friendly. There are ducks you can feed, an area to picnic. It is very clean and safe. I can't say enough good things about this park! It is definitely worth a visit, if you are in the area.

You can tell this park is dated, but it has held up well. It's timeless. It's got its own magic. My son became possessed by the magic of joy it brings all children who enter its grounds.

Have been down here so many times and never went. Today, we took of our 4 grandchildren and had a blast!

The 32oz. porterhouse steak was cooked to a perfect medium-rare and the chef carved it up nicely for two to share. The mashed potatoes, asparagus and fried onions were delicious and the cannoli was very fresh and crunchy. The service was fantastic. Our service staff was very friendly and professional.

From the hostess who welcomes you to when you arrive the waiter who suggested me and explained the menu outstandingly. The manager cane a few times making sure I was enjoying the steak (and I surely did) and considering that the restaurant was full I truly appreciated his professionalism. I ordered a porterhouse and it was exceptional! Then a dessert to die for. Wonderful I will surely come back next year during car week.

One of the best steakhouses I went to in the US, and I have had my share … very professional service, very good old vibe of a place that is not attempting to be modern but rather show its aged beauty… and very fresh, tasty and perfectly grilled steak, with the perfect side dishes to go along … and the Malbec of the Napa valley was exquisite. Would certainly come back if again in town.

Great steakhouse. The service was top notch. They made sure to keep everyone with a drink. I drink a lot of water so I love not having to wait for a refill. They make sure to show you the cuts of steak they offer and go over the differences. They were very helpful when anyone in the group had questions. I had the ribeye with mashed potatoes and spinach. I thought both the sides could use a bit more flavor, but still great and a little salt and pepper definitely helped. They offered 3 salts, regular coarse, spicy sriracha and smoked, along with freshly ground pepper. I had the margarita cocktail. Very delicious and strong, but not too strong. For dessert, our side of the table shared creme brulee and Pavlova. Both firsts for me, and both wonderful. The staff worked well together to serve our large group in a timely manner. I did not try it, but another in the group said the lobster was delicious.

The Whaling Station is truly the premier steakhouse in Monterey, serving guests with excellence since 1969. My husband and I enjoyed a superb dining experience from start to finish. We began with their fabulous French onion soup with a perfect brother and lots of cheese on top, followed by the incredible Cowboy Ribeye Steak—tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor, easily one of the best steaks I’ve ever had. The sides were equally impressive: fresh thick asparagus with hollandaise sauce, a perfectly prepared twice-baked potato, and to finish, the most heavenly Pavlova dessert from New Zealand with soft meringue, whipped cream, and fresh fruit. A delicious glass of red wine paired beautifully with the meal, and an Irish Coffee was the perfect finale. Our server, Jose, was friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable, adding to the warm atmosphere. We enjoyed the comfort of a half-booth and admired the lovely décor and artwork, including a lovely mural. The restaurant easily accommodates groups and provides a refined yet welcoming setting. The Whaling Station also holds a special place in my heart—it was the very first restaurant my husband and I dined at when visiting Monterey back in 1988 for a Paramount Pictures sales meeting. After moving here in 1990, we’ve enjoyed many wonderful meals over the years, and the quality has always remained top-notch. Highly recommended for anyone seeking an outstanding dining experience with high quality food, impeccable service, and the very best steaks in Monterey.

Sweet baby Jesus the ribeye was the best steak we’ve ever had, hands down! Their crab ravioli was so creamy with the best asparagus. If I could give 100 stars I would. Found this gem of a restaurant while searching for places to eat when visiting Monterey. Thank God for technology! My husband and I will definitely be back! Paul was attentive and is responsible for the recommendation on the ribeye. Every staff member was friendly, from the gentleman that seated us to the waiters that offered pepper for our meal. You won’t find a better steakhouse in California.

Perfectly cooked and served. The staff was wonderful. Seated at the bar while we waited for a table. Had great drinks. Server was awesome. If you’re looking for a great place to enjoy quality food and service (and 3 different kinds of salt!) I’d try here.

The view is beautiful. Sometimes you can see dolphins jumping around in the bay and having a good time. Definitely my favorite place to go tide pooling and the sand is really nice. It’s crushed granite instead of being a typical sandy feeling beach which appeals to me more.

My wife and I had a beautiful lunch at the park. But be warned there are lots of squirrels and seagulls hanging out looking for a free lunch. Luckily for us, we had one protecting us while we ate our lunch. And we did reward him for the protection. Other than that, a beautiful place to hang out and enjoy the scenery. Life is beautiful!

Loved the view on a beautiful clear day throughout Monterey/pacific Grove. If you get an opportunity to bring a bike or rent one It would be suggested for some great opportunities to see the area from a different perspective.

Lovers Point is a scenic spot with beautiful ocean views and a great place to take a walk or relax by the water. It does get pretty busy on weekends, but it’s still worth the stop. Keep an eye out for the adorable chipmunks running around - they’re everywhere and are fun to watch. The only downside is the lack of clean seating; there’s a lot of bird poop from the seagulls, so finding a clean bench or spot to sit can be tricky. Still, the views and chipmunks make it worth a visit.

Pacific Grove Marine Gardens Park, also known as Lovers Point, is a truly beautiful spot right by the ocean. The views of the coastline are stunning, and the atmosphere is calm and inviting, perfect for a walk, a picnic, or simply relaxing by the water. One of the most charming details is the presence of squirrels that live in the park — they’re fun to watch and add to the friendly, natural vibe of the place. It’s well maintained, family-friendly, and a wonderful stop if you’re exploring Pacific Grove or nearby Monterey.

I love lovers point one of my favorite spots to visit in Monterey County it's family friendly u can go in the water eat picnic out there rent bikes wet suits and boogie broads play volley ball and the most funniest thing I like doing is feeding the squirrels they are so cute and super friendly

Bring your binoculars! You might just see some cutie little otters trying to eat a snack. The flowers and views are so spectacular here. Definitely worth a visit. Make sure to go when the sun is out though! The flowers close when it's grey and cold.

Best place for seafood and great service! Our first visit to Domenico's was impressive! From the staff to the food, excellent!! Our waiter Zane was so amazing that we came back a second time!! Fun personality, consistently attentive and just on top of it!! We tried the special Octupus appetizer, the crab cakes and the fried calamari appetizer. All excellent, fresh and full of flavor. Best octopus dish ever! Our main dish, both visits, Grilled Sea Bass, lemon butter caper sauce with creamy Risotto (best we've ever had) and seasonal vegetables. Phenomenal!! We truly enjoyed our meal and the views. Living in Denver and being from Florida, we missed fresh seafood!! Their menu has so many great options! We cannot wait to go back!! Highly recommended!!

One of my favorite Italian restaurants on Monterey’s Fisherman’s Wharf serves delicious and creamy grilled octopus and clam chowder. The margaritas are perfectly blended and refreshing. Their service is amazing, with friendly and very accommodating staff.

We arrived before another walk-in group, and both parties were waiting to be seated. When the host came to seat us, we politely asked if we could have a window table, since we wanted our baby to enjoy the ocean view and stay away from the open entrance area. The host told us that the window tables were reserved, so we were given a table near the entrance instead. However, just moments later, the group that came after us — also walk-ins — were seated at one of those window tables. It felt very unfair and disappointing. We were looking forward to a pleasant family meal, but the way the host handled the seating left a negative impression. We hope the restaurant ensures fair treatment for all guests

Five stars for both service and atmosphere. I loved the location, the expansive windows, the seals, the pelicans, the seagulls. The entire wait staff was so kind and attentive. The food however was a bit lacking. The chowder bowl was an underwhelming portion, and the flavor didnt pop like I had hoped and didnt meet my expectations.

GO HERE! The food was really good, the restaurant is really nice and CLEAN. We sat outside because we had our dog but the inside looked very nice. The restroom was also nice and clean. Even though this place is on a very “touristy” area, you can just tell it’s a locals favorite. Since we were sitting outside we would see when people would walk out and everyone would say how good everything was. The owner was there as a host, you can tell he puts a lot into his place. So glad we decided to go here. And OMG the tiramisu was absolutely delicious!

Fabulous! The food was great, the service was prompt and coming from different directions; and the fact that the table was on the wharf directly in the warm sun made this experience fantastic!!!! Definitely recommend!!

🦪 We started with oysters in a half shell (fresh, tasty dipping sides) 6/ for$24+. Got a free calamari appetizer from the host standing outside 🦑😋 Happy Hour drinks $4.50 until 6 pm. Best Clam ChowderSourdough Bread 🍞 Bowls!

It was a spontaneous visit, but I already have the desire to come back for more! We got Attentive and welcoming service. The place is transporting you right to the Bohemian restaurant in the heart of Europe. We adore sitting indoors as much as an outdoor mansard. And speaking food-wise. Ah! Every dish was freaky dame, delicious and perfectly combined to deliver the best tasting experience! Thank you, and see you soon again!

We had an exceptional experience at the Sardine Factory! Don was attentive and Pedro made sure our table stayed cleaned and cups refreshed. The lobster with stuff crab had me tickled with joy! My husband had the rib eye and ate eagerly and quietly as he stuffed it down. We also loved the escargot as it melted in our mouth. This was our 20yr wedding anniversary and it was perfect! Can't wait to come back 🙏

Had great experience at the sardine factory! The food was amazing! Specially the steak was so so good and everything was so fresh and well seasoned. The service was very friendly. It made our dining experience present and comfortable. Thanks to Jimmy the manager and then the owner. We also hung out at the bar area for live piano music, and that was amazing and had so much fun. Must try spot if anyone is visiting the area! Thanks for making our visit memorable!

First I have to say service here was so good. Brandon really took care of us. He was really knowledgeable and had a great attitude and not just with us. With everyone around us too. He is damn good at his job. The food was amazing. Clam chowder was different. But it had good flavor and served hot. The Cesar salad with sardines was great. Crunchy lettuce and salted fish. Im not a huge fan of sardines but that salad had flavors that worked together. Sea bass and lobster fettuccine were on point and cooked perfectly. The fresh bread was hot and fluffy. The grilled prawns were big and seasoned great. The Kahlua cinnamon gelato was rich and delicious. It has a coffee chocolate taste to it. We loved it. It is pricey. But the quality of the food is worth it. Parking sucks. But not impossible. I Definitely want to go back. The decor was cute and all the servers were nice, fast and efficient.

I celebrated one of the most memorable birthdays of my life at this restaurant. From start to finish, everything was simply outstanding. The evening began with a warm and personal welcome from the owner, who greeted us kindly knowing we had come all the way from Switzerland. The food was exquisite a perfectly prepared seabass and lobster tail, followed by homemade sorbet beautifully presented in an ice swan sculpture, and rounded off with a rich chocolate cake and tiramisu that were both divine. Every dish was a masterpiece. The service was flawless every waiter attended to us with genuine care and professionalism from A to Z. To crown the evening, the manager personally took us on a private wine cellar tour, showing us rare old wines, rums, and antique furniture. It was a unique and unforgettable experience. It is no wonder that many famous personalities have dined here. For us, it was truly one of the most beautiful birthdays we could imagine. This restaurant is highly recommended, and we will always treasure the memory and definitely return.

As we were in the area for our 55th anniversary and with some very good friends who had never been to the Sardine Factory, we had to go. The Sardine Factory is always very good. Made the reservation online, very easy. The service is always top notch. Very attentive, friendly, courteous, professional. We ordered of the small bites menu and it was perfect. Started with oysters Rockefeller, which were delicious. Two in our group had the Ribeye steak sandwich with onion rings and French fries and came with a wedge salad, they said it was very good, delicious and excellent. Another had the calamari and it also was very good. We all highly recommend the Sardine Factory if you are looking for an excellent meal, top quality service, in a great setting.

What an incredible place to celebrate success! We gathered to honor the top agents of Century 21 Showcase Realtors, and the celebration did not disappoint. We had the pleasure of reserving the beautiful Steinbeck Room, where Bert Cutino shared the fascinating story behind its name—adding a personal and memorable touch to the evening. From the perfectly cooked filet mignon that melted in your mouth to the decadent crème brûlée, every detail of the meal was outstanding. A truly unforgettable night recognizing excellence, connection, and community. Did I mention the amazing piano player that kept us entertained with his renditions...

Tara was out server and took really good care of us. The food was amazing. It's pricier than what it used to be but well worth it. The weather was amazing. We got so we seals frolicking in the cove from our window table.

Don't let the outside of this place fool you. Walked i. And was greeted with smiles right away. Got sat in a great booth with a view of the water. The waiters were prompt and kept my table clean. The food was delicious. 10/10 would recommend and return.

A must visit for seafood lovers. They had good variety of options and almost each item tastes really good. We visited this place twice already and looking forward to many more. Their clam chowder is one of the best. The salmon, calamari and crab meat was amazing. They have a good amount of waiting time. We waited for around 40 minutes both times we visited. But it is totally worth it once you start tasting their seafood.

Soooo good!! We stumbled across this while walking the pier and it was the best decision! We got a table next the water and luckily dropped in while they had a 25% of bottles of wine happy hour. For starters, ordered the “Monterey-style” clam chowder and calamari. It was the best chowder we’ve had and the calamari was extremely fresh. We could tell the squid was cut in house. We ordered two pastas that were phenomenal with the crab ravioli being our favorite. They surprised us with a free dessert!! Everything is reasonably priced. We highly recommend this place

Came here for a birthday dinner on a Monday evening, with a wait of approx 30-40 mins for a party of two. Food is a little pricey but it's kinda to be expected with seafood, and we had a great experience. It was a cold night so the best thing I got was a mug of hot water haha, that was comforting. Oysters were very fresh, no sand or crunch! The Chowder is popular and definitely very good. The seafood sampler had some delicious crab cake topped with sweet mango. The Captain's plate was a fair portion with one tender peeled lobster tail. The plate of Cioppino was larger than expected and this is what she was craving for!--only to eat maybe 30% of it before we got full and decided to take it home. Everyone, especially our server, was very nice. Angel was knowledgeable with recs, and attentive with regular check-ins without being over the top. His service was quick, clean, and genuine. Ambiance was dimly lit for date night or other occasions. And ladies can leave with a complimentary rose!

Three of us walked from Cannery Row to the Wharf for a late dinner. Small wait was worth the trip. We ordered the crab tower to start. Plentiful and extremely tasty but for three sharing it, a serving spoon would have been helpful. We all ordered the garlic bread bowls of Monterey style chowder. It’s New England clam chowder, people!! :) It was served hot and was delish!! Sal, our waiter, was attentive but I felt like he was trying to upsell me :) we declined dessert because we were full. Sal brought us an extra bowl of chowder because our bread bowls were not to the brim fill (very thoughtful, I didn’t notice) so we took it to go for another member of our party that had already turned in. Sal gave me a long/-stemmed rose ~ very thoughtful! Our second trip, a meal you can count on!

The food was fabulous but most of all the staff was amazing. We got 2 of the mini pearl platters and two clam chowder in a bread bowl and our total was $211 but we would do it all over again. They also gave me wife a slice of cake for her birthday

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 I had an amazing experience at Beach House Restaurant at Lovers Point! The location is absolutely stunning, with breathtaking ocean views that make the meal even more special. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, perfect for a relaxing lunch or a romantic dinner. The food was outstanding – fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. The seafood dishes were perfectly cooked, and the flavors really stood out. The staff was attentive, friendly, and made sure everything was perfect from start to finish. Whether you’re visiting Pacific Grove or just looking for a memorable dining spot by the ocean, I highly recommend this place. I’ll definitely be coming back! 🌊🍷🍴

We looked through a ton of reviews at other dining places, but decided to try here after talking with a couple who really enjoyed their meal. We made reservations through Open table, with a request for a window seat to make our anniversary dinner extra special. When we arrived, a table near the window had been saved for us, with recognition of our special day. My husband had the recommended Sanddabs, which were perfectly done. I had the salmon with a special request to substitute the spinach for yellow squash and to put the sauce on the side. Both requests were handled nicely and still adapted to look nice. The grilled salmon was perfectly done, moist on the inside with a flavorful crust on the top. The sauce just added to what was already delicious. Service was friendly all around. Although it was busy, our wait time for dinner was reasonable, though it did take a bit longer to get our bill. To top the evening off, we were presented with a delicious tuxedo cake dressed with caramel on the side with tiny hearts in red. It seemed like lots of local people were dining here. Amazingly busy for a Wednesday evening. Highly recommend!

The firecracker shrimp and the calamari were really good. We had the clam chowder and 4 cheese raviolis which were good too. Would definitely be here again

Wonderful cocktails and service. Food was great; I’ve had better calamari fritti but the sand dabs almondine was amazing.

Great service, good food and nice views from the back deck. Server made good recommendations. Our food arrived at the same time which can be tricky for a party of 8. Everyone enjoyed their seafood meals, the steak was a little tough and undercooked(more rare than medium rare).

We shared the Beef Stroganoff Pappardelle and the garlic fries and it was delicious. 10/10. Ryan at the bar was nice to chat with! Thanks for a great service and delightful meal.

We love the service and the setting here, it's great. I had the ribeye special, the sauce was pretty heavy for my taste and there was a lot of fat left on the steak. I felt like the green beans and carrots that were served on the side could have benefited from seasoning and the potatoes seasoned potatoes could have been cooked more. The 4 cheese ravioli was tasty. The burrata salad was delicious and had a really large portion. My dad enjoyed his fish and chips, my mom liked her Mahi Mahi. The crab ravioli was good. The mushroom risotto that is served with the fillet mignon was a bit too cheesy for our preference.

It was a fun stop. The water crashes here so the sound is wonderful. That being said the waves are really dark like dirt is in them. There are better beaches around Monterey Bay but is was still fun.

We love this beach/trail. It has been a different experience every time we visit Asilomar (depending on the season and the tides), but always good. Tidepools are available when tides are lower, but we see seals and sea otters when it's high. Such a beautiful place to spend some hours ☀️🌊🐚

I came to this beach specifically to watch the sunset and boy oh boy it did not disappoint! 🤩 I lucked out with convenient parking next to a staircase and a good spot on the beach. I would love to spend the whole day here … even enjoy a bonfire after sunset (which is allowed on one side of the beach).

Tide pools are amazing! 10/10 recommend for a stop to see the miniature crabs in the tide pools!

A great beach! Plenty of sand, big waves, and tide pools.

This beach walk was beautiful! The road is busy but once you’re on the trail it’s very safe. There are several social trails and beach access points so it never felt overcrowded even when there were lots of people out enjoying the trails. Great for dog walks, people walks, running and photos.

It is such a beautiful beach!! Very easy to walk! Super dog friendly

“The poor man’s Pebble Beach” I was told. What a spectacular place. Great weather, Pacific Ocean views, deer, doves, friends and family, good food, and challenging holes. What more could I ask for?

Love this course! Especially the back 9. Cannot beat the views. Greens were in great condition, tee boxes were good too. Fairways were a little dry. It was busy but pace of play was good. I am fairly new to golf but was able to hang in there at this course and have fun. If it's busy, you will be paired. Hard to go out as a single or double. Overall great course, great experience and we will be back.

Really nice and affordable short 18-hole course. Some of the tee boxes and fairways could use a little love, but the greens are in great shape and roll true. The front nine goes through a small town with lots of trees and even some deer hanging around. The back nine has awesome views of the Pacific Ocean. We played in the early afternoon and by the last few holes the sun was starting to set, which made the views even better.

Loved this course. I arrived early and they were kind enough to let me start ahead of schedule. Everyone I interacted with, both staff and fellow players, was friendly, and the overall vibe was relaxed and welcoming. The views on the back nine are absolutely stunning- some of the best I’ve seen. I’ll definitely be back!

What a view!!!! We played a round of 9 which was the back nine that was along the Oceanside. I enjoyed this course with my sons! I will definitely be back and play the full 18 holes.

Great place for a round of golf. Back 9 is by far superior to the front. Beautiful views, sunset is second to none

Just such a beautiful peaceful atmosphere. So many golf courses. Here’s one right at the ocean too.

I had been looking forward to visiting Point Pinos Lighthouse for a while, and it did not disappoint! This historic lighthouse is a hidden gem with a rich history and beautiful coastal views. The entry fee is only $7 per person, which includes a tour of the lighthouse keeper’s quarters and fascinating insights into its past. The staff is knowledgeable and passionate about the history. Since the lighthouse has limited visiting days and hours, I recommend planning ahead. After the tour, you can take a short walk around the area and enjoy the stunning scenery. A must-visit for history and nature lovers!

Well worth the price of admission. Great staff, lots of history very well presented in the lighthouse, beautiful gardens & landscaping. My only disappointments were: (1) the public golf course surrounds the lighthouse property, and (2) you can only view the lamp through a Plexiglas barrier at the top of the upper staircase & in a mirror. But overall, Point Pinos Lighthouse is a must-see if you're interested in nautical history.

Absolutely phenomenal visit. The ticket lady left a whole lot to be desired. Definitely need someone that is friendly and welcoming .. didn't get that with her. But the volunteers inside providing the tour details were fantastic. Very informative and very happy to be of service. It was a beautiful lighthouse and I loved learning about the history of the lighthouse and Pacific Grove. The grounds were very well taken care of, tons of flowers, trees, informative plaques, and deer. Loved my visit, will be back again.

I love seeing lighthouses and was excited to visit the Point Pinos Lighthouse, but unfortunately they close at 3pm and we arrived around 3:12pm on a Sunday. I was hoping since it was after hours, we would be able to walk around the grounds, but unfortunately, the lighthouse is gated, so there was limited viewing of the lighthouse. There is a small parking lot on at the entrance on Alisonar Ave. Surrounding the lighthouse is the Pacific Grove Golf Links golf course. If you want to visit the lighthouse, make sure you come at their open hours (see my picture for hours and admission fees).

Had such a great time here. The lighthouse is available for ahowrt window, but it's worth it. There are restrooms available and a gift shop. The grounds are so beautiful and you can walk around. The lighthouse itself, you are able to go in and take a tour of the place. Lorrie, a volunteer on the 1st floor, gave us so much information and insight it was great to hear it all. Her husband was also volunteering and gave us information on the 2nd, and it was amazing to learn from them both. As we were leaving, there were deer sunbathing in the neighboring houses, great ending to a great experience.

Absolutely amazing and great volunteers to tell you all about the history. It is a must see for sure

Must visit..there is a line..waiting 10 minutes..to see around and explore takes 30 minutes...children will love this place.it has great history.

Unfortunately, we visited prior to the arrival of the butterfly migration. With that said, it was still a very beautiful and peaceful place and we truly enjoyed our walk 🦋🦋

Nice place where monarchs stop naturally on their migration. There were professional photographers, knowledgeable folks with binoculars, and smart, friendly people willing to help us locate the monarchs and tell us all about them, but they were also visitors. I hope they plant more milk thistle to sustain the monarchs. The listing says it closes at five, but they don’t actually close gates or anything like that. The butterflies just slow down for the day when it’s approaching sunset

Tony, behind the hotel. Saw only a few butterflies which was nice during what must've been the non-butterfly season. Not busy. Saw one deer grazing there too. LOTS of deer around the area as well. Weren't too skiddish. I definitely recommend going to this cute FREE sanctuary.

Butterfly peak season is Oct-Dec. The short trail through the sanctuary is very well maintained and has been updated recently due to severe storm damage from years past. Activity end of October 2025 was low. It is probably best to stop by during the early afternoon when the sun is out and the butterflies are awake and active. One public bathroom on site. Street parking is available on both entrances.

This is a very small foot path that runs along side people’s backyards and a hotel. It gets very crowded quickly. The butterflies don’t start flying around until it’s warmer. I went November 1st and they started flying around 10am. I had went earlier in the morning but couldn’t see the butterflies since they were so still and hidden that they looked like leaves. I highly recommend a good camera and binoculars. This was not worth a several hour drive. I only recommend this place if you’re already in the area. It literally is a 2 minute walking path and most the butterflies are in the backyards of homeowners so you have to stare into other peoples property to see the butterflies. There wasn’t very many when I went early November so I recommend waiting u til the end of the month. There isn’t a building or any kind of guides that most other sanctuaries have.

Nice little outdoor park but there were no butterflies. Walked through whole park in 5 minutes

Nice little natural preserve. However, the butterflies are only there certain times of the year (I think December to February). We only saw one. But the short walk was nice and peaceful.

It was our first time here, was recommended by a local. Went there on a weekday evening, and it was moderately busy. The ambience inside was nice, the host welcomed us in, and sat us at our table. Our server Paula took great care of us, and there was another server who took great care of us, with Paula whose name I didn't get. Now coming to the food, the Fried Calamari was great, as someone who tries calamari everywhere I go, it was really good, fresh, and melted in our mouths! The Duck Confit was another highlight, it was perfectly delicious, and the smoked chile potato cake that came with it was extraordinary, it was just so good!! The grilled shrimp was just okay. Overall it was a good experience, and would def recommend.

You cannot miss out this restaurant if you visit Pacific Grove. All dishes are well made. I especially recommend their scallops, lamb rack and rainbow trout . Also their desserts are Devine! I love the bread pudding with bourbon caramel sauce with banana ice cream. The panna cotta and plum sorbet are also very delicious!

I simply love this restaurant. The classy yet cozy vibe. The attentive yet considerate staff. And most importantly, the food! I love the scallop appetizer. It is fun to eat various elements while the scallop itself holds the top place. The main dish: the duck confit along with the cake and brocollini is perfect. The duck is indeed falling off the bones with crispy part to enjoy. The duck is free of game smell and the fruit sauce allows the dish to stay savory and flavorful. The brocollini is fresh and young, very pleasant to eat along with tender meat. Lastly, the banana bread pudding and the ice cream ends the night with such a sweet dream. The caramel is perfectly sticky and there is a crispy crust at the bottom of the pudding. The texture of the pudding and the ice cream is smooth and righteously decadent. Well, I finish the whole thing by myself with the sense of joy. You should know by now that you need to try this place. Let me finish my essay now lol. You

After two weeks of driving across California and trying countless spots, this was hands down the best meal we had. Every dish was fresh, packed with flavor, and beautifully presented—clearly made with care and attention to detail. The service was just as impressive. Our waitress was fantastic—knowledgeable, warm, and incredibly helpful with the wine selections. She really elevated the whole experience. What made it even more special was the thoughtful touch from the staff. They had read our booking notes and went out of their way to make our engagement celebration feel truly memorable. It was a perfect evening from start to finish. Highly recommended!

Fantastic food and service!! We had the Beet Salad, Duck Confit, and Scallops. All were very tasty!! We also had the Maple Bourbon Banana Bread pudding, which we ate before taking a pic! Highly recommended!!

We celebrated a special evening at Passion Fish in Monterey on August 15th with my friend who flew in from Texas. After a day of strolling around town, we wanted to treat her to a truly memorable meal—and this place delivered in every way. The restaurant was spotless, the atmosphere welcoming, and the staff struck the perfect balance: attentive without being pushy, deeply knowledgeable about both the menu and the wines, and so kind that you instantly feel at ease. The food was simply incredible. We shared several dishes, and every single bite—from appetizers through the mains—was full of surprising, perfectly balanced flavors. We’re all pretty spoiled when it comes to good restaurants, and lately I often feel disappointed eating out, thinking I could have made it better at home. But not here—everything was outstanding. Passion Fish left us delighted and grateful, and it’s a spot we’ll absolutely come back to. A perfect Monterey gem to share with out-of-town guests and celebrate life’s moments.

First night in Pacific Grove we dined at Passionfish. Everything is sustainably sourced. Excellent food and wine. I read a review to go for the halibut. It was delish and left me feeling good! The scallops were also perfectly cooked and yummy!!

Private - Membership only (or as a guest WITH a member) - great additional location to enjoy "as a visitor" during the AT&T Pro-Am Golf Tournament, or an event if invited... they throw some phenomenal Banquet Events, and have a few stunning locations to grab a drink, have a bite or enjoy a round of golf.... again, as a member or their guest......

Always our favorite place to go🏖️ Everything is beautiful, so nice and clean out there. But you will have to go to Pacific Grove and asilomar beach to understand what I'm thinking about.🏖️🌊🐚🍜🍲

I'm not a member, but a neighbor who lives by the maintenance yard. Because I'm not a member, the club would not talk to me or return my call about their noisy racket over several days tearing down a metal shed. Oh, and one of their maintenance people almost ran over me one evening. They have a beautiful course but are not good neighbors with their holier than thow attitude.

Best golf course in the pebble area and yes it's better than Cypress, Spyglass, and Pebble unequivocally. Course is always in pristine shape, restaurant food is fantastic and at a ridiculously low price, and club house amenities are off the hook. Great practice facilities and you get two great courses both with spectacular views. This should be in the top 10 courses in the US.

Visiting friends at Pebble Beach and celebrating a fun-filled birthday party with a western theme held at the Monterey Peninsula Country Club. A great time with amazing views surrounded by good friends.

First class facility, world class golf course. Was treated like a celebrity from the parking lot to finishing the round.

The best views, had an absolute blast today. Loved every minute of it.

Super cute cafe in Pacific grove. Everyone here is so nice and the food is delicious!!! They serve breakfast and lunch. It also has all day breakfast! Great place.

Got seated right away in this cute little café. I got French toast with strawberries and whipped cream and it was DELICIOUS. We had to park a little down the road but it was a very short walk. The staff was very friendly.

Food was yummy! We sat outside with our 3 year old Rottweiler who could fit under the table comfortably :-) We were the last guests to arrive and leave before closing. We did not feel rushed and were well attended to. Food was simple yummy. I can't stand a mediocre breakfast. This was not that! Enjoy.

Nice, unpretentious breakfast spot on main drag in Pacific Grove, friendly staff, decent coffee, good portions.

They ADD a 4% SURCHARGE when you use a credit card! Better establishments NEVER do this. A business has many expenses; the credit card merchant fee is one of those expenses. That cost should simply be "baked in" to what they charge. I would have NO problem if they raised their prices accordingly, but like most people, I hate "EXTRA" or any "ADD-ON" fees. The food here is very good. You can get breakfast all day long. The salads are great, and so are the sandwiches, and burgers. They have Genuine Coke products, but they still don't have Coke Zero, so you'll have to bring one from home. Easy parking, they close crazy early.

Had a great experience here, and I came in quite skeptical. At first I thought things might not be so great when they brought a cup of coffee with quite a bit of grounds floating in it. But they noticed and replaced it right away. We had a Philly Cheesesteak sandwich, a Malibu Chicken sandwich, and a half BLT and Creamy Tomato soup. All of us were very happy with our food and we even had some Mango Mimosas (which are available everyday 😉) Overall it was really a great experience and we’ll definitely be back.

We decided to go here because it opens early, 6:30 AM. It is a small, old school place with lots of menu options. The omelets were solid (the right amount of cheese and toppings)and the potatoes were excellent- well seasoned. Best of all it was not super greasy. The waitress was good and the prices were reasonable.

We enjoyed our dinner here. The food was pretty good (perhaps not quite amazing), service was friendly while a bit slow (more on this later). Interesting old building added to the overall atmosphere. I struggled to decide between 4 and 5 stars and settled on 4 after they gave me my port several minutes after my wife got a desert - soufflé (so as you can imagine there was no soufflé left at that point). Perhaps a minor issue for some people, but it gave me confidence in my 4 star rating. I’d still recommend to visit and we’ll likely come again. Oh, good wine selection also.

We have been here several times through the years when we visit Pacific Grove. We live in MD but lived here many years ago. Our dinner tonight was in celebration of our 53rd anniversary and it was perfect! Jorge was our waiter and he took such great care of us and surprised us with an amazing dessert! Our Surf and Turf dinner was delicious and the whole evening was a great celebration for us. Highly recommend Fandango for your dining pleasure.

Just had a cocktail at the bar, which was comfortable. Really nice service and the drink was well served. The story of the Restaraunt is right near the bar, and it involves the founder of Seagate, Al Shugart… great reminder to go pursue your interests! I’d def come back both to bar and for food - staff seemed really committed to ensuring your satisfaction.

The restaurant looks very rundown from outside but once inside, it’s a nice place. The food is good and the service is exceptional. The best part is that they have Soufflé and that’s hard to find in Monterey area.

Probably one of the best restaurants! Finally the place where you can enjoy the taste and flavor of ingredients, not only spices and salt!!!! Chef, team, you are doing great job, thank you very much! BRAVO 👏 🙌 👍

We visit the area often and had been to Fandango once before with a large group. The experience was wonderful, with great dishes all around, a great wine selection, and friendly, attentive service. This time it was just two of us, for a birthday weekend. The start was a hearty birthday greeting from the Maitre d', followed by a table festooned with streamers. They had a special of abalone, which I hadn't had in decades, so eagerly ordered. It was magnificent. They also had a special dessert, Grand Marnier soufflé. It was decadently superb. Concluding with a complementary ruby port was a perfect finish to a wonderful evening. There were even more aspects of the experience which made our no-rush dining event as memorable as any of the best. These are true hosts, offering food, service, and hospitality among the top of the top.

I don't give out a lot of five star ratings, but Fandango deserves it. We've been coming here for many years and last night was fantastic! Miguel, the manager, is really nice and he seated us at our usual table for two next to the window. Our server Angel was outstanding and funny. He's very attentive and knows what he's doing. The food was absolutely delicious! We started with Caprese, followed by Fresh Scallops (forgot to take picture) and the Abalone special. For dessert, we had the Souffle Grand-Marnier. If you've never eaten here, you should try it. We'll be back!

Loved everything about it from the moment we pulled into the parking lot. One, it has its own lot. The vibe starts there. One side of lot is lined with surf boards with , some with sayings. Leave your car and walk through the outdoor shaded patio with lots of seating. This place was hopping. Walk through the door there is so much to look at. The menu boards include hot dogs all kinds of ways, tots with all the toppings, coffee drinks, ice cream, and one of my favorites , hibiscus tea. Order at the counter and take a seat. They bring your food out. Music playing, busy. You can tell people are enjoying just being there. But this dog.....I ordered the Lover's Point, so goooood! I was hungry so you have to weigh that in but no doubt , yummo! Also had the kick flip, not quite as good as the dog but still worth a go. Service was fast and friendly. Definite recommend if you like dogs, tots, I e cream or coffee drinks.

A fun place with lots of creative hot dogs, sides, and ice cream and coffee, so why 3 stars? 1) it's pricy! $12 average for a small dog, with no sides or drink? 2) only a sub-par (soft boiled tasteless) veggie dog as an alternative non beef option. How about turkey dogs for those that don't want to eat red meat or intelligent animals? 3) it's SLOW! It took 20-30 minutes for 2 hot dogs, lemonade took 15 minutes to come out. I want to love this place, and I'm willing to revisit and come back, but some basic changes would have to happen to have it live up to its huge potential as a cool, fun locals hang-out for the area!

Dropped by this restaurant this afternoon for a lunch visit after hearing great things. Both my husband and I very much enjoyed our dogs. Chili meat on the Dunes was a bit overcooked (burnt bits) and the hot Cheetos dust on the Otters are definitely a little stale. We enjoyed our meal (tots were indeed crispy and tasty) and would return if in the area. Agree with other reviews that the meal is pricey (40 bucks for two people is pretty steep for two hot dogs and tater tots).

The hot dogs are tasty, thick, and served with a wide array of toppings! You should leave full, but your wallet will be a little lighter. The four of us (including a 7 year old) were in for almost $80 with water to drink.

Awesome awesome place!! Amazing Friday night vibes with live music. Love their food. Totally coming back!!🫠🤩

Best place in Pacific Grove to eat. The owner is so friendly and caring. Staff are friendly and helpful. The brussel sprouts are so crispy and delicious. The otters dog is my son's favorite.

Everyone working there was having a very fun time very interactive with the customers. There were regulars called by name and as it was my first time, I was greeted warmly. The place is very clean and well kept. The things they’ve created with a hot dog are delicious. Definitely going to make it a regular place now.

Clam chowder is delicious served with a side of crispy garlic bread. Grilled barramundi is perfectly cooked with a slightly crispy layer and flaky interior. Crab cakes are flavorful but I have had better.

MUST TRY! What a delightful experience!! The absolute best calamari steak you will ever have. It was so delicious. The staff were so kind and made it an even better experience. The dessert is made in house and the key lime pie was the perfect amount of tangy and sweet.

An unassuming place with delicious food and fine service. Our fish was perfectly prepared in proper portions. Not huge Cheesecake Factory, not tiny Spagos. The prices were appropriate for finer dining like this - $130 for two people, appetizer, one glass of wine and two desserts. Oh, and the Key Lime and pecan pies were delectable.

I was intrigued about FISHWIFE solely for its name. To be honest I was expecting a bit of open air fishmongering action, but it was just a simple restaurant (they did have a fish tank :) ). At first, I couldn't quite tell if this place was a high end establishment or a casual family seafood eatery. I think it tries to be both and tears itself apart going in both directions. That being said, I was very pleased with the food. The clam chowder was superb. It had a depth of flavor that went beyond the normal creaminess of your average chowder, and was served in a generously sized bowl. The garlic bread it came with was really just regular bread with a light buttering and a lighter toasting, but that's honestly a fresh escape from the usual oil sponge that people call garlic bread. I also ordered the barramundi, which was excellent. The fish was tender and sweet, with a bold and zingy sauce dripped over it. Even the rice and beans took me by surprise with their quality, and the vegetables were not overcooked to the point of mushiness. It was a pleasantly designed dish. My main struggle with recommending FISHWIFE is the price. Many of the dishes were over 30$, which contributed to the air of fancy restaurant, but the food (not in terms of quality) was not quite there. But it is worth a try. They have some unique dishes and have clearly set themselves apart, for which I commend them.

Booked for last minute lunch. We had the Shrimp cleopatra and the barramundi. Both were surprisingly good. Fish was flaky and perfectly cooked. Everything felt fresh and well seasoned. Restaurant has a local family run vibe to it, service was friendly. Overall recommend for anyone coming back from a walk along the coastal front in pacific grove

Hidden gem for SURE. Fish Wife is off the main road and I am glad for it because it means that this place is not at all crowded during the week or in the off-season. They have a seasonal beverage, main course, and dessert menu that will always have something yummy. My Favorite is a their classic seafood combo Alfredo! It has crabmeat, scallops big and small, shrimps big and small, and homemade linguine pasta. Their clam chowder is also delicious but be mindful that it's on the thicker side and more like a chowder. It's packed with fresh herbs and tasty but will fill you up as an appetizer! Please stop and visit here - it will be well worth the trip!

disappointing. we have been eating here twice yearly for 35 + years during our annual trip to the central coast. this will unfortunately be our last. fishwife has been on our very shortlist of favorite restaurants being reasonably priced with superb food. the prices have increased significantly and the quality of food decreased to the point we will not return. we are very disappointed to say the least. $17 for a bagged salad with bottled dressing, $20 for chowder (it is decent but $20?) and $30 for farmed tilapia doesn't cut it. the tilapia cancun, previously elegantly presented, thrown in a heap on a plate of rice and soggy black beans was an eyesore. sadly, we will look for another annual retreat.