The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a great place to visit. Ellen is a volunteer and has access to a limited number of free tickets (36 total and up to 6 per day). Please contact Ellen as soon after January 1, 2027, as possible with the date you would like to visit and the number of tickets you need.

Our wedding date is just before orca season! We went on a Monterey Bay Whale Watch cruise in mid-April and saw seven orcas in the Bay! We can't recommend this experience enough! There are also several other companies that conduct whale watching tours as well.

Point Lobos is one of the most beautiful places in California, but parking is limited. However, you can park along Highway 1 outside the park for free.

17-Mile Drive is a spectacular, privately maintained scenic coastal route winding through Pacific Grove and the gated community of Pebble Beach, California.

There are more than 20 wineries and tasting rooms in Carmel Valley, California.

Big Sur is a gorgeous State Park south of Monterey along Highway 1 with hiking and more breathtaking views similar to Point Lobos and 17-Mile Drive.

Lover's Point is a very popular beach in Pacific Grove near Monterey.

Asilomar is another popular beach in Pacific Grove that showcases Central California's rugged coastline.

Kayaking is a great way to see sea otters and other wildlife in Monterey Bay.

If you can brave the cold, scuba diving in the kelp forest is a great activity.

The Monterey Bay Coastal Trail is a great walking path that takes you between Monterey and Pacific Grove.

Some of our favorite restaurants and places to eat in the area are:

1). Rudolfo's (which turns into Heatwaves on Sundays) in Pacific Grove

2). Rosine's in Downtown Monterey

3). Alvarado Street Brewing in Downtown Monterey

4). Sea Harvest Restaurant & Fish Market in Monterey

5). Alta Bakery and Cafe in Downtown Monterey

6). Spotted Duck in Pacific Grove

7). Compagno's Market & Deli in Monterey