Monterey County Wine Country

Map of Monterey County

Few stretches of coastline are as world-renowned as that of Monterey County’s. But the splendor of plunging cliff faces and sloping emerald mountainsides only serves as the backdrop for bucolic towns that echo the soul of old California, where life moves at a tranquil and relaxed pace.

Fly Into

SJC San Jose Airport 
(San Jose, CA)

Drive

80mins To Monterey County, California
Where is

Monterey County

  • Monterey County Map

TOP TIPS FOR MONTEREY COUNTY

  1. Pebble Beach is the most famous, but that’s hardly all that’s offered in this golfer’s paradise.

  2. Most people head straight to the coast, but make sure your travels take you inland, to sprawling mountain ranges.

  3. Schedule a few minutes for a photo op in front of the iconic Bixby Bridge, about 30 minutes south of Monterey.

Don't Miss

  1. Monterey Bay Aquarium This Cannery Row staple grants an up-close look at the marine life for which the coast is known.
    886 Cannery Row, CA
  2. The Holman Ranch This restored 400-acre property harkens back to old California, with a restored hacienda, accommodation, and onsite winery. 19
    19 E Carmel Valley Rd, Suite C, CA
  3. Monterey's Fish House This rustic dining spot serves up some of the freshest seafood on the Pacific Coast.
    2114 Del Monte Ave, CA
  4. Garland Ranch Regional Park Hike some of the best trails in central California, in this nearly-5,000-acre preserve.
    700 W Carmel Valley Rd, CA
  5. Monarch Grove Sanctuary October is the best month to see this butterfly habitat, where the colors of nature are on full display.
    Ridge Rd and Lighthouse Ave, CA

lodging

Inn
Tickle Pink Inn

High atop the rugged cliffs overlooking the untamed Pacific and the lush Carmel Highlands a romantic hideaway awaits at Tickle Pink Inn.

Inn
Colonial Terrace Inn

One of Carmel's original hotel accommodations, The Colonial Terrace sought out the peace and tranquility of the village neighborhood when it was built in 1925.

Restaurants

FRENCH
Bistro Moulin

Visit this cute, romantic restaurant for a special occasion and enjoy high-end service and exquisite French and European fare. You’ll find a great wine selection as well.

AMERICAN
Little Swiss Cafe

Locals love this mural-filled café’s big breakfasts and cheese blintzes. Choose between Belgian waffles, eggs Benedict, pancakes and fuel up on coffee before strolling to the nearby beach. Head over early to avoid the crowds, common during the morning.

Things To Do

Attractions
Monterey Bay Whale Watch

Visit any time of year to receive a guided tour by a marine biologist where you can observe whales, dolphins, and other wildlife. Plus, well-behaved dogs are allowed on the trips!

Shopping
Cannery Row

You’ll find a collection of independent, family-owned shops as well as familiar name brand stores throughout Cannery Row. Explore local wines, gourmet treats, and shop for treasures.

Wineries

Winery
Talbott Vineyards

Located in the picturesque heart of Carmel Valley Village, our tasting room offers unique tasting experiences to enjoy the best of Talbott. We invite you to experience the beauty of Carmel Valley and a special taste of our premium wines.

Winery
Paraiso Vineyards

Visit our Boutique and Tasting Room that sits on the edge of the Santa Lucia Bench, in the midst of an estate vineyard.

Did you Know?

The City of Monterey has some history: it was the capital of California under both Spanish and Mexican rule.

Nearby Cities & Regions

Nearby

Cities
Regions
  • Salinas Valley, CA

APPELLATIONS (AVAs)

Primary
  • Arroyo Seco AVA
  • Carmel Valley AVA
  • Chalone AVA
  • Hames Valley AVA
  • Monterey AVA
  • San Antonio Valley AVA
  • San Bernabe AVA
  • San Lucas AVA
  • Santa Lucia Highlands AVA
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