Travel for 2 cost breakdown (at the time of writing this post):
- Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa: $205 per night
- Food/Entertainment/Transportation/Souvenirs: $800
- GRAND TOTAL FOR 2 TRAVELERS – 4 days: $1620
***At this time, we are not endorsed by any outside affiliates. That said – when booking our trips, we have had a lot of success with Hotels.com, Skyskanner, and Tripmasters.
Booking
Toast the Moon always recommends using a passport. We also recommend TSA Pre-Check and Global Entry, because who wants to waste their vacation time in an airport line, am I right? Traveling around the United States is not difficult, but changes are in the air. Please be advised that as-of October 1, 2020 – basic drivers’ licenses will no longer be valid for identification in airports. Sign up for a passport or Real ID now to avoid complications later!
Marine Life – Art – Literature – And… Sardines? Welcome to Monterey!
Like California’s other coastal tourist towns, Monterey offers tourists a chance to walk and shop the wharf, find kitschy tourist apparel and souvenirs, eat endless amounts of clam chowder, and relax in the California vibe.
What makes Monterey a little different from other NorCal areas such as Santa Cruz, Capitola, San Francisco, and Half Moon Bay is the specific area known as Monterey Bay. Monterey Bay is home to Monterey Canyon – reaching a depth of up to 4,000 meters under the sea, it is one of the deepest submarine canyons on the west coast. Because of this – along with the cooler climates – marine life thrives, bringing bigger hunters, mammals, and migratory whales to this specific region on the west coast.
Monterey Bay Aquarium equips visitors with loads of information on the canyon and marine life around the area. It is a must-stop for tourists and locals alike!
From there, exploring Cannery Row and Downtown is easy and would make for a full day of fun, especially for families. What was once the biggest canning area in the world – particularly for sardines – is now a prime tourist destination. Don’t worry – no smell of anchovies or sardines to be found (anymore)! There are indoor amusement parks, loads of restaurants and shops, candy and cookies – and Ghirardelli, of course! You can also find lots of specialty shops offering everything from crazy socks to jewelry to fine art from local artists. A Taste of Monterey is very cozy and romantic. Offering wine and chocolate tastings, small bites, and the best view in town, we’ve spent many hours just enjoying the serenity in this spot. We’ve even spotted whales while wine tasting! And, if you’re into experiencing everything local – like us – why not try the local seafood at The Fish Hopper?
When you’re full and ready to relax, catch a seat with John Steinbeck and watch the waves roll in.
The wharf is easily accessible from Cannery Row by shuttle, bike, walking, or driving (just be prepared for steep parking charges). Although it can be a zoo with tourists, the wharf is home to some of our favorite Monterey activities – including our choice for best clam chowder, the best whale watching in the world, one of my favorite/most surreal museums and amazingly appropriate dining and drink!
Looking for adventure? Look no further than Skydive Monterey Bay – now offering the world’s highest tandem skydive at 18,000 feet! Not much more exciting or thrilling than falling for 90-seconds at 100 miles per hour!
Toast the Moon Rating:
- Food and Drink: 9/10
- Culture/Locals: 7/10
- Things to Do: 10/10
- Adventure Opportunities: 10/10
- Cost: 8/10
- Total: 8.8/10 – Cheers!
Enjoy your adventure!
Toast the Moon – Cheers,
Noah and Majhon
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