Nestled on California’s central coast, Monterey beckons you to explore its breathtaking beauty. Upon traveling its pristine coastline, this hidden gem attracts passerby with stunning shoreline views that go on for miles below bridges skimming mountain top peaks. The salty breeze coming off sparkling waters kisses your cheeks as the rhythmic calm of waves crashing against the shore seems to say, “slow down, stay awhile.”
Making your way closer to the city, the view changes from endless vistas of shimmering blue Pacific to a lush green forest of Monterey cypress and pine trees. A rugged natural beauty, Monterey’s panoramic views can quickly lull visitors into a dreamlike state. More than just a paradise for nature lovers, Monterey effortlessly balances a rich history and culture. Boasting old-world charm along with posh modern-day amenities, past and present coexist just as harmoniously as land and sea.
From the phenomenal diversity of marine life that inhabits the surrounding waters to the numerous museums that offer a glimpse into the area’s heritage, Monterey is home to world-class attractions that capture the heart of every visitor. And precisely where 2023 NEBB President Phil Emory knew this year’s annual conference needed to be.
“First on my mind was selecting a venue that was accessible to a small town. I wanted people to walk out the front door and have shops and restaurants galore within a short walk,” explains Emory. “I also lean towards smaller cities versus large. I wanted a city that reflected my personality–I like to ski, mountain bike, row on a rowing team, and spend a lot of my time on the water sailing. And then I had one more item that needed to be checked off: I’m a huge fan of microbreweries and there are three within a four-block radius of the hotel. While I’m not a California boy, Monterey became an easy selection. We hadn’t been to Monterey in quite a while, and I figured in October the weather should be cool but sunny, so let’s go!”
Past to Present
Monterey’s history is a tapestry woven with threads of diverse cultures, spanning centuries of innovation, exploration, and resilience.
In 1770, Spanish explorers founded the city, which became the capital of Alta California under both Spanish and Mexican rule. During this time, Monterey flourished, and many historic “firsts” occurred in the area, including the establishment of California’s first theater, brick house, publicly funded school, public building, public library, and printing press. However, in the 1950s, the local fishery business–the region’s economic backbone–collapsed due to overfishing. This led to the rise of tourism as the main economic driver in Monterey.
Today, Monterey is a place where people come to enjoy a laid-back vibe, sandy beaches, outdoor parks and recreation. Curving coastline and majestic cliffs lead many young artists, musicians, and writers to flock to the area. From the Monterey Pop Festival to the works of John Steinbeck to the counterculture movement, countless creative souls have sought to distill the best of Monterey.
In terms of its current cultural milieu, Monterey thrives as a green, eco-friendly area welcoming everyone from those raising young families to professionals pursuing the tech sector or entertainment business. Both bustling yet quaint, residents and visitors alike can enjoy a host of local eateries, famed parks, natural attractions, and even a celebrity sighting here and there.
Landmarks, Attractions, and Adventure
Known for countless beautiful landmarks, this Californian coastal city makes it difficult to decide what to explore first. With everything from outdoor appeal to architectural attractions to educational destinations, your trip to Monterey is truly what you make it.
For those seeking time in the great outdoors, activities to add to the agenda include hiking Point Lobos State Natural Reserve or Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, taking in the sunset at Coast Guard Pier, or enjoying the views and passing through picturesque Pebble Beach along 17-mile drive. Local greens like Monterey Pines Golf Club, Pebble Beach, Bayonet & Black Horse, and Pacific Grove Golf Links are sure to please putting pros, while kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding offer an opportunity to explore the calm, glassy waters of Monterey Bay. Check out Monterey Bay Kayaks for rentals, classes, and guided tours right at the harbor.
Visitors can also explore the heritage of the California mission era at three historical missions or walk the Path of History to learn about the Mexican era and early literary history. Check out San Carlos Cathedral for its Mission-style architecture. Hail the history of the Point Pinos Lighthouse that has been in operation since 1855 on the northern tip of Pacific Grove. Or take in the Monterey Peninsula Recreational Trail, following the former Southern Pacific Railroad line, stretching from Pacific Grove at Lovers Point Park past Cannery Row.
Cannery Row and Fisherman’s Wharf are two frequently toured mainstays of Monterey that led to its nickname as the “Sardine Capital of the World” during World War II. Stop by the Cannery Row Monument honoring the labor force of the past before strolling over to the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium featuring a wide variety of marine life. From playful sea otters to majestic sharks, the aquarium experience lets visitors learn about the diverse ecosystems of the Pacific Ocean and participate in interactive exhibits. Meanwhile, Old Fisherman’s Wharf continues the marine theme with tours by Monterey Whale Watch as well as the popular jetty location full of local sea lions. A short distance from the Wharf, the famed Monterey Museum of Art offers artistic interpretations of aquatic views as well as various rotating exhibitions, too.
Food for Thought
Monterey boasts unparalleled restaurants offering diverse cuisines and dining experiences. Enjoy a memorable meal, sample local wines, take home the newest local artichokes and produce, and top it off with ice cream or drinks near designated local fire pits. Cannery Row and Fisherman’s Wharf have a particular array of selections, and many of the small eateries offer specialty catches.
Compagno’s Market & Deli and Loulou’s Griddle in the Middle are excellent casual lunches or snacks options. Compagno’s Market & Deli serves delicious sandwiches, while Loulou’s Griddle in the Middle serves breakfast dishes throughout the day.
Stokes Adobe Restaurant is an elegant, refined dining option for a nice dinner. The menu here features charcuterie and other classic dishes, with regular updates to keep things fresh.
Seafood highlights Monterey’s culinary scene, and several restaurants specialize in fresh seafood dishes. Old Fisherman’s Grotto is a well-known seafood spot, serving various items like crabmeat cocktails, grilled artichokes, and charbroiled tenderloin.
Rosine’s Restaurant, located near Old Fisherman’s Wharf, is famous for breakfast all day, sandwiches, burgers, salads, and soups.
For fine dining, Jack’s Monterey is a great choice. The restaurant’s seasonal menu uses locally sourced ingredients to create unique dishes like roasted bone marrow and pan-seared duck breast.
Italian cuisine focusing on seafood is the specialty at Domenico’s on the Wharf, where diners can enjoy pasta dishes like linguine alle vongole and hearty entrees like cioppino.
For those looking for a dining experience with a view, Turn 12 Bar & Grill offers American cuisine and craft beers on tap.
From casual lunch or a fine dining experience, Monterey has plenty of options to satisfy your culinary cravings.
Thirst-quenching Microbreweries
After taking in as much coastal scenery, rich history, and vibrant culture as you can handle, take a load off and enjoy a cold one. Home to several fantastic microbreweries, Monterey’s local brews showcase a range of unique and flavorful combinations showcasing the diverse flavors of the region.
First on the list is Alvarado Street Brewery & Grill, located in the heart of downtown Monterey. This popular microbrewery features a wide selection of beers, from light and crisp pilsners to rich and complex stouts. They also offer a tasty selection of pub fare, including juicy burgers and hearty sandwiches, to pair with their delicious brews.
Another standout brewery in the area is Peter B’s Brewpub, located in nearby Carmel-by-the-Sea. This cozy spot offers a rotating selection of craft beers brewed onsite in their state-of-the-art brewing facility. Peter B’s also features a tasty menu of gastropub-style dishes, including wood-fired pizzas, savory appetizers, and fresh salads.
For those looking for a more laid-back vibe, The Cannery Row Brewing Company is a must. This waterfront brewery boasts dazzling views of Monterey Bay and features a relaxed, beachy atmosphere. Their brews range from light and refreshing pale ales to hoppy and robust IPAs that can be paired with a mouthwatering selection of appetizers and entrees.
Seaside Shopping and Souvenirs
As industries evolved, residents in Monterey began to replace the former canning factory sites with other business venues to keep the town’s economy robust. Today, many shops, restaurants, and unique hobbyist or antique stores occupy Fisherman’s Wharf or the Cannery Row area, which keeps this part of town distinct and perfect for collectors.
Located in the heart of the historic district of Cannery Row, the Cannery Row Antique Mall features over 100 dealers throughout 22,000 square feet of space. Known for its extensive collection of antiques and collectibles, visitors can find a variety of treasures within its two stories. A few minutes away on Lighthouse Avenue, Lilify offers carefully chosen homeware, a luxurious larder selection, and handmade bath products. Converted into an indoor mall, Monterey Canning Company’s red, resplendent space will pique shoppers’ attention both for its history and current pieces. Near the aquarium, the American Tin Cannery Outlet is another indoor mall.
In downtown Monterey, independent stores line Alvarado Street. The Farmer’s Market at Old Monterey Marketplace is also held downtown every Tuesday, October through April. The nearby boutiques and mom-and-pop shops, such as Pirate’s Cove Gifts & Things, at Fisherman’s Wharf are also worth visiting.
Whether you’re interested in exploring the immaculate natural coastline, picking up a Steinbeck novel and visiting a coffee shop, or searching for trinkets at Fisherman’s Wharf, Monterey’s diverse offerings will surely delight you. From its rich marine environment and famous aquarium to its historical landmarks and vibrant arts scene, 2023 NEBB Annual Conference goers are in for a treat traveling to this heavenly haven of the central California coast.
Join us at the 2023 NEBB Annual Conference!