Old Fisherman’s Wharf Monterey CA

Things To Do On Fisherman’s Wharf Monterey ca

Old Fisherman’s Wharf in Monterey Bay, CA., is home to stunning scenery, beaches, and coastal terrain. You can visit Monterey’s historic waterfront or Carmel-by-the-sea for a vibrant arts scene. Only in Monterey Bay can you experience the best in whale watching thanks to its Monterey Canyon. The canyon supports a variety of creatures including lantern fish, squid, and jellyfish. Above the surface of the water, you will find marine mammals, sea turtles, sea otters, and seabirds.

Some of the best fishermen from Japan, China, Sicily, and Portugal immigrated to Monterey to catch the most excellent seafood in the country. Today, you can still enjoy a piece of the old fishing traditions. Historic Old Fishermans Wharf in Monterey Bay, CA., is a sight to behold. You can experience five-star restaurants with award-winning seafood and chowder, whale watching, fishing and sailing, unique shops, and bay cruises. You can also find keepsake gifts, wine tasting rooms, jazz bars, fine jewelry, handmade candies, and surf shops. Here are some of the top experiences to enjoy when visiting Monterey and Fishermans Wharf.

Monterey is one of the best places in the world to see whales up close year round.  Many species including dolphins, porpoises, seals, sea lions, sea otters and dozens of others you are likely to see on your trip.  Family friendly Chris’ Fishing and Whale Watching has two tours that leave at 10:00am and 2:00pm, you can reserve a ticket online or over the phone.

Monterey Ocean Activities

A fishing charter is a great place to start if you enjoy deep sea fishing. There are full-service chartered sailing trips that go beyond Monterey Bay. They are open year-round and depart daily from Old Fisherman’s Wharf. You can catch salmon, rockfish, halibut, lingcod, and albacore. You can purchase a fishing license there and rent full fishing gear. There are several cruises for observing seals, sea otters, marine life, or whale watching tours. You can also view the best wildlife at The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.

Scuba divers from all over the world flock to Monterey Bay to experience its unique underwater beauty. Several kayaking companies can provide proper gear, life jackets, outerwear, and tandem kayaks. If you’re looking for a peaceful way to experience the bay, paddle boarding might be for you. Beginners can take lessons and enjoy the calm waters. Children will love tide pooling where they can view nature’s wonders up close. You and your family can explore starfish, mussels, sea anemones, crabs, and abalone.

Monterey Wharf Specialty Stores

Carousel Candies along Monterey wharf will satisfy anyone’s sweet tooth. Besides handmade chocolates, you will find candy apples, over-sized lollipops, and truffles. You won’t want to leave without taking home their salt water taffy they’ve made for over 47 years. There are many family-owned and operated jewelry and gift stores. At Harbor House Gifts you can find souvenirs, clothing, home décor, and keepsakes you can’t find anywhere else. Monterey Bay Silver Company sells gemstones, high-end costume jewelry, and silver. A Taste of Monterey is the perfect place to see stunning views of the bay while tasting fantastic food and wine.

Fishermans Wharf Monterey Restaurants

Old Fisherman’s Wharf has a dining option for everyone’s budget. If fine dining is your style, head over to family-owned Old Fisherman’s Grotto for internationally-inspired cuisine. With breathtaking views of the harbor and an elegant ambiance, this restaurant serves up award-winning dishes. From Italian pasta, fresh seafood, to certified Angus steaks, Old Fisherman’s Grotto is a restaurant that can’t be missed. Gary Danko is another classy restaurant for those who love French cooking and impeccable service. It has earned 12 Five Diamond ratings from AAA and several James Beard Awards including Best Chef, Best Service, and Best New Restaurant. The atmosphere is intimate with their walls lined with vibrant artwork. The food is made from locally grown and raised ingredients.

Cafe Fina restaurant offers a more casual setting. The menu is rustic Italian along with the Monterey wharf traditional favorites. They are widely known for their lobster ravioli and prawns in garlic cream over linguini. At Cafe Fina, you can have a relaxing experience at one of the waterfront tables. You can even bring your dog and dine on the pet-friendly patio. Next door, Abalonetti has been serving up fresh seafood since 1951. They have a full bar, local wine list, and pet-friendly waterfront dining. Their squid can be prepared over 12 different ways. You can dine on their iconic clam chowder bread bowl, steak, pasta, sandwiches and fried calamari.

Fishermans Wharf Entertainment

The Wharf Theatre is more satisfying than others due to its small size. A majority of the seats are close to the stage allowing you to become more enthralled in the plays. Monterey Comedy Improv nights will keep you and your family laughing for hours.

Fishermans Wharf hosts many yearly festivals bringing in patrons from all over. The Great Monterey Clam Chowder and Calamari Festival is a fan favorite. Held during Memorial Day weekend, this family-friendly festival is full of fresh seafood dishes and live entertainment. There are cooking demonstrations, arts and crafts, beer, wine, and many varieties of clam chowder. Local chefs are there to teach you some of their culinary tips and tricks. The Artichoke Festival will celebrate 59 years at the Monterey County Fair and Event Center. This fun-filled festival features artichoke food demonstrations, a farmers market, Artichoke food booths, and a wine expo.