The Monterey Peninsula, a beautiful part of California’s coastline, is a very historic part of the state. The native population of the area were the Rumsen Ohlone people. The arrival of Spanish missionaries in the late 18th century brought many changes. One such change was the establishing of missions such as San Carlos Borromeo which had a major effect on the indigenous population.
The Spanish named Monterey as the capital of what they named Alta California. Monterey, located on Monterey Bay, was not only scenic but also became a hub of commerce as well as being a strategic military port. During this period Alta California as well as Monterey was ruled first by the Spanish and then by the Mexicans.
The period of the mid 1800’s brought many changes to California including the American conquest during the Mexican War, the California Gold Rush, and the fairly quick transition to statehood. In the case of Monterey it changed from a relatively quiet outpost to a growing whaling and fishing center.
Today, the Monterey Peninsula carries the weight of its past, simultaneously celebrating its multicultural heritage and grappling with the environmental and social challenges of a popular and increasingly urbanized region.
Exceptional Whale Watching Opportunities
Those that enjoy whale watching will find Monterey to be a premier destination. The bay’s unique underwater geography, a deep submarine canyon, creates nutrient-rich waters that attract a diverse array of marine life, including numerous whale species. This includes the Gray Whale, Killer Whale, Humpback Whale, Blue Whale. The entire Gray Whale population migrates past the Monterey coastline every winter and spring traveling from Mexico to Alaska and back.
There are several whale sighting trips out of Monterey Bay that along with whale watching provide not only breathtaking views, but also an understanding of the intricate marine ecosystem.
John Steinbeck’s Cannery Row
Historic Cannery Row, at one time a center for sardine canning, is Monterey California’s premiere destination. John Steinbeck was a Nobel and Pulitzer Prize winning American novelist and author of twenty-seven books, Steinbeck was also a very big part of Monterey California. Among his writings were The Grapes of Wrath, Of Mice and Men, Cannery Row and others. Steinbeck grew up in the Salinas Valley adjacent to Monterey and attended Stanford University.
The Steinbeck novel, “Cannery Row”, published in 1945, takes place on a street lined with sardine factories which was exactly what Monterey’s Cannery Row was at that time. In fact, the street had been named Ocean View Avenue and renamed Cannery Row in honor of the Steinbeck novel. The Cannery Row book, similar to The Grapes of Wrath, was set during the Great Depression. Today, Cannery Row along Monterey Bay is lined with shops, hotels and restaurants.
Monterey’s Fisherman’s Wharf
Monterey California’s Fisherman’s Wharf offers the tourist a fantastic view of Monterey Bay as well as a host of seafood and Italian restaurants offering fresh catches straight from the sea as well as souvenir shops, ice cream shops and whale watching ticket offices.
This historic wharf goes back to the 1800’s and has been a gathering place for fishermen and travelers alike.
Carmel by-the-Sea
Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, immediately adjacent to Monterey, is a charming coastal village. Beyond its beautiful and scenic Pacific coast beaches and unique architecture, Carmel has plenty to offer the traveler.
If you’re into Art you’ll enjoy exploring the many galleries lining the streets, showcasing everything from local landscapes to contemporary sculptures. Those looking for unique dining venues will enjoy the exceptional dining offered. This includes everything from cozy cafes and bakeries to top rated restaurants serving fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Browsing the unique boutiques and shops on Ocean Avenue is a must see Carmel experiencee. Discover handcrafted goods and one-of-a-kind items and clothing.
Two of our favorite restaurants in Carmel include Little Napoli for terrific Italian lunch and dinner fare a long with Katy’s Restaurant for delicious breakfast and lunch choices. Both have been operating for many years and are local favorites.
Great hiking opportunities abound such as along the massive Carmel beach as well as hiking trails through nearby Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. Point Lobos is immediately adjacent to Carmel to the south and provides scenic hiking with chances to view wildlife and take in dramatic Pacific coastal scenery.
The Carmel Mission
The first mission in the immediate area was founded June 3, 1770, in present day Monterey. This mission was named after Charles Borromeo of Milan Italy. Charles Borromeo was the cardinal archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Milan.
In 1771, Father Junipwro Serra, who is credited with establishing Franciscan missions in Alta Caifornia, was granted permission from Mexico to reestablish the Monterey mission to what is today Carmel-By-The-Sea. This architectural and cultural gem is considered one of the most authentically restored of all the twenty one missions established in California. The San Carlos Borroméo de Carmelo Mission is really a must stop while visiting the area.
Monterey Peninsula Golf
The Monterey California Peninsula features some of the finest golf courses found anywhere in the world. There are no shortage of options for golfers. The temperate weather year-round makes it a great golfing destination.
The golf courses are carved out of beautiful surroundings with some spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean. Courses include the iconic Pebble Beach Golf Links and the scenic Spanish Bay Golf Club and there are more. Poppy Hills Golf Course is situated among towering pines and scenic valleys and offers some beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean. Whatever your golfing skill level is, you’ll totally enjoy a golf outing on the Monterey Peninsula.
Day Hikes Around Monterey and Carmel
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Carmel Valley
Carmel Valley is adjacent to Carmel By The Sea nestled in the rolling hills of California’s Central Coast. Here you’ll enjoy stunning views of the hills, vineyards and olive groves. The valley is well known for it’s small family run wineries not to mention some beautiful golf courses.
Carmel Valley winemakers showcase unique wines from that region. These include crisp Chardonnays to bold Cabernet Sauvignons, and Merlot. Carmel Valley wines truly offer something for every type of wine enthusiast to enjoy.
California’s central coast is one of the most scenic in the entire state. Relax on the picturesque beach at Carmel, go whale watching off Monterey, enjoy unique dining, visit the art galleries, the wineries, and perhaps enjoy a round of golf, there is something for everyone along the California’s central coast.
(Article and photos copyright Trips Into History
