The Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail

Monterey, California is an active community. With nearly 300 days of sunshine and an abundance of outdoor activities, it is easy to find places to surf, run, fish, boat or hike. Monterey also has a strong community of bikers who can be seen across the Big Sur Coast, Fort Ord National Monument, hills of Carmel Valley and Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail.

The recreation trail stretches over 18 miles from Marina to Pebble Beach. Highlights along the path include The Monterey Bay Aquarium, Lover’s Point Park, Del Monte Beach, Cannery Row, Asilomar State Beach and Old Fisherman’s Wharf. For the relaxed bike rider looking to stop for a drink or meal, some delicious restaurants are conveniently situated along the trail. My favorites include: Wave Street Cafe (Monterey), Dust Bowl Brewery (Monterey), The Tides Hotel (Seaside) and Salt Wood Kitchen and Oysterette (Marina).

Monterey Bay is home to one of the widest varieties of biodiversity throughout the world with 345 species of fish, 33 species of marine mammals and 94 species of seabirds. The Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail provides fun for the whole family. Places such as Adventures by The Sea and Big Sur Adventures rent four wheeled surrey bikes with benches and electric bicycles. This can be a great way to see the nature of the bay, bask in the sun and exercise at the same time.

Kayaks and stand up paddle boards can be rented at Monterey Bay Kayaks, located at Del Monte Beach. Surfers frequently fill Del Monte Beach, Lover’s Point and Asilomar State Beach depending on the waves. Divers can often be seen entering and leaving from the wharf area for scuba tours. Whale watch tours are another popular activity. Tickets can be purchased at Old Fisherman’s Wharf. You’ll be able to cross through some historical landmarks in Monterey on the path including the Custom House and Portola Plaza. In Portola Plaza there is an art museum featuring over 580 pieces of art primarily dedicated to the work of Salvador Dali.

Whether you’re looking to challenge yourself with a vigorous bike ride, a walk in nature next to crashing waves, see the biodiversity of Monterey Bay, explore the history of Monterey, or relaxing family fun, the Monterey Bay Recreation Trail has it all.