A marine paradise

At first glance, it might just seem like a sleepy little city tucked off the coast of California — but the fishing community of Monterey could quite possibly give you an insight into the working-class American psyche like few other experiences — not to mention awe you with its eco-friendly sights, sounds and smells of marine life. While it also bore prime witness to California’s Mexican and Spanish periods, the region today is best known as the setting for many a hit John Steinbeck novel, its globally-renowned aquarium that is hailed for its path-breaking conservation research, and some of the best seafood restaurants that can be found across the USA. Ideal for a quick weekend getaway, tourists or Californian residents from all over the Bay Area adore the region — also a beach-lover’s paradise.

Montery aquarium

Though there are a plethora of options to choose from, the seaside village of Carmel-By-The-Sea is ideal to kick things off; a delightful clutter of artisanal cafes, posh art galleries (celeb alert: you might spot Clint Eastwood in the vicinity), and expensive boutiques that would whet any shopaholic’s appetite. Not too far way is the stunning Point Lobos State Natural Reserve that offers both hardcore hikers as well as Instagram addicts several opportunities to hone their skills. The rugged rock formations and waves make for incredible viewing, and you could easily get lost in the magnificent sunsets they help paint. Also recommended is the iconic 17-Mile-Drive that again throws up jaw-dropping sceneries; not least the famous Pebble Beach Golf Links! (If you love the sport, it’s the reason you’re visiting Monterey in the first place. This is as good as it gets.)

Montery aquarium

Now, moving on to the coveted highlight — the Monterey Bay Aquarium — the place that inspired Finding Dory! Yes, that’s right, you can find hundreds of kids (and slightly exasperated but equally excited parents) huddled over the blue tang fish exhibit that served as the basis for the Pixar movie. The Open Sea Exhibit is the star attraction, featuring even hammerhead sharks! There’s so much to gaze open-mouthed at, including the almost surreal display of jellyfish and nettle, that almost feels space-like. Kids will go bonkers over the penguins and otters (nope, not as cuddly as they look) — but even more so, at the sting-ray petting pool, where they can actually feel the ray’s almost velvet coat as the beautiful marine creature glides by. The other interactive sections that house everything from turtles and octopi to birds and invertebrates are also worthy of a travelogue in itself — that’s how unmissable this stopover is.

Point Lobos

Of course, no trip to Monterey is complete without visiting Cannery Row, that still holds pride of place in the city locals’ hearts, as it was the site of several sardine canning factories decades ago. Today, it is a prime tourist hub, as many historic attractions, public fishing facilities and activities such as kayak-launching and scuba-diving can be enjoyed here. Nearby is also the Edward F. Ricketts State Marine Conservation Area, that’s home to a large population of pretty friendly sea lions. A quick walk on Old Fisherman’s Wharf could be ideal to wind up the trip, where plenty of memorabilia can be checked out, while picking out a high-end restaurant. (Tip: don’t miss out on the speciality artichokes — and the clam chowder, which is pretty legendary here!) If there’s more time to kill or if you just want to enjoy the Pacific more, customised whale and dolphin-watching tours further enhance the experience. Ultimately, Monterey will leave you with memories manifold — and if you aren’t nature-conscious already, it sure will transform you.