Fisherman's Wharf

Fisherman's Wharf is a crowded, touristy yet colorful spot. Here kids can get their fill of tacky knick-knack shops. Once you return home, that fluffy sea otter sweatshirt will be a beloved item. There are some restaurants with mediocre food but great views of the water. The weather-worn wood everywhere on the wharf is nice. And if you're really lucky you may see a seal swim by! The views across west to the presidio are gorgeous, and the views of the harbor to the east are nice also.

The wharf was built in the 1870s and was used for passenger and freight (lumber, fish) service. After World War II when sardine fishing failed, it changed character and became a leisure area with shops, restaurants and boat tours.
Walk to the west of Fisherman's Wharf along the bike path for a gorgeous view of the wharf and its pastel-colored buildings and the vibrant blue-green sea. Here you can sit on a bench in the shade and escape the crowds. At the base of Fisherman's Wharf, just to the south, is Custom House Plaza, with the Museum of Monterey and wonderful old historical buildings. Since there's no shade, it's lovely in winter but not as nice in summer. Walk to the east of the wharf and you come to lovely Del Monte Beach, a wide beach with the softest sand. A great place for a romantic stroll, or to build sandcastles with the kids!
Walk south through Custom House Plaza to Alvarado Rd and check out hip downtown Monterey and its pretty Spanish arcades. Or walk northwest along the bike path to famous Cannery Row. Here you can visit Monterey Bay Aquarium-  it's a glimpse into another world beneath the sea, with the most amazing exhibits, though it's ridiculously expensive and crowded. The jellyfish exhibit will put you in awe of nature's beauty and sense of humor.
If you're looking for a playground for your kids, Dennis the Menace Park is a place your kids will never forget.
If you want to eat dinner with the locals, away from the touristy areas, check out Del Monte Shopping Center, an attractive outdoor mall with large chain restaurants and lots for kids to explore.

Directions

You can park in the Fisherman's Wharf parking lot and walk the very short distance to Fisherman's wharf. From Del Monte Ave, turn toward the water on Washington St and you will find plenty of parking. Pay with credit card in the parking machines.
You can also walk to Fisherman's Wharf from Cannery Row along the bike path. It takes 17 minutes.
To drive to Fisherman's Wharf from Cannery Row you must go through a tunnel. This may confuse your GPS. Follow the signs if your GPS acts up.

Click on map for interactive view