Things To Do

The Central Coast is a scenic, coastal area of California that rises from the pristine Monterey Bay to pine forested hillsides with sweeping bay views and Monterey Regional Airport is located in the heart of it all.

After flying into Monterey Regional Airport, don’t miss a visit to the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium and Monterey’s historical waterfront, where the colorful stretch of coastline was vividly portrayed in John Steinbeck’s novel Cannery Row. Weave alongside iconic golf courses, snow-white beaches and dramatic coastal cliffs as you make your way down 17-Mile Drive, one of America’s most scenic drives. Head to Carmel-by-the-Sea, where a small village feel provides a welcoming haven for a rich arts scene and don’t forget a trip into Carmel Valley for a taste of Monterey County’s bustling wine industry. Spice up your trip by traveling north to Gilroy, the Garlic Capital of the World or visit Santa Cruz, the bohemian, eclectic town famous for its vintage seaside amusement park and reputation as the birthplace of mainland surfing in the US. Finally, a trip to Monterey wouldn’t be complete without a drive through Big Sur’s rugged and spectacular coastline, where the scenery is unmatched and you’ll be surrounded by towering sea cliffs and magestic fog-cloaked redwood forests.

Scroll below to explore some of our favorite offerings of California’s Central Coast.