Discover the leisure attractions along the historic street of Cannery Row. Once a thriving and rather smelly sardine-canning district, today this strip of coast offers fun for the whole family. Peruse the specialty shops and art galleries, dine in seafood restaurants, take the kids to Monterey Bay Aquarium and enjoy watersports in the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.
Cannery Row was so named in 1958 in honor of the John Steinbeck novel of the same name, which described in detail the historic sardine cannery culture that once flourished here. Visit the Cannery Workers Shacks at the base of Bruce Ariss Way for a glimpse into the region’s past. Look for the bronze bust of John Steinbeck at the base of Prescott Avenue.
Choose to do as much or as little as you want in Cannery Row. Relax with a long lunch in one of the famous fine-dining seafood restaurants. People-watch, enjoy sea views and sip wines made with locally grown grapes. Alternatively, embark on a wine-tasting tour and discover the range of Monterey County wines. After the sun has set, snuggle together at one of the fire pits along Cannery Row and stare into the glowing fire as waves crash just feet away from you. For something more boisterous, dance all night in one of Cannery Row’s lively nightlife haunts.
Take the family to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, which is dedicated to the education and conservation of the marine life on its doorstep. The plentiful educational exhibits are geared to impress children and adults.
After a visit to the aquarium, head out into the ocean in the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Rent a kayak or try scuba diving and encounter sea otters, some of Cannery Row’s most famous residents. For a drier activity, cycle the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreational Trail to explore beach after beach.
Cannery Row is located between David and Drake avenues in Monterey, California. Parking is often a problem, so be environmentally conscious and leave the car behind. Explore the area on foot or by bicycle.
