Monterey Weekend Getaway: The Ultimate 3-Day Itinerary

WhatsUpMonterey Weekend Guide helps you plan the perfect coastal escape — where scenic drives, ocean-view dining, and unforgettable experiences come together. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or rediscovering the Monterey Peninsula, here’s how to make the most of three picture-perfect days by the bay.

Day 1: Arrival, Cannery Row & Coastal Charm

Begin your adventure along historic Cannery Row, once home to the city’s famous sardine canneries and now a vibrant waterfront lined with shops, tasting rooms, and restaurants. Visit the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium to get up close with sea otters and jellyfish, then take a leisurely stroll or e-bike ride along the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail.

For lunch, enjoy casual oceanfront dining at Old Fisherman’s Grotto on the historic Old Fisherman’s Wharf — a Monterey favorite known for its clam chowder and harbor views. Afterward, check into a boutique hotel like Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa, where elegant rooms and a serene spa await.

In the evening, stay close to Cannery Row and enjoy dinner at The C Restaurant + Bar at the InterContinental The Clement Monterey, offering fresh seafood, local wines, and panoramic ocean views. Cap off your night with a stroll along the shoreline — the sound of waves sets the tone for the perfect coastal weekend.

Day 2: Carmel-by-the-Sea & Scenic Drives

Start your morning with a scenic 10-minute drive to Carmel-by-the-Sea, a fairytale village filled with galleries, cafés, and charming courtyards. Stroll along Ocean Avenue, explore Carmel’s wine tasting rooms, and walk down to Carmel Beach for breathtaking views of Pebble Beach.

For lunch, unwind at Treehouse Café with its cozy patio and Mediterranean flavors. Spend the afternoon exploring 17-Mile Drive — stop at Lone Cypress, Pebble Beach, and Spanish Bay for photos and sea breeze.

In the evening, dine at The Whaling Station Steakhouse in Monterey, known for its award-winning prime rib and classic bar menu. It’s a local favorite and the perfect way to end a day of exploring.

Day 3: Nature, Relaxation & Farewell

Start your final morning with a coastal walk at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve — a true gem offering easy trails, dramatic cliffs, and playful sea otters. Afterward, enjoy a relaxed early lunch at Red House Café in Pacific Grove or First Awakenings near Cannery Row, both beloved for hearty brunch-style menus and local charm.

If time allows, visit Carmel Valley Village for a relaxed afternoon of wine tasting or a scenic drive back through Highway 68. Don’t leave without one last ocean photo — every Monterey weekend deserves a perfect send-off.

Plan Your Monterey Adventure

From breathtaking coastlines to world-class dining, Monterey County is a destination that never fails to inspire. Explore more events, restaurants, and things to do right here on WhatsUpMonterey.com — your insider guide to everything happening along California’s Central Coast.