Monterey County, officially the County of Monterey, captivates visitors and residents alike with its stunning natural beauty, abundance of wildlife, and rich history. Home to the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium and the birthplace of the world-renowned novelist John Steinbeck, this charming county is one of California's finest.

Monterey County's breathtaking coastline and marine life make it a paradise for nature lovers. Cruise the iconic 17-Mile Drive around the Monterey Peninsula, explore the sands of Fort Ord Dunes State Park in Marina, or hike through Pinnacles National Park. However, the most famous of all its vistas is Big Sur, which has attracted photographers and surfers for years. The county's parks and beaches provide ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and water sports, ensuring there's never a dull moment for outdoor enthusiasts.

Monterey County is as storied as it is beautiful. Many buildings still stand from the region's settlement and early history, which have been repurposed into stunning new sites. First, immerse yourself in Monterey's rich heritage at Cannery Row, once the heart of the city's fishing industry and now a lively district filled with shops, restaurants, and galleries. Or, explore the original adobe buildings from the Spanish and Mexican periods in Monterey State Historic Park. Lastly, but perhaps most notably, head to Salinas and eat at the historic Steinbeck House, where John Steinbeck was born and raised.