Monterey Outdoor Activities

Monterey's Pacific coast is made for outdoor activities. Want to try something new? We've got lots of ideas for you!

Monterey is home to a huge variety of landscapes. Big Sur beaches with their crashing waves and windswept dunes, ancient redwood forests, rugged mountains - it's all here.

You'll find some awesome trails in and around Monterey where you can enjoy hiking, biking, horse-riding and picnicking. The waterfront Monterey Coast Recreation Trail is a good place to start, with almost 20 miles of gorgeous coastal walks.

With such spectacular ocean scenery and marine life, make sure you enjoy Monterey's waters. Whether you go above or below the waves, this unique habitat is just waiting for you to dive in.

Here's some outdoor fun inspiration for you:

Trails

  • Head out to Fort Ord National Monument Park with its maze of scenic trails. You can get around on foot, mountain bike or horseback.
  • Take a picturesque hike through Point Lobos State Reserve. If you're lucky, you might spot humpback, grey or even blue whales off the coast.
  • Not up for too much effort? Explore Monterey by Segway. Tours take in everything from the city's historic centre to its sweeping ocean boulevards.

Water Sports

  • The vast kelp forests off the coast of McAbee Beach are made for scuba diving. Or how about taking advantage of those powerful Big Sur waves with some surfing? Monterey Bay is a popular surf spot.
  • Get your James Bond on with a ride on a fast raft. Think inflatable dinghy meets speedboat. Tear up the waves as you explore on your very own ocean safari.
  • Paddling along this stunning coastline on a stand-up paddle board (SUP) or kayak is a peaceful way to travel. You won't scare the marine life either, so look out for sea lions and otters playing in the surf.

Air Activities

  • Treat yourself to one of the most beautiful skydiving adventures around with a jump over Monterey Peninsula and the Marine National Sanctuary. On a clear day you can see as far as San Francisco's Golden Gate.
  • Soar above ocean waves and soft sand dunes with a tandem paragliding flight over Marina State Beach. Book a sunset flight for incredibility breathtaking views.
  • Tame the winds with your feet firmly on the ground by joining the kite-fliers at Monterey State Beach.

Created in partnership with SeeMonterey.com