There’s nowhere in the world quite like Monterey County, California. Brimming with breathtaking vineyards, cozy seaside villages, and an array of exciting museums, Monterey County is the perfect vacation destination, whether you’re headed on a family holiday, romantic getaway, or a weekend away with friends. In this blog post, we discuss six fun things to do in Monterey County that will make for an unforgettable time. If you’re headed to Monterey County, make sure to visit 101 Wine Press for an authentic California winery experience, featuring Santa Maria-style barbecue, craft beers, local wines, and more!

  1. Visit the National Steinbeck Center

Many people have heard of Monterey County on account of its most famous resident — writer John Steineck. Considered one of the greatest American authors of all time, John Steinbeck often wrote about his boyhood hometown of Salinas, and the colorful characters that lived there. Today, visitors to Salinas can visit the National Steinbeck Center, which houses a museum and memorial dedicated to this cornerstone of American literature.

  1. Visit Cannery Row

John Steinbeck fans may also want to check out Cannery Row, a waterfront street in the city of Monterey that shares its name with one of Steinbeck’s most famous books. Tourists from all over the world regularly flock to this attraction to enjoy its many restaurants, hotels, and historic attractions. Outdoor enthusiasts will also love Cannery Row for its many public fishing facilities and kayak-launching sites.

  1. Eat Santa Maria-Style BBQ at 101 Wine Press

Any visitor to the Central Coast of California must partake in its indigenous cuisine — Santa Maria-style barbecue, featuring succulent tri-tip beef. At 101 Wine Press in Prunedale, we are proud to serve the Salinas area authentic Santa Maria-style bbq, cooked with fruitwood and oak over a traditional open pit. If you want to learn more about the unique history and features of this exceptional cuisine, check out our recent blog post then head over to our menu to browse all the delicious dishes we offer at 101 Wine Press. 

  1. Spend a Day in Carmel-by-the-Sea

For the traveler looking to get it away from it all, the small seaside village of Carmel-by-the-Sea offers a respite from the city streets of Monterey and Salinas. Carmel-by-the-Sea is known for its fairytale cottages, breathtaking scenery, art galleries, theatres, and other cultural centers. Visitors love to stroll famous Carmel beach or enjoy the village’s many boutique shops and restaurants. Perfect for romantic getaways or family adventures, Carmel-by-the-Sea is a hidden Monterey County treasure.

  1. Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium

If you’re travelling with children or simply looking for a creative way to spend the day, the Monterey Bay Aquarium has got you covered. This world-famous public aquarium receives more than two million visitors each year and helped lead to the revitalization of Cannery Row. Known for its regional focus on the marine habitat of Monterey Bay, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is the perfect way to immerse yourself in a new environment. Your whole family will enjoy the aquarium’s many interactive exhibits and up-close access to sea otters, octopi, and more. Book your ticket to the Monterey Bay Aquarium today for an experience unlike anything else in the world.

  1. Enjoy a Glass of Wine at 101 Wine Press 

No visit to the Central Coast would be complete without a taste of our renowned California wine. At 101 Wine Press in Prunedale, we offer a wide selection of local and international wines that are sure to please wine lovers and novices alike. Our winery features pinot noirs, chardonnays, and more that always leave a lasting impression. We also offer a variety of craft beers for those wanting a hoppy treat. So what are you waiting for? Visit us in Prunedale today!