Monterey Bay is a beautiful and marine-rich area that straddles the border between the rugged Central Coast and the Bay Area regions of California. Once the capital of Spanish California, the area was immortalized by the works of novelist John Steinbeck.

Big Sur * Capitola * Carmel-by-the-Sea * Carmel Valley * Davenport * Felton * Gonzales * Greenfield * Hollister * King City * Los Padres N.F. * Marina * Monterey * Moss Landing * Pacific Grove * Pebble Beach * Pinnacles N.M. * Salinas * Sand City * San Simeon * Santa Cruz * Scotts Valley * Seaside * South County * Soledad * Watsonville *

8. Monterey Bay Aquarium - Monterey Bay
Since it first opened in 1984, this facility has quickly evolved into one of the most unique and most popular attractions in America. It features many award-winning exhibits rich in information about the many animals, plants and natural habitats of the Pacific Ocean.

Exciting high adventure opportunities for exploring, boating, camping, hiking, watersports, weekend retreats and more.

Monterey Bay is home to the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, currently the largest marine sanctuary in the United States. It is home to great kelp forests and diverse marine life, and is a popular place for diving, kayaking and whale watching.

The Monterey Bay Region of Central California includes Monterey, Santa Cruz and San Benito County. It features an abundance of natural beauty, wilderness, recreational, hunting and fishing adventures.

Monterey Marriott Best Wester Resort Hotel 350 Calle Principal, Monterey, CA 93940; Location: Downtown Monterey near Cannery Row Ideally located for meetings and recreation in the heart of downtown is the Monterey Marriott Resort Hotel. It features all non-smoking rooms, and the best views of the Monterey Bay coastline. Recently renovated with the new Revive bedding and bath collections.

Monterey Best Western Beach Resort 350 Calle Principal, Monterey, CA 93940; Location: Beachside at junction of SR-1 and SR-218; This California Vacation Resort offers oceanfront views and direct access to the beach. With a total of 196 rooms, this is the only hotel located directly on Del Monte Beach. The beach, the view, the attractions make this the perfect vacation resort.

Pacific Grove Lighthouse Lodge 1150 Lighthouse Avenue, Pacific Grove, CA 93950; Location: Lighthouse (SR-68) near Lighthouse Reservation Located within one block of the spectacular Pacific Ocean, these Vacation Suites property offers luxury at its finest. You can enjoy a king-sized bed, oversized Jacuzzi bathtub, and fireplace. A gourmet breakfast and wine and hors d' oeuvres are included amenities served daily. Our newly renovated Lodge property is perfect for family getaways.

Monterey Munras Comfort Inn 1262 Munras Ave., Monterey, CA 93940; Location: Uptown Monterey across from Don Davee Park The Comfort Inn is situated in historic Monterey, minutes from many local attractions, including the Aquarium, Fisherman's Wharf, Pebble Beach, and premier golf courses. Walk to shops and restaurants. These are inviting and affordable vacation accommodations.