Explore
You can spot abundant marine life without leaving the coastline. These land-based viewpoints are easy to visit before or after your boat tour.
Monterey Bay's deep submarine canyon brings nutrient-rich waters right to the edge of the shore. This means you do not always need a boat to observe local marine mammals.
Walk the paved coastal paths or check the harbor jetties to find resting sea lions and active sea otters. Bring a pair of binoculars to scan the water for passing whales and coastal dolphins.
1-2 hoursPaved coastal path
This scenic paved path offers excellent land-based wildlife viewing directly along the Monterey waterfront. You can easily walk for miles while scanning the open water. Bring your binoculars to spot coastal dolphins or migrating whales traveling close to the shoreline.
15-30 minutesHarbor viewpoints
You will likely hear these loudly barking sea lions long before you see them. Hundreds of resting animals pack onto the local harbor jetties, coastal rocks, and floating buoys. Keep a respectful distance while you watch their chaotic activity on the walk to your tour boat.
2-3 hoursEducational exhibits
The nearby Monterey Bay Aquarium and local museums explain the massive 12,743-foot underwater trench located just offshore. Visit these indoor exhibits to understand the ocean upwelling process. This natural cycle brings the krill and anchovies that attract whales to the bay.
