Monterey Peninsula Recreational Trail
Monterey Peninsula Recreational Trail
Monterey Peninsula Recreational Trail
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Popular hiking trail running along the Pacific Grove and Monterey coast.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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5.0
817 reviews
Excellent
658
Very good
150
Average
6
Poor
1
Terrible
2
Joske
Oosterhout, The Netherlands438 contributions
Nov 2023 • Couples
We didn’t bike the trial but walked half of the trail. Really great to do. Beautiful coast and we even saw seals! Will give you some beautiful pictures!
Written November 19, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Susan S
1 contribution
Jul 2023 • Couples
We enjoyed this trail. The only concern is in some places north it isn’t marked well. You have to cross 101 on an overpass, proceed north a bit and cross under 101 again. We were not traveling north. We were parked before this changeover. It was not clearly marked and we turned around and went back to our vehicle. All around Cannery Row everything was marked well and accommodated walkers and bikers with no problems.
Written July 14, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
frequent1
Groveland, CA1,495 contributions
Apr 2023
We walked for miles and were surprised that the severe winter did not do more damage to the trails. We saw many sea lions a couple of sea otters and some baby seal pupts
Written April 16, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jeff R
Sacramento, CA1,076 contributions
Nov 2022
This is a multi-use paved trail that passes through Monterey, CA where you can travel a little part or the whole thing. I don't recall how long it is but it goes many miles and has options for everyone. Then reward your calorie burning by having something fun to eat at one of the many places Monterey has to offer.
Written December 15, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
tinaNtravel
San Jose, CA2,011 contributions
Sep 2022
We walked the trail from San Carlos Beach to Fisherman's Wharf, and there must have been over a thousand sea lions on the weekend we happened to be there. I asked a ranger who said that this many sea lions was not normal. The ocean was filled with barking sea lions and just about every space on the beach, rocks, stairs, etc., was filled with sea lions. One was even laying down on the side walk where everyone was walking. It was a magical sight. While, as the ranger said, it is rare that there are this many sea lions, I imagine there are still plenty to see at any other time, as well. If you are there, you may also want to walk down the Coast Guard Pier (near San Carlos Beach) to also see sea lions. Note: The walk itself is easy, paved and mostly flat. There are benches and tables along the way.
Written September 25, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
dunadan
Lynnwood, WA2,501 contributions
Jul 2022
After enjoying the aquarium for the afternoon, my family drove back to our hotel in Pacific Grove, but I decided to walk the trail along the boulevard. The first thing I saw on the south side of the Hopkins Marine Station was a beach filled with dozens of harbor seals. I snapped some photos and walked, admiring the rock formations along the coast and the views out to see and up and down the coast. It was a great walk along a beautiful shoreline with lots of interesting things to see. Definitely worth at least a drive by when you are in Monterey or Pacific Grove, but ideally you can spend an hour or so taking your time along the path and really admiring the beauty of this shoreline.
Written August 7, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
TheExplorerFamily
Somerset, NJ6,451 contributions
Jun 2022
After lunch at The Fisherman’s Wharf, we drove a short distance to come here, parked our car at a metered spot, and walked over past the Industrial Building to check out the Sea Lions. The path was nicely paved, and was used by walkers, joggers and bikers.
At one point, we left the path and walked over on the right side to a fenced area beyond which there were tons of noisy Seals and Sea Lions just lying there sunning themselves on the sand. We also noticed plenty of Shore Birds on the rocks. People have to watch then from behind that fence so as not to get too close and disturb their normal behavior.
The views of the Ocean are calm and peaceful here. We took a lot of photos, and then drove over to the Oceanview Boulevard.
Worth coming here to take a close look at those Seals – tons of them in one place.
At one point, we left the path and walked over on the right side to a fenced area beyond which there were tons of noisy Seals and Sea Lions just lying there sunning themselves on the sand. We also noticed plenty of Shore Birds on the rocks. People have to watch then from behind that fence so as not to get too close and disturb their normal behavior.
The views of the Ocean are calm and peaceful here. We took a lot of photos, and then drove over to the Oceanview Boulevard.
Worth coming here to take a close look at those Seals – tons of them in one place.
Written July 25, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
AustintoBoston
Boston, MA338 contributions
Jun 2022
Very enjoyable! We were staying in Pacific Grove and took this path to walk to Cannery Row a few times. It is both scenic and safe, with plenty of others walking, jogging, and cycling along. At night we ubered around, so I can't comment on anything after sunset.
Written June 14, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kirk F
Diamond Bar, CA757 contributions
Jun 2022
This is a beautiful walking/jogging trail that is mostly along the seashore. Only negative are some idiot bicyclists.
Written June 4, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Nancy P
5 contributions
May 2022
I know I didn’t walk the entire trail, but at 82, I found this a beautiful area to take a walk. It was along the bay with beautiful views everywhere. The path is nicely divided for walking and bike riding. Lots of flowers and sea birds. Also benches along the way.
Written June 2, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
allisonTFremont
Fremont57 contributions
We will stay near the Aquarium in Monterey. What is the nearest bike rental I can rent and can i bike from the Aquarium to the Monterey Peninsula Trail and back without using my car. What would be the weather like in mid July? Thank you so much for your reply.
MaineTraveler2017
Freeport, ME198 contributions
I recommend renting from Adventures by the Sea. They have multiple locations including one on Cannery Row near the aquarium. The recreation trail runs right through Cannery Row so you don't need your car. I believe the weather is generally mild year round in that area with temps in the 60-75 degree range.
mwright44
Albany, GA3 contributions
We will be staying here in June. Where is the best place to rent bikes? Thanks for the response.
Lamar02
Orlando, FL318 contributions
There were several right along Cannery Row just by the Aquarium. The bike pathway is really great! there is a bike rental place by the Lovers Point area too.
Yael D
Ramat Gan, Israel70 contributions
how many of the animals can you see on the trail versus kayaks?
I went on the kayaks 15 years ago and still remember how amazing it was.
I am returning to the area in August with 4.5 and 1.5 year olds and debating what to do- either split up and take the 4.5 year old alone on kayaks (my husband will take the toddler) or just do the trail.
How much would she be missing out if we don't do the kayak? (we will do kayaking in Yosemite)
Debra W
39 contributions
You can see everything from the trail. It was truly beautiful and amazing from the trail. A great exercise too!
mainou2015
Fresno, CA
I understand that you can start anywhere in this trail but what if I want to finish this 20 miles trail where would I start and end. As of the bike riding, is there a place where I can rent bikes and how much would it be.
pwdnovato
Novato, CA23 contributions
The answer depends on a lot of things. First, anywhere you start will require a return trip unless you have two cars and can drop off one at either end. Assuming you would bike this trail to really enjoy it, you need to figure out what you want to see and how much you want to ride. In it's entirety you would be riding round trip up to 40-50 miles. So let's start with assumptions. I'll answer from what I know. Since some of the information will become dated, you might want to check online to see changes.
First, figure out what you want to see. The most popular part of the trail is from Asilomar all the way to the Monterey Fisherman' Wharves. From Asilomar to Lovers Point there is mostly beach and ocean and the trail is on the side of a road well used by vehicles. The really popular part of the trail is from Lovers Point to the Wharves. The section from Lovers Point to the Hopkins Research Center is a separate path away from traffic and is right at the waters edge with lots of wildlife and vegetation. From the Hopkins Center all the way to the Wharves, is still a separate path but one has to watch at street crossings. This section is very historic and has many older buildings, businesses and restaurants to experience. To the north of the Wharves is the lesser traveled way for visitors, but I am sure it is very beautiful as well. Also you would get to see other communities in the County.
Depending on the part of the trail you want to see, here are some start and endpoints. Most likely unless you bring your own bike, you will want to rent one. Good starting points are at one of several locations. Note that since all but one are located in the middle of the trail, to "see it all" you would have to go in one direction, come back and then go in the other direction and come back. Here are a few with notes for the most popular and most used parts of the trail:
Adventures by the Sea has several shops. The one located on the east end of the Cannery Row area on Cannery Row is the largest and is located very close to the trail. There is a parking area one long block south of the shop at Reeside Ave and Cannery Row. Not sure about long term, but it always has available spaces. Bikes rent for $20 to $30 depending on how long you want to rent them. They have surreys and electric bikes as well. The most popular section of trail is from here to Lovers Point (north and west). The other direction takes you to the Fisherman's Wharves and other communities.
Adventures by the Sea, has a location right on the trail near the old Edgewater Packing building. It is located about a block from long term parking at Wave St and Hoffman Ave. They park the surreys right off the trail, so you cannot miss it.
Adventures by the Sea has a location at Lovers Point and is at the end of the separate path. To the north and west the trail is on the road side of Ocean View Blvd and Sunset Dr all the way to Asilomar. To the south and east are very nice views, the aquarium, cannery row, the wharves, etc. I believe that most of the parking in the close vicinity is 2-hour, but you may be able to park a few blocks away on the street and walk down. It's worth driving in this quaint town to find parking.
The Asilomar Conference Center location is very close to the trail. I have seen bikes here and understand that they do rent to the public. There is parking available here long term and I don't think there is a charge. The nice thing about this location (if they still rent) one can go east and all the way along the trail as far as you want and turn around. Also, if you go south two blocks, you will be at the 17 Mile Drive which takes you through a beautiful area (although the roads can be narrow and well traveled by vehicles). My preference would be to drive the 17 Mile Drive rather than bike it.
Bay Bikes is a shop which is located such that the back of the shop is on the path. It is also a very short distance from the public parking lot at Wave St and Hoffman Ave. Not sure how much it is to park, but it is available long term parking. The bike rentals run from $24-64 depending on the choice of bike and the amount of time you will be using the bike.
If you want to experience the northern portion of the trail you could start at any one of the above and just head south and east. It will eventually end up going north through Seaside, Marina, Fort Ord and all the way to Castroville. I have not been on the path outside of Monterey, but I imagine it is pretty.
If you are a good rider and would like to experience the northern part of the trail, you could start in Castroville at Haro St and Merritt St. Not having been there I looked online for bike rentals, but could not find any in the city. If that is the case, you might want to start at Lovers Point and go to Castroville. It is a bit of a ride (18.4 miles one way) through various areas and a significant elevation gain along the ride. If you are interested look up "the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail Castroville" on map my ride.
James S
Murphy, NC6 contributions
Where do you get on the trail?
Zoelle
Carmel, CA135 contributions
The Monterey Peninsula Recreational Trail runs 18 miles from Pacific Grove to Castroville to the north. If you "Google" it you will get a lot of information. The trail has easy access all along the way and runs close to the ocean. Most people enjoy starting at Lover's Point in Pacific Grove, and going north to Cannery Row, and Fisherman's wharf, or you could do the reverse, of course. Along the way one would pass the Monterey Bay Aquarium. There is a lot to see along this suggested way. It is easier to find free parking in Pacific Grove. In the Cannery Row area be prepared to park in a pay lot. There is also on street metered parking. I think the charge is $1.50/hour 9 Am to 8 PM.
Winnie F
Seattle, WA38 contributions
How long does it take from starting point to finish on the trail in relaxing mode not jogging?
CaSharita
ca47 contributions
well the whole trail is 29 miles! But when we park on Forest Ave near Lover's POint and walk to the wharf it takes an hour..then an hour back. When we park in Monterey by Dennis the Menace Park and walk to Lover's POint it takes an hour then an hour back. That includes stopping and sitting on the benches to take in the view and also the seals (which are getting ready to birth!)
Danielle M
Gualala, CA3 contributions
Where can I find directions to the trail?
CaSharita
ca47 contributions
well one option..coming from the north on hiway 1 take the Pacific Grove exit (hiway 68) which turns into Forest Ave..park on Forest at Lover;s Point at the sea. Or take the Fisherman's Wharf exit and continue on to Cannery Row...park anywhere along the coast and start walking/biking in either direction.
Diana S
Salinas, CA
Will be staying in Monterey this coming weekend and I would like to bike ride along the recreational trail. Where exactly does is start, how do I get to the starting point? Is there a fee? I just need general nfo
Vlady V
Sao Paulo, SP52 contributions
Hello Diana. I went to Monterrey last Octrober 2014; and wish you have lots of fun.. Concerning your question, I went on WALKING, part of the trail, and didn't pay any fees. But I didn't walk this path all the way, and didn't ride a bike. I had just a little time to expend in Monterrey.
Despite I hadn't ridden a bike, I could see lots of people riding'em...I haven't seen any specific entrance you can pay a fee.. But if I were you I'd contact the chamber of tourism and commerce in Monterrey... The trail starts by the warf.
I feel so sorry, I couldn't answer exactely qyou request, but suite yoursef to get in touch with me whenever you want... may God Bless you...Have a nice trip
max55857
Seattle, WA179 contributions
Where do you park your car to access this trail?
CaSharita
ca47 contributions
Hi. I park either on Forest Ave right at Lover's Point. it's all day free parking. then you can opt to go either left or right on the trail. OR, I park at the cemetery across from Dennis the Menace Park (again all day free) and walk to the wharf and then on to Lover's Point and back. That's around 5 miles.
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Claim your listingMONTEREY PENINSULA RECREATIONAL TRAIL: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)
Frequently Asked Questions about Monterey Peninsula Recreational Trail
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