Ultimate Monterey Bay, Cannery Row and Pacific Grove GoCar Tour

A historic wharf lined with seafood eateries, gift shops, and tour boats, set against gorgeous bay views. Known as the “Monterey Bay Whale Watching Capital of the World,” this lively pier is a top visitor destination offering whale-watching cruises, fishing trips, and famous clam chowder tastings
. It’s considered a “must-do” for every visitor to Monterey, combining history with family-friendly fun in a picturesque setting

Watch our peaceful Monterey bay

See all the shops, restaurants and attractions on the historical Cannery Row

Zoom past Lover's Point and it's lovely park

Drive by the coast and witness the beautiful Asilmoar State Beach

The world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium is the flagship attraction of Cannery Row and a must-see for all ages. Housed in a former cannery building on the waterfront, this 20,000-square-foot aquarium immerses visitors in marine magic – from towering kelp forests and glowing jellies to playful sea otters and hammerhead sharks. Its interactive exhibits and 360° ocean tank views captivate families and marine enthusiasts alike. (The GoCar’s GPS tour will highlight the aquarium as you pass by, and you might even catch glimpses of the building’s sparkling tanks from the road.)

A unique hidden gem of Pacific Grove, especially in the fall and winter months. Nicknamed “Butterfly Town, USA,” Pacific Grove hosts one of America’s largest overwintering colonies of Monarch butterflies, and this free sanctuary is where they cluster by the thousands in the trees. From October through February, visitors can stroll the gentle path and gaze up as vibrant orange monarchs blanket the pines and eucalyptus – an unforgettable natural spectacle. (The site is so special that harming a butterfly here carries a $1,000 fine!) Even outside monarch season, the quiet grove is a peaceful nature stop. It’s a must-see for nature lovers and families, offering an educational, enchanting pause on your tour. Bring binoculars if you have them to appreciate these delicate creatures up close

Steeped in history and charm, Point Pinos Lighthouse is the oldest continuously operating lighthouse on the U.S. West Coast (first lit in 1855) and one of Pacific Grove’s signature landmarks. This gleaming white lighthouse sits on a windswept point surrounded by greens of the municipal golf course and dramatic shore. Visitors can take a brief self-guided or docent-guided tour inside to see the well-preserved light station and learn about its keepers and maritime history. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Point Pinos is considered a “must-see” for history buffs and anyone who appreciates coastal panoramas. The GoCar route through Pacific Grove will pass near the lighthouse – it’s worth a stop to snap a photo and imagine the eras of sailors guided by its beam

The strip features interactive attractions like Treasure Hunt: The Ride – a pirate-themed dark ride through hidden caverns and mysteries.

Pull over at San Carlos Beach (at the Row’s south end) to peer into tide pools teeming with starfish and crabs, or watch scuba divers exploring the kelp beds just offshore.

A renowned children’s playground and park near downtown Monterey, ideal for families to take a break during the tour. This large lakeside park features innovative play structures (including multiple slides, a hedge maze, and an old steam engine locomotive on display) and has been the city’s most famous playground for decades. It’s the “most popular” municipal playground in Monterey, inviting kids to burn off energy while adults relax by Lake El Estero – a great pit stop to complement the open-air adventure.

This scenic paved trail hugs the waterfront from Monterey to Pacific Grove, perfect for a self-paced exploration by foot, bike, or GoCar. The trail links Old Fisherman’s Wharf to Cannery Row with sweeping ocean vistas and interpretive signs. Along the way, you can pause to scan for wildlife like seals, pelicans, and otters, or explore tide pools at spots like San Carlos Beach. The coastal trail is extremely popular for its breathtaking views of the Pacific and easy access to attractions, making it an adventurous yet family-friendly highlight of Monterey Bay.

The expansive bay itself is a star attraction, protected as part of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary and teeming with marine life. Travelers often spot sea otters, sea lions, dolphins, or even migrating whales from the shore. Whether you pause at a scenic lookout or cruise along the water, the bay’s calm, clear waters offer incredible wildlife viewing opportunities in an open-air setting. (The GoCar’s GPS narration will even point out where to look for frolicking otters or harbor seals in the kelp beds.)