Cannery Row
Monterey, CA
Cannery Row is the former sardine canning district made famous by John Steinbeck's novel of the same name, now hotels, restaurants, and shops with the Monterey Bay Aquarium anchoring one end. Stairs and paths reach small stretches of rocky shoreline along the row, though this is a historic waterfront district first and a beach second.
The genuine literary and cannery history make it a worthwhile stop, though it's a historic tourist district more than a real beach destination.
How we score beachesVisit the aquarium early in the day if that's part of the plan, lines build fast and the whole district gets considerably busier by midday.
Free parking is available nearby, though it's limited and fills on weekends.
Stairs and paths connect the row's streets to small stretches of rocky shoreline.
Leashed dogs are welcome to walk Cannery Row's public sidewalks and waterfront path, though individual shops and restaurants set their own pet policies.
Fog is common most mornings year round, typical of the Monterey Peninsula.
More Pacific Coast beaches
Zuma Beach
Malibu, CA · Pacific Coast
A wide stretch of sand backed by the Santa Monica Mountains, with reliable swells that draw surfers year-round and plenty of room to spread out even on busy weekends.
Huntington City Beach
Huntington Beach, CA · Pacific Coast
Known as Surf City USA, with a mile-long municipal pier, consistent breaks for surfers of every level, and a laid-back boardwalk scene along Pacific Coast Highway.
Main Beach
Laguna Beach, CA · Pacific Coast
Tucked between rocky headlands, with tidepools to explore at low tide, calmer coves for swimming, and an arts-town backdrop of galleries and cafes just steps from the sand.