Fisherman's Wharf
Monterey, CA
Fisherman's Wharf combines a historic working pier with harbor views and benches along the Fisherman's Shoreline Park path, restaurants and whale watching boats lined up along the water. It's less a beach than a place to eat fresh seafood and watch the harbor traffic, a different kind of coastal stop than the swim beaches nearby.
A genuinely lively working wharf with real whale watching access, though it's a harbor to stroll and eat at rather than a beach to swim at.
How we score beachesBook a whale watching tour if you have the time, several operators run right from the wharf and it's one of the more reliable ways to see whales on the Monterey Peninsula.
Free parking is available nearby, though it's limited and fills on weekends.
A paved path connects the surrounding streets to the wharf and shoreline park.
Dogs are welcome; check posted signage for specific leash rules.
Winter and spring bring the best whale watching from the wharf's tour boats, while fog is common most mornings year round.
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