Your cruise ship stops in Monterey Bay, where you’ll board a tender boat to reach the city. You can dock at either Fisherman’s Wharf or Municipal Wharf II, with both locations giving you direct access to the town centre.
For other US West Coast Cruise destinations check out our US West Coast Cruise Ship Port Guide page.
Walking or the free MST Trolley will take you to key attractions. The Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row sit within easy reach of both wharves. You’ll enjoy comfortable temperatures throughout the year, making outdoor exploration pleasant in any season.
Fresh seafood restaurants line the waterfront, offering local catches and Pacific specialities.
Your shore excursion options include whale watching trips, wine country tours and coastal drives. Each activity highlights Monterey’s unique blend of marine life, California wine culture and coastal beauty.
Map of Monterey, California Cruise Ship Port
Port Location and Cruise Terminal Facilities
Monterey operates a simple port system without a cruise terminal. Your ship will anchor in Monterey Bay, and you’ll transfer to shore via tender boats that dock at either Fisherman’s Wharf or Municipal Wharf II.
The wharves connect directly to downtown Monterey, making it easy for you to explore. You’ll find essential facilities at both drop-off points:
- Public toilets
- Tourist information points
- Basic port services
Your key destinations are within walking distance:
- Cannery Row
- Monterey Bay Aquarium
- Local shops
- Restaurants
You can also use nearby public transport stops to reach further attractions. The central location means you can start exploring straight from your tender drop-off point.
Top Shore Excursions and Local Attractions
Your Monterey Shore Highlights
Monterey offers you fantastic coastal attractions and guided tours right from the dock. You can visit the renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium to watch playful sea otters and colourful marine creatures. You’ll find the famous 17-Mile Drive provides stunning coastal views through Pebble Beach.
Key Tours:
- Cannery Row heritage walks showcasing John Steinbeck’s literary settings
- Carmel Valley wine tours featuring local family wineries
- Bay cruises spotting whales, dolphins and coastal birds
Fisherman’s Wharf gives you the perfect spot to taste fresh seafood and browse local shops. You can explore these attractions independently or join organised group tours.
Tips:
- Book popular tours in advance
- Bring a camera for scenic coastline shots
- Wear comfortable walking shoes
- Allow 2-3 hours for the aquarium visit
Getting Around Monterey: Transportation Options
Transportation Options in Monterey
You can choose from several easy ways to explore Monterey after your cruise ship arrives:
Free MST Trolley:
- Connects main attractions
- Stops at Fisherman’s Wharf
- Visits Cannery Row
- Reaches Monterey Bay Aquarium
Quick Transport:
- Taxis wait at the cruise terminal
- Rideshare services operate throughout the city
- Hotel shuttles run regular routes
Active Travel:
- You can rent bikes from waterfront shops
- Surrey rentals let you pedal with friends
- The Coastal Recreation Trail offers scenic views
Car Hire:
- Enterprise has a local branch
- Hertz offers car rentals nearby
- You’ll need a valid driving licence
The MST Trolley gives you the most cost-effective way to see major sights, while bikes offer you freedom to explore at your own pace.
See what’s on offer from the Port of Los Angeles, California for a different US West Coast Cruise Destinations.
Best Time to Visit and Weather Guide
Best Time to Visit Monterey
You’ll find mild weather in Monterey throughout the year. Temperatures stay between 45°F-75°F, making it comfortable for most activities.
Prime visiting periods:
- Spring (March-May)
- Watch migrating whales
- See colourful wildflower displays
- Experience mild temperatures
- Summer (June-August)
- Join peak tourist activities
- Enjoy predictable weather
- Book early for accommodation
- Autumn (September-October)
- Experience warmest temperatures
- Watch monarch butterfly migration
- Benefit from clearer skies
Winter Warning (December-February):
- Storm risks affect boat trips
- Limited outdoor activities
- Reduced shore excursions
Top Tip: Book your visit in September or October for the best combination of warm weather and wildlife viewing.
Dining and Shopping Near the Port
The waterfront area offers numerous dining and shopping choices. You’ll find fresh seafood at Old Fisherman’s Wharf, where restaurants serve hot clam chowder, grilled fish and local Dungeness crab. Cannery Row features coastal boutiques selling maritime gifts, local crafts and seaside souvenirs.
You can choose ocean-view restaurants like Bubba Gump’s or Chart House for relaxed dining. For local shopping, Alvarado Street houses independent bookshops, fashion stores and art galleries. Each location lets you experience authentic Monterey culture whilst enjoying the coastal atmosphere.
The restaurants and shops stay open throughout the day, making it easy to plan your visit. You can walk between all locations, with clear signage showing the way. Most venues accept major credit cards and offer takeaway options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Whale-Watching Tours That Guarantee Whale Sightings in Monterey Bay?
You can’t get a 100% whale-sighting guarantee in Monterey Bay, but the odds are strongly in your favour. Local boat tours offer an 85-90% success rate for spotting whales, thanks to the bay’s 27 different marine mammal species. You’ll find most tour operators keep track of recent sightings and know the best spots, making your whale-watching adventure highly likely to succeed.
Can Cruise Passengers Store Luggage Somewhere in Monterey During Port Visits?
You can store your luggage at several secure locations in Monterey during your cruise stop. The Luggage Locker facility in downtown Monterey offers reliable storage services at hourly rates. Local hotels near the port also provide short-term luggage storage, even for non-guests. Drop off your bags and explore the waterfront without carrying heavy luggage.
How Safe Is Monterey for Solo Travelers Exploring on Foot?
Monterey offers safe conditions for solo walking tours, particularly in its main areas. You’ll find regular police patrols throughout the waterfront and downtown districts. The local community maintains a helpful, welcoming attitude towards visitors, and the paths are usually busy with other tourists. Key areas like Cannery Row and Fisherman’s Wharf feature well-lit streets and clear signage. You can confidently explore these popular spots during daylight hours, with basic safety precautions as you would take in any city.
Are There Any Free Public Wifi Spots Near the Cruise Tender Area?
You can access free WiFi at several spots near the cruise tender area:
- Custom House Plaza (right next to the tender pier)
- Old Fisherman’s Wharf
- Local cafés along the waterfront
To connect, simply check your device’s WiFi settings and look for networks marked as “Free Public WiFi”.
Does Monterey Have Any Beach Wheelchair Rentals for Disabled Cruise Passengers?
You can access free beach wheelchairs at multiple Monterey beaches. Contact the Monterey Recreation Department on 0831 646 3866 to book your wheelchair. These chairs help you navigate sandy beaches safely and comfortably during your cruise stop.
Thinking about something different? Check out the cruises leaving from Portland, Oregon Cruise Ship Port.
