The best things to do in Monterey County

“Monterey Lanes keeps that classic-bowling charm alive with a vintage vibe, a legit Sports Bar & Grill, arcade games, and leagues for kids and grownups. Great for low-stress hangouts, birthday parties, or a spur-of-the-moment frame when the fog finally rolls in.”

From the Monterey newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Kick your week into gear with Salinas Rodeo, serving real deal PRCA action in our backyard, from bull riding and barrel racing to saddle bronc and freestyle bullfights that make your coffee feel weak. Plus parades, Cowboy Poetry, the Midway, and the Crown Royal Saloon keep the hometown vibes strong.”

From the Salinas newsletter, October 11, 2026

“Built by Jack Fleming back in 1957, Salinas Fairways Golf Course is a championship 18 that locals love for smooth greens, an honest test, and easy practice time on the range and putting green. Grab a post-round bite at Cotton’s Café and pick up tips from their PGA instruction crew.”

From the Salinas newsletter, October 6, 2026

“Step into 25 acres of bamboo groves, lush gardens, and modern barns at The Brothers Ranch, a nature-filled wedding and event venue that feels delightfully un-California. Multiple indoor and outdoor ceremony spots, a bar and lounge, plus Friesian horses for jaw-dropping photos make it a must-scout this week.”

From the Watsonville newsletter, August 24, 2026

“Old Fisherman's Wharf is clutch this week when you want chowder, sea lion watching, and an easy excuse to be near the water. Grab seafood, wander unique shops, then jump on a whale watch, fishing trip, or bay cruise, and call it self care that smells like the ocean.”

From the Monterey newsletter, September 23, 2026

“Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. , Laguna Seca Golf Ranch pairs a legit practice facility with a course you’ll want to replay, then Fairview Laguna Seca brings a casual lunch menu and 12 beers on tap. Call it your low-stress Monterey reset this week.”

From the Monterey newsletter, September 19, 2026

“Membership-only venue featuring a Nicklaus-designed golf course, restaurant, and race track.”

“Country club offering membership, and a golf course, as well as scenic views.”

“Movie theater in Pacific Grove offering active military discounts and auditorium rentals.”

“If you’ve been craving wide fairways, breezy Monterey Bay views, and the occasional wildlife cameo, Pajaro Valley Golf Club delivers a century-strong layout with fun Par-3s and a relaxed vibe. Sneak in a round this week, then refuel at the on-site Cypress Grill because birdies deserve burgers.”

From the Watsonville newsletter, August 10, 2026

“Chain of movie theaters, some with multiple screens, stadium seats & self-service ticketing kiosks.”

“High Scores Arcade is pure retro bliss, packed with classic cabinets in a nostalgic vibe where you can chase ghosts, use the force, and maybe rescue a princess. They now pour beer and seltzer yet keep it family friendly, so round up the crew and claim a spot on the scoreboard this week.”

From the Monterey newsletter, September 26, 2026

“Chain of movie theaters, some with multiple screens, stadium seats & self-service ticketing kiosks.”

“When you want a five-minute reset between errands, The Monterey Mural by Granizo delivers 48 feet of local history in color, wit and tiny details you’ll keep spotting. Created by Guillermo "Bill" Wagner Granizo, it’s outdoors by the Monterey Conference Center and was lovingly restored in 2018.”

From the Monterey newsletter, September 15, 2026

“Whether you're sneaking in nine between errands or chasing a tidy score, Monterey Pines Golf Club is a par-70 track that rewards accuracy with undulating greens and lakes. Hit the range and short-game area, then debrief at the Grill & Bar or the Foresight-powered simulator lounge.”

From the Monterey newsletter, September 11, 2026

“When you need an easy win with the kids, Oscar's Playground blends classic arcade hits, themed escape rooms like Mystical Manor, and flexible party packages in Cannery Row. It’s fun-first, chaos-limiting, and surprisingly good for grownups too... bring friends, split up, then brag about high scores.”

From the Monterey newsletter, October 11, 2026

“Whether you're chasing a quick weekday nine or a full 18 with ocean air, Pacific Grove Golf Links is the municipal course locals actually brag about, recognized for environmental excellence and value by national golf outlets, with lessons from Brad Cursio, PGA, plus active member clubs and low-key tournaments.”

From the Monterey newsletter, September 1, 2026

“Rock climbing center offering bouldering and top roping, plus yoga and tai chi classes.”

“Skip the tourist shuffle and use Cannery Row like a local, from tucked-away tasting rooms and boutiques to bay-view strolls between restaurants. Keep tabs on the Events Calendar, then nerd out with the Cannery Row Walking Map App for a self-guided history tour with 27 displays.”

From the Monterey newsletter, October 13, 2026

“This week, trade your usual loop for Poppy Hills Golf Course, an NCGA-owned gem tucked into Pebble Beach’s Monterey pines, with championship-ready turf, flawless bentgrass greens, and surprise peeks of the bay; book a round, groove on the range, then debrief at Porter’s Grill and Pub.”

From the Monterey newsletter, August 28, 2026

“If you're scheming a Monterey gathering, put Monterey Beach Station on your list this week. It nails toes-in-the-sand vows, a sea-facing deck for cocktails, then a historic indoor space with Pacific and city-light views, all run by a pro team that keeps planning blissfully low stress.”

From the Monterey newsletter, October 6, 2026

“Shake up a weeknight with Monterey Mirror Maze and Laser Challenge, a trippy, underwater-themed labyrinth designed by master maze maker Adrian Fisher, complete with pulsing lights, kaleidoscope vibes, and a legit Laser Challenge where you sneak through beams like a heist hero.”

From the Monterey newsletter, September 30, 2026

“Chain of movie theaters, some with multiple screens, stadium seats & self-service ticketing kiosks.”

“Lower Presidio Historic Park is that hidden-in-plain-sight hillside where Monterey’s story stacks up, from Indigenous roots and Vizcaíno’s landing to the Bouchard raid and Buffalo Soldiers. Stroll the interpretive trails to the Serra and Sloat monuments, soak up bay views, and feel smug about living here.”

From the Monterey newsletter, October 9, 2026

“Designed by Alister Mackenzie in 1928, Cypress Point Club snakes through coastal dunes and the Del Monte Forest before unleashing the legendary 15-16-17 finish, including a 231-yard carry over the Pacific on 16. Members-only, so if that unicorn text drops, clear your week.”

From the Monterey newsletter, August 18, 2026