Things to See and Do in Monterey, California

Monterey, California is not known as the Language Capital of the World for no reason. It's rich history and culture, even dating back to prehistoric times is among the many reasons tourists flock to its shores year after year. The over 30,000 residents of the city definitely take pride in its linguistic, cultural and historical allure.

Here are some attractions in Monterey, California that you shouldn't miss:

The Monterey Bay Aquarium. Known as the world's second largest aquarium, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is located on the site of a former sardine cannery, Cannery Row. Drawing a crowd of nearly two million people annually, the aquarium has about 35,000 types of flora and fauna in display, representing over 600 species. California's coastal marine life is housed in a 33-foot-high centerpiece that actually boasts of a live Giant Kelp.

Cannery Row. The former nickname of Ocean View Avenue was made official as it is a more appropriate name for what was once the site of the California sardine-canning factories. But to fans of John Steinbeck's books, it's adapted from his 1945 novel, Cannery Row, which later became the basis for a Nick-Nolte 1982 screenplay version. That's reason enough to get tourists curious to see what this section of Monterey is all about.

Fisherman's Wharf. Originally built as a loading-unloading dock for passengers and goods, then as an active wholesale fish market into the third quarter of the 20th century, the 19th-century Fishermen's Wharf became a tourist attraction as the fishing business in California dwindled off in recent decades. Now, Fisherman's Wharf is lined with seafood restaurants that delight residents and tourists alike. From casual, open-air bars serving oysters to fine dining, cozy indoor places serving various seafood cuisines, practically everyone can find a place to fill a growling stomach. Besides excellent food, the spectacular view of the bay area draws diners here.

Monterey Museum of Art. Housed in two locations - La Mirada and Pacific Street - the Monterey Museum of Art holds California's art history. Paintings from Francis McComas, William F. Ritschel and Armin Hanson show early Californian artwork.

Photography enthusiasts would be pleasantly surprised to find collections from Ansel Adams, Edward Weston, and Imogen Cunningham. For fans of contemporary artists, there are works by Pablo Picasso and Henri Matisse on display. Not only that, there's ethnic collections as well - from Asian to Native American arts.

17-Mile Drive. Experience the beauty of nature in California as you traverse 17 miles of perfect blue skies, stunning beaches, and luscious greens. This scenic drive runs through the Del Monte Forest and showcases breathtaking views of green golf courses and dreamy homes. See the colliding waves of the Restless Sea, the natural home of brown pelicans. Yes, this is the home of the Lone Cypress and Point Joe.

There's plenty more of Monterey, California to delight the senses. Whether you're visiting for the art, the history, the culture or to be close with nature, Monterey is an excellent way to all that and more.

Laura Eggers Underhill is the author and publisher of the online travel guide http://www.monterey-getaway.com