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Things to Do Near downtown Carmel, Monterey, CA

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  • There are so many places and fun activities around the bay that you'd be hard-pressed to find a second of boredom on a trip to Monterey. Most famous, of course, is the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Located on the southern end of the bay between Pacific Grove and Monterey, this is one of the best-known aquariums and marine research stations in the world. Great for visitors of all ages, the Aquarium is least busy in the off-season. The city of Monterey also has trolley rides, which are a nod to the trolleys that were used as a main mode of transport for the bay's citizens. Some trolley rides have themes, such as a ghost ride, and there are also winery tours done by trolley. In Santa Cruz, on the northern end of the bay, the most popular activity is to take to the boardwalk. It's just what you'd expect from a full amusement park on the shore of the California coast, complete with rides, arcades, and some darn good seafood. There's usually live music going on in the summer, and you can grab a beer and find some classic boardwalk souvenirs as well. Some beautiful natural areas are along the shores of the bay, such as the Natural Ridges State Park, which is the wintering place for the annual monarch butterly migration. Many of these areas have miles of good hiking trails, and the beaches can be much less crowded although equally beautiful. And as you can do in nearly any bay in California, a lovely day can be spent out on the water. Sailboats, kayaks, and windsurfing boards are all available for rent or hire, and lessons can easily be arranged. In late winter and early spring, you might just catch a glimpse of a whale. Whalewatching cruises are another good way to get out on the waves, too.

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