Mighty Monterey is a Californian treasure-chest, glistening with some of the Golden State's finest offerings. Sun-drenched beaches, thunderous Pacific breakers, soaring Redwood forests, maritime marvels, gorgeous homes and historic riches at every turn.
For a power-packed Californian adventure, Monterey tops the pops. In 1821, when Mexico broke away from Spain'sclutches, Monterey briefly became the capital of Alta California. The beautiful Custom House, built in 1822, is the oldest standing government building in the state. It serviced the bustling international trading port which lured Russian fur traders, whalers, East Coast Yankees, and merchant seafarers hauling exotic goods from the Orient.
Old Fisherman's Wharf is a photogenic tourist haunt with vestiges from its giddy trading past. By the 1930s, Monterey was the "Sardine Capital" of the world, as fishermen made the most of the bay's abundant marine life. The tinned fish boom became unsustainable, but the Cannery Row waterfront precinct that has preserved the industry's buildings, has been converted for use by artisans and hospitality.
The city's top visitor draw is the Monterey Bay Aquarium, a mesmerising salute to the wonders of the ocean. Set aside a full day to explore this exceptional attraction, because it is on the grand scale. Built on the old site of Monterey's biggest sardine cannery, this gallery of sea life includes puffins, penguins, otters, octopuses, sharks and turtles. There are kid-friendly touch pools with starfish, sea cucumbers, slimy slugs and bat rays.
Another eye-opener is the colossal kelp forest, which has 2000 gallons of seawater pumped into it every minute, re-creating the natural conditions beyond the shoreline. The major crowd-puller is the superlative multistorey open-sea gallery. Stand in front of the towering glass panels and soak up the unbelievable splendour of thousands of ocean creatures passing by. This is the best "window on the ocean world" spectacle I've ever experienced.
When you've had your fill of Neptune's delights there is plenty more to see.
Alongside the Custom House are two very good museums, and California's First Theatre is worth a photo-stop.
California's oldest functioning church gracefully presides over Monterey. It was first known as the Royal Presidio Chapel. Follow the signposts to San Carlos Cathedral to size up this 18th century sandstone gem.
The Hilton Garden Inn is my top recommendation as a base.
The centrally located, comfortably sized hotel offers superb dining at its Pacific Grille Restaurant, a fabulous pool and spa deck and cheerful, helpful staff.
