Japanese and Italians began developing the area for commercial fishing in the 1890s. Demand for canned fish during World War I led to a boom, and development of what is known as Cannery Row today.
The US military setup an installation in the city in the early 1900s and have been here since.
John Steinbeck's novel, Cannery Row, is inspired by his time here in 1944.
Nav:
Monterey Bay Aquarium: This is a great aquarium, with an indoor and outdoor component. The viewing wall and inventive presentation make it more fun than just a bunch of fish in separate tanks.
Cannery Row: Named after the several sardine canneries that used to exist on this street, the area now has hotels, shops, and restaurants. The aquarium is at the end of the row. There are some gems off the main drag but if you only have a short time, make sure you visit the Row.
17 Mile Drive: A drive through gorgeous costal areas, including Pebble Beach golf course, multi-million dollar homes, and places to hop off and explore tide pools. The AT&T Pro-Am golf tournament is played here annually. If you're not into golf, the drive is scenic and beautiful. Try pulling over to look at the crabs and other wildlife in the tidepools.
Nosh:
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co: Very chain...tried the Shrimper's Heaven platter (it is Bubba Gump's after all)...tasted like they fried frozen food. Saw some of the salads, which looked better, but the shrimp wasn't deveined. The calamari was a small portion and overcooked (like chewing on pencil erasers).Would not recommend unless you have a favorite 'go to' dish here. A member of the group had an allergic reaction to the jambalaya as well.
Rosine's: Mostly centered on Italian food but the burgers and other fare are also legit. The dessert selection (refrigerator case as you walk in) looked amazing...however, I had three meals worth of lasagna to eat so there was no room to try.
Nip:
Dust Bowl Brewing Tap Depot: Unlike the other two locations, this is a tap depot, not tap room/house...it was a train depot in the 1930's. Refreshing spring/summer brews like Kash Crop Orange Mango and Kash Crop Watermelon are a refreshing change from the typical IPAs (which they do have as well).
