Cannery Row Monument
A historic waterfront district immortalized by John Steinbeck, offering shops, dining, and ocean views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Cannery Row Monument
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic waterfront district immortalized by John Steinbeck, offering shops, dining, and ocean views.
"Cannery Row is such a gem. There's great food, eclectic shops, and a beautiful beach."
🚶♀️ Stroll the Boardwalk
Enjoy the ocean views and lively atmosphere. Great for people-watching and wildlife spotting.
🛍️ Explore Antique Shops
Discover unique vintage finds at the Cannery Row Antique Mall.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Cannery Row Monument
Cannery Row
Honor the figures who shaped this historic waterfront, immortalized by John Steinbeck.
Antique Shopping
Cannery Row Antique Mall
Discover unique vintage treasures and antique finds across two floors of eclectic booths.
Oceanfront Strolls
Cannery Row Boardwalk
Enjoy scenic views of the bay, watch wildlife, and soak in the lively atmosphere.
Historic Film Locations
Various locations on Cannery Row
Visit sites where classic films like 'Clash By Night' were filmed, adding a cinematic layer to your visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the History
+1Beyond the Monument
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Stroll the Boardwalk
Enjoy the ocean views and lively atmosphere. Great for people-watching and wildlife spotting.
🛍️ Explore Antique Shops
Discover unique vintage finds at the Cannery Row Antique Mall. +1
📚 Steinbeck's Legacy
Learn about the history that inspired John Steinbeck's novel.
🍽️ Dine with a View
Many restaurants offer stunning ocean vistas. Try El Torito for seafood. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Stroll the Boardwalk
Enjoy the ocean views and lively atmosphere. Great for people-watching and wildlife spotting.
🛍️ Explore Antique Shops
Discover unique vintage finds at the Cannery Row Antique Mall. +1
📚 Steinbeck's Legacy
Learn about the history that inspired John Steinbeck's novel.
🍽️ Dine with a View
Many restaurants offer stunning ocean vistas. Try El Torito for seafood. +1
🚗 Parking Tips
Street parking can be easy to find, especially away from peak hours.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Cannery Row a pleasant place to stroll, with beautiful ocean views and a lively atmosphere. The monument offers a historical touchpoint, and the surrounding shops and restaurants provide ample opportunities for dining and unique finds, especially at the antique mall. While some feel it's not as extensive as other nearby attractions, it's still considered a worthwhile stop.
"Great spot to stop and check out the statue and wildlife."
Andrew Lawrence
"A good place to stop by and walk around.
Not as much to see as Carmel or the 17 mile drive, but it’s worth stopping by.
The bougainvillea flowers were gorgeous!!"
Jessica You
"This is a great spot from the boardwalk, it has a nice view of the sea. A great place to have a stroll around, see the nearby attractions and lots of restaurants offering nearby"
Rishat Iqbal
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cannery Row is easily accessible by car, with parking available in nearby lots and street parking. It's also a pleasant walk from Fisherman's Wharf.
Yes, local bus routes serve Cannery Row, making it a convenient option for visitors. Check the Monterey-Salinas Transit website for schedules.
Absolutely! The aquarium is located right on Cannery Row, making it easy to combine visits. It's a short and scenic walk.
Walking is the best way to explore Cannery Row, allowing you to discover its shops and attractions at your own pace.
Yes, there's a unique tunnel on Lighthouse Avenue between Fisherman's Wharf and Cannery Row that has a tradition of honking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Cannery Row Monument and the surrounding area are free to visit and explore.
Cannery Row itself is an open area with shops and restaurants that have varying hours, generally open from morning to evening.
There are no entrance fees for Cannery Row. You only pay for any purchases you make at shops or restaurants.
Yes, browsing the antique mall is free, though you'll likely be tempted to buy! +1
The monument is part of the public area of Cannery Row and can be viewed at any time, though shops and restaurants have specific operating hours.
📸 📸 Photography
The monument itself, the ocean views from the boardwalk, and the colorful bougainvillea flowers are popular photo spots.
Yes, you can often spot sea lions and otters from the boardwalk, perfect for wildlife photography. Remember to keep a respectful distance.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. Some individual shops might have their own policies.
Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour light, while mornings can provide softer light and fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.
The monument, the historic buildings, and the scenic coastline are all excellent landmarks for memorable photos.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Cannery Row offers a diverse range of dining options, from seafood and Mexican cuisine to casual cafes and fine dining. +2
Visitors often recommend El Torito for its ocean views and Mexican food, and The Sardine Factory for a more upscale experience. +2
Yes, you can grab food from Cannery Row establishments and enjoy it on the nearby beach.
While some restaurants are upscale, you can find more casual eateries and cafes offering more affordable meals.
Schooner's Monterey and El Torito are popular choices for brunch with ocean views. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack snacks and drinks to keep little ones happy during your exploration. The beach area is also a great spot for kids to play. For dining, look for restaurants with kid-friendly menus. The overall vibe of Cannery Row is welcoming to families, making it an enjoyable outing.
🛍️ Shoppers and Antique Enthusiasts
Beyond antiques, explore the various boutiques offering local crafts, art, and souvenirs. The joy here is in the discovery, so take your time browsing and don't be afraid to haggle if the opportunity arises at the antique mall.
📚 History Buffs and Book Lovers
+1 Reading Steinbeck's novel before or during your visit will deepen your appreciation for the area's past, from its bustling sardine canning days to its more colorful characters. Look for historical markers and consider a guided walking tour to gain deeper insights into the area's transformation. You can also visit filming locations from movies like 'Clash By Night' that were shot here, adding another layer to the historical experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Cannery Row
+1 Today, the spirit of the row lives on through its vibrant shops, restaurants, and hotels, offering a glimpse into its rich heritage while embracing its modern appeal. Key figures honored at the monument include those involved in the canning industry and local community leaders. The transformation from a working-class industrial zone to a premier tourist destination is a testament to Monterey's ability to preserve its history while adapting to new opportunities.
Shopping and Unique Finds
From handcrafted jewelry to mid-century modern furniture, the shopping experience on Cannery Row caters to a variety of tastes. Many visitors enjoy the thrill of discovering hidden gems and one-of-a-kind items that tell a story. The eclectic mix ensures there's something for everyone, whether you're looking for a special memento or simply enjoy browsing.
Culinary Delights with a View
Whether you're craving fresh seafood, international flavors, or a casual bite, Cannery Row has you covered. Many visitors enjoy grabbing food from local eateries and enjoying it on the nearby beach, creating a relaxed and scenic dining experience.
Brunch is also a popular affair, with spots like Schooner's Monterey offering delightful morning menus with bay views. 
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