Custom House Plaza - Image 1
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Custom House Plaza

Monterey, United States

Historic plaza with harbor views, featuring a cactus garden, seasonal ice rink, and vibrant artisan markets.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends

Artisan markets and events

CrowdMedium
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Custom House Plaza - Image 1

Custom House Plaza

Best Time

Weekends

Artisan markets and events

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic plaza with harbor views, featuring a cactus garden, seasonal ice rink, and vibrant artisan markets.

"A charming spot to connect with history and enjoy the Monterey Bay waterfront."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Check Event Schedules

Look for markets, festivals, or ice skating events to maximize your visit!

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the gardens and surrounding areas. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Custom House Cactus Garden

Custom House Cactus Garden

Custom House Plaza

A unique collection of drought-resistant cacti gathered from the Southwest, offering harbor views.

Ice Skating by the Bay

Ice Skating by the Bay

Custom House Plaza

Seasonal outdoor ice rink offering festive fun with stunning Monterey Harbor views.

Local Artisan Markets

Local Artisan Markets

Custom House Plaza

Discover handmade crafts, art, and unique items from local vendors at weekend markets.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Check for local events like the Monterey Italian Festival or holiday markets, as these can transform Custom House Plaza into a vibrant hub. Be aware that these events might increase crowds and affect parking.

Embrace the Outdoors

Custom House Plaza is an outdoor space, so dress in layers suitable for coastal California weather. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, especially if you plan to explore the historic areas or enjoy the gardens.

Best Times

When
Weekends
Why
Artisan markets and events
Crowd
Medium
When
Winter (Nov-Dec)
Why
Festive ice skating rink
Crowd
Medium
When
Spring
Why
Beautiful lilac blooms
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

This beautiful garden is a perfect venue for private and community functions like weddings, and banquets. It’s enclosed by an adobe wall and has many beautiful trees and flowers. My favorite part is the canopy of lilacs in the spring and that little blue door. 📍 20 Custom House Plaza Monterey Ca. 93940 Save this to come back to if you’re looking for a great venue. Follow along for more place...
montereytravelgram
20 likes • 864 views

🎯 Check Event Schedules

Look for markets, festivals, or ice skating events to maximize your visit! Instagram+2

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the gardens and surrounding areas. :athletic_shoe:

Hi everyone! Come by Custom House Plaza in Monterey today (November 5) and tomorrow and say hi 👋🏼 I’ll be here 10am-5pm both days. You’ll find my stickers and @micjoycedraws at my booth! if you mention you saw this reel, you might get a FREE item 😉
hellojessluong
26 likes • 353 views
I made these 4 ammonite purses and I can’t get enough of them. I’m selling them at the upcoming markets in Monterey: Jack’s Park on the 22nd with @captainstoker and 5 Custom House Plaza on the 23rd with @montereyhistoryart Should I make more? Let me know what you think in the comments 😉 #monterey #art #crafts #handmade #buylocal #localart #localartists #supportsmallbusiness #crochet #ammonite ...
bythebay_crochet
55 likes • 1.1K views

🧥 Dress in Layers

Coastal weather can change quickly; be prepared for sun, wind, and cooler temperatures. ☁️

📸 Capture the Views

The plaza offers lovely views of Monterey Harbor, perfect for photos. :camerawithflash:

野生のアシカがすぐそこ🦭 怖いぐらい近くで見ることができました。 📍モントレー 1 Custom House Plaza, Monterey, CA 93940 Follow me here👇 @seika_usa @seika_study_abroad @seika_ux ⁡ ⁡ #calilife #アメリカ生活 #usalife #usa #theunitedstates #americalife #미국 #アメリカ暮らし#toamerica #カリフォルニア #カリフォルニア生活 #california #bayarea #ベイエリア #海外生活 #シリコンバレー #foreignlife #foreigncountry #海外留学 #駐在生活 #海外旅行 #旅行 #trip #海外留学 #駐在生活 #海外旅行 #旅行 #trip #sealion #アシカ #野生 #たく...
seika_usa
31 likes • 700 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Check Event Schedules

Look for markets, festivals, or ice skating events to maximize your visit! Instagram+2

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the gardens and surrounding areas. :athletic_shoe:

🧥 Dress in Layers

Coastal weather can change quickly; be prepared for sun, wind, and cooler temperatures. ☁️

📸 Capture the Views

The plaza offers lovely views of Monterey Harbor, perfect for photos. :camerawithflash:

🛍️ Support Local Artisans

Many vendors sell unique handmade goods at the weekend markets. :shopping_bags:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors appreciate Custom House Plaza for its scenic harbor views, historic significance, and vibrant seasonal events like ice skating and artisan markets. It's a pleasant outdoor space for a stroll, offering a glimpse into Monterey's past and present. Some find parking can be challenging during peak times or major events.

What People Like

Scenic harbor views
Historic atmosphere
Seasonal events

What People Dislike

Parking challenges

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Custom House Plaza is located at 1 Custom House Plaza, Monterey, CA 93940. It's easily accessible by car, with nearby parking options. Public transportation also serves the area, making it convenient to reach. Instagram+1

Yes, there are parking lots available near Custom House Plaza. During peak times or special events, parking can fill up quickly, so arriving early is recommended. Instagram

If you are staying in the downtown Monterey area or along Cannery Row, Custom House Plaza is within walking distance, offering a pleasant stroll along the waterfront. 🚶

Many visitors find that walking is a great way to explore Monterey, especially between Custom House Plaza, Cannery Row, and Fisherman's Wharf. Ride-sharing services and local trolleys are also available. 🚌

Yes, several Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) bus routes stop near Custom House Plaza, making it accessible for those relying on public transportation. Check the MST website for current routes and schedules. 🚌

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Custom House Plaza itself is a public space and generally free to enter. However, specific events held within the plaza, such as the ice skating rink or festivals, may have separate admission fees or ticket requirements. Instagram

As an outdoor public space, Custom House Plaza is typically accessible during daylight hours. However, specific attractions within the plaza, like the ice skating rink, have their own operating hours. Instagram

For popular seasonal events like 'Ice Skating by the Bay,' it's advisable to check their official website for advance ticket purchase options to secure your spot, especially during peak times. Instagram+1

Discounts for events are not always guaranteed and vary by event. It's best to check the specific event organizer's website or social media for any promotional offers or group rates. :moneywithwings:

Generally, pets are allowed in outdoor public spaces like Custom House Plaza, but they must be kept on a leash. Always check for specific event rules, as some may have restrictions on animals. 🐕

📸 📸 Photography

The Custom House Cactus Garden offers unique textures and colors, while the Monterey Harbor provides scenic backdrops. The historic Custom House building itself is also a great subject. Instagram+1

Yes, photography is generally welcomed at Custom House Plaza for personal use. If you plan to use a professional setup for commercial purposes, it's wise to inquire about permits. :camerawithflash:

The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer beautiful, soft light for photography. Midday can be bright, but the harbor views are still lovely. :sunriseovermountains:

Drone usage is often restricted in public parks and near harbors due to safety and privacy concerns. It's essential to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone. :drone:

It's polite to ask vendors for permission before taking close-up photos of their products or stalls. Many artisans are happy to have their work showcased. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While Custom House Plaza itself doesn't have many dining establishments, it's surrounded by numerous restaurants, cafes, and food stalls near Fisherman's Wharf and Cannery Row, offering a wide variety of cuisines. 🍴

You'll find everything from fresh seafood and clam chowder on the wharf to international flavors and casual eateries in the nearby areas. 🦐 🍕

Picnicking is generally allowed in public parks. Enjoying your own snacks and beverages in the plaza is a great way to save money and enjoy the scenery. :apple: :water_bottle:

Absolutely! The areas around Custom House Plaza are very family-friendly, with many restaurants offering kid's menus and a relaxed atmosphere. :child:

Several cafes and delis are located within a short walk from the plaza, perfect for a morning coffee or a quick bite before exploring. ☕

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