Old Whaling Station Adobe
Discover Monterey's past at the Old Whaling Station Adobe, featuring the West Coast's last whalebone sidewalk.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Scheduled tour days
Old Whaling Station Adobe
Best Time
Scheduled tour days

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Monterey's past at the Old Whaling Station Adobe, featuring the West Coast's last whalebone sidewalk.
"A unique historical gem with a fascinating whalebone sidewalk, but plan event bookings carefully."
Confirm Tour Times
Tours are typically Tuesdays & Thursdays. Always confirm availability before your visit.
Book Events Early
For weddings or events, contact well in advance due to potential response delays.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Whalebone Sidewalk
Walk on history! The last whalebone sidewalk on the West Coast, a truly unique and memorable sight.

Historic Adobe Architecture
Step back in time in this well-preserved adobe building, showcasing Monterey's rich past.

Seasonal Greenery
After rains, the grounds burst with vibrant green grass and flowers, creating a picturesque setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
A Unique Sidewalk Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Confirm Tour Times
Tours are typically Tuesdays & Thursdays. Always confirm availability before your visit.
Book Events Early
For weddings or events, contact well in advance due to potential response delays.
Tell me about The Whaling Station in Monterey
Admire the Sidewalk
Don't miss the unique whalebone sidewalk – a true historical gem!
Enjoy the Scenery
The grounds are beautiful, especially after rain when they're full of color.
Whaling Station - absolutely the best steak and Oysters I’ve had!
Tips
from all over the internet
Confirm Tour Times
Tours are typically Tuesdays & Thursdays. Always confirm availability before your visit.
Book Events Early
For weddings or events, contact well in advance due to potential response delays.
Admire the Sidewalk
Don't miss the unique whalebone sidewalk – a true historical gem!
Enjoy the Scenery
The grounds are beautiful, especially after rain when they're full of color.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the Old Whaling Station Adobe for its unique historical features, particularly the whalebone sidewalk and well-maintained grounds. However, some potential visitors have expressed frustration with slow response times and communication issues when inquiring about event bookings or tours, leading to disappointment for those traveling long distances.
"Well maintained, minimalist look due to recent trimmings. Some spurts of color returning."
David P. Hughey
"I had tried 4-5 times to contact them regarding booking my wedding there next year. It took several weeks to get a response. Yesterday we made plans to tour.
The manager Terry stated tours were available Tuesdays and Thursdays. I then told her I lived in Irvine which is almost 6 hours away, and could only come on a weekend.
Terry then said if I could definitely come Saturday (today) she would give me a tour. I thanked her and let her know I would get there by early afternoon (again it’s 6 hours north). I figured I would let her knows when I was an hour away.
I left at 7 am. Four hours into the drive I stopped for gas and saw she emailed me at 9 stating she would cancel if I didn’t tell her when I’d be there and soon.
I then emailed back and texted her stating I had already been driving for 4 hours. She canceled anyway stating it was her day off. And then said I could still go look in the window.
Are you kidding? Needless to say we are going with another venue. I would not invest money in this poorly managed venue. My dogs and I are now on our 4 hour drive back home."
Moon Tots
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Heather Lang
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Old Whaling Station Adobe is located in Monterey, California. It's accessible by car, with parking typically available nearby. Public transportation options may also serve the area.
While specific parking details can vary, visitors generally find parking options in the vicinity of the adobe. It's advisable to check for any posted parking restrictions.
While tours are the primary way to experience the interior, you can often view the exterior and the unique whalebone sidewalk without a formal tour.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tours are typically offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays. It's crucial to confirm the exact hours and availability directly with the venue, as they can change.
For tours, it's recommended to book in advance, especially if you have a specific date in mind. For general viewing of the exterior, tickets are usually not required.
Information on tour fees or entry costs should be verified directly with the venue. Some historical sites offer free general access but charge for guided tours.
Yes, the venue is available for events and weddings. However, potential clients have noted that booking inquiries may take time to receive a response.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The most distinctive feature is undoubtedly the whalebone sidewalk, the last of its kind on the West Coast. It's a fascinating piece of maritime history.
Tours offer a glimpse into the adobe's history, showcasing its architecture and the stories of its past inhabitants and the whaling industry.
The adobe's historic architecture and the unique whalebone sidewalk offer great photographic opportunities. The grounds can also be picturesque, especially after rain.
The venue has hosted events like Christmas in the Adobes, featuring musical performances. Check their schedule for any upcoming public events.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to check tour availability and content to ensure it aligns with your children's interests and attention spans. The historical context of the whaling industry can be a great way to teach kids about local heritage in an accessible way. Remember to confirm any event booking policies if you're considering a family gathering or party at the venue.
💍 Couples & Event Planners
While the adobe itself is a charming historical site, thorough communication with the management is crucial for a smooth planning process. Understanding the venue's policies, available dates, and any potential limitations will help ensure your special day is everything you envision.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Whalebone Sidewalk: A Maritime Marvel
This sidewalk isn't just a novelty; it's a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the era. It serves as a powerful reminder of the scale of the whaling industry and its impact on coastal communities like Monterey. The preservation of this sidewalk ensures that future generations can appreciate this unique aspect of maritime heritage. It’s a conversation starter and a memorable photo opportunity that sets the Old Whaling Station Adobe apart.
Planning Your Visit: Tips from Travelers
Beyond tours, the grounds of the adobe are also worth appreciating. After rainfall, the area transforms with lush green grass and blooming flowers, offering a picturesque setting. This natural beauty, combined with the historic architecture, makes for a pleasant visit. While the interior offers a glimpse into the past, the exterior and its unique whalebone sidewalk provide ample points of interest for those who may not be able to secure a guided tour.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit