Top Monterey & Carmel Literary Tours

A history-saturated neighborhood and a literary landmark, Monterey’s Cannery Row is a must-see for fans of John Steinbeck and American literature—and this self-led walking tour offers a seamless, flexible way to discover. Upon purchasing, download the audio tour and use when and as often as you’d like. You’ll learn about the rise and fall of the local fishing industry, Steinbeck’s work, the neighborhood’s revival, and more.

With a 99% success rate, this is how you up your odds of seeing whales on your visit to Monterey. On board one of the industry’s most comfortable boats, you’ll float out to a protected sanctuary to view humpback whales, gray whales, blue whales, killer whales, sperm whales, and other wild creatures, including dolphins, sea turtles, sea lions, otters, and more.

Look for whales as they migrate through the waters of the Pacific Ocean off of California on this whale-watching cruise from Monterey. Your naturalist guide shares commentary about the whales and their habitat as you search for gray whales (most common), humpback and blue whales, and other marine life such as dolphins and sea lions during your cruise.

Explore the culinary delights of Carmel, just down the coast from Monterey, on this food and drink walking tour. With a knowledgeable foodie guide, you’ll learn about the history and gourmet culture of Carmel, an upscale enclave known for its charming architecture and cozy, small-town vibe, as you visit local eateries to sample locavore and ethnic dishes, chocolate, and cocktails or spirits. Limited to 16 people, this tour provides a small-group experience with personalized attention.