Park down by the beach and walk to the wharf. Beautiful waters. Boats and kayaks everywhere. The walk had so many candy store and cute happy hour restaurants. Best part is when u make it to the end where the view scoops are to view the area.

Old Fisherman’s wharf is a popular tourist attraction. went there on a weekday and there are few people. Before the pandemic it used to serve free clam chowder to entice customers to dine in. Nowadays there are less people and some of the big seafood restaurants are now closed. Luckily, the Old Fishermans grotto is till open where you can get the famous clam chowder. Overall the old fisherman’s wharf is still a good place to visit.

The place has some good seafood restaurants. But many are closed for renovations. Seals are found throughout the year. Well maintained walk and bike ways. Parking is free for the first hour.

What a delightful time. Sea lions galore and watched their antics for hours. They are not always there in such quantity, maybe May-June to September. Everyone young and older was enthralled . The boardwalk was fun with good places to eat. We had the best ice cream. Be sure to walk to the end and up on the viewing landing. A don't miss while visiting Monterey!

I have the sense that The Old Fisherman’s Wharf is struggling post pandemic and with inflation. My husband (who usually abhors tourist traps) has enjoyed it in the past so wanted to bring me for the first time in September 2022. A quarter of the store fronts were boarded up and pricing on the food was incredibly steep, even at grab and go style spots. We scrolled through reviews for the restaurants on the wharf and did not think any of them seemed worth spending the money they were charging. I do think that if we had been more in the mood for a tourist trap and feeling spendthrift our experience would have been different. Saw some gorgeous views available from within the restaurants and certainly seafood here would be 👌👌👌. Will update my review if we find ourselves here again. We did enjoy the salt water taffy we picked up on our way out from one of the candy stores that sold it individually rather than in $15 bags. We stayed less than twenty minutes. Should note that the sea lions piled up on the shore right at the entrance to the wharf were a delight. We stood watching them nap, clamour over each other and brawl a bit for probably a half hour. We smiled as wide and laughed as hard as the kids who were also transfixed.

There are many great restaurants and a vibe that I really enjoy. It is a very touristy spot, yet I still greatly appreciate it as a local. It's always a fun place to spend time or to go for a short walk after eating out.

Old Fisherman's Wharf is a nostalgic destination that holds a wealth of memories from the past. This time, I had the pleasure of visiting with my sister. The vibrant atmosphere, lively music, breathtaking ocean view, and array of restaurants all contribute to the undeniable appeal of this place. There is an abundance of activities to enjoy here. For me, Old Fisherman's Wharf has always been synonymous with the best Clam Chowder and unforgettable sunsets. The flavors of the Clam Chowder are unparalleled, leaving a lasting impression on my taste buds. Furthermore, the sight of the sun setting over the horizon adds a touch of magic to the experience. It's a place where cherished memories are made and treasured moments unfold.

We visited the Old Fishermans Wharf on a weekday in June 2023. we were passing through touring the seat coast and spent the day in Monterey. The wharf was a good part of the day. We parked in the pay parking lot just outside the wharf entrance on Washington Street. We walked along and visited shops and restaurants on the wharf. It was a nice time strolling along at our leisure. It wasn't the least expensive place we've ever been. But rarely are these types of areas. We had a really nice lunch at one of the eateries before heading out. Just a nice place to spend some time. It also comes with nice views of the bay. What's not to like?

The drop off spot for the occasional cruise ship as tenders are used to get to shore. Pretty much a tourist trap on the boardwalk, which can save having to walk to cannery row for the tourist traps. On the plus side, good location for checking out basking sea lions and perhaps a harbor otter.

Old Fisherman's Wharf is a vibrant hub of maritime charm and culinary delights. The historic atmosphere, coupled with the aroma of fresh seafood, creates an inviting experience. Strolling along the wharf, you'll find an array of shops, seafood restaurants, and lively street performances. While it can get crowded, especially during peak hours, the energy adds to the excitement. Seafood lovers will appreciate the variety of options, from clam chowder in sourdough bowls to freshly caught fish. Whether you're seeking a delicious meal, unique souvenirs, or a scenic waterfront view, Old Fisherman's Wharf offers a quintessential taste of coastal California.

I live nearby but still go on occasion. Prefer it to the aquarium for first time visitors because it's a less expensive, more authentic experience. Lots of good food, candy, touristy kitsch and photo opps.

Nice area with beautiful spots for pictures. To the right of the pier near the bathrooms and parking lot is a boat dock where the sea lions like to congregate. Very close view while still keeping a safe distance. Short walk back to the pier with shops and food and whale watching tours. Parking is by park mobile on the app. We went in mid-October so a lot of the shops were closed up for the season early morning but some cute little candy and gift shops were open. Nicely maintained and seasonally decorated.

Not bad not great. Has plenty of restaurants to choose from as well as stores to buy souvenirs. Pets are allowed and supposed to be on leash...we had a dog run up to us and the owner behind them, no leash in sight... Some type of security or roaming guard would be appreciated.

So much fun! We did Chris' Whale watching tour, ate at Cafe Fina (delicious) and Domenico's (also very good). Lots to see and filled with fun energy!

Having experienced San Francisco, Oakland Jack London square and Bodega Bay recently, I was ready for a return to Monterey and the wharf. It is touristy, but in relation to San Francisco and Oakland this is like night and day. Many sites, beautiful in all respects. We visited at night, so the allure was wonderful. One visiting in the fall and winter the climate can be cold, and the waves amazing against the shore and buildings/restaurants. The temperature this night was comfortable. In conversations with other people on the wharf, they found the experience in Monterey wonderful more relaxing and felt safer then Oakland and San Francisco. There are changes here from when I grew up the area, but I was surprised to see old businesses still around, with new generations taking over for parents. We stopped at Dominico's for a drink, and then the Grotto for some appetizers, calamari and oysters and clam chowder. Excellent as always at the Shake's restaurant. I didn't see the diving bell for tourists. I don't know if it's still there, but boating excursions and fishing excursions still exist. Very reasonable in price IMHO. The calamari specialty shop was closed. That was to bad for us. In all a great visit. Lots of things to see and do with the family. Bicycling, mopeds, electric bikes, the coast guard wharf with seals. The beauty of Monterey Bay. Lots of shopping for the ladies (LOL) I will be reviewing the old fishing wharf, Pacific Grove, Carmel, cannery row and the naval postgraduate school in the next reviews.

It is a nice place to visit and walk around with your family and friends to have fresh ocean breeze. On the way, you could see gift shops and restaurants with seasonal decorations. At the end of the street, you go up and use the telescope to view the ship far far away with couple quarters.

On the evening of the 25th of December on Christmas day, we decided to visit the place and found it really worth visiting. There was a gentle breeze welcoming us and the sea was quite. Most of the shops were open and Christmas decorations were giving a pleasing look all around.

Very cute to walk around. Typical pier with shops along the way. Very touristy but if you’re around the area worth checking out and taking a stroll. Beautiful views. It feels like a cleaner version of San Francisco or Santa Monica, of course, to a smaller scale, but I almost prefer it that way.

Good spot for a classic California Wharf experience! Closest parking is the ‘Old Fisherman Wharf Parking Lot’. There are plenty of pay stations here, $1.50/hour and they take Credit Card. Most of the restaurants/shops on the main wharf open at 10am. Lots of sea good options. To see sea life there are 3 options. 1) you can walk along the cove trail that is accessible from the parking lot. 2) you can go past the whale watching business to the end of the main wharf and 3) you can go to the wharf with the Monterey Fish Co. This is the wharf that the sea lions are under. We went in the morning between 9-10 and got lucky seeing some sea critters. May be a good time to target for less crowds and feeding time for the animals in the bay.

nice place for a walk and a bit of souvenir shopping! the smell of the ocean is a little relaxing for me. so many things to find, see and a lot of restaurants to choose from.

This was a fun place to walk around. Our initial plan was visit a restaurant here for a quick brunch, but when we came to this wharf, we were pleasantly surprised by the atmosphere here. My husband even said this place is unexpectedly pretty and fantastic. We ended up trolling around the area.

Halloween fun at the wharf! 🎃🧡 We stopped by to pick-up our favorite lunch and treat items. The smoked salmon sandwiches are always worth your time and money.

A bit of a fun place to visit with all the Hawkers outside the restaurants creating a real atmosphere. Also found a place that serves wonderful waffle cone ice creams a real must if you visit on a hot day like we did.

I liked the nostalgic atmosphere and not too many crowds. Lots of good clam chowder stores and souvenir shops. We also saw sea lions and seagulls.

Absolutely amazing historical area with old Americana museums and natural history as well as more sea life than you can imagine. Great for walking, boating eating, drinking or enjoying history. There's also the Stanton Center Dali museum with special magic shows.

Very old and historic fisherman's wharf, the mood of old times mixed with the new restaurants and shops, now probably more commercial, but anyway charming.

Happy hour was great, service excellent, sounds like a new owner that's trying to brink it back from beyond Covin and doing a good job. Complementry Calamari was excellent, calm chowder good a little on the sweet side. Would go back. Margaritas very very good.

The wharf is a great place for seafood and whale watching tours. The clam chowder bread bowl is a must if you come here. Thank me later

The area is quite tourist oriented, but the walking, biking and running trail is excellent. Parking close is a challenge with pretty good parking a few blocks away. I hear it is a great whale watching launching point.

Over crowded with tourists and smelly. The best part about here is the extended bike path along the water front and the seals you can see on a daily occurrence. Parking is impossible in some of the places around here so beware.

This place is actually in the opposite direction where Display board is there for Old Fisherman’s Wharf. Its a good place having lots of candy 🍭 shops, soveiner shops and restaurants. There are lots of seals at the beginning of this market, most were crying when we saw them while entering from and exiting to Parking lot.

Was visiting from Southern California, it was pretty but very similar to any other pier with souvenir shops and food places. They have ice cream and old fashioned fudge shops that looked good. Public restrooms as well towards the back left of the pier. I did like a photo I was able to take of some seals from this point- using a camera and not a smartphone. I was wondering why they still had an ad up for Charlie Brown Christmas from 2017 though haha.

Monterey Harbor awesome way to end a fabulous trip. Well worth the trip from the Sea Goddess. Great views. Delicious food and sea lions for entertainment. Fantastic end to a great trip. Earlier in the week got to meet family we were not aware existed, discovery of 8 nieces and nephews. Such an exiting trip for my 90 year old young Dad. One amazing man deserving of this awesome and amazing trip. FAMILY!!!!❤

My first time here to this wharf. I found it to be interesting. Definitely a tourist trap that has seen better days. For the most part the area was clean and kept up. Many gift shops, candy shops and restaurants. I did notice many of the restaurants there had a employee standing outside of their entrances trying to hustle people in. All in all it was it was enjoyable first time and experience. If I was a local would I frequent here? Probably not.

Pretty cool place to visit but definitely a huge tourist place, multiple touresy type stores and restaurants...eating anywhere here is pricey. But beautiful views. You can hear the sea lions underneath and also see them along the rocks. This is also where you can purchase tickets for whale watching.

Nice place. I been here during thanksgiving so parking free and didn’t but any tickets. Beach and pier very nice in near pier got a chance to see jelly fish and seal 🦭. Awesome moment

To really get the full experience of Monterey Beach, it is a must to visit the Old Fisherman's Wharf. There is so much to see. There is so much to offer. Stores along this wharf were decorated to enhance an old fisherman's wharf, including statues of pirates. There are food, clothing, and jewelery shops. Other shops offered boat rides to see whales. Sail boats in the marina are lined with their masts projecting up into the sky. Also, at the marina was the international World's Toughest Row getting set up. And, of course, don't forget the beach, rolling waves, and white sand. Visit the stores, take your time, and enjoy the scenery. #World'sToughestRow #pacific2023

A marina to walk around, buy some snacks and food, and just enjoy the vibes. Parking inside the facility is paid at a rate of $1.5/hr and the officers were definitely ticketing some cars who didn't have valid tickets. Ample parking spots. I would say 1 hour is enough to walk around and grab a quick bite.

This is a fun place to visit. We walked out and saw all of the boats and the seals, which was a lot of fun. There are plenty of cute shops and a variety of restaurants to choose from. It’s walkOmg distance from downtown and the beach is nearby. Great place to visit if you’re in the area!

i always live returning to places i knew in my youth. it was a nostalgic experience being back here after so many years & it still holds that old charm. things have changed dramatically in the world, but this place brings me back to simpler times. cant wait to come back here with children of my own someday.

Old fisherman's wharf is a great place with plenty of seafood restaurants, multiple candy stores, and other typical tourist shops. This a great place to go if you are wanting to go on a whale tour or looking for some kayaks to rent. Public restrooms are located at the end of the wharf. There is a paid parking lot and a parking garage nearby.

Great place to walk around and see shops, boats and restaurants with fresh fish plates. Enjoyed doing the whale watching. Went with our dog and had fun most of the time. BC: Pet friendly wharf but few encounters with off leash dogs and owners that don't care that their dog disrupt the peace. Wish it would be enforced for people to keep their dogs on a leash. PLEASE! Also, it was very cold for it to be june so no beach time for us. Grab a jacket and enjoy the views.

Nice place to visit with family, gets crowded sometimes. Love eating at the restaurants there and the view is awesome. I recommend the boat rides for wale watching specially the sunset ride.

It was a nostalgic experience for me and my family. Visitors can use the free tourist bus to explore the Monterey Downtown area. Additionally, there are plenty of shopping and small business stores and also fresh sea food restaurants in the Old Fisherman's Wharf street, making it a convenient and walkable area. If you're planning to visit the Monterey Bay, I highly recommend checking out this beautiful beach area and whale watching tour too!

The food on the wharf is delicious (expensive but very fresh seafood). The major downside is the lack of bathrooms. There are signs pointed to a public restroom that lead to a locked gate. When you go around the front it's the museum and only customers can use the bathroom (yes, you have to pay over $10 for a public restroom). The only other bathrooms are almost half a mile away or at the end of the pier. On weekends there are always lots of vendors selling fun stuff and the harbor always has a bunch of seals lounging about. Fun place but the prices and lack of bathrooms really being this place down. Plus it is always insanely packed