Things to do in Pacific Grove

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

A red brick building with a white porch, a brick chimney, and an American flag.
A coastal road with a wooden fence, clear blue water, rocky shoreline, and houses in the background.
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A street lined with colorful Victorian-style buildings, including a clothing store and a pizzeria.
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Pacific Grove Attractions

It's hardly surprising that so many travelers head to Pacific Grove year after year. This captivating city is bursting with things to do. Whether you're into seeing the sights or attempting more action-packed activities, you'll never have a dull moment here.

Explore the sights of Pacific Grove with some popular tours & day trips, or check out our list of {87 fun activities in Pacific Grove fun activities in Pacific Grove}. We have free cancellation and no added fees, so you can rest easy and channel your energy into planning an unforgettable vacation.

Things to do

Monterey Bay: Whale Watching Tour

Monterey Bay: Whale Watching Tour

$75
per adult
98% of travellers recommend
Monterey Bay: Whale Watching Tour
Monterey: Whale Watching Tour with A Marine Guide

Monterey: Whale Watching Tour with A Marine Guide

$70
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Monterey: Whale Watching Tour with A Marine Guide
Monterey: Catamaran Sailing Cruise

Monterey: Catamaran Sailing Cruise

$65
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Monterey: Catamaran Sailing Cruise
Monterey's 17 Mile Drive Guided Electric Bike Tour, 3 hr

Monterey's 17 Mile Drive Guided Electric Bike Tour, 3 hr

$79
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Monterey's 17 Mile Drive Guided Electric Bike Tour, 3 hr
Picture 1 for Activity Monterey Bay: Sunset Catamaran Sailing Cruise

Monterey Bay: Sunset Catamaran Sailing Cruise

$95
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
Monterey Bay: Sunset Catamaran Sailing Cruise
Catamaran Sailing Cruise in Monterey

Catamaran Sailing Cruise in Monterey

$65
per adult
Catamaran Sailing Cruise in Monterey
Sunset Sailing Cruise in Monterey Bay

Sunset Sailing Cruise in Monterey Bay

$95
per adult
Sunset Sailing Cruise in Monterey Bay
Monterey: Half-Day Electric Bike Rental

Monterey and 17 Mile Drive: Half-Day Electric Bike Rental

$55
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
Monterey and 17 Mile Drive: Half-Day Electric Bike Rental
Monterey: Treasure Hunt The Ride - Anytime Admission

Monterey: Treasure Hunt The Ride - Ticket + Power-Up Combo

$23
per adult
Monterey: Treasure Hunt The Ride - Ticket + Power-Up Combo
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Pacific Grove must see attractions

1. Monterey Bay Aquarium

The Monterey Bay Aquarium showcases more than 35,000 animals and plants across 550 species. You’ll discover all kinds of local wildlife here, including fish of all sizes, invertebrates, mammals and plants.
Learn more
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2. Lovers Point

It is easy to see why visitors and local residents alike have flocked to Lovers Point Park and Beach for over a century. With myriad things to see and do, this is the perfect place to enjoy the beauty of mid-coast California.
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A coastal beach with people, a rocky shoreline, and houses in the background.

3. Asilomar State Beach

Asilomar State Beach is a narrow one-mile (1.6-kilometer) strip of petite beaches, tidal pools and flora-rich sand dunes on the Monterey Peninsula. Follow the Asilomar Coast Trail, which runs along the dog-friendly beach. Explore the pools at low tide, and look for seals and sea lions sunning on the rocks.
Learn more
A rocky beach with waves, a person with a surfboard, and a chain-link fence.

4. Point Pinos Lighthouse

Point Pinos Lighthouse, built in 1854, is the oldest lighthouse in continuous use on the West Coast of the U.S. The site is at the edge of beautiful Monterey Bay, surrounded by a picturesque and sometimes dramatic shoreline and is listed on the National Register for Historic Places.
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A white lighthouse with a green door and windows, a small white building with a green door, and an American flag.

5. Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History

The Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History offers insight into the local animal and plant life, geology and human history of Pacific Grove and the surrounding areas. The museum’s roots date back to a group of ecologically- and historically-minded locals in 1879. Today, it’s grown into a dynamic center that inspires wonder, discovery and stewardship.
Learn more
A museum with a large bear exhibit, a balcony with bird displays, and informational signs about Monterey County birds.

Recommended things to do in Pacific Grove

Number of things to do
87
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Carmel-by-the-Sea's Fairytale Houses: A Self-Guided Walking Tour: $8
Top 5 things to do
Under $25
With kids

What to do in Pacific Grove

Free Things to Do in Pacific Grove

There's no need to run your credit card hot in Pacific Grove. The following won't even cost a penny.

Lovers Point - Let the kids have a good time or release your own inner child — this attraction just screams fun.

St Mary's by the Sea - Enjoy a little quiet contemplation and learn a thing or two about this site's spiritual significance.

Lovers Point - Nurture your green thumb and admire the wide variety of plants on show.

Things to Do in Pacific Grove with Kids

There's fun for all the family wherever you roam in Pacific Grove. Here are a few family friendly experiences to enjoy together that'll make your break unforgettable:

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Pacific Grove? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Stay near popular Pacific Grove attractions

A circular glass structure with a blue center and a patterned exterior.

Monterey Bay Aquarium

9.2/5 (5,928 reviews)
The Monterey Bay Aquarium showcases over 35,000 sea creatures in its innovative conservation-focused exhibits. Watch playful sea otters, marvel at the towering Kelp Forest, or spot wild whales from the ocean-view decks.
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Where to stay in Pacific Grove

Find the best Pacific Grove areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Pacific Grove
Learn more about Pacific Grove
A street lined with colorful Victorian-style buildings, including a clothing store and a pizzeria.

Town Center

If you're spending some time in Town Center, Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History and Jameson's Classic Motorcycle Museum are top sights worth seeing.

A rocky coastline with waves crashing against the rocks, a sandy beach, and yellow flowers in the foreground.
Photo by TnT Travel
Open Photo by TnT Travel

Retreat

If you're spending some time in Retreat, Monterey Bay Aquarium and Monterey Bay are top sights worth seeing.

A coastal landscape with a large cluster of aloe plants and red flowers on a rocky outcrop, overlooking the ocean.
Photo by Mel Vin
Open Photo by Mel Vin

Beach Tract

While there might not be top attractions in Beach Tract, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row.

Two monarch butterflies on a red flower with green leaves.
Photo by Darwindog96
Open Photo by Darwindog96

Grove Acres

When in Grove Acres, you can plan a visit to Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

A coastal landscape with a sandy beach, rocky outcrops, and yellow flowers in the foreground.
Photo by The Adventures Of Maia
Open Photo by The Adventures Of Maia

Asilomar Dunes

If you're spending some time in Asilomar Dunes, Monterey Bay and Asilomar Dunes Nature Preserve are top sights worth seeing.

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Pacific Grove

A coastal landscape with rocky cliffs, dense green foliage, and the ocean.

Pebble Beach

A sandy beach with footprints, a wooden fence, and a clear blue sky.

Monterey

Frequently asked questions

Is Pacific Grove worth visiting?
Renowned for its nature and views, finding fun things to do in Pacific Grove is a cinch. Remember to add Monterey Bay Aquarium to your trip itinerary while here.
How do I spend a day in Pacific Grove?
After you've checked off major attractions like Monterey Bay Aquarium and Carmel Beach, spend some time exploring Pacific Grove's shopping and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Pacific Grove?
Don't leave without exploring Monterey Bay Aquarium, rated the top tourist attraction in Pacific Grove.
Is three days enough to stay in Pacific Grove?
Three days will be enough time to tick off the leading city sights, such as Monterey Bay Aquarium, Carmel Beach and Cannery Row. The average stay in Pacific Grove is two days. If you have the time to extend your trip, Monterey isn't far away.
Is Pacific Grove a walkable city?
With vibrant neighborhoods and top sights within walking distance of the city center, Pacific Grove is a great place to visit on foot. Have fun wandering between Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row. Then take a stroll around Downtown Monterey, located 2 miles from the center, and Monterey Vista, which is roughly 2 miles away.
What are some activities to do in Pacific Grove with kids?
If you are after attractions and activities for all of your group, take a look at these fantastic ideas for what to do in Pacific Grove with kids.

What to do in Pacific Grove for adults?
Whether you're an avid foodie, culture enthusiast or outdoor explorer, there's no shortage of things to do in Pacific Grove for adults including Folktale Winery and Vineyards and Ventana Vineyards Tasting Room.
Are there free things to do in Pacific Grove?
From relaxing in parks to strolling around exciting neighborhoods, it's a breeze to discover free things to do in Pacific Grove. If you're looking for inspiration, ask a local tour guide for recommendations. Carmel Beach is a great spot for anyone planning to save on their sightseeing activities.

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