Explore Monterey Scavenger Hunt, New Monterey Scavenger Hunt, Naval Postgraduate School Scavenger Hunt, Monterey Ghost Tour, or Downtown Scavenger Hunt—each one reveals iconic landmarks and hidden gems across this stunning city.
Gather your friends or family for trivia quests, bold photo dares, and playful challenges using our app—track scores in real time for extra bragging rights!
Top Outdoor Activities In Monterey, California
Feel the salty breeze as you stroll along Cannery Row, where Monterey's vibrant spirit meets coastal charm. Whether you are a visitor or a local, these outdoor activities offer an unbeatable way to view Monterey and discover it's must-see sights. From hidden alleys to bustling waterfronts, every adventure brings new surprises. Dive into unforgettable experiences that make sightseeing and day trips truly memorable.
Outdoor Experiences in Monterey, California
Get ready for a handpicked collection of outdoor activities in Monterey designed for thrill-seekers, families, and curious explorers alike! Our unique lineup blends excitement with discovery—perfect for those who crave something beyond the ordinary. Each experience is packed with interactive challenges, creative tasks, and plenty of chances to laugh together. Embrace the adventurous side of Monterey as you uncover art galleries, snap photos at iconic spots, and soak up live music vibes along the way.
Top Rated
4.8 (52 reviews)
Jewels of Monterey Scavenger Hunt
Downtown Old Monterey, Monterey
Get ready to dive into the rich history of Monterey's Downtown Historical Tour...
5.0 (17 reviews)
New Monterey Maritime Mischief Hunt Scavenger Hunt
New Monterey, Monterey
Did you sea what Monterey did there? We will whisk you past quirky art and legendary tales...
5.0 (21 reviews)
Salt, Smoke, and Spirits: A Monterey Ghost Hunt
Downtown, Monterey
Explore Monterey's downtown on a self-guided, app-led ghost tour packed with riddles,...
5.0 (24 reviews)
Estero Explorers: The Monterey Park Quest Scavenger Hunt
Downtown, Monterey
Adventure awaits at El Estero Park! From giant slides to lakeside views, uncover fun at...
5.0 (22 reviews)
Naval Postgraduate School Hunt
Naval Postgraduate School, Monterey
Discover the Naval Postgraduate School tour with a self-guided, app-led scavenger hunt...
5.0 (21 reviews)
Feel The Carmel-by-the-Sea Breeze Scavenger Hunt
Mission Fields, Carmel-by-the-Sea
Discover the charm of Carmel-by-the-Sea on our exciting scavenger hunt! Uncover hidden...
An Epic Monterey, California experience
How Our Monterey, California Outdoor Activities Work
Our expert team researches each destination thoroughly—including 3,050+ cities worldwide—to craft unforgettable outdoor activities tailored just for you in places like California’s scenic coastlines. Every experience includes step-by-step instructions plus insider trivia curated from local legends.
During your adventure on foot through top neighborhoods or must-see attractions in Monterey, complete trivia questions at historical markers or snap creative photos at public art displays—all tracked by our award-winning app so you can compare scores citywide.
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Top Outdoor Attractions In Monterey
Monterey boasts world-famous attractions like Fisherman's Wharf, Pacific Coast Highway panoramas, and the enchanting Monterey Bay Aquarium—all perfect backdrops for unforgettable outdoor activities. Feel the pulse of local life on bustling wharfs or wind through historic streets lined with maritime heritage. Each location offers family-friendly fun and endless ways to create memories while sightseeing and exploring what makes Monterey so special. Click on each location to see related activities.
1
Monterey Moon Tree
Visit the Monterey Moon Tree, grown from a seed that orbited the moon! This quirky landmark is perfect for those seeking unusual outdoor activities in Monterey.
2
Middlebury Institute of International Studies
Explore the Middlebury Institute campus where languages converge. Known as the Language Capital of the World, this site is ideal for those interested in global culture.
3
Casa Serrano, Historic Adobe
Wander around Casa Serrano's gardens and admire it's historic adobe walls. This peaceful spot offers a taste of old California and is perfect for history lovers visiting Monterey.
4
House of the Blue Gate
Admire the distinct blue gate at this house—a favorite among locals for it's unique color! Perfect for architecture fans exploring hidden gems in Monterey.
5
Californias First Theatre
Stand before California's First Theatre—once sailors' quarters turned performance space. A captivating site for those interested in theatrical history during their visit to Monterey.
6
Monterey Youth Museum
Enjoy outdoor art at the vibrant sidewalk near Monterey Youth Museum—perfect for families seeking creative fun without going inside during their visit to downtown Monterey.
7
Monterey History & Art Museum
Dive into Monterey's past at the History & Art Museum. Discover exhibits that reveal layers of local culture and maritime heritage. A must-see for history enthusiasts exploring John Steinbeck Country.
8
Doc Ricketts Memorial
Visit this Peninsula Adventure Spot for outdoor activities steeped in maritime history. A must-see for those seeking unique things to do in Monterey.
9
Santa Rosalia
Visit this scenic maritime muse on your walking tour. Experience art, history, and luck as you enjoy photo challenges near the bay’s sparkling edge.
10
Watching Over Me Sculpture
Reflect at this Oceanfront Oasis blending art and emotion. Unlock fun facts while enjoying outdoor activities that capture New Monterey’s creative spirit.
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Sister City Park
Explore Monterey's vibrant streets and discover outdoor art, salty breezes, and echoes of John Steinbeck Country. Spot quirky murals and catch glimpses of the Pacific Coast Highway in action.
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Stanford Serra Monument
Stroll along paths where locals gather for live music and craft beer festivals. Enjoy the fresh air, people-watching, and a taste of Central Coast Wine Region charm on your sightseeing adventure.
13
San Carlos Beach sea lion statue
Explore Monterey's vibrant waterfront, where sea breezes mingle with echoes of maritime heritage. Stroll past lively piers and discover hidden murals that locals love along the Pacific Coast Highway.
14
Sanctuary Sculpture
Wander through John Steinbeck Country for a taste of local culture. Outdoor art and craft beer spots dot the path, offering a fresh perspective on what to do in Monterey beyond the usual attractions.
15
Herrmann Hall
Explore Monterey's vibrant waterfront, where sea breezes mingle with the scent of fresh seafood. Stroll past Cannery Row and spot playful otters near Fisherman's Wharf for a classic coastal experience.
16
Dudley Knox Library
Wander near the iconic Monterey Bay Aquarium and feel the pulse of John Steinbeck Country. Watch for local artists sketching sea life or catch live music drifting from nearby patios.
17
Dennis the Menace with Ruff
Take in Pebble Beach Golf Links from the outside, where salty air and ocean views inspire golfers and non-golfers alike. Locals say sunset here is unforgettable for first-time visitors.
18
De Anza Walk
Experience Fisherman's Wharf as pelicans dive for lunch and street performers entertain crowds. Try spotting seals sunbathing on docks—a favorite pastime among locals in this lively district.
19
Intramural Sports Field
Cruise along 17-Mile Drive for panoramic vistas of rugged coastline and cypress trees. Locals whisper about hidden picnic spots perfect for whale watching or quiet reflection.
20
Chinese lion statues at Marshs Oriental Arts building - Monterey. California
Venture into Central Coast Wine Region country roads lined with vineyards. Savor the aroma of ripening grapes and discover why this area is beloved by wine enthusiasts seeking new flavors.
21
Cannery Row
Wander Monterey's historic streets where whispers of John Steinbeck Country meet the salty breeze. Peek at Cannery Row and catch a glimpse of maritime heritage on this outdoor ghostly adventure.
22
Old Custom House
Feel the chill along Pacific Coast Highway as you uncover Monterey's haunted past outdoors. Locals say some spirits still linger near the old wharves—perfect for fans of unique things to do in Monterey.
23
Monterey Hotel
Step outside and sense the energy of Cannery Row after dark, where echoes from the past mingle with ocean mist. Locals whisper about shadowy figures—Monterey sightseeing with a supernatural twist.
24
Larkin House
Venture along 17-Mile Drive at dusk and feel the stories come alive—locals claim certain bends are haunted by old fishermen. Outdoor fun meets maritime heritage in this unforgettable Monterey outing.
25
Colton Hall Museum and Jail
Take in sea air while exploring Fisherman's Wharf, where tales of lost sailors drift on the wind. Outdoor activities here blend coastal whale watching vibes with a dash of supernatural intrigue.
26
Stokes Adobe
Stroll near Pebble Beach Golf Links and listen for ghostly laughter carried by ocean breezes. This outdoor walk offers a playful mix of history, maritime heritage, and spine-tingling stories.
27
Robert Louis Stevenson House
Experience John Steinbeck Country outdoors, where every corner has a tale from days gone by. Locals love sharing eerie trivia about these streets—perfect for curious explorers seeking something new.
28
Dennis The Menace Playground
Wander along Cannery Row and soak up Monterey's maritime heritage. Spot playful sea otters, discover local art, and catch the salty breeze. Locals say sunsets here glow brightest after a foggy morning.
29
Baseball Field
Stroll Fisherman's Wharf to view Monterey's bustling harbor life. Watch sea lions nap on docks and sample fresh saltwater taffy. Early risers sometimes spot whales spouting near the pier.
30
Skate Park
Cruise 17-Mile Drive for iconic Pacific Coast Highway views. Marvel at Pebble Beach Golf Links and dramatic cypress trees. Local tip: foggy mornings make the coastline feel extra mysterious.
31
EL Estero Lake
Discover Monterey Bay Aquarium's outdoor decks with sweeping bay views and coastal whale watching opportunities. Locals recommend checking tide pools nearby after your visit.
See our Top Outdoor Activities By Neighborhood
From the lively energy of New Monterey to the historic heart of downtown or the scenic corners near Naval Postgraduate School, every neighborhood invites you outdoors for fresh adventures. Ready to see what each area has in store? Simply click on these neighborhoods to see the related activity.
12,000+ Reviews For our Hunts
See what people say about our outdoor activities in Monterey
People rave about our outdoor activities in Monterey! With glowing five-star ratings and reviews from happy guests, it is clear why locals and tourists love their time exploring with us. 'Best day trip ever—so much fun!' is just one example among many testimonials that highlight our credibility.
Such a fun thing to do in Monterey! We discovered interesting places and enjoyed every moment of this unique experience.
Olivia G.
The Commodore Sloat Monument was one of my favorite stops on this tour. Great for tourists looking to learn about local history.
Daniel M.
I loved using ScavengerHunt.com for our adventure! It made exploring downtown so much more engaging and enjoyable.
A.
This walking tour gave us highlights of downtown Monterey that we never knew existed. A great way to connect with our city!
Laura W.
FAQs.
What are some fun Outdoor Activities in Monterey?
Are scavenger hunts good for groups in Monterey?
I am new to Monterey what do you recommend?
I am a Monterey local would this be fun for me?
What is the full list of all the scavenger hunts and activities that I can do in Carmel-by-the-Sea
LOCAL INSIGHTS
Fun Monterey Facts and Hidden Gems
Monterey was once California's capital under both Spanish and Mexican rule—a legacy still visible in it's historic adobes lining downtown streets.
John Steinbeck immortalized Cannery Row in his novels; today visitors can walk those same streets while discovering quirky art installations or glimpsing sea otters playing near Fisherman's Wharf.
John Steinbeck immortalized Cannery Row in his novels; today visitors can walk those same streets while discovering quirky art installations or glimpsing sea otters playing near Fisherman's Wharf.
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