With familiar Christmas carols drifting through the crispy air, you might be thinking of where to go out to celebrate the holiday season in Monterey. Whether you’re going out with friends, spending a comforting night with family, or planning a date night, the Monterey area is full of magical places to explore and build cherished memories.
Around Carmel-by-the-Sea
Carmel’s picturesque charm only intensifies during the holidays. The village streets light up with twinkling lights, creating a warm, inviting glow. Stroll down Ocean Avenue to enjoy beautifully decorated shop windows or stop by Carmel Plaza, where the decorative lights boast its festivity like no other. The Carmel Bakery, surrounded by elegant art galleries, is a must-visit if you would like to savor their famous éclairs and lemon cakes with a delicious iced caramel macchiato.
Peter Lips, one of Stevenson’s math teachers, recommends the cafe, Carmel Belle, for a lovely breakfast or lunch. He adds, “It's fun to go there because we usually see someone from Stevenson. I love their quinoa bowl, but pretty much everything on the menu is good.” From my own experience, I can confirm that Carmel Belle is an amazing place; it perfectly embodies the holiday spirit – unbelievably cozy. I would like to add that their “Open-faced Egg, Bacon, and Arugula Sandwich” pairs wonderfully with their matcha latte.
Carmel Beach is another must-see during the winter season. Bundle up and watch the sunset with loved ones, and, if you are equipped, you could even set up a cozy bonfire to warm your hands and toast some marshmallows. Or, take a peaceful morning walk along the sandy shore with a thermos of aromatic coffee in hand. Sometimes, the quieter holiday crowds make the season even more special.
Enjoying Cannery Row
Cannery Row offers a lively holiday vibe with its decorated storefronts and ocean views. The area is rich with Monterey’s history, and you will find that every nook and corner of its rustic streets is filled with tourists and locals alike taking in the beautiful view. Any picture you take here will turn out great, especially at night when the twinkling lights blink to life.
For a unique holiday twist, explore the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s vibrant ocean life. Watching the sea otters play is a fun and heartwarming way to celebrate with family. End your day with a meal at Schooners Coastal Kitchen & Bar, where you can enjoy seasonal specials with stunning views of the bay. Though on the pricier side, the restaurant offers an unmatched atmosphere and experience. Their “Monterey Cioppino Pot” and oysters on the half-shell remain two of their most popular dishes.
Exploring Pacific Grove
Pacific Grove, known as “America’s Last Hometown,” truly comes alive in December. Candy Cane Lane is a must-visit for its elaborate light displays and whimsical decorations. Mary Zewert ‘26, a local resident, adds, “I love going to Candy Cane Lane and seeing all the decorations with my family.”
Do not miss the iconic house in Pacific Grove where lights are synchronized to music – a delightful spectacle that draws locals and visitors alike. Afterward, warm up with a visit to Little Swiss Cafe, a local favorite. Their cheese blintzes are a perfect holiday indulgence.
Pacific Grove is also home to Lovers Point Park and Beach, one of the most beautiful spots in the Monterey Area. Stroll down to see the scenery or to even catch the sunset – it feels like an uplifting hug from the December air.
Festivities by the Wharf
Old Fisherman’s Wharf glistens with holiday decorations, making it a perfect spot for a festive evening outing. Grab a cup of clam chowder or hot cocoa as you stroll along the pier, listening to live holiday music and soaking in the spirit of the season. The pier itself is around 0.1 miles, perfect if you are looking for a short-distance venue to wander. If you are looking for some extended enjoyment, though, Fisherman’s Wharf is still the perfect place to visit, as it directly connects with Alvarado Street which is also festive and full of delicious foods, drinks, and snacks. For quick bites, Nacho Bizness and Old Monterey Café offer delicious selections. For a more atmospheric, sit-down restaurant, Rosine’s Restaurant is a must-visit.
Alvarado Street also offers a variety of Asian foods, too. Toribashi makes delicious ramen, and Sushi Kuma offers fresh sushi that is not overpriced. Up the street a bit from there, you can find boba at TZone, the perfect sweet treat.
Furthermore, ice skating at the Custom House Plaza, right outside of the Wharf, remains one of the most popular winter activities in Monterey – I go every year myself! Zewert shares, “One of my favorite things to do during Christmas time is ice skating by the wharf. It’s the closest thing we can get here to snow.” Of course, such a lively event comes with a cost: a one-time ticket for the rink is $15, and a skate rental costs $5. It is not the most ornate or spacious rink out there, but the homey vibe of skating by the bay always brings me the epitome of holiday warmth and cheer – and a hint of nostalgia. After skating, you can warm yourself back up with a lovely cup of hot cocoa from Plumes Coffee House, right down the street.
This winter, make the most of the holiday season by exploring all that Monterey Bay has to offer. Whether you are skating by the wharf, marveling at twinkling lights, or enjoying a cozy meal with loved ones, there is something for everyone to enjoy. And remember – the places you visit matter, of course, but the people you go with are what make it even more special. Happy holidays.
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