Easy hikes and walks around Monterey
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838
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Easy hiking trails around Monterey offer diverse landscapes, from rugged coastlines and sandy beaches to ancient redwood forests and oak woodlands. The region is characterized by its varied ecosystems, including coastal wetlands, chaparral, and unique geological formations. Hikers can explore paths along the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, providing opportunities to observe abundant marine wildlife. Hills under 200m are common, offering accessible viewpoints across the bay and surrounding natural areas.
Best easy hiking trails around Monterey
- The most popular easy hiking route is Monterey State Historic Park via Monterey City, a 3.3 miles (5.2 km) trail that takes 1 hour 24 minutes to complete. This route explores historical landmarks and offers views of the city and bay.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Cannery Row – Cannery Row, Monterey loop from Monterey, an easy 3.4 miles (5.4 km) path. This trail follows the historic waterfront, providing continuous views of Monterey Bay.
- Local hikers also love the Cannery Row, Monterey – Cannery Row loop from Pacific Grove, a 3.3 miles (5.3 km) trail leading through coastal areas, often completed in about 1 hour 21 minutes.
- Hiking around Monterey is defined by coastal paths, redwood forests, and oak woodlands. The network offers options for different ability levels, with a focus on easy hiking trails.
- The routes in Monterey are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 70 reviews. More than 800 hikers have used komoot to explore Monterey's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
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hikers
5.24km
01:25
70m
70m
This easy 3.3-mile (5.2 km) walking tour through Monterey State Historic Park offers a unique journey through California's past, taking about 1 hour and 24 minutes to complete with a gentle 218 feet (67 metres) of elevation gain. You'll stroll along paved pathways and sidewalks, encountering a rich collection of historic adobe residences and significant landmarks like the Pacific House Museum and the Old Whaling Station with its distinctive whale vertebrae sidewalk. It's a perfect blend of light activity and cultural immersion, ideal for those who appreciate history and charming urban scenery.
Planning your visit is straightforward; the route is well-marked by yellow-tiled markers, guiding you through the various historical sites. While no permits are needed, finding parking for Monterey State Historic Park via Monterey City hike can be easier earlier in the day, especially during busy times. This trail is suitable for all skill levels and is a fantastic option for family friendly hikes near Monterey City, offering an engaging experience without strenuous effort.
The historical significance of this route is profound, showcasing Monterey's transition from a Spanish outpost to a U.S. state. Beyond the well-preserved buildings, you'll find architectural styles reflecting Spanish, Mexican, and early American influences, providing a deep dive into the region's heritage. It's a top-rated route for combining cultural exploration with a pleasant walk, offering a different kind of outdoor experience compared to more traditional hiking trails.
4.5
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198
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5.39km
01:24
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.6
(5)
163
hikers
This easy 3.3-mile (5.3 km) hike, taking about 1 hour and 21 minutes with only 97 feet (30 metres) of elevation gain, offers continuous stunning views of Monterey Bay, making it one of the best trails along the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail. You'll wander past historic cannery buildings, glimpse playful sea lions and sea otters, and enjoy the refreshing coastal air on a mostly paved surface. It’s an ideal route for a relaxed outing, blending natural beauty with urban charm.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail connects directly to popular spots like Cannery Row and Monterey State Historic Park, helping you bypass traffic and parking challenges. The path is generally flat and accessible, with separate pedestrian and cycling lanes in the Pacific Grove section, ensuring a pleasant experience for everyone. Consider starting early to enjoy the calmest conditions and avoid peak crowds.
Built on a former railway right-of-way, this trail offers a unique historical perspective alongside its natural appeal. It's part of the larger 18-mile Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail, providing ample opportunities for wildlife sightings on Cannery Row Monterey trails and easy access to attractions like the Monterey Bay Aquarium and Fisherman's Wharf. It’s a fantastic way to experience the heart of Monterey.
31
hikers
4.13km
01:04
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
32
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
A lovely wharf you should see
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Nice flat run on footpath to aquarium.
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Great paved trail that runs along the Pacific Ocean. You get wonderful views of the water and will pass through several popular cultural attractions in the area.
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Kalisa Moore, known as the “Queen of Cannery Row,” was born in Latvia and came to America after World War II. She bridged the eras, opening her fine dining restaurant when most canneries had already closed. Over the years, “Kalisa’s” evolved into a bohemian coffeehouse where artists, writers and poets “hung out.” Her weekend cabaret was filled with musicians, dancers and the occasional celebrity from the Monterey Jazz Festival. As time went on and Cannery Row was reborn, Kalisa became a major factor in preserving memories of Steinbeck’s era and promoted tourism and commerce as president of the Cannery Row Foundation. For fifty years, she was a friend to the famous and a mother to the needy with a local following that knew and loved her. Kalisa's La Ida Cafe was a very special time and place, and Kalisa will always be remembered as the "Queen of Cannery Row."
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Cannery Row, the waterfront district that boomed in the 1850s - For thousands of years it was home to the Ohlone, Esselen and Salinas tribes, and in the 19th century immigrants from Europe and Asia settled here to fish the waters, especially for sardines. Thanks to the canneries that resulted, Monterey became known as the "Sardine Capital of the World." John Steinbeck, born and raised in nearby Salinas, immortalized this era in his 1945 novel Cannery Row, and the name stuck.
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Bruce Ariss Way is a narrow alley, the pedestrian-only continuation of Irving Avenue between Wave Street and Cannery Row. What was once an unofficial walkway between the residential area of the row, across the railroad tracks, and the waterfront canneries has been converted into a small park. In the early 1990s, the City of Monterey relocated three worker's shacks from 866 Wave Street to this site and opened them to the public. They are interpreted as being occupied by a Japanese, a Filipino, and a Spanish family, respectively, alluding to the cultural mix that characterized cosmopolitan Cannery Row and representing the living conditions of workers between the 1920s and 1950s. There were many shacks like this in the neighborhood in the early 20th century, but these are the only remaining remnants of this housing type on Cannery Row.
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Nice, small (and free!) museum just before Fisherman's Wharf in Monterey. Nice exhibition.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are there around Monterey?
There are over 25 easy hiking trails available around Monterey, offering diverse landscapes from coastal paths to redwood forests. In total, komoot lists 34 hiking routes in the area, with the majority being easy.
What makes the easy hiking trails around Monterey unique?
Monterey's easy trails are unique due to their stunningly diverse landscapes, ranging from rugged coastlines and pristine beaches to ancient redwood forests and oak woodlands. You can expect to see iconic Monterey cypress trees, abundant marine wildlife like sea lions and sea otters, and panoramic views of Monterey Bay.
What is the typical length and duration of an easy hike in Monterey?
Easy hikes in Monterey typically range from 2 to 4 miles (3 to 6 km) in length. For example, the Monterey State Historic Park via Monterey City route is 3.3 miles (5.2 km) and takes about 1 hour 24 minutes, while the Cannery Row – Cannery Row, Monterey loop from Monterey is 3.4 miles (5.4 km) and takes around 1 hour 24 minutes.
Are there any family-friendly easy walks in Monterey?
Yes, many easy trails in Monterey are suitable for families. Paths along the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail, such as the Fishermans Wharf – Shoreline Park Path loop from Monterey, are generally flat and offer continuous views of the bay, making them ideal for all ages. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve also offers well-maintained, shorter trails perfect for families.
Can I bring my dog on easy hikes in Monterey?
Dog policies vary by park and trail. While some areas like the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail are generally dog-friendly (on leash), state parks such as Point Lobos State Natural Reserve often have restrictions on where dogs are allowed. It's always best to check specific park regulations before heading out with your pet.
What kind of scenic views can I expect on easy hikes?
Easy hikes in Monterey offer a variety of scenic views. You can enjoy dramatic coastal vistas with cliffs and hidden coves, serene walks through Monterey pine and redwood forests, and panoramic views of Monterey Bay and Point Lobos from higher points like Jacks Peak County Park. Many trails also provide opportunities to spot marine wildlife.
Are there any easy loop trails available in Monterey?
Yes, several easy loop trails are available. The Cannery Row – Cannery Row, Monterey loop from Monterey and the Cannery Row, Monterey – Cannery Row loop from Pacific Grove are popular choices that follow the historic waterfront. Another option is the Fishermans Wharf – Monterey State Historic Park loop from Monterey, which explores historical landmarks.
What natural attractions can I see along easy hiking trails in Monterey?
Along easy hiking trails, you can discover various natural attractions. You might encounter beautiful beaches like Sand Hill Cove, explore the stunning Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, or visit viewpoints like Sea Lion Point and Point Joe Vista Point. The region also features unique natural monuments like the Lone Cypress Tree.
What do other hikers enjoy most about easy hikes in Monterey?
The easy hiking trails in Monterey are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 70 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse terrain, from coastal paths to redwood forests, and the opportunities to observe abundant marine wildlife. The well-maintained trails and accessible viewpoints are also frequently highlighted.
Are there any easy trails with lakes or water features?
Yes, you can find easy trails that feature lakes and other water elements. For instance, El Estero Lake Park 🌳 and El Estero Park offer pleasant walks around lakes. While not directly on easy trails listed, the region is also known for iconic waterfalls like Pfeiffer Falls and McWay Falls, which are accessible via short, easy walks from parking areas in Big Sur State Parks.
When is the best time for easy hikes in Monterey?
Monterey offers pleasant hiking conditions year-round, but spring (December to April) is particularly beautiful due to vibrant wildflowers and opportunities for whale watching. The mild climate generally makes it suitable for easy hikes throughout the year, though coastal areas can be foggy in summer.
Are there easy hikes that offer views of Monterey's historic sites?
Absolutely. The Monterey State Historic Park via Monterey City route is an excellent choice, as it specifically explores historical landmarks within Monterey while offering views of the city and bay. The Fishermans Wharf – Monterey State Historic Park loop from Monterey also provides a similar experience.
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