Visitor Information

Santa Catalina is located 125 miles south of San Francisco and 350 miles north of Los Angeles on the Monterey Peninsula. The coastal community of 185,000 traces its heritage back to the Ohlone Indians, discovery by Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo in 1542, and establishment of San Carlos Cathedral by Father Junipero Serra in 1770. Monterey was the capital of California under Spain and Mexico, and where California statehood began in 1849.

Bixby Bridge in Big Sur
Bixby Bridge in Big Sur

Within minutes from Carmel, Pacific Grove, and Pebble Beach, Monterey's natural beauty, cultural resources, and recreational activities draw visitors from around the world. Attractions include the Monterey Bay Aquarium, located on the street immortalized in John Steinbeck's novel Cannery Row, Fisherman's Wharf, and events such as the Monterey Jazz Festival. Monterey also plays a global role in delivering translation and interpretation services through the Monterey Institute of International Studies and the Defense Language Institute. It has been called the "The Language Capital of the World."

Sea Otter
Sea Otter

With a temperate climate year-round, the city is situated on the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. It is home to sea otters, harbor seals, California sea lions, and brown pelicans.

Accommodations, Restaurants, and Sightseeing

Monterey Visitors Center

 

 

Fisherman's Wharf
Fisherman's Wharf
Kayaks on Monterey Bay
Kayaks on Monterey Bay
Shopping in Carmel
Shopping in Carmel