"Where the Pacific's gentle waves meet rugged shores, Monterey invites every traveler to slow down, breathe deeply, and discover the timeless beauty of California's central coast."
While recently visiting family in Arizona, I chose to take a side trip to a place I had not visited before, Monterey, CA. I had two goals during my brief visit. The first was to visit the Old Fisherman's Wharf and the second was to visit the world famous Monterey Aquarium.
My flight from Sky Harbor Airport in Phoenix was approximately one hour and thirty minutes. There was a time change of one hour going from Mountain Standard Time (MST) to Pacific Standard Time (PST). I was surprised at the size of Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) as being one of the smaller airports I have visited. There was no jetway and you exited the plane down stairs. Interesting as well was that the door through which arriving passengers came through on arrival is the same door that the departing passengers used to board their flight. There is a baggage carousel for those who checked luggage. For my brief stay, I just had a carry on. Outside the terminal, there were several taxis. The ride share, Uber, was available and my Uber ride was onsite within ten minutes.
My hotel was within a fifteen minute ride. It was a clear, cool and comfortable day. I was within walking distance of the Fisherman's Wharf which gave me an opportunity to see some of the shops and other sights such as the Convention Center and other hotels. At the Fisherman's Wharf, I could hear the bark of the sea lions on a distant sea wall. I had a late lunch at a restaurant recommended to me at the hotel-The Old Grotto Restaurant. I spent the rest of the day walking and exploring the area. I have to say, the air was so fresh and without humidity.
I slept well that evening as it had been a long day. On my itinerary this day was a visit to the Aquarium. The hours are 10 AM to 5PM. It was suggested online that arriving early is not a good idea as that is when the Aquarium is busiest. Check-out of the hotel was 11 AM. I wanted to fill in the time and not arrive at the Aquarium early to avoid any rush. I was looking at the map of the area the hotel had provided me and a visit to Carmel by the sea caught my attention. I programmed my ride share to stop at Carmel by the sea before heading to the Aquarium. It was a great choice. We drove through the town of Carmel. It was AMAZING! The shops, the architecture of the buildings and people strolling along the way. We did not stop, but if I am able to return to the area, I will definitely stay in Carmel!! I also observed something as we drove through Carmel, you really do not need to have a vehicle with all the shops and restaurants in walking distance. Besides, there is no where to park anyway!! If anyone reading this is from LA, you know what I am talking about! We found our way to the sea, took a few photos and onward to the Aquarium.
We probably got to the Aquarium about noon. As I entered, I noted that tickets were on sale. However, it was also noted online, that purchasing tickets through their website is mandatory, if not purchased onsite. Was it busy? Let's see. Summer, school vacation, and children outnumbering adults 10-1. Yes, I would have to say, busy. My self-guided tour was a wonderful experience. The Aquarium is very well laid out for an efficient use of time and well staffed with helpful and knowledgeable people. I have to say, it is fun and satisfying seeing the wide eyed curiosity and wonder of the children both observing the exhibits and the 'hands-on' experience.
After my tour, I walked around the area. Several shops and restaurants busy with customers. I have to say that as busy as the Aquarium was on this day, there was never the sense of being overwhelmed by the number of people....... once outside.
From the Aquarium, my next stop was Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) for my return to Phoenix. There is so much more to see and experience in Monterey and surrounding areas.
My side trip just scratched the surface. I was very early for my flight. Check-in was easy as I had checked in online the day before. Since I would be arriving back to Phoenix after dinner time, I took a meal at Woody's at the airport in Monterey. I had the fish n chips and I have to say, it was VERY good.
The flight before mine to Phoenix was delayed over two hours. There was some severe weather in the Phoenix area affecting many flights. Now, here is my concern. I have no doubt that people who fly on to international destinations from a regional airport allow themselves sufficient layover time. Of course, the obvious question is how much time is enough? On the flight before mine, I have no doubt that there were some nervous passengers pondering this very thought. I can only hope that they made their connections. My flight was delayed only 20-30 minutes and was a very smooth flight and arrived to the gate pretty much on time.
Like my 'Adventure in Dublin', I do not have a story of some kind to go along with the pictures.
I have, however, created a short video slide show of my days in Monterey, CA. Among the photos will be the signage of the airport, photos along the Old Fisherman's Wharf including a picture of an American Flag noting the high wind of the day. Among the photos will be one of me by an old tree at Carmel by the sea. I hope that you enjoy the slide show that will also appear on my YouTube channel. Your interest and subscription to my channel is appreciated.
Tom,
The Traveler