Monterey and the Monterey Peninsula are a fascinating melting pot of culture. Monterey Bay is a large, protected bay located in the middle of the California coast. Because of its geographic location, much of Monterey's livelihood has long been dependent on the Bay which gave it its name. Originally, Monterey was a center for sardine fishing, and much of that Cannery Row culture has bred the kitschy, tourist trap environment that makes up the waterfront today. There are, however, a few things of interest available to the discerning sightseer.

The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the area. This massive monument to sea life contains over 350,000 marine species, some of which is housed in a 325,000 gallon interior tank or 1,000,000 gallon exterior tank.

Far removed from the bustle of the aquarium is the once artist's paradise of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Carmel was once inhabited by such artists as Ansel Adams, Robert Louis Stevenson and Sinclair Lewis; their Utopian dream still lives on in some ways and has been completely reversed in others. Wildflowers line the streets and inns and shops are only referenced by cross-streets, a throwback to the artist's refusal to allow buildings to be attached to street numbers. However, the burgeoning shopping districts will remind you to bring your credit card and not your coin purse.

Between Monterey and Carmel Bay lies the golfing paradise of Pebble Beach. This quiet secluded section of coast is home to seven golf courses, including the daunting Pebble Beach Golf Links, luxury resorts and dramatic cliffs. The general rule of thumb in Pebble Beach: if you have to ask how much it is, you can't afford it.

Monterey is located along California's west coast and is best reached via California Highway 1. Monterey is approximately 70 miles south of San Jose.