Skip to content
visitorfun
BusinessesGrow
SightseeingIconicFamily Favorite

Old Fisherman's Wharf

1 Old Fisherman's Wharf · Monterey, CA

Why you should go…

Old Fisherman's Wharf is a historic pier in Monterey, California, originally built in 1845 and expanded through the sardine-industry era of the early 20th century. Today it holds restaurants and fish markets, candy and gift shops, and whale-watching and fishing charter companies. Fisherman's Wharf Company, L.P. is the registered business operating at the wharf, and the pier is a popular spot to watch sea lions from the docks.

  • #waterfront
  • #seafood
  • #whale watching
  • #shopping
  • #historic

Good to know

General sightseeing guidance

Habits that pay off across this whole category, not rules for this one venue. Always check the official site for the specifics.

  • The forecast is part of the ticket

    Haze, low cloud, and rain flatten a view. Clear-day visits are worth rearranging your plans for.

  • Golden hour sells out first

    Sunset slots at observation decks and cruises are the first to go, so book those further ahead.

  • Dress a layer warmer

    It is always breezier up high and out on the water than it feels at street level.

  • Timed entry is common

    Plenty of landmarks release tickets in windows rather than at the door, so check before you walk over.

What's around here?

The closest stops to Old Fisherman's Wharf, ordered by straight-line distance. A few more like it, plus some different kinds of fun so you can build a full day.

  • Tours
    Family Favorite

    Princess Monterey Whale Watching

    $50+

    Narrated whale watching and wildlife cruises on Monterey Bay aboard two large heated vessels departing from Old Fisherman's Wharf.

    Right next doorSwitch it up: Tours

  • Tours
    Outdoor Adventure

    Discovery Whale Watch

    $50+

    Narrated whale watching cruises departing daily from Monterey's Fisherman's Wharf.

    Right next doorSwitch it up: Tours

  • Tours
    Family Favorite

    Little Mermaid Glass Bottom Boat Tours

    Under $25

    Cruise Monterey Harbor on a glass bottom boat to spot sea otters, seals, and kelp forest life.

    Right next doorSwitch it up: Tours

  • Tours
    Outdoor Adventure

    Central Coast Scuba

    $50+

    Family-owned dive shop offering guided scuba and snorkeling tours plus PADI and NAUI certification courses in Monterey Bay.

    Right next doorSwitch it up: Tours

  • Sightseeing
    Local Gem

    Salinas City Center

    Free

    Downtown Salinas improvement association promoting Old Town's restaurants, shops and events.

    35 mi awayMore like this