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Old Fisherman's Wharf
Old Fisherman's Wharf
Monterey Bay
view websiteFisherman's Wharf No. 1
Just Off Del Monte Avenue
Monterey, CA 93940
Good-for-Kids Rating
Babies
Toddlers & Pre-KSchool-Age KidsPre-Teens & Teens
Souvenir & Gift Store
Ice Skating
Boating
Fishing
Sailing
Seafood
Old Fisherman's Wharf Description
Touristy it is, but Old Fisherman's Wharf in Monterey is a must-do for two reasons: The clam chowder is to die for, and nowhere else can you get within whispering distance of a sea lion. (They pull themselves up under the pilings.) Not to mention that this is where the whale watching excursions depart from. Time your visit so you're there for lunch; the traditional clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl is perfect after you get off the boat and your stomach settles. At many of the restaurants, touts sit out front offering samples of chowder; our taste test convinced us to eat at Gilbert's and we weren't sorry.
Planning Notes
- Plan Ahead. This is not a zoo, but a private animal rescue facility, so it's not open to the public except for guided tours. Unless you plan to pay extra for a VIP tour scheduled especially for your group you need to join the daily tour at 1 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. The group departs promptly at 1 p.m.; we saw some very upset kids who missed the first half because they arrived late. In June, July, and August they add a 3 p.m. tour.
Just the Facts
Hours: Open all day; most restaurants open for coffee and breakfast around 8 a.m.; some stay open for dinner but many are lunch only.
Fees: Free
Recommended Time: Less than 1 hour
Reviews of Old Fisherman's Wharf
Feel like a kid on the Wharf in Monterey, CA
By LisaofSmileyOrca March 12, 2011
Babies
Toddlers & Pre-K
School-Age Kids
Pre-Teens & Teens
What we loved:
It makes me feel like a kid on holiday!
Old Fishermans Wharf in Monterey is a must see part of any vacation to Monterey! Check out the glass bottom boat, see the smileys that the amazing face painters bring to the kids, watch the salt water taffy getting made at the candy shop and sample the amazing food all year round. Even though we live here we love to play tourist and walk the Wharf. Its a fun afternoon trip down memory lane for us. Check it out and make your own memories with your kids soon. Read More
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