Monterey Municipal Wharf

The Monterey Municipal Wharf offers a glimpse of sea lions at play.

The Monterey Municipal Wharf is easy for visitors to overlook.

It's much quieter than the bustling Fishermans Wharf at Monterey, but that's part of its charm.

This commercial port was constructed in 1926, and is home to five seafood wholesalers, two restaurants, and is also a popular fishing pier.

10 best things about Monterey Municipal Wharf

1. The Municipal Wharf is the perfect place for an oceanfront stroll, without the crowds. 

There are wide open views of Monterey Bay along this 1,636 foot long wharf, and seating at the end of the wharf.

2. Check out these beautiful views of Del Monte Beach from the Monterey Municipal Wharf.

3.  It's common to see playful harbor seals along the Monterey Municipal Wharf. 

Peer down into the bay, for wildlife sightings.  Monterey's shores are part of an extensive marine sanctuary, with abundant wildlife.

This sea lion and her pup were happy to play near the wharf, putting on quite a spectacle for tourists.

4. Get some comfort food at Loulou’s Griddle at the entrance to the Monterey Municipal Wharf.

5. The Sandbar and Grill (on the right) is tucked away beneath the Monterey Municipal Wharf, down a step of stairs.  The dining room overlooks the marina.

6. The Monterey Municipal Wharf is a popular pier for fishing.

Signs tell you exactly where you can fish, not allowed near the commercial buildings.

7. There are five fish companies and one abalone farm, at the end of the wharf. Some of these wholesale fish companies are open to the public.

8. Join the popular Monterey Bay Coastal Trail from here, and walk all the way out to scenic Lovers Point Park.

9. Check out The Monterey Peninsula Yacht Club at the start of the Wharf.   

It was founded in 1953, and has hundreds of members.  

10.  Walk 8 minutes west along the waterfront to the Old Fisherman’s Wharf.

Know before you go 

• Location:  0.5 mile walk east of the busier Fisherman’s Wharf.   
• Restaurants:  Loulous Griddle, and Sandbar & Grill.
• Restrooms: Near the entrance of the Monterey Municipal Wharf.
• Parking:  Look for the “Historic Monterey Waterfront Parking” at 245 Washington Street.  There's also metered parking on the wharf.