Attractions and Places To See around Del Rey Oaks - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Del Rey Oaks, a city in Monterey County, California, offer a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The area provides access to diverse landscapes, from tranquil wetlands to scenic coastal routes. Del Rey Oaks serves as a gateway to the broader Monterey Peninsula, featuring both local points of interest and proximity to renowned regional attractions.
Best attractions and places to see around Del Rey Oaks
- The most popular attractions is Fishermans Wharf…
Last updated: June 23, 2026
Fishermans Wharf
Highlight • Settlement
Tip by
Carmel-by-the-Sea
Highlight • Settlement
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Monterey State Historic Park
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Cannery Row, Monterey
Highlight • Historical Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
17-mile Drive
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Del Rey Oaks.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
A lovely wharf you should see
0
0
This world-famous scenic route winds along the Monterey Peninsula, offering access to some of California’s most iconic coastal landscapes; from wind-swept cypress trees and dramatic cliffs to historic mansions and manicured golf courses. The route is fully paved and suitable for most riders, with a mix of mild climbs and breezy downhills. While the route is open to vehicles and requires a small fee for cars, cyclists can enter for free at any of the gated entrances. Whether you ride it as a peaceful morning loop or pair it with other Monterey-area trails, the 17-Mile Drive is a must for anyone looking to soak in the charm of California’s central coast by bike.
0
0
The actor felt that the many regulations were tyranny. So he decided - true to his image as a determined hero - to run for mayor in order to change things. He financed his campaign himself, went from house to house and introduced himself personally. With great success. On April 8, 1986, 72 percent of the community voted for him as the new mayor. Eastwood had barely been sworn in when he abolished numerous regulations. He had a new tourist parking lot built and expanded the library to include a children's book section.
3
0
Our first stop is in Carmel. Carmel had a very famous mayor: The path from actor to politician is not unusual in the USA: Arnold Schwarzenegger became governor of California, Ronald Reagan even became president. And Clint Eastwood was once mayor. The role of the trigger-happy inspector Harry Callahan made Eastwood a cult figure. The film fees also benefited Carmel. Eastwood saved an old ranch from demolition and converted it into a hotel. But Eastwood repeatedly came into conflict with the city's regulations. There were plenty of them in Carmel. In order to preserve the original structure of the community, the city administration had banned neon signs, fast food restaurants and public telephone booths. Even eating ice cream on the streets was not allowed for fear of too much garbage. In 1985, the authorities prohibited Eastwood from building a small office building - for reasons of historical preservation.
3
0
Nice, small (and free!) museum just before Fisherman's Wharf in Monterey. Nice exhibition.
1
0
Beautiful little wharf, touristy but still OK. Starting point for a (wonderful) whale watching tour. There is a sea lion colony on the edge - just watching these animals is worth a visit.
1
0
Beautiful little place on the Pacific coast about 180 km from San Francisco. We felt very comfortable here.
1
0
Very nice little museum It's definitely worth a visit
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore around Del Rey Oaks?
Del Rey Oaks offers several natural highlights. The Frog Pond Wetland Preserve is a 17-acre area perfect for birdwatching and nature walks, featuring easy trails. Nearby, the vast Fort Ord National Monument provides extensive trails for hiking and biking, with stunning views of Monterey Bay and vibrant wildflower blooms in spring. You can also experience the scenic coastal beauty along the 17-mile Drive, which winds through iconic landscapes.
Are there historical sites to visit near Del Rey Oaks?
Yes, the area is rich in history. You can explore Monterey State Historic Park, home to some of California's oldest buildings, including the Custom House. Another significant historical area is Cannery Row, Monterey, which was once a bustling sardine canning district and is now a vibrant tourist area with shops and restaurants.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near Del Rey Oaks?
The region around Del Rey Oaks is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, such as those detailed in the Running Trails around Del Rey Oaks guide. For mountain biking enthusiasts, there are challenging routes available, which you can explore in the MTB Trails around Del Rey Oaks guide. Additionally, the 17-mile Drive is a popular paved route for cycling.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Del Rey Oaks area?
Absolutely! Many attractions are suitable for families. Fishermans Wharf offers shopping, dining, and opportunities to watch seals and sailboats. Carmel-by-the-Sea is a picturesque town with unique architecture that families can enjoy exploring. The Frog Pond Wetland Preserve and Del Rey Oaks Park provide playgrounds and easy trails for children to enjoy nature.
Where can I find easy hiking trails near Del Rey Oaks?
For easy hikes, the Frog Pond Wetland Preserve within Del Rey Oaks offers accessible walking trails. You can also find several easy routes listed in the Easy Hikes around Del Rey Oaks guide, including loops around Fishermans Wharf and Monterey State Historic Park.
What is unique about Carmel-by-the-Sea?
Carmel-by-the-Sea is a charming and unique settlement known for its picturesque wooden houses, art galleries, and distinctive local traditions. It famously lacks mailboxes, house numbers, and street lamps, contributing to its fairytale-like atmosphere. It's a great place for a leisurely stroll and to admire the artistic flair of the town.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Del Rey Oaks?
Visitors frequently appreciate the blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The scenic coastal drives like the 17-mile Drive, the charm of towns like Carmel-by-the-Sea, and the historical depth of places like Monterey State Historic Park are highly rated. The opportunity to observe wildlife at the Frog Pond Wetland Preserve and the vibrant atmosphere of Fishermans Wharf are also popular highlights.
Are there any scenic drives or viewpoints in the area?
Yes, the 17-mile Drive is a world-famous scenic route along the Monterey Peninsula, offering breathtaking views of coastal landscapes, cypress trees, and dramatic cliffs. Additionally, the rolling hills of Fort Ord National Monument provide stunning vistas of Monterey Bay.
Can I find places for wildlife spotting near Del Rey Oaks?
The Frog Pond Wetland Preserve in Del Rey Oaks is an excellent spot for wildlife observation, particularly for birdwatching and spotting local amphibians. The nearby Fort Ord National Monument also hosts a rich variety of plant and animal life across its extensive acreage.
What is the best time of year to visit Del Rey Oaks for outdoor activities?
While Del Rey Oaks offers outdoor activities year-round, spring is particularly vibrant. During this season, the Fort Ord National Monument comes alive with stunning wildflower blooms, enhancing the hiking and biking experience. The weather is generally mild, making it pleasant for exploring the natural attractions.
Are there any accessible paths or trails for visitors with mobility considerations?
The 17-mile Drive is fully paved, making it suitable for most riders and potentially accessible for those with mobility aids. The Frog Pond Wetland Preserve also features easy walking trails, which are generally well-maintained for nature exploration.
Most popular attractions around Del Rey Oaks
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
