Population: 29,960 (2003 est.)
Monterey has several distinct neighborhoods.
Old Monterey - (aka "Spaghetti Hill) is the area above the downtown area. This is considered a "sun belt" area as there is often less fog than other areas. Easy walk from here to the Monterey Institute of International Studies.
North Monterey - Most of the larger apartment communities are located here. It is separated from the rest of Monterey by the Navy Post Graduate School and the freeway. But it is connected directly by the recreation trail which runs from Pacific Grove to Marina.
New Monterey - runs along and above Lighthouse Ave. up from Cannery Row. Some apartment complexes are located here but mostly houses, and smaller apartment complexes.
There are other misc smaller neighborhoods |
Monterey has a great downtown area centered mainly along Alvarado St. This a popular pedestrian area and is a one way street for cars. There are a number of coffee shops, juice bars, restaurants and retail stores. The street is well lit at night. The street is closed for Farmer's Market on Tuesdays from approx. 4 pm to 7pm.
There are three Piers in Monterey. The commercial fishing pier is used by the fishing boats and there is fish store open to the public. The pier is popular fishing spot.
Fisherman's Wharf is a popular destination for tourists and locals. There are a number of good restaurants. And there is an elevated walkway/platform at the end of the pier above the restaurant located there. It is also a loading dock for several popular whale watching boat tours.
The third pier is north of the Wharf and is the Coast Guard Pier. It is open to the public during daylight hours. Walk to the end and you get a close look at Sea Lions and/or Cormorants (birds) basking in the sun. This is also a popular fishing spot.
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Coast Guard Pier
Commercial Pier
Del Monte Beach |
