Things to do in Monterey

What to expect in Monterey

Tours dominate the Things to Do catalogue here, so the options you’ll see are mostly guided day trips and organised outings — good for first-time visitors and for fitting highlights into a short stay. Demand peaks in May and drops to its quietest in July, which means experiences are busiest in May and far easier to join in July. That rhythm makes Monterey a place where you can plan around a busy May or enjoy quieter conditions in July.

How to choose what to book

The main decision is whether you want the widest variety of organised outings or a straightforward, budget-friendly tour; Tours offer the broadest spread and suit travellers who want both entry-level and higher-end options. The widest range here has an entry-level of AUD 167 and an upper end of AUD 208, so shopping around can move you between modest and more premium guided experiences.

If you need the most affordable way in to local activities, that same Tours category typically offers the lowest typical price at AUD 179, and it’s also the mid-range option where what’s included can vary most between providers. If you value convenience and a single clear choice, the narrowness of options within Tours means price-shopping gains you access to slightly different levels rather than wholly different activity types.

When travellers from Australia book

Most travellers book about 10 days ahead, while the earliest planners book around 26 days out. That timing means plan on booking one to four weeks ahead if you want a comfortable cushion, and the extra lead time matters most for travel in May when demand is highest.

How prices compare

The table below shows how Monterey’s top category compares on typical price and the usual booking range, so you can budget before choosing.

Typical price is the median paid on Klook; the usual range covers the middle half of bookings, so cheaper and pricier options exist outside it; prices are shown with their currency code. Based on Klook booking data, August 2025 – July 2026.