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By Verdant
Monterey has long captured the imagination of visitors, artists, and naturalists alike. Once the capital of “Alta California” under Spanish and Mexican rule, the city later became a thriving fishing and canning hub—immortalized in John Steinbeck’s novels. Today, Monterey’s historic streets, sweeping coastal views, and abundant marine life draw travelers from around the world seeking beauty, history, and inspiration.
In recent years, Monterey has also stepped up as a leader in environmental stewardship. From its ban on single-use plastics to its extensive marine protected areas and eco-conscious businesses, the region is deeply committed to sustainability. Whether it’s solar-powered resorts in Big Sur or LEED-certified hotels by the wharf, Monterey is showing how tourism and sustainability can go hand in hand.
Here’s your curated guide to the best eco-friendly experiences in Monterey—from nature adventures and
But wait, first, some interesting history! Did you know all of this?
📜 Monterey at a Glance: A Quick History
Alta California—meaning Upper California—was the name for the region encompassing most of present-day California (and parts of nearby states) during Spanish and Mexican rule.
- Spanish Rule (1769–1821): Monterey was established as the capital of Alta California and became home to one of the earliest missions in the region.
- Mexican Rule (1821–1846): After winning independence from Spain in the Mexican War of Independence (1810–1821), Mexico retained Monterey as the capital and governed the same region under the name Mexican California.
- U.S. Annexation (1846): During the Mexican-American War, U.S. forces seized Monterey; California became a U.S. state in 1850.
- Canning Boom (1900–1950): Monterey rose to fame as the sardine capital of the world, with bustling canneries along Cannery Row—later immortalized by author John Steinbeck.
🌿 Eco-Friendly Things to Do in Monterey
Experience the landscape that inspired generations of writers, scientists, and conservationists.
Monterey is more than just scenic—it’s ecologically significant. As part of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, the region offers a front-row seat to some of the most biodiverse marine environments in the world. Many local organizations and tour companies are dedicated to sustainability, offering eco-education alongside unforgettable outdoor experiences.
🐋 Go Whale Watching in Monterey
Monterey Bay is a world-renowned whale watching destination. Depending on the season, you may spot humpbacks, gray whales, blue whales, orcas, dolphins, and more. Many tours are led by marine biologists or naturalists who share knowledge about ocean ecosystems—and how to protect them.
→ Explore whale watching companies in our directory »
🦦 Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium
A global leader in marine conservation, the aquarium is home to sea otters, kelp forests, jellyfish, and cutting-edge exhibits. It’s also at the forefront of ocean protection efforts—from plastic pollution education to sustainable seafood advocacy.
📍 886 Cannery Row, Monterey
🌐 montereybayaquarium.org
🌊 Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary
One of the largest marine protected areas in the United States, this underwater sanctuary stretches along 276 miles of California’s central coast. Visitors can experience it by whale watching, kayaking, tidepooling, and even scuba diving—all while supporting ocean conservation.
🌐 montereybay.noaa.gov
🛶 Tour or Paddle at the Elkhorn Slough Reserve
A protected tidal estuary just north of Monterey, Elkhorn Slough is a haven for wildlife, including sea otters, harbor seals, and hundreds of bird species. Kayak through the peaceful waters or join a guided nature tour to learn more about this vital ecosystem.
📍 1700 Elkhorn Rd, Watsonville
🌐 elkhornslough.org
→ See kayaking & paddleboarding options in our directory »
🦅 Visit the Ventana Wildlife Society Discovery Center in Big Sur
Inside Big Sur’s Andrew Molera State Park, this small but powerful center shares the story of the California condor’s recovery and offers a deeper look at the Central Coast’s native wildlife.
📍 CA-1, Big Sur
🌐 ventanaws.org
🐚 Visit the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History
A favorite for families, this charming museum explores the region’s natural wonders—from tidepools to native plants to the cultural history of local Indigenous peoples.
📍 165 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove
🌐 pgmuseum.org
→ See more marine tours & ocean activities in the Republic of Green directory »
🐙 Did You Know?
The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary is larger than Yellowstone and deeper than the Grand Canyon—home to over 36 species of marine mammals!
🥗 Healthy, Plant-Based Eats in Monterey & Nearby
Good for your body, your taste buds—and the Earth. Monterey’s plant-forward food scene is about more than going meatless. The region’s most eco-conscious restaurants prioritize
Terra Superfoods
A bright, modern juice and smoothie bar near downtown Monterey, serving açai bowls, cold-pressed juices, and
📍 570 Munras Ave Suite 50, Monterey
☎️ (831) 324-4178
🌐 terrasuperfoods.com
El Cantaro
100%
📍 791 Foam St, Monterey
☎️ (831) 646-5465
🌐 orderelcantaro.com
Julia’s Vegetarian Restaurant
A cozy vegetarian café in Pacific Grove known for hearty
📍 1180 Forest Ave Ste F, Pacific Grove
☎️ (831) 656-9533
🌐 juliasveg.com
Happy Girl Kitchen Co.
Organic café and coffee bar offering
📍 173 Central Ave, Pacific Grove
☎️ (831) 373-4475
🌐 happygirlkitchen.com
🛏 Eco-Friendly Lodging in Monterey
Where you stay matters—especially when it comes to your environmental impact. From solar-powered resorts in Big Sur to LEED®-certified hotels in downtown Monterey, the region offers eco-lodging for every budget. Sustainable accommodations incorporate energy-efficient systems, water-saving fixtures, solar energy, waste reduction, and environmentally responsible cleaning practices. Some even offer on-site gardens or composting programs. Whether you’re camping under redwoods or watching the sunset from your oceanview balcony, these places let you rest easy—literally and ethically.
Post Ranch Inn
This world-class eco-luxury resort in Big Sur features solar power, reclaimed materials,
📍 47900 Highway 1, Big Sur
☎️ (800) 527-2200
🌐 postranchinn.com
Portola Hotel & Spa
Monterey’s only LEED® Certified hotel, located downtown near Fisherman’s Wharf. Offers green event services, water conservation systems, and local sourcing practices.
📍 2 Portola Plaza, Monterey
☎️ (888) 222-5851
🌐 portolahotel.com
Spindrift Inn
A boutique hotel right on Cannery Row, with green housekeeping practices and panoramic ocean views. A charming and moderately priced option for travelers seeking both comfort and sustainability.
📍 652 Cannery Row, Monterey
☎️ (831) 646-8900
🌐 spindriftinn.com/green-hotel
Fernwood Resort
A forested retreat in Big Sur offering tent cabins, glamping, and a campground beneath redwoods. Features solar-heated water, low-impact accommodations, and nature-focused experiences.
📍 47200 CA-1, Big Sur
☎️ (831) 667-2422
🌐 fernwoodbigsur.com
Monterey Veterans Memorial Park Campground
A tranquil city-run campground nestled in the forest above Monterey, offering tent sites, picnic areas, and access to hiking trails.
📍 1200 Veterans Dr, Monterey
☎️ (831) 646-3865
🌐 monterey.gov
🌤 Best Time to Visit Monterey?
Spring and fall are ideal times to visit Monterey—offering a balance of sunshine, fewer crowds, and vibrant wildlife migrations. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and returning humpbacks, while fall offers crisp ocean breezes and harvest festivals. Both seasons support low-impact travel, with less traffic and strain on resources.
🌎 Explore More Eco-Friendly Spots in Monterey (and beyond)
Looking for even more eco-conscious places to eat, shop, or stay during your visit? Start planning your sustainable trip with Republic of Green:
🌿 Browse all eco-friendly listings in Monterey (things to do, lodgings, and more)
🌱 Join the RoG Online Community for chat about sustainable living & eco-friendly recreation
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