Cannery Row vs Old Fisherman's Wharf
Two walkable waterfront strips a short stroll apart in Monterey — here is how to pick between the Steinbeck-era Cannery Row scene and the boat-deck dining of Old Fisherman's Wharf.
| Cannery Row | Old Fisherman's Wharf | |
|---|---|---|
| Headline draw | Monterey Bay Aquarium and Steinbeck-era history | Bay cruises, whale-watching boats, chowder row |
| Vibe | Boardwalk-adjacent, busier, more retail | Working wharf with restaurants over the water |
| Best for kids | Aquarium, candy shops, arcade-style stops | Sea lions barking under the planks, boat-watching |
| Dining | Sit-down restaurants and breweries | Chowder samples, seafood counters, water-view tables |
| Getting between them | Recreation Trail walk | Same Recreation Trail in reverse |
Cannery Row
Pros
- Walking distance to the Aquarium
- Most variety of shops and food
- On the Monterey Bay Recreation Trail
Cons
- Can feel touristy in peak season
- Parking pressure on weekends
- Less 'authentic waterfront' than the wharf
Old Fisherman's Wharf
Pros
- Working-harbor character
- Chowder samples and water-view dining
- Departure point for bay tours and whale watching
Cons
- Smaller footprint than Cannery Row
- Crowded boarding times for boats
- Less to do indoors if the weather turns
Choose Cannery Row if…
you're building the day around the Aquarium and want shops and restaurants nearby.
Choose Old Fisherman's Wharf if…
you want chowder, boat tours, and a true working-wharf scene.
FAQ
Can I walk between Cannery Row and Old Fisherman's Wharf?
Yes — the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail connects them along the water.
Where do whale-watching boats leave from?
Most departures are from Old Fisherman's Wharf.