Top Monterey, CA Attractions | Scottish Fairway Inn

A large stone arch bridge spans a rugged coastline, connecting cliffs over the blue ocean with a bright, partly cloudy sky above.

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Options for An Unforgettable Day

Things to do in Monterey, CA

Scottish Fairway Inn is your gateway to the enchanting highlights of California’s central coast. Nestled in the Del Rey Oaks area, our hotel offers a plethora of options for an unforgettable day. Indulge in a wine-tasting adventure, embark on a scenic walk along the beautiful beaches, or check out the historic Cannery Row. A 5-minute walk will take you to the Monterey Fairgrounds, and we are conveniently located just 3.5 miles from the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium. For those seeking a bit of speed, enjoy the thrill of a race at the Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca.

A rocky coastline with rugged cliffs, wind-swept trees, and a calm sea meeting the horizon, under a pale sky.

7.4 Miles | 12 Minutes Drive

17-Mile Drive

Experience one of California’s most scenic coastal routes along 17-Mile Drive, winding past dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and legendary landmarks like the Lone Cypress. This private roadway through Pebble Beach offers unforgettable ocean vistas, wildlife sightings, and photo-worthy stops at every turn, making it a must-see attraction just minutes from Scottish Fairway Inn for scenic drives and relaxed coastal exploration.

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3.1 Miles | 8 Minutes Drive

Cannery Row

Discover the lively charm of Cannery Row, Monterey’s famous waterfront district filled with oceanfront restaurants, local shops, and historic buildings. Once home to sardine canneries, it now blends coastal culture with modern entertainment. Walk the bayfront, enjoy fresh seafood, or explore nearby attractions, all just a short drive from Scottish Fairway Inn, offering unforgettable seaside energy day and night long.

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A whimsical, cottage-style cafe with curved, fairy-tale architecture, outdoor seating, striped awning, and stone path, inviting pastry vibes.

5.6 Miles | 9 Minutes Drive

Carmel-by-the-Sea

Step into the storybook village of Carmel-by-the-Sea, known for its charming cottages, art galleries, boutique shops, and white-sand beaches. This picturesque town invites leisurely strolls, wine tasting, and ocean sunsets. Whether browsing local art or relaxing by the shore, Carmel offers a romantic coastal escape close to Scottish Fairway Inn, perfect for couples, creatives, photographers, dreamers, and weekend getaways alike.

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Colorful waterfront houses on stilts along a calm harbor with boats, reflecting in the water.

2.1 Miles | 7 Minutes Drive

Old Fisherman’s Wharf

Old Fisherman’s Wharf is a classic Monterey attraction offering fresh seafood, harbor views, and family-friendly fun. Watch sea lions, sample clam chowder, book whale-watching tours, or enjoy waterfront dining. With its lively atmosphere and scenic bay setting, the wharf delivers authentic coastal experiences and easy access to boat excursions near Scottish Fairway Inn for visitors of all ages year-round daily.

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Coastal cliffs meet turquoise waves with white foam, a rocky shoreline and a grassy green knoll curving along the edge, stunning and rugged.

7.1 Miles | 12 Minutes Drive

Pebble Beach

Pebble Beach is world-renowned for its breathtaking coastline, luxury resorts, and iconic golf courses. Even non-golfers can enjoy scenic ocean walks, dramatic viewpoints, and coastal dining. From pristine beaches to famous fairways, Pebble Beach showcases the natural beauty of the Monterey Peninsula and offers unforgettable moments just minutes from Scottish Fairway Inn, surrounded by cypress trees, sea breezes, history, prestige.

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A large crowd watches a deep blue aquarium tank filled with jellyfish and a few fish swimming past silhouettes against the illuminated water.

3.5 Miles | 9 Minutes Drive

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Monterey Bay Aquarium is one of the world’s leading marine science centers, showcasing diverse ocean life from the Pacific Coast. Explore immersive exhibits featuring sea otters, jellyfish, sharks, and kelp forests. Perfect for families and curious travelers, the aquarium inspires conservation while offering engaging, educational experiences overlooking Monterey Bay near Scottish Fairway Inn, with stunning coastal views and interactive displays.

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A vintage race car interior with a perforated metal dashboard, classic steering wheel, and a numbered race door display.

8.7 Miles | 15 Minutes Drive

Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca

Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca is a legendary motorsports venue famous for its challenging turns and thrilling races. Home to world-class events, the track also welcomes driving experiences and festivals. Racing fans can witness high-speed action and explore motorsport history, all set against rolling hills just a short drive from Scottish Fairway Inn, delivering adrenaline, excitement, iconic corkscrew views, speed, tradition.

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A yellow church with a bell tower, set in a plaza framed by green trees and a clear sky, welcoming visitors with a brown arched door.

2.2 Miles | 5 Minutes Drive

San Carlos Cathedral

San Carlos Cathedral, also known as the Royal Presidio Chapel, is one of California’s oldest stone churches. Rich in history and Spanish colonial architecture, it offers a peaceful place to reflect. Visitors can explore beautiful interiors, learn about Monterey’s early days, and experience a meaningful cultural landmark near Scottish Fairway Inn, showcasing faith, heritage, craftsmanship, tradition, reverence, beauty, legacy, serenity.

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A dirt trail winds through a dense green forest, tall trees on both sides and leafy undergrowth along the path.

5 Miles | 10 Minutes Drive

Jacks Peak Park

Jacks Peak Park offers panoramic views of Monterey Bay, peaceful hiking trails, and natural forest surroundings. Ideal for outdoor lovers, the park features shaded paths, scenic overlooks, and picnic areas. Escape the bustle of town and reconnect with nature while enjoying sweeping coastal vistas from one of the peninsula’s highest points near Scottish Fairway Inn, at sunrise, sunset, dawn, dusk.

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A two-story beige brick building with white columns, a central entry with stairs and a small porch, and well-kept landscaping in front.

2.2 Miles | 5 Minutes Drive

Colton Hall Museum

Colton Hall Museum is a landmark of California history, where the state’s first constitutional convention was held in 1849. This historic building offers engaging exhibits, artifacts, and stories from Monterey’s past. Visitors can step back in time, explore early statehood history, and enjoy views of the city, all just minutes from Scottish Fairway Inn.

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