Things to do in Castroville

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Photo by Lisa Travelfeet
Photo by Lisa Travelfeet
Photo by Mel Vin
Photo by Mel Vin
Photo by Rashmi Hirani
Photo by Rashmi Hirani
Photo by Yasser Hamid Syed
Photo by Yasser Hamid Syed
Photo by Sierra Carstensen
Photo by Sierra Carstensen
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Castroville must see attractions

1. Monterey Bay Aquarium

The Monterey Bay Aquarium showcases more than 35,000 animals and plants across 550 species. You’ll discover all kinds of local wildlife here, including fish of all sizes, invertebrates, mammals and plants.
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Monterey Bay Aquarium showing marine life and interior views

2. 17-Mile Drive

Gaze at dazzling mansions and barking sea lions along 17-Mile Drive, a privately owned stretch of road that winds between Pacific Grove and Pebble Beach. This exclusive seafront drive hugs the wild, craggy coastline, passing great cypress trees, rocky coves, sandy beaches and undulating golf courses.
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17-Mile Drive which includes rugged coastline and a beach

3. Cannery Row

Discover the leisure attractions along the historic street of Cannery Row. Once a thriving and rather smelly sardine-canning district, today this strip of coast offers fun for the whole family. Peruse the specialty shops and art galleries, dine in seafood restaurants, take the kids to Monterey Bay Aquarium and enjoy watersports in the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.
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Cannery Row showing a sandy beach as well as a small group of people

4. Carmel Beach

Carmel Beach is a long stretch of soft, white sand in Carmel, a picture-perfect town just 15 minutes’ drive south from Monterey. Steady swells make this a popular destination with surfers, swimmers and kayakers. Rent a kayak and paddle out across the kelp beds. Bring a wetsuit, as the water is often cold except in the heat of summer.
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Carmel Beach which includes a beach and landscape views as well as an individual femail

5. Fisherman's Wharf

Fisherman’s Wharf is a popular waterfront area that played a major role in the development of Monterey. After serving as a busy port toward the end of the 19th century, it is today a diverse district that draws crowds with its seafood restaurants, lively bars and souvenir shops. Admire the excellent views of the ocean in this old-world harbor.
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Fisherman\'s Wharf featuring boating and general coastal views as well as a large group of people

What to do in Castroville

Discover the most popular places to visit in Castroville

The beach and dunes at Salinas River State Beach are part of Monterey Bay’s unique coastal dune system and it is home to many species of birds, including the California brown pelican, red-tailed hawk, American kestrel, western snowy plover, western gull, black phoebe, western scrub-jay, California towhee, white-crowned sparrow, and more. The beach is a popular fishing site.

Salinas River Dunes Nature Preserve

You can take time to visit Salinas River Dunes Nature Preserve during your travels to Castroville. While you're in the area, stroll along the beaches.

Salinas River Dunes Nature Preserve

Popular day trips from Castroville

Fort Ord Dunes State Park which includes views and a sandy beach

Marina

National Steinbeck Center which includes interior views

Salinas

Watsonville

Watsonville

Photo by Sara Crotts

Moss Landing

Frequently asked questions

Is Castroville worth visiting?
Whether you want to experience the cultural hotspots and local charm or try unique foods and explore in nature, there are plenty of things to do in Castroville.
How do I spend a day in Castroville?
Marina State Beach and Salinas Valley Model Railroad Museum are two excellent places to start your adventures. Be sure to check out the dining and retail options in Castroville while you're in town too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Castroville?
Marina State Beach is one of the top tourist attractions in Castroville and should feature high on every sightseeing itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Castroville?
Three days in Castroville is more than enough to enjoy the city's main highlights. Many travelers spend two days on average. Marina State Beach, Salinas River State Beach and Boronda Adobe History Center are highly rated sights. Like to see more? Hang around a while longer to check off nearby hotspots such as Monterey.
What are some activities to do in Castroville with kids?
Whether you're traveling with hard-to-please teens or tiny adventurers, an itinerary filled with fun activities sets the tone for a great escape. Take a look at our ideas for what to do in Castroville with kids.

What to do in Castroville for adults?
There's no shortage of things to do in Castroville, with entertainment for adults of all ages. Round off your day with a visit to Steinbeck House or Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute.
Are there free things to do in Castroville?
One of the top ways to learn about free things to do in Castroville is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on hip neighborhoods, parks and other top attractions you can experience without taking your wallet out. Marina State Beach is one spot that doesn't charge an entrance fee.