Our Favorite Monterey Events for Spring

Spring is glorious in Monterey County with perfect weather, plenty of sunshine, and wildflowers blanketing the hills. Spend your days biking along the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail, kayaking on the bay, or exploring scenic beaches and state parks. Monterey is also the place to be this season for fun events, from jazz festivals to auto racing to family fairs. Learn from the locals how to enjoy some of our favorite Monterey events this spring.

Whalefest Monterey
March 18 & 19, 2023

The extraordinary Monterey Bay Aquarium hosts this free event. Enjoy two days of education by world-renowned marine experts, stunning photography, live music, and interactive exhibits focused on the ocean and the environment. Whalefest Monterey runs from 11am – 5pm. Don't miss the world-famous Abalone Races.

Sea Otter Classic
April 20-23, 2023

Join North America's largest gathering of cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts at the Sea Otter Classic, held at the Weathertech Laguna Seca Raceway. Zoom in to competitive bike racing and recreational tours along the gorgeous coastline. Watch exciting bike stunt shows, meet professional athletes, and take in hundreds of exhibits.

Trans Am Speedfest – SVRA
May 4-7, 2023

WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca is one of the most spectacular race venues in the world! Meet celebrated drivers and get up close to classic Trans Ams, Corvettes, Alfas, Porsches, and Indy cars ready to take on the freshly re-paved, the 11-turn, 2.2-mile racecourse, including the blind Corkscrew.

Pacific Grove Good Old Days Festival
May 6 & 7, 2023

Celebrate the joys of yesteryear with old-fashioned carnival rides, inflatable jumpers, live bands, arts and crafts vendors, food booths, pony rides, a classic car show, a dance showcase, a parade, a petting zoo, and family-friendly exhibits.

Motul Course de Monterey
May 12-14

See America's premier sports car series hits the track for the Motul Course de Monterey at the WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. A Ferris wheel, go-karts, autograph sessions, and a kids' zone ensure fun for the whole family.

California Roots Music and Arts Festival
May 25-28, 2023

Join this annual American music and art festival at the Monterey Fairgrounds. Celebrate the music you love, including reggae, reggae rock, folk, and hip hop at the California Roots Music and Arts Festival. Inspired by the West Coast festivals of 60's, the festival showcases bands of many genres, live painting on stage, fire dancers, and good vibes. The festival is sustainable and kid-friendly, with free entrance for children under 10.

Plan Your Spring Getaway with Inns of Monterey

Enjoy a spring getaway at one of the intimate boutique hotels in the Inns of Monterey collection. From Cannery Row to Old Town, our five charming hotels put you near the best Monterey events, festivals and activities. Our hotels truly celebrate the spirit of Monterey with warm hospitality and authentic experiences you won't find anywhere else. Enjoy charming accommodations with ocean views or balconies overlooking the beauty of Monterey. Let Inns of Monterey help make your spring break even more unforgettable with one of our hotel and vacation packages. Monterey Golf Package – Play 18 holes on the only Jack Nicklaus signature course on California's Central Coast - The Club at Pasadera. This special includes overnight accommodations at Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Soa and a complimentary breakfast. Book Now Monterey Adventure Package - Explore the Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary and the beautiful sights of Monterey by kayak or paddleboard. After your adventure, enjoy accommodations for two and a free breakfast at the Monterey Bay Inn or the Victorian Inn. Book with the Monterey Bay Inn
Book with the Victorian Inn
Book with the Wave Street Inn Monterey Whale Watching – Enjoy a three-hour docent-led excursion to view these magnificent giants, overnight accommodations for two, and a complimentary breakfast at the Monterey Bay Inn. Book Now