After grabbing lunch at Compagno’s Market and Deli and eating it at 17-mile drive, my next stop in Monterey was Old Fisherman’s Wharf.
Old Fisherman’s Wharf
Originally, the Pacific Coast Steamship Co built Old Fisherman’s Wharf as a place to load and unload passengers. With the growth of the sardine industry, the wharf grew into a commercial fish market. However, like with Cannery Row, the sardine industry collapsed due to over-fishing. As a result, Fisherman’s wharf remade itself into tourist destination.
Currently, the wharf serves as a hub for ocean related tourist activities. Several types of tours leave from here including whale watching, fishing, and glass bottom boat tours. Because it is a tourist hub, the wharf is lined with restaurants, candy shops, and jewelry stores. One of the restaurants that I wanted to try was LouLou’s Griddle in the Middle. Featured on food network, LouLou’s serves a unique take on traditional diner food.
The food at old fisherman’s wharf looked fantastic. All of the places to eat had their own take on popular seafood dishes. Chowder seemed to be the big thing, every restaurant served chowder in some form. If you are looking for a good seafood dinner with an amazing view, this is another fantastic option. The wharf has some amazing views of the marina and has beach access. It seemed like no matter where I went Monterey treated me to spectacular views.
Overall
Overall, Old Fisherman’s Wharf feels like a better version of Old Cannery Row. It has a lot of a similar types of restaurants and shops, but there were many cheaper food stalls and storefronts selling great looking seafood at reasonable prices. With more activities departing from the wharf and all of its candy shops, the wharf is a fun destination for families. Like pretty much every area of Monterey, Old Fisherman’s wharf has beach access and some beautiful views of the Bay.