One of the many benefits of living in Northern California is the close proximity to the beach!
It’s just a three-hour drive from Sacramento to Monterey County and its well-known attractions, including Fisherman’s Wharf, the Aquarium, the scenic views of 17-Mile Drive, and the monarch butterflies of Pacific Grove.
But 15 miles north / northeast of Monterey is a one of my favorite places to visit – the quiet little town of Moss Landing, located in the middle of the Monterey Bay coastline, at the head of the [underwater] Monterey Canyon
and at the mouth of Elkhorn Slough, one of the largest wetlands in the state.
The twin smokestacks of Moss Landing Power Plant, a natural gas plant, are visible from Monterey to Santa Cruz (on the north end of the bay).
With its very active marina,
fishing boats,
and abundance of sea life,
Moss Landing is one of my favorite places to explore – and take photos, of course!
Beach Renewal of Vows Ceremony
Two years ago Carrieanna’s cousins, James and Laurie, celebrated 30 years of marriage with a renewal of vows ceremony on the beach at the end of the boardwalk adjacent to the Moss Landing Marine Laboratories.
We then celebrated at one of the county’s very best seafood restaurants, Phil’s Fish Market and Eatery!
Phil’s Fish Market and Eatery
This locally-owned family business, has been serving “the finest local and sustainable seafood for over 30 years.”
The bar has beer on tap from our favorite pub, English Ales Brewery (located in Marina)
and there’s an extensive fish market on site.
Seating is available inside, or in a covered patio area,
or outside in the open air with a view of the beach.
The food is delicious!
On a clear day the view from the extended outdoor patio is both inspiring and relaxing – as long as you don’t leave your food unattended!
And if you visit Phil’s for dinner during the week, you might be treated to live Bluegrass Music!
If you visit the Monterey Bay, we highly recommend visiting Moss Landing!
Anything Is Possible Travel 
3 replies on “Moss Landing – A Hidden Treasure in Monterey County, California”
A quaint, historic fishing village Moss Landing is truly a hidden treasure, home to many antique shops, art galleries, and fantastic seafood and other restaurants!
LikeLike
Who knew? Thanks for the info. I always thought of Moss Landing as a place on the way to Monterey and not a stopping place. This was very helpful and informative. Great pictures, as always.
LikeLike
Thank you!
Be sure to stop at Phil’s when you’re in the area. You won’t be sorry!
LikeLike