Monterey Things to Do Tips by grandmaR

Waterfront in 1964 Fisherman's Wharf Review

When we moved to Monterey in 1964, we had two cars, a 1932 Plymouth and a 1964 Ford station wagon. This is my husband at a gas station on the waterfront with the 1932 Plymouth which we drove out to Monterey to find housing.

In those days, I think Fisherman's Wharf was less all encompassing than it is today. It had begun to be converted to a tourist-oriented operation and by 1956 included restaurants, gift and candy shops, a theater, an aquarium, snack bars, boat rental businesses, fish markets, marine machine shops and a marine service station. Wharf II was still serving the wholesale fish businesses. I do not remember if we visited it or not. We probably did, but I don't have any pictures.

The website the details the history of the area says:
"In the 1950s the demand for a small craft harbor or marina became increasingly urgent. In 1957 construction of a new marina was placed on the ballot, but divided Monterey citizens failed to approve the project until a 20-year, low-interest loan for half the construction cost was obtained from the State. Construction began in 1959. Upon completion in 1960, the Marina provided 367 berths at a construction cost of slightly over $600,000. A protective sea wall extended from Wharf II to the Marina entrance next to Fisherman's Wharf. The Monterey Municipal Marina was dedicated on September 11, 1960. The berthing facilities were constructed by Granite Construction Company of Watsonville, CA. The launching ramps were added in 1962."

This was right before our visit.

Website: http://www.montereywharf.com/history.htm

Cannery Row Cannery Row Review

When we lived in the Monterey area, this was what Cannery Row looked like. There was no aquarium in Monterey at that time - that didn't open for some 20 years.

Apparently now there are outlet stores, restaurants, and associated parking lots, and the place has really been touristed up.

When you go - think of how it used to look.

Address: Cannery Row