Secret Gardens of Old Monterey

Discovering Monterey's historic gardens– our "best kept secret" - will come as a beautiful surprise!  Due to Monterey's mild climate, flowers can be found blooming much of the year.  Some of the gardens contain fountains you can make a wish in.  Others have arbors and quaint walkways bordered by abalone shells or wine bottles.  One site even has whalebone for a walkway!  The gardens come in sizes from a few planters to a few acres.  Some are hidden by walls or are tucked away off the beaten path.  The historic gardens of Monterey are not called "Monterey's Best Kept Secret" for nothing!  Gardens are open every day from 9:00 a.m. to 4 p.m. during winter months. Beginning May 1, the gardens are open to the public from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM at no charge, and do not require reservations to meander through on your own. We invite you to explore and discover your own "Secret Garden."

Click here for a PDF version of a map of Monterey State Historic Park's Secret Gardens

Custom House Cactus Garden
Situated on the grounds of the oldest government building in California is a small collection of cactus that were gathered from areas of the southwest in the 1920s. This drought-resistant garden has excellent views of the Monterey Harbor.  Located in Custom House Plaza.

Memory Garden
Designed in 1927 by Frederick Law Olmstead Jr, the Memory Garden is the most visited in Monterey State Historic Park. Graceful stucco archways, framed by multi-colored roses and other flowers, make this a favorite setting for photographers and weddings.  Stucco walls of the Pacific House and garden isolate this garden from the city, creating quiet and solitude. The fountain delights both children and adults. Located at the back of the Pacific House Museum at Custom House Plaza.

Sensory Garden
Planted for the sake of the senses, one can find color, taste, scent, touch and just plain beauty in this special garden. 

Casa del Oro Herb Garden 

Planted with herb lovers in mind, these plants educate your senses as to what various herbs look like before they are dried and packaged.  Located on the corner of Pacific and Scott Streets across from California's First Theatre. This garden is maintained by the volunteers of the Historic Garden League. 

Whaling Station/First Brick House Garden
Tucked away from the busy streets, this lovely garden is popular for its roses, Australian Tea Tree and winding brick walkways.  A challenge to find....but it is worth the time. Located in the Heritage Harbor off Pacific Street, this garden can be rented for weddings through the Junior League of Monterey County. 

California's First Theatre Garden
The First Theatre borders a garden that represents a planting theme popular in the 1920s and 30s in Monterey.  Huge Monterey Cypress trees frame the succulents growing throughout the garden.  Located on the corner of Pacific and Scott Streets.
                                                                             
Casa Soberanes Garden
The "House of the Blue Gate" is famous for its entrance brightly painted blue gate and garden beyond.  Abalone shells and wine bottles form borders along terraced garden walkways and planters.  A long, wooden trellis provides shade during rare hot days in Monterey.  Located at the corner of Pacific Street and Del Monte Avenue

Larkin Garden
The Larkin House Garden reflects back to first owner, Thomas Larkin's New England heritage, but was developed in the 1920-50s by Larkin's granddaughter Alice Larkin Toulmin.  Stone walls isolate the hustle and bustle of the city, leaving a quiet, peaceful garden.  An old well, arbor, and lush vegetation add to this lovely garden. Also, located in this garden are the quarters where William Tecumseh Sherman stayed here in Monterey early in his military career. Located between Calle Principal and Pacific at Jefferson Street. 

Stevenson Garden
Developed in the 1920s and 30s, the garden reflects on a romanticized version of what people believed early Mexican gardens looked like.  The use of trees, plantings and meandering walkways make this special garden a very quiet and restful experience.  One can imagine seeing Robert Louis Stevenson looking out his bedroom in the distance.  Located at 530 Houston Street. 

Other Gardens
Most other public buildings in Monterey have their own special gardens that you can visit and enjoy.  During special occasions, private gardens are opened for public viewing as well.