Enjoy Family Fun, Festive Decor, Special Offers, and a New Short Essay Contest, "For the Love of Mom" Essay Contest  at Old Fisherman’s Wharf in Monterey

Bring your Mom, grandmother, and the whole family to celebrate Mother’s Day on Old Fisherman’s Wharf on Sunday, May 10, 2026. Enjoy the beauty of Monterey Bay while making unforgettable memories with the special women in your life.

Visitors will be greeted by festive Mother’s Day decorations perfect for family photos and selfies, including a free photo opportunity with a Giant Rose-Framed Backdrop.

Participate in the “For the Love of Mom” Short Essay Contest

The community is invited to participate in the inaugural Mother’s Day Short Essay Contest, “For the Love of Mom”, celebrating heartfelt memories and tributes to mothers.

How to Enter:

Write a short essay (200 words or less) sharing a special memory about your mom.

One entry per person.

Email your entry to [email protected] with the subject line: Wharf Mother’s Day Essay Contest. Due by midnight, May 11, 2025.

Winners will be announced by May 18, 2026.

Full contest guidelines and judging criteria are available on the Mother's Day on the Wharf event page at MontereyWharf.com.

Prizes:

1st Place: $100 in Wharf Dollars

2nd Place: $50 in Wharf Dollars

3rd Place: $25 in Wharf Dollars

Wharf Dollars may be used at any merchant on Old Fisherman’s Wharf.

Dining, Shopping & Gift Ideas

Some of the Wharf restaurants will offer special Mother’s Day lunch and dinner specials and shops will feature seasonal sales and unique gift items perfect for moms.

Indulge Mom’s sweet tooth at the Wharf’s three candy shops, offering homemade chocolates, saltwater taffy, caramel apples, and more.

Looking for a meaningful gift experience? Purchase gift certificates for whale watching, fishing trips, sailing adventures, or glass bottom boat rides, all operated by local businesses on the Wharf.

Shop Local, Celebrate Together

Thank you for supporting local merchants by celebrating this special day on Monterey’s iconic Old Fisherman’s Wharf.

About Old Fisherman’s Wharf

Originally built in 1845 for passenger and freight service, Old Fisherman’s Wharf is a historic and vibrant waterfront destination that attracts over 4 million visitors each year. Known as the “Monterey Bay Whale Watching Capital of the World,” the Wharf was prominently featured in Season One of HBO’s Big Little Lies and offers a mix of history, culture, and seaside charm.

Visitors can enjoy:

11 restaurants offering award-winning cuisine and stunning ocean views

3 candy shops, 1 ice cream store, 1 tea and coffee shop, and 8 gift shops

4 whale watching companies, 2 fishing charter businesses, plus sailing and glass bottom boat cruises

Specialty fish markets, and photo-worthy marine life encounters from otters to dolphins, and from whales to sea birds.

Don’t miss the opportunity to dine, shop, explore, and make lasting memories on Monterey’s beloved waterfront.

For more information, visit www.montereywharf.com or call (831) 238-0777.