Billed "the greatest meeting of land and sea" by notable landscape artist Francis McComas, Monterey Bay boasts a sophisticated scene rich in history, culture and opportunities for entertainment and outdoor recreation, attracting visitors from worldwide.

Today Monterey Bay is home to world-class golf courses, a vibrant music and arts community, Fisherman's Wharf, and shopping and restaurants along Cannery Row - all of which are complemented by breathtaking views, ideal weather and a dramatic landscape.

Cannery Row also boasts the Monterey Bay Aquarium, where children and the young at heart can learn about conservation research and efforts, study animals of the sea aboard the Aquarium's 65-foot research boat and tour exhibits galore.

The Monterey Jazz Festival is hailed as the world's longest running jazz festival, a three-day celebration attracting more than 500 artists annually. Check out the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance in August, which attracts the world of car collectors and enthusiasts for a week's worth of car shows, auctions and entertainment.

Follow the festivities onto the streets where you'll find farmers' markets bolstered by fantastic year-round weather and supreme growing conditions.

The AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am golf tournament returns home every year, pairing the best touring golf professionals with celebrities and captains of industry. Outdoor enthusiasts will welcome Point Lobos State Reserve, Big Sur, Garland Park and Fort Ord for cycling, hiking, scuba diving, whale watching and more. The U.S. Open Championship returns to Pebble Beach in June 2010, when Tiger Woods will try to regain his crown.

Find even more shopping, dining and art galleries just a short drive further down the coast in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Drive inland and discover the quaint Carmel Valley Village.

Monterey's ideal growing climate boasts several vintners who have mastered the art of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, including Talbott, Bernardus, Château Julien, Monterey Francioni, Galante and Figge Cellars. Carmel Valley in particular benefits from the Santa Lucia Highlands region, which offers the perfect conditions for some of California's most sought after Pinot Noir. The Greater Monterey Bay area is home to dozens of tasting rooms, inviting the opportunity to sample some of California's best.

To start planning your visit to Monterey Bay, click here.