Monterey County is giving agents a timely new way to sell this Californian destination in 2026, as three major screen adaptations showcase the destination's longstanding connections with literature.
Netflix's new adaptation of John Steinbeck's East of Eden, starring Florence Pugh, arrives on 1 October, followed by Disney/20th Century Studios' Whalefall on 16 October. A third season of HBO's Big Little Lies is also in development, based on Liane Moriarty's new sequel Big Little Truths, published at the end of August.
Agents can turn the releases into a literary-themed itinerary spanning the county. Steinbeck fans can explore Salinas and the landscapes that inspired East of Eden, including the author's childhood home and the National Steinbeck Center, before following the Salinas Valley towards Pinnacles National Park. On the coast in Monterey, visitors can continue the story in Cannery Row and Pacific Grove. See Monterey sets out a dedicated three-day Steinbeck itinerary which is available on SeeMonterey.com.
Adventurous clients can discover the marine environment behind Daniel Kraus's 2023 novel Whalefall. Set in Monterey Bay, the thriller provides inspiration for whale watching, kayaking and diving among the bay's kelp forests, alongside a visit to Monterey Bay Aquarium to learn more about this vibrant underwater world. On land, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve offers coastal hiking and opportunities to spot whales, seals and sea otters.
Meanwhile, fans of HBOs Big Little Lies can revisit locations featured in the first two seasons across Carmel, Monterey, Pacific Grove and Big Sur while awaiting the third instalment.
The three releases provide a topical context for combining Monterey County's cultural heritage with its food and wine, wildlife, outdoor adventure and coastal scenery, building a California itinerary around travellers' favourite stories.
Monterey County is located around 75 minutes by car from San Francisco International Airport and can also be reached via Monterey Regional Airport.
