Alexandra & Andrew
Things To Do
Pezzini Farms
Whether driving to or from Carmel (or both!), if you are taking Highway 1, we cannot recommend a stop at Pezzini Farms enough. Located in the "Artichoke Capital of the World," this family heirloom artichoke farm and market, offers their famous artichokes, along with thousands of local and farm fresh products including fresh produce, dips and sauces, and more. And the fried artichokes are a MUST!
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve has been labeled “the crown jewel of the California state park system” for its spectacular scenery.
17 Mile Drive
Walk or drive along the famous 17-Mile Drive. This is a visually stunning stretch of roadway which hugs the Pacific coastline from Pacific Grove to Pebble Beach featuring awe-inspiring sights along the way. The entrance fee is $10.50 per vehicle.
Monterey Peninsula Golf Courses
The Monterey Peninsula and surrounding area is a breathtaking destination for golf lovers being home to 25+ courses. There are so many great courses to consider and we encourage you to look into all the options! Book early as things tend to fill up quickly!
The Fire Pits at the Inn at Spanish Bay
Cozy up for drinks and small bites outside at the fire pits overlooking the views. Make sure to get there early, as this area is a popular spot year round. Come around 5:45pm and catch the bagpiper who has played along the Pebble Beach coastline every day, rain or shine, since The Inn and Links at Spanish Bay opened in 1987.
Mission Ranch Restaurant
Breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this is one of our favorite restaurants in all of Carmel. Come for the great food and stay for the cozy, pastural views.
Casanova
Another place we could go back to again and again. A cheerful French and Italian restaurant with all of the classics.
Carmel Valley Wine Tasting
Although many may think Napa is the destination for California wine, between Carmel Valley and Carmel-by-the-Sea there are more than 20 local wineries and wine tasting rooms that are worth checking out.
Monterey Bay Aquarium
Take a walk through the famous Monterrey Aquarium, showcasing the extensive local ecosystem up close! From the otter exhibit, to the penguins, and the hammerhead sharks, this place has it all. This is also located near Cannery Row, which can be explored afterwards!
Cannery Row
Cannery Row is a waterfront street in Monterey lined with shops and restaurants. - a great area to walk, shop, and eat.
Old Fisherman’s Wharf
The Old Fisherman’s Wharf is another one of Monterey’s most nostalgic places to visit. Here, you’ll find a wide variety of shops and restaurants, all offering unbeatable views of the California coast. This is also the departure point for Monterey whale watching cruises, sailing trips, fishing charters, and glass-bottomed boat tours.
Dust Bowl Brewing Co.
The brewery features two 20 tap towers, indoor seating with expansive views into the brewery, and a large beer garden with fire pits. They have live music on Thursday evenings in the Summer.
Garrapata State Park
Take a break and take in the breathtaking views at Garrapata State Park. Located right off Rt. 1, try and get there early as parking fills up on the side of the road quick. You can walk the many trails on the coast side or head inland to walk amongst the redwoods. Just be careful and stay on trail - don't end up with poison oak like Andrew did!
Big Sur
The classic drive through Big Sur, along twisting Highway 1, offers plenty of pullovers at places like the famous Bixby Bridge.