We've listed some of our recommendations for dining and fun while in the area.
Seventh & Dolores
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93921, (831) 293-7600
Modern steakhouse with great shellfish
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
62 California 1, Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923, (831) 624-4909
Great for an easy hike in a beautiful setting, check website for parking restrictions.
The Terrace at The Inn at Spanish Bay
2700 17 Mile Drive, Del Monte Forest, CA 93953, (831) 574-5605
Appetizers and cocktails with unparalleled views, fire pits, and a bagpiper.
Beach Trail
Asilomar Coastal Trail, Pacific Grove, CA 93950
Drive, bike or walk picturesque Ocean View Boulevard and trail along the bay between Lovers Point and Asilomar.
The Bench
1700 17 Mile Drive, Del Monte Forest, CA 93953, (831) 298-5906
Ocean front restaurant at The Lodge at Pebble Beach
17 Mile Drive
17 Mile Drive, Pacific Grove, CA
A beautiful drive along the ocean, through the forest, and past incredible homes and resorts. Entry fee is $10.50 per car, but reimbursable if dining or shopping in Pebble Beach.
Estéban Restaurant
700 Munras Avenue, Monterey, CA 93940, (831) 375-0176
Great tapas and sangria out on the patio
Monterey Bay Aquarium
886 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940, (831) 648-4800
An amazing attraction, but expect crowds on the weekend and holidays.
Lafayette Bakery & Cafe
3659 The Barnyard, Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923, (831) 915-6286
Amazing! French pastries and other baked goods
Whale Watching
Search Tripadvisor for the best options for whale watching departing out of Fisherman's Wharf.
Fandango Restaurant
223 17th Street, Pacific Grove, CA 93950, (831) 372-3456
Great for any meal, but we really love brunch here.
Monterey Bay Kayaks - Monterey or Moss Landing
2390 California 1, Moss Landing, CA 95039, (831) 373-5357
Observe sea otters, sea lions, and birds from a kayak on Monterey Bay. There are 2 locations, Fisherman's Wharf and Moss Landing (about a 20 minute drive north on highway 1)
Fieldwork Brewing Company
560 Munras Avenue, Monterey, CA 93940, (831) 324-0658
Great place for beer and people watching, communal tables; no food, but they let you bring your own. There's a Trader Joe's and Chipotle next door.
Alta Bakery and Cafe
502 Munras Avenue, Monterey, CA 93940, (831) 920-1018
Alta is making our desserts, they have great food too, and a beautiful historic garden.
Crema
481 Lighthouse Avenue, Pacific Grove, CA 93950, (831) 324-0347
In Pacific Grove, we love Crema for a satisfying breakfast, brunch, or lunch!