Megan & Drew
Things To Do
17 Mile Drive
Follow 17 mile drive to explore this iconic California coast line. Touted to be one of the most scenic drives in the world, you will experience countless coastline views, white beaches, the Lone Cypress, and breathtaking golf courses. Did you know that the father of the groom played at Spyglass while on the Clemson golf team? I don't know how he focused with those views! Note: the drive is $10.50 per car, and is waived with a $35 purchase in the Pebble Beach Restaurants
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Just south of Carmel, Point Lobos State Reserve offers hiking trails along the coast, with headlands, coves, and rolling meadows. Wildlife is abundant, with frequent sightings including seals, sea lions, sea otters and migrating whales. Hours: 8 am to 7 pm $10 for parking; entry will get you into all state parks that day
Kayak Monterey Bay
Want to get closer to the sea lions and paddle with the otters? Try kayaking Monterey Bay, and you will get up close and personal to the wildlife while enjoying the expansive coast line in the distance. Make sure to check wind conditions, some days early morning is best.
Big Sur
From rugged coastline to clear water to iconic bridges, Highway 1 through Big Sur offers it all. For those who like to hike, we strongly recommend taking a day to check out big sur. Head out early, and drive all the way south to Julia Burns Pfeiffer State Park to walk to McWay Falls. Spend the morning hiking at Julia Burns, or head north to Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park and explore the redwoods. On a clear day, you will be able to see the coastline stretching in front of you! Stop off for some pictures by the Bixby Creek Bridge (if you watch Big Little Lies, you know the bridge!)
Nepenthe
If you want to be rewarded with great views without hiking, stop by Nepenthe for some coffee or wine. On the northern part of Big Sur, this is a shorter drive and you are surrounded by beautiful coast line. You can still head to the Bixby Bridge and have time to stroll the gift shop at Nepenthe. Go early, as parking is limited during meal times.
Fishermans Wharf
Need an appetizer before dinner one day? Wander the Fishermans Wharf in Monterey and sample all the free Clam Chowder tasters.
Napa
While there are plenty of amazing wineries in Carmel or the Santa Cruz mountains, Napa is just two hours north of San Jose. Make reservations to go wine tasting at the winery, or stroll through town and visit the tasting rooms. The bride recommends Sonoma --- great wine and views, and the quaint town is more her style!
Golden Gate Bridge
Spanning 1.7 miles, the Golden Gate Bridge crosses the strait between the San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean to connects San Francisco to Marin County. It's no Mackinac Bridge, but the surrounding views are gorgeous. Spend a day in the city seeing the sights, or bike across the bridge and take the ferry back to San Francisco. Note: there is a toll to return to the city (crossing the bridge from the north to the south); rental car companies will likely add it to your bill
San Francisco
Drive an hour north of San Jose to spend the day exploring San Francisco. Check out Pier 39 and Fisherman's Wharf. Take a trolley car past Lombard Street or stroll by the Painted Ladies. Explore history and take a ferry over to Alcatraz Island. Check out the Golden Gate Bridge. Go on an urban hike or check out Land's End. Enjoy some Salt and Straw ice cream or catch a game at Oracle Park. If you want to see the Redwoods, wait until you're down near Carmel. The groves are younger, but still impressive and will save you the tourism of Muir Woods.