Kaitlin & Michael
Things To Do
Monterey
Michael's mom's side of the family has been on the peninsula for decades, they even worked in the canneries and on the fishing boats! We absolutely adore this area. Monterey Bay Aquarium – World-renowned aquarium with amazing exhibits. There are otters!!! Definitely check out the jellies. Cannery Row – We love grabbing a table at "Taste of Monterey." Del Monte Beach- Hit Acme coffee and take a drive over to one of our favorite beaches, this beach is where Michael told Kaitlin he wanted to marry her! Alvarado Street – Alvarado Street Brewery is where we went to cheers after ring shopping. A short walk away you’ll also find Dust Bowl Brewing a spot we love to go to with the fam! Old Fisherman’s Wharf – Fresh clam chowder and whale-watching tours! Michael used to pop over here after school. 17-Mile Drive – Scenic drive through Pebble Beach golf course and Pacific Grove. Grab the best breakfast at The Bench on Pebble Beach, the eggs benny are to die for!
Carmel
One of our favorite get-aways. 45 minutes from Hollister! Carmel by the Sea – Storybook charm by the ocean, quite literally straight out of Snow White. It feels a little like stepping into Europe, with cobblestone streets and hidden courtyards. The white sand beach is gorgeous and iconic. Carmel Valley – Less than 20 minutes inland from Carmel-by-the-Sea, Carmel Valley has a totally different feel... warm, sunny, and surrounded by vineyards. The mountains make you feel worlds away from the coast. Point Lobos – Stunning hikes and ocean views, often called the “crown jewel” of California’s state parks.
Big Sur
Plan to unplug and not have service as you drive down Highway 1 and take in the gorgeous cliffside views Bixby Bridge – The classic Highway 1 photo stop McWay Falls – A dreamy waterfall that flows into the ocean, should still be roaring in May! Pfeiffer Beach – Michael's family used to camp in Pfeiffer every year! Nepenthe – Cliffside restaurant with the most breathtaking views and a cozy fireplace
San Francisco (and the nearby portion of The Bay Area)
Golden Gate Bridge – blast the Full House theme song as you drive across for the full effect! The Painted Ladies, Alcatraz – Classic San Francisco sights. Crissy Field & The Presidio – A must go for great views of the bridge, beautiful trails along the water & a Philz coffee truck! Palace of Fine Arts – Grand architecture, great for photos and a peaceful stroll. Golden Gate Park – Larger than Central Park in NYC, it’s full of gardens, trails, and even bison! Sausalito –Cute town just across the bridge with restaurants and galleries, perfect for a slower afternoon. Grab a deli sandwich at Sausalito Gourmet Deli and take a peek at the houseboats! Tiburon – A charming waterfront town just across the Golden Gate Bridge. Beautiful Bay views, sailboats in the harbor, and a relaxed coastal feel. Hop on a ferry to Angel Island for hiking, biking and panoramic views. Muir Woods National Monument – Walk among giant redwoods just across the bridge!
Half Moon Bay
Half Moon Bay State Beach – Where we got engaged! We headed to the Four Seasons afterward for some champagne, views and clam chowder on the ocean terrace. We also love Miramar Beach Restaurant! Downtown Half Moon Bay – Shops, cafés, and coastal charm. We got dinner at It's Italia that night and highly recommend! On the drive into Half Moon Bay, we celebrated with a wine and olive oil pairing at Le Nebbia. We are saving a bottle of wine from this day to drink the night before our wedding! Taco Bell Cantina – A beachside Taco Bell that serves margaritas?! What more could we ask for! Montara State Beach – our favorite beach to take the dogs for a good run!
Santa Cruz / Capitola
Just about an hour from Hollister, laid-back surf town with beautiful beaches, coastal trails, and a funky, eclectic downtown. A good mix of beach and redwood forest. Book a table at the iconic cable car restaurant, Shadowbrook! Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk – Classic California amusement park right on the sand. Capitola Village – Colorful beachfront town with wine bars and restaurants. West Cliff Drive – A beautiful oceanfront path for walking, biking, or just watching surfers. There is a (small) surfing museum! Natural Bridges State Beach – Scenic rock arch and tide pools. Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park – Towering redwoods just a short drive inland, feels like a secret escape from the coast.
Hollister & Nearby
Pinnacles National Park – Just a short drive from Hollister! Incredible hikes, caves to explore, and chances to spot California condors. Downtown Hollister – Cute little shops, coffee stops, and a real “small California town” vibe. San Juan Bautista – Just 10 minutes away! A historic mission town with a charming plaza, antique shops, and the San Juan Bautista Mission. Gilroy (approx 25 min away): Famous for garlic, you can literally smell it everywhere. There is literally a garlic theme park (Gilroy Gardens).