Monterey / Carmel
Two hours south of the Bay Area along the coast, the famous fishing town of Monterey, anchored by the renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium, recalls its past. Visitors find history’s charm, scenic views and sustainable seafood at storied Cannery Row, downtown’s historic adobes and Fisherman’s Wharf. Minutes away, Carmel boasts sugary white sand at the state’s dog-friendliest public beach, a walkable downtown lined with fairytale buildings featuring wine tasting and one-of-a-kind shopping, and the still-active Carmel Mission. Next door, Pebble Beach features the world-famous Pebble Beach Golf Links and the picturesque 17-Mile Drive. Follow Highway 1 south through Big Sur, a stretch of road that has justly earned its title as the most scenic drive in America, to San Simeon’s legendary Hearst Castle.
Directions: Head south on Highway 280, take 17 through the Santa Cruz Mountains and connect with California 1 to Monterey and Carmel.
