Carmel/Monterey Guide
Looking to spend some time in Monterey or Carmel? There is no shortage of things to do in the area. Here are a few ideas to get you started...
Monterey Bay Aquarium
A wonderful idea for anyone in the area. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is full of sea creatures, ranging from sharks to sea otters, jellyfish to clown fish. It is well worth a visit!
Rates: $24.95/adult, $15.95/child (ages 3-12), children under 3 are free
Location: 886 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940
More info: http://www.mbayaq.org
Cannery Row
This waterfront street in Monterey is famous for its now-defunct canning factories and was the setting for several of John Steinbeck's books. There are many shops, restaurants and hotels, not to mention several historical attractions. More info: http://www.canneryrow.com
Ocean Avenue Shopping
Get your shopping fill on Ocean Ave, the main street in Carmel. This stretch of road going from highway down to the beach is a great place for shopping, wandering and people watching.
More info on Carmel: http://www.carmelcalifornia.com/index.php
Whale Watching
Watch for whales, dolphins, sea lions and sea otters while enjoying a boat cruise through the Monterey Bay. There are two departures per day. Each trip lasts approximately 2.5 hours.
Rate: $34.95/person
Location: Boats depart from 96 Old Fisherman's Wharf #1, Monterey, CA 93940
More info: http://www.baywatchcruises.com
Kayaking in the Monterey Bay
Paddle your way through the Bay on one of the may kayaking tours in the area.
Rates: Prices vary depending on the tour. $50 - $60/adults, $30/kids for a 2 or 3 hour tour.
Location: 693 Del Monte Avenue, Monterey, CA 93940.
Phone: 800.649.5357
More info: http://www.montereybaykayaks.com/info/monterey.php#experience
Hiking Trails in Big Sur
There are many excellent and beautiful hiking trails for adventurers of all levels. Visit the Hiking in Big Sur website for information on the variety of trails in the area.
More info: http://www.hikinginbigsur.com
The 17-Mile Drive
Take a scenic drive along the coastline through Pebble Beach and Pacific Grove. You will see world famous golf courses, impressive mansions and the Lone Cypress - a local landmark.
Fee: Approximately $10 to drive on this road.
Wine Tasting in the Carmel Valley
Chateau Julien Wine Estate
Location: 8940 Carmel Valley Road, Carmel, CA 93923
Phone: 831.624.2600
More info: http://www.chateaujulien.com
Durney Vineyards Tasting Room
Location: 69 West Carmel Valley Road, Carmel Valley, CA 93924
Phone: 831.659.6220
More info: http://www.durneywines.com
Galante Vineyards and Rose Garden
Location: 18181 Cachagua Road, Carmel Valley, CA 93924
Phone: 800.GALANTE
More info: http://www.galantevineyards.com