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Monterey County
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T here's a lot of excitement headed to the San Francisco Bay Area this summer, with six world-class soccer matchups taking top billing. Between games, we suggest changing the pace from high octane excitement and fierce competition to laid-back leisure and coastal delight. Monterey County, 115 miles south of San Francisco, is just the place.
It's an oasis of rugged coastal landscapes and windswept pastoral beauty. On your trip, you'll savor California wines, visit storybook towns, paddle kayaks and hike vista-blessed trails. Explore a world-class aquarium, then catch an epic sunset over the roaring Pacific. And don't forget to eat—Monterey County's farms supply area restaurants and markets with the freshest food you'll find anywhere.
Highway 1
A rite of passage for anyone who visits Monterey County, the 17-Mile Drive is a scenic route that loops from Pacific Grove to Carmel-by-the-Sea, passing through Pebble Beach. Roll the windows down and drive it on your third and final day, stopping at coastal lookout points like Huckleberry Hill, Seal Rock and Cypress Point Lookout. You'll end up in the storybook town of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Visit the historic Carmel Mission Basilica and stroll past whimsical cottages. Shop and dine on Ocean Avenue, or explore numerous art galleries. Be sure to save time for the main attraction—Carmel Beach. Enjoy a beach-blanket picnic on the white sand and toast to a fabulous trip.
Dubbed "the crown jewel of the state park system," and a favored photography spot for Ansel Adams, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve makes for a splashy introduction to Monterey County. Hike the Bird Island Trail to spy hundreds of seabirds and catch breathtaking ocean views. Divers and snorkelers, take note: the offshore area—part of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary—forms one of the world's richest underwater habitats.
Afterward, tuck into some of the farm-to-table cuisine the area is known for. With its fresh seasonal cuisine and quaint setting, Red House Cafe in Pacific Grove is worth a stop for brunch, lunch or dinner.
One of the area's best-loved attractions, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is a must-visit. From rippling apple anemone to glowing sea cucumbers to bizarre-looking giant isopods, the sea animals on view tell a fascinating story of ocean life. Time your visit to witness sea otter feedings, behind-the-scenes animal care and enriching shows in the auditorium.
Next, take a walk to neighboring Cannery Row. The fabled street—once the site of as many as 30 canneries in what was the sardine capital of the world—is now lined with unique shops and restaurants. As the daylight dwindles, head to the rocky shores of Asilomar State Beach for incredible sunset views.
Epic views & farm-fresh eats
Iconic attractions in Monterey
A scenic drive & Carmel Beach
photo credit: Pebble Beach Company
photo credit: See Monterey
photo credit: See Monterey
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