Memorable Monterey

A must see, even for just an hour or so. Get tix ahead of time online and jump to the head of the line. Magical!

Love those cocktails? This is the place for you. Great sweet potato fries, fish tacos, and tons of ambiance. Bring your appetite and hula skirt.

Want to experience the wines of Monterey County but don't have the time to visit each one? This is the place for you. They allow you to taste several different local wines, ship all over so you won't have to carry your favorites home, and the view from the tasting room is unbeat in Monterey. Watch the seals and otters swim by below you while you ponder a syrah or pinot noir from the comfy chairs.

You get a lot of history at this mission, not to mention the most elaborate and beautiful one I've yet to see. Junipero Serra, the father of the missions in CA, is buried here.

Looking for something to get your adrenaline up? How about kayaking or biking along the ocean? You can also head north on Hwy 1 to Moss Landing to kayak in the slough. Calmer water up there, too.

Great Museum in the heart of the Salad Bowl of the Country. You don't have to be a Steinbeck fan to get something out of this museum.

WIldflowers galore, amazing rock formations, butterflies, and wild pigs. OK, well, I only saw one of those once, but the others will be there to greet you. This is a national monument, but I'd call it a park. There are caves, hiking trails, a visitor center, and great scenery. If you want to see something truly different than anywhere else on the central coast, this is your stop. The easiest access for visitors is from the west side, through Soledad off of hwy 101. Bring your water, temps are higher out there in the valley. Don't forget your camera!

Looking to add a splash of cuture to your trip? This is a lovely museum, right across from Colton Hall, just aching to be discovered. They have rotating exhibits, and some local artists on display at all times. Plus, if you go here they give you a free pass to their parner museum across town. A great deal!

The capital of the fruits and nuts way back then. This is where CA all started, well, the state of California. It's a magnificent building to look at and has a great lawn outside. A must for history buffs... and anyone who wants to impress their friends when they return home. Not everyone can say they stood where CA joined the union.

A lovely walking tour of the town. There is so much history here, let the professionals guide you through it. Or, take your own route and follow the street markers.

Lovely outdoor/indoor setting at the Monterey Plaza Hotel. Carefully prepared dishes and desserts make this a great happy hour destination or dinner spot. It's the epitamy of California Casual.

Want great live music? Tired of the same of dance club scene? Check out this intimate club with a great mix of some locals and tourists.