Anyone been to the area? Going up for a wedding in September. I've already come to the realization that this won't be a cheap trip, so I'm open to any suggestions. Im bringing A) 1 wife B) 1 two and a half yr old C) tinman
Carmel is one of the prettiest spots in Cali. You'll be able to do plenty of stuff around there. Golf, go to the beach. Monterey is right next door they have a world famous aquarium (if you are into fish), whale-watching tours etc.
Exactly. It's not cheap, but Carmel is probably my favorite place in all of California (keeping in mind I have not been to Napa or win country north of San Francisco, and have only driven through Yosemite). The aquarium in Moneterey is awesome - you're 1.5 year old will love it and you'll be entertained a bit. You could probably spend a few hours in Point Lobos State Reserve - there are some picture-esque little walks around there. If you're more adventurous, you're a coupe hours drive (though a beautiful drive) from Hearst Castle to the south, and the same north to San Francisco (September, 49ers game, could be fun...). And closer to Carmel, you can do the whale watching, Carmel has a cute, quaint little dowtown walking/shopping district, you can always find nearby wineries, 17 mile drive, etc...
Don't lose your keys in the ocean. I managed to do that. Sucked too...I had rented a nice convertible. Hertz did come out and pick us up, but they gave me a Geo in return.
According to my sister, they don't take kindly to you trying to smoke a joint on the beach. I'd try Santa Cruz for that.
The beach is nice there, but the water is cold and and the waves are probably too big for your child.
A lot of what I was going to say has already been mentioned. Take a drive up Highway 1 and eat at either Ventana or Nepenthe. Great food and even better views! Closer to town you can go to the Mission Ranch and eat at the restaurant there. My sister-in-law got married at the Carmel Mission, which is 500 feet from the Ranch, and we stayed at the Mission Ranch. It was an amazing experience. Have fun!
Enjoy the 18 mile drive, visit Pebble Beach golf course. Go to the beach, do a little wine tasting, relax and enjoy the many scenic delights offered. Go on a hike. Go to monterrey and eat some squid, and other nice sea food.
If you have a dog, I would suggest you take her if possible. I think Carmel is the dog friendliest city in the country. everyone is walking around with a dog. you can literally take your dog anywhere... art galleries.. upscale restaurants.. etc.
Whale watching, as long as you don't get sea sick easily like I do. I was throwing chunks for four hours. I saw a school of dolphins numbering in the hundreds and two blue whales within a 50 yards of our boat while my head was hanging off the back of the boat.
