One of my favorite places to visit happens to be not very far from my home – Monterey County California. Though we can drive there in less than 2 hours, we always feel like we’re in a different world when we arrive. There are so many towns worth visiting in Monterey County and along the Monterey Bay all offering different activities to enjoy.
Monterey
While, the town of Monterey offers so many exciting places to visit including Cannery Row, The Monterey Bay Aquarium, Fisherman’s Wharf, The MY Museum (Monterey County Youth Museum) and a kid’s favorite, Dennis the Menace Park, there are many other wonderful sights to see in Monterey County.
Since we’ve stayed many times in both Monterey,
and Pacific Grove,
this trip we decided to mix things up a bit and stay in the charming town of Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Carmel-by-the-Sea
We have visited the precious European-style village of Carmel-by-the-Sea many times in the past taking in the story-book ambiance found there and enjoying their beautiful white-sand and dog-friendly beach. As usual, we took our bikes with us so we were able to see more of the local atmosphere.
We love to take our bikes on trips and the Monterey area is a perfect place to ride. In the past, we’ve ridden our bikes south from the town of Monterey down the coast to Carmel-by-the-Sea. This time, starting in Carmel-by-the-Sea was a fun change for us. First, we toured around the picturesque neighborhoods surrounding the central section of town viewing the fairytale-like houses along the way.
Then, we rode out along the coastline near the Carmel Mission established in 1771 by Father Junipero Serra.
Afterwards, we stopped for the views at the Carmel River State Beach.
We then headed North to ride and explore some of the very scenic views along 17-Mile Drive.
AND, as is tradition, we stopped at the Pebble Beach Lodge for a snack and to take some photos of the views there.
After heading back to our hotel in Carmel-by-the-Sea , we walked into town for some delicious food, boutique shopping and unique art viewing in all of the amazing art-galleries there. Good food, shopping and art are some of the things this quaint village town are known for.
Did you know that Travel + Leisure has named Carmel-by-the-Sea one of the “World’s Best Cities for Romance”? It’s not hard to figure out why with all the beauty surrounding you here.
I could go on and on about all the wonderful things to see in Monterey California. Do you need more motivation to visit here? How about a giveaway?!
Giveaway!
Are you planning a visit to Monterey County in the near future? If so, click here to enter to WIN 4 free tickets to the Monterey Bay Aquarium and 4 free tickets to Monterey County Youth Museum (MY Museum)!
Best of luck to you! Please let me know if you’re planning a trip. I would love to hear all about it!
