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Seeking among the best locations for a romantic getaway within the United States? Look no additional than Monterey! With out of doors actions, wine-tasting rooms, stunning seashores, famend golf programs, and romantic resorts — this metropolis alongside the California Coast affords lots for {couples}. My husband and I celebrated our wedding ceremony anniversary right here and fell in love with Monterey (and with one another, yet again)! You’ll fall in love, too, with this record of probably the most romantic issues to do in Monterey.
1. Cannery Row
Along the California Coast in downtown Monterey, you will discover picturesque Cannery Row. This bustling historic road affords fairly ocean views and is the primary road by means of the town.
Made well-known by John Steinbeck’s e book, Cannery Row, Monterey pays tribute to the sardine manufacturing facility staff who labored right here from 1908 till the final cannery closed in 1973.
The Presidio of Monterey Museum consists of three fascinating Cannery Workers’ Shacks, representing three migrant ethnic teams who lived and labored right here in the course of the canning heyday.
Located within the heart of Cannery Row, you will discover the Cannery Row Monument. It options eight figures sculpted from bronze that inform the story of Monterey’s canning previous, together with Steinbeck himself.
Shoppers might be happy to discover Cannery Row Antique Mall, situated throughout the former Carmel Canning Company warehouse. You also can wander by means of a mess of reward outlets alongside Cannery Row the place you should purchase t-shirts and different souvenirs of your Monterey romantic retreat.
2. Old Fisherman’s Wharf Clam Chowder Tasting
Seafood eating places abound alongside Cannery Row and Old Fisherman’s Wharf procuring and eating district. You will in all probability be supplied free samples of clam chowder from nearly each eatery on the town.
If it is a bowl of the city’s greatest clam chowder you are after, then I need to suggest the Fish Hopper or its sister property, Old Fisherman’s Grotto. I had by no means been a lot of a clam chowder lover, however after a style of their scrumptious soups, I turned a convert! For a scrumptious style of San Francisco, order yours served in a sourdough bread bowl.
3. Monterey Bay Aquarium
The hottest attraction in Monterey is its world-renowned aquarium. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is likely one of the most spectacular aquariums on this planet. It’s set on 3.3 bay-front acres and is residence to over 75,000 animals and crops. Couples will take pleasure in exploring the aquarium’s hands-on, instructional shows of marine life collectively.
Skip-the-Line Tickets
The world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium may be very busy, and rightfully so. Expect lengthy strains to get in, particularly throughout excessive journey season, like summer time weekends. I like to recommend buying Skip-the-Line Monterey Bay Aquarium Tickets earlier than arrival to chop wait occasions.
Sea Otters
In addition to an unlimited array of fish, the aquarium’s sea otters are a continuous swirling, swimming, diving frenzy of leisure. Take a have a look at what I imply within the video above!
Penguins
The resident penguins are much less lively however intriguing as effectively. My husband and I watched one tuxedoed, indecisive gal waddle about and ponder diving into her exhibit’s chilly waters for a full quarter-hour.
4. Seventeen-Mile Drive
At some level throughout your Monterey trip, you need to embark on the well-known 17-Mile Drive. This winding personal oceanfront street costs a nominal price, however it’s effectively value it for the views.
Plan to pause loads alongside the scenic drive to snap photographs of the rocky ocean cliffs and sandy seashores frosted with misty clouds. One required cease is at The Lone Cypress, which stands alone on a rocky peninsula in Pebble Beach.
Adventurous {couples} might wish to tackle the 17-Mile Drive by way of bicycle. Sign up for an e-bike tour with an area information upfront.
5. Pebble Beach Golf Links
Top off your drive with a cease at Pebble Beach Golf Links. If you’re keen on golf and have deep pockets, then make a reservation to play a spherical or two at this fashionable spot throughout your journey to Monterey County. The golf programs listed below are repeatedly voted amongst one of the best within the United States.
Or, do as my husband and I did, and reside the wealthy life by sipping cocktails at their golf membership as an alternative. Take in a powerful view of the course and ocean when you take pleasure in your refreshments. Browse high-end retail outlets at Pebble Beach earlier than or after your treats.
6. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
About six miles from Monterey you will discover the unbelievable Point Lobos State Reserve within the northern finish of Big Sur. This nature sanctuary on the Monterey Peninsula feels otherworldly with orange-colored moss, twisted timber, flower-festooned boulders, and a wealth of animals.
Take within the reserve’s sounds of waves crashing, birds singing, and barking seals and sea lions. My husband and I noticed sea lions lazing on a seaside, dolphins diving within the water, a whole lot (if not hundreds) of birds, and a slightly outgoing mama doe and her fawn.
Lucky guests can usually spy on sea otters taking part in in kelp forests at this nature reserve too, however we weren’t amongst them. To get a greater view of the realm’s animal residents, convey binoculars or give your automobile keys to the data heart to borrow a pair.
There are a number of trails for hikers to select from at Point Lobos. Pack a picnic basket to pause mid-hike to take pleasure in a romantic picnic alongside among the most beautiful panorama alongside the West Coast.
7. Whale Watching Tour
Set sail from Old Fisherman’s Wharf to see majestic whales of their pure habitat within the waters of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.
Depending on what time of yr you go to, you may see humpback whales, dolphins, porpoises, orcas (killer whales), grey whales, and the world’s largest animal — blue whales. Winter and spring are greatest for recognizing migrating grey whales. Meanwhile, summer time and fall are greatest for humpbacks and blue whales.
This is likely one of the most memorable and enjoyable issues to do throughout a Monterey romantic getaway. Book your 3 to 4-hour whale-watching cruise with our trusted accomplice, GetYourInformation now!
8. Beautiful Beaches
One of one of the best methods to take pleasure in Monterey’s many out of doors actions is to move to the seaside.
During your Monterey romantic trip, a cease at Lovers Point Park is a should. It affords fairly views, tender sand, and entry to water sports activities like stand-up paddleboarding, swimming, and fishing.
Alternatively, San Carlos Beach is conveniently situated close to Cannery Row. It is thought extra for scuba diving and tide swimming pools than lazy seaside days, nevertheless.
Meanwhile, Del Monte Beach is considered one of the best spot in Monterey for swimming, browsing, and sunbathing. Add pleasure to your journey with personal surf classes at Del Monte.
9. Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail
Outdoorsy {couples} cannot miss Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail. This two-lane paved path stretches 18 miles from Pacific Grove within the south to Castroville within the north, passing fashionable websites like Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row alongside the best way.
Rent bicycles and surreys from native outfitters to traverse the path, taking in views of Monterey Bay as you pedal. You also can lease kayaks to paddle by means of the bay.
10. Wine-Tasting Rooms
Monterey County boasts over 349 distinctive vineyards. Couples can pattern many varietals proper within the coronary heart of Monterey at wine tasting rooms alongside Cannery Row. Stop by A Taste of Monterey or Bargetto Winery to sip and store for native wines.
What could possibly be extra romantic than tasting wine together with your sweetheart in Monterey? Creating your individual customized mix at The Wine Experience, that is what! Reserve your Blending Session for Two upfront. Your mixing session features a cheese and charcuterie board. You’ll go away with your individual distinctive bottle of wine with its personal customized label as effectively.
11. Monterey Jazz Festival
Couples who respect jazz might be joyful to be taught the world’s longest continuously-running jazz competition takes place in Monterey each fall. The Monterey Jazz Festival options an array of famend jazz artists acting on 4 levels over the course of three days in September.
In addition to superb reside music, anticipate jazz panel discussions and workshops, worldwide meals cubicles, procuring, and festivities on the Monterey County Fairgrounds.
12. Monterey State Historic Park
Part of the Monterey Old Town Historic District, Monterey State Historic Park options authorities buildings and old-time homes that inform the story of California’s earliest capital. History buffs will wish to embark on a self-guided audio tour of the park.
13. Carmel-by-the-Sea
One of one of the best issues about Monterey is its proximity to the neighboring city, Carmel, and vice versa. This charming place in Carmel Valley affords artwork galleries, romantic eating places, and the attractive Carmel Mission. Carmel-by-the-Sea is the proper place for a romantic stroll together with your accomplice amongst quaint outlets and fairy story homes.
Stop by Carmel as a day journey from Monterey. Better but, prolong your romantic street journey alongside California’s Central Coast with a couple of nights in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Learn extra about romantic issues to do in Carmel.
14. Romantic Restaurants
The Monterey Peninsula has no scarcity of eating places the place you may take pleasure in a romantic meal.
Aquarium Restaurant
Monterey Bay Aquarium’s sit-down eating choice, Aquarium Restaurant, boasts among the best ocean views on the town. It got here extremely beneficial to us by locals and didn’t disappoint. You might view otters, sea lions, dolphins, and ocean birds throughout your meal so plan to come back pre-sunset.
In an effort to decrease the aquarium’s carbon footprint, you will solely discover sustainable seafood right here in addition to substances from native ranchers and farmers.
Fandango Restaurant
For a romantic hearth meal, make reservations at Fandango. This Mediterranean restaurant in Pacific Grove is likely one of the greatest eating places on the Monterey Peninsula. Couples dine on dishes like their signature Osso Buco or native Sautéed Sand Dabs. Save room for Soufflé Grand Marnier or Chocolate Mousse for dessert.
Pacific’s Edge Restaurant
Be positive to make reservations for a romantic dinner at Pacific’s Edge Restaurant at Hyatt Carmel Highlands. Menus change with the seasons at this further particular restaurant.
You may begin with Baked Oysters Rockefeller or a Roasted Beet Carpaccio. Then have fun your love with Surf and Turf of filet mignon with crimson wine discount and Maine lobster with bearnaise. Desserts like Profiteroles with home made espresso ice cream are to not be missed.
The knock-your-socks-off views of Point Lobos Reserve, unbelievable service, and impeccable delicacies will impress probably the most discerning {couples}. If this place would not put you within the temper for love, then I do not know what’s going to.
15. Monterey Peninsula’s Most Romantic Hotels
Whether you are planning an extended weekend or a extra in depth trip, your romantic getaway on the Monterey Peninsula deserves a romantic lodge keep.
Spindrift Inn
The waterfront Spindrift Inn on Cannery Row receives excessive marks for love on Booking.com. Expect Monterey Bay views, charming antiques, and included silver tray-served continental breakfasts. Many visitor rooms embrace wood-burning fireplaces, good for {couples} to cuddle by.
Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa
Beach lovers will wish to keep at Monterey Plaza Hotel. Pacific waves crash on the shores under this beachfront property situated on Cannery Row. Hot tubs, fireplace pits, complimentary bicycles, trendy facilities, and the on-site Vista Blue Spa make this lodge probably the most fashionable locations for {couples} to remain in Monterey.
Hyatt Carmel Highlands
The luxurious, but woodsy Hyatt Carmel Highlands is located beside the Pacific Ocean and Point Lobos State Reserve. The rooms usually are not giant, however the views positive are. Take a dip of their heated out of doors pool or heat up after a day of climbing in a steaming scorching tub. Then, pull up a seat at one among their blazing fireplace pits for s’mores and a glass of vino.
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Save These Activities for Couples in Monterey
For future journey planning, you should definitely save this record of romantic issues to do in Monterey. Simply pin the picture above to Pinterest. I hope you’ll observe Travel Mamas on Pinterest when you’re at it!
Do you’ve got different options for {couples} visiting Monterey? Let us know within the feedback under!
A Note from The Travel Mama: My husband and I have been hosted by Monterey Bay Aquarium, Fandango, Pacific’s Edge Restaurant, and Hyatt Carmel Highlands for the aim of this story about romantic issues to do in Monterey. We paid full worth for the whole lot else we did within the Monterey space. All opinions are my very own, as at all times.
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