The trip to Monterey Bay is by far one of my most favorite road trips to do. It's a trip I like to take 1-2 times a year as I just love the California coastline and how peaceful it is. This coastal trip is "the road trip of all road trips. Mist-shrouded bluffs plunging into the sea. Towering redwoods reaching for the sky. And the excitement of knowing that anything could lie beyond the next hairpin turn. Every mile you travel becomes another Monterey moment you’ll never forget." I typically take one of the longer ways to get up to Monterey from SoCal by driving up the 101 and then cutting across to Monterey and then on my way back home, I will (almost always) take Highway 1 down back to SoCal and making stops in Big Sur and other beautiful spots. For someone who loves the ocean like myself, the drive down the California coastline is the best.
One of my favorite things to do in Monterey Bay is to visit Fisherman's Wharf. The restaurants on the wharf give free tastings of their clam chowder and it's always fun to go around and taste them! There are also lots of cute shops to visit and get your Monterey souvenirs. You will also see sea lions resting near the boats and if you are lucky, you'll catch a sea otter swimming around.
There are many other things to do in Monterey as well. You can visit the famed Monterey Bay Aquarium or stroll down Cannery Row. And if you have great weather, I would recommend doing the Pebble Beach 17-mile drive. The last time I went, it was very gloomy but still beautiful. I can only imagine how much beautiful it would be on a clear and sunny day!
There are many things to do in and around Monterey Bay. "There’s a little something for everyone – outdoor adventure, food & wine, family fun, golf & spa, art & history, and epic scenery to name a few. Monterey has everything you need to grab life by the moments, while you’re there and when you get home." I am actually planning my next trip up there with my sisters and am just so excited to experience one of the best road trips in California all over again.
All photos provided by me, Damaris Mia Photography.
