Sometimes you just need a weekend away; especially after the stress that comes with traveling a straight month for work. Even just one night can be enough to relax and revitalize that tired body and it’s a fantastic excuse to get some alone time with your lovely boyfriend.
Deciding where we wanted to go proved difficult because we wanted the outdoors, the beach and great restaurants; and California offers plenty of cities with those options. We eventually settled on Monterey, with gorgeous Highway 1 drive down the coast it’s only a little over 2 hours away and offers everything we wanted out of our weekend. After tons of research I came up with the essential Monterey list of where to eat, what to do and where to stay. So go ahead and plan a weekend with your honey or your friends; life is meant to be enjoyed!
Restaurants
Hula’s Island Grill | 622 Lighthouse Ave
Insider’s Tip: Make sure to try the Maui Wowie chips and the Zombie cocktail
The Sardine Factory | 701 Wave St
Insider’s Tip: This place is old school Monterey, there are lots of different rooms but our favorite is the Conservatory. Also the Abalone Bisque is amazing.
Compagno’s Market & Deli | 2000 Prescott Ave
Insider’s Tip: The sandwiches are HUGE, like really. Also make sure to get the Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Cake, it’s heaven.
Lallapalooza | 474 Alvardo St
Insider’s Tip: Get the duck fat fries. You’re welcome.
Crystal Fish | 514 Lighthouse Ave
Hotels
Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa | 400 Cannery Row | $$$
InterContinental The Clement | 750 Cannery Row | $$$
Spindrift Inn | 652 Cannery Row | $$$
Ventana Inn |48123 CA-1, Big Sur | $$$$
Post Ranch Inn | 47900 CA-1, Big Sur | $$$$
Insider’s Tip: Post Ranch Inn is by far my favorite place but it’s def a big splurge
Things to Do
Monterey Bay Aquarium
Lovers Point Park | 17th St & Ocean View Blvd
Bella on the Bay | Boating
Monterey Coastal Trail
Insider’s Tip: This market is only open Tuesday’s from 4-8PM
17 mile drive | The Lone Cypress
Insider’s Tip: The drive costs $10 and they only accept cash!
– Stephanie