California Travel Guide

The Top Ten Destinations and Events To Enjoy In Monterey, California, By Melody Schubert

1. The Carmel Bach Festival – Join the festivities at the Carmel Bach Festival and enjoy three free classical concerts in late July. A favorite is the Festival’s Family Concert series at Carmel’s Sunset Center and Chorale Concert at Oldemeyer Center in Seaside. The festival runs in July and August at a variety of wonderful venues in the area, including Carmel Mission Basilica and Church in the Forest in Pebble Beach. Call 1-831-624-2046 or visit www.bachfestival.org to learn more about the Carmel Bach Festival.

2. The Farm – The offbeat and quirky attractions we discover while Exploring America's Backyard are the most fun, and that is what The Farm is - Fun. It would be hard to miss the jolly giant farmers standing 20 ft. high in the fields off Highway 68 that mark the entrance to The Farm. These gentle giants were crafted by local artist John Cerney, and are a tribute to the hard working packers, trimmers and irrigators of Salinas Valley. During your visit to The Farm you'll get a peek behind the scenes as workers harvest artichokes, lettuces, broccoli, celery, and flowers. Kids will also love visiting the petting zoo at The Farm, which makes a fun day out with the family in Monterey! To plan you visit to The Farm call 1-831-455-2575 or visit www.thefarm-salinasvalley.com.

3. Astronomy Hikes At Pinnacles National Monument – If you're lucky you may catch the great California Condor or Townsend Big-Eared Bat take flight in the skies while hiking in Pinnacles National Monument. These amazing creatures are just part of the wildlife to enjoy, or explore the hidden talus caves that make up the Pinnacles. During the Astronomy Hikes At Pinnacles National Monument you'll join a seasonal guided night hike that takes you on moderate 1.6-mile trek along the Balconies Trail followed by a sky talk and telescopic views of the heavens courtesy of Hartnell Planetarium and Astronomy Department. To learn more about the Astronomy Hikes At Pinnacles National Monument, currents events, and programs available visit www.nps.gov/pinn/index.htm. 

4. The River Road Wine Trek - Have you ever tried cactus wine? You can on the River Road Wine Trek as you take a tasty trek along the burgeoning River Road, featuring a dozen award-winning wineries. As you tour the River Road Wine Trek, located off Highway 101 you'll discover San Saba, Marilyn Remark, Richard Boyer Wines as well as the Pessagno Winery. The River Road Wine Trek has become a popular area for sampling Pinot Noir and other quality wines. And, you can visit the cactus vineyard while you're in the region. To discover all the wineries along the River Road Wine Trek and find out about upcoming events call 1-831-375-9400 or visit www.montereywines.org.

5. Biking Fort Ord – Cruise along the impressive system of scenic mountain bike trails and roads on what was previously the Fort Ord military base.Test your skills on the Hurl Hill Trail or Staircase Trail, which have been compared to the great rocky trails in Moab, Utah. Pack along a camera so you can stop on the flat tracks that wind  around ponds and forests festooned filled with wildflowers. Check in at the trailhead entrances along Highway 68 and Reservation Road for maps of the Bike Trails or call 1-831-394-8314, and you can visit www.ca.blm.gov/hollister/trail_map_fo.html for additional information.

6. The Henry Miller Memorial Library - Big Sur offers more than Surf and Sun. For the book worm who loves to explore creative works a visit to the Henry Miller Memorial Library is a must on your Monterey List. Henry Miller spent eighteen yearswriting some of his greatest works while living in Big Sur. Among his most popular titles are the Rosy Crucifixion and Big Sur and the Oranges of Hieronymus Bosch. The Henry Miller Memorial Library is located in a redwood grove, and host a variety of events, including poetry readings and plays in the alfresco sculpture garden and stage. To plan your visit to the Henry Miller Memorial Library call 1-831-667-2574 or visit www.henrymiller.org to view current events and upcoming programs.

7. California Rodeo Salinas - Saddle up in Salinas for one of the country’s top pro bull riding, bareback bronco and barrel racing events in the heart of Steinbeck Country. The California Rodeo Salinas is a festive and Free event that includes two Rodeo Horse Parades in Old Town Salinas with over 300 prancing steeds topped with costumed riders. And, kids are also free on opening night at the Rodeo. Call 1-800-771-8807 or visit www.carodeo.com to learn more about the California Rodeo Salinas.

8. The Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History – Discover birds, beasts and assortment of natures creatures on display at this wonderful hometown museum marked by Sandy the whale, a life-size bronze sculpture at the entrance. Exhibits include native cultures, botany, zoology and high caliber displays that make for a great day of play. Call 1-831-648-5716 or visit www.pgmuseum.org to learn about programs and current events at the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History.

9. The Dennis the Menace Playground – Who would imagine you could hop aboard a full size 1956 steam engine at this alfresco park designed by Dennis the Menace creator Hank Ketcham. This fun park was designed with fun in mind, and includes a umbrella tree kids can climb on suspension bridge, and much more. Located next to El Estero Lake, the Dennis the Menace Playground is a great stop along your journey through Monterey County. To learn more about the Dennis the Menace Playground call 1-831-646-3860.

10. Point Lobos State Nature Reserve – Sea lions, whales, and colorful rolling meadows the richest underwater habitats in the world await to be discovered at the Point Lobos State Nature Reserve. This jewel of the California state park system just south of Carmel was once known for its whaling and abalone industry. Now it is a natural paradise with a diverse network of hiking trails and nature trails to explore. To learn more about programs available and plan your visit call 1-831-624-8413 or visit www.parks.ca.gov.

Explore 99 miles of refresh California Coastline in Monterey County, tour the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, discover three historic missions, lush vineyards, tee off at 24 golf courses, or unwind at over 250 lodging properties.

The possibilities for a memorable getaway are endless in Monterey County.

Plan Your Trip

To plan your romantic getaway, view area activities and attractions visit the Monterey County Convention & Visitors Bureau website at www.SeeMonterey.com.

To learn more about events and attractions throughout California, visit the California Travel and Tourism Commission for packages and to order a Free Vacation Guide.

Photo Credits: Monterey County Convention & Visitors Bureau

View Features By Melody Schubert

"Explore America's Backyard, where the miles are measured by memorable moments shared with family and friends"

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