Pebble Beach, California, is a 1-of-a-kind destination: a golfing mecca with some of the Earth's most spectacular scenery, located at the heart of 3 picturesque California communities. Take a tour of Pebble Beach, Monterey, Carmel and Big Sur and see why, whether you're a rabbit or a pro, this is your new dream vacation.
Pebble Beach
Pebble Beach sits just 2 hours south of San Francisco, perched on the Monterey peninsula. While home to luxury resorts, restorative spas and designer shopping, Pebble Beach is most famous for golf. Pebble Beach Golf Links' 18-hole, par-72 course is world-renowned for its difficulty and scenery.
It seems the list of accolades for this course is endless, and if you've never been, you're sure to join the ranks of admirers. First-timers will marvel at the 18th hole; its infamous ocean view and cypress tree are legendary in the golf world.
The road leading into Pebble Beach is almost as famous as the links themselves. 17-Mile Drive follows the Monterey Peninsula and highlights its natural scenery. You'll travel near Pebble Beach's other 2 golf courses, Spanish Bay and Spyglass Hill, both of which have fantastic fairways.
There are many popular spots along the drive -- China Rock, where sea otters love to play; Bird Rock, where seals and sea lions lounge; and Crocker Grove, home to some of Monterey's oldest and tallest cypress trees. The icon of Pebble Beach, the Lone Cypress, is also easily viewed along 17-Mile Drive, the longest and most pristine driveway on the Monterey Peninsula.
Monterey
Monterey began as a fishing town, but in the early 1950s the fishing industry collapsed, turning this thriving town into a dilapidated string of empty canneries. However, in 1968 2 entrepreneurs opened a restaurant on Cannery Row and began a renaissance in this coastal California community. Cannery Row is now home to many exceptional restaurants and galleries. One of the stars of Cannery Row is the Monterey Bay Aquarium.
The aquarium's 322,000-square-foot facility was constructed on the site of the former Hovden Cannery. Daily activities include sea otter feedings and training, and feedings at the penguin and out bay exhibits.
If you have only a short time to spend here, take one of the Monterey Museum's walking tours. The historic downtown tour highlights the evolution of the city center while the waterfront tour focuses on the building and history of the bay.
Carmel
At the south end of 17-Mile Drive is idyllic Carmel, a retreat for shoppers, foodies and artists. Many who come here enjoy its epicurean culture -- especially the region's wine. Local wineries, merchants, restaurants and markets have stocked shelves and blooming vineyards that will tantalize your taste buds.
The Galante Vineyards have a long history with the Monterey area. Owner Jack Galante's great-grandfather, J.F. Devendorf, was the founder of Carmel. In 1983 the family began growing premium grapes on their property; in 1994 they built one of the area's best wineries. Learn more about the founding of Carmel and the making of fantastic wine on a tour and tasting at the Galante Vineyards.
Carmel has exquisite cuisine to go with its vast wine collection. One hidden gem is L'Auberge Carmel, an intimate restaurant with only 12 tables. The menu is ever-changing and features chef Christophe Grosjean's unique interpretation of local ingredients.
Carmel is also one of the first artists' colonies in the United States. The streets are lined with art galleries showcasing photography, painting and sculpture.
Big Sur
Big Sur is considered the hidden secret of the Pebble Beach area, a vast and sparsely populated region where the coastal mountains meet the ocean. This is the area for those seeking to hike, view wildlife and camp. Private campgrounds and state parks offer a range of accommodations, all with varied hiking trails and other activities.
For those of you who may not like to hike, Big Sur has plenty of shopping and art galleries available for browsing. All the art galleries and gift shops sell items crafted by local Big Sur artisans.
Additionally, if you'd love to visit the Big Sur wilderness without sleeping in it, there are many beautiful lodges and spas located here. The Ventana Inn and Spa is a luxurious and romantic getaway overlooking the dramatic Pacific coastline. The Inn features two pools, Japanese hot baths, complimentary daily yoga classes and fine dining at the Ventana Bistro. The Treebones Resort is the perfect compromise between luxurious lodging and camping; their tents are more similar to private cabins and bring all the comforts of home to the rugged Pacific wilderness.
