VISITING THE AQUARIUM // 07.13.15
This was my second trip to Monterey Bay. I first traveled there with my dad on our west coast road trip in January 2014. I had such a great time that I wanted to go back and show Coty my favorite places. After traveling through Big Sur, we had to stop in Monterey, and I really wanted to go to the aquarium. Oh my, we had the greatest time. Unfortunately, we didn't allow ourselves enough time (three hours) before they closed for the day. I felt like a child being drug out against my will. I could have packed a picnic and sat in the jellyfish room for the entire afternoon.
Tickets were $50 each and worth every penny. Visit Monterey Bay Aquarium for more info.
ACCOMMODATIONS //
We wanted somewhere to relax for two days, after all the adventurous things we'd done the week prior. We were two weeks into our 3-week vacation and starting to feel it. We decided to stay two nights at the Portlanda Hotel and Spa. We found a great deal on Hotel Tonight ($110/night) that we just couldn't pass up. The location allowed us to walk to all the nearby restaurants and attractions. There was a little brewery just around the corner which hit the spot.
If I'm ever back in the area, I will stay in Carmel-By-The-Sea. It's a bit more pricey, but it's not as touristy and is full of charm.
EATS //
Dametra Cafe - If you're staying in the Monterey or Carmel area do yourself a favor and eat here! It's AMAZING! I discovered this place on my previous trip, and my dad and I had the most fantastic dinner and loved the vibes. The service is incredible! Even if there is a wait, it's worth it. Put your name in and visit all the shops around Carmel. My favorite entree is the Greek Style Lamb Shank with veggies or the gyro for lunch, but everything is delicious.
Loulou's Griddle in the Middle - We wanted to avoid the touristy places and managed to find this hidden gem for lunch. There was a decent line, but luckily it didn't take long for a table for two. This place is TINY! The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was good, nothing fancy.
Peter B's Brewpub - This was right outside our hotel. After a long day in the sun, we wanted a nice cold IPA and a simple salad. We enjoyed both!
THINGS TO DO IN/NEAR MONTEREY //
Shops & Galleries in Carmel - It only takes about 10 minutes by car to get to Carmel. I prefer the shops and galleries here to the ones in Monterey. You could spend a whole day just looking around the shops. For more on Carmel, visit my blog post here.
17 Mile Drive - Instead of driving, I'd recommend renting bikes from somewhere and cruising around. My dad and I explored the area by bike on our previous trip, and we had a lovely time. There is so much to see and having to park a car is just annoying. Plus, you work off a little of those vacation treats! HA!
Old Fisherman's Wharf - One of the top things to do in Monterey, but I wasn't really a fan of the vibes. There are people outside trying to get you into their restaurants which isn't usually a good sign. On the positive side, you might get to see some sea otters, and it's a nice walk.
Cannery Row - Full of tourists but a nice casual walk on your way to the aquarium. I wasn't a fan of the shops, and the restaurants didn't seem that appealing. It's a good place to find souvenirs if that's your kind of thing.
If you find yourself planning a west coast trip, I'd recommend seeing if you can squeeze Monterey Bay in along the way. Even if you can't spend a night there, it's worth planning a couple hours or a half a day to visit the aquarium and nearby area.
Have you been to Monterey? What about the aquarium? If so, what did you think? Comment below. xx ASH
For more, read about our stops nearby at Carmel-By-The-Sea and Big Sur.
