Monterey, California: Come Stay And Play

The Monterey area of California offers some of the most breathtaking views of the Pacific coastline and a wealth of golf courses, beaches, and other great places to go and things to do. Here are some of the best reasons to come stay and play.

Golf

Monterey proper has several public golf courses and even boasts the oldest golf course west of the Mississippi River! Nearby Pacific Grove and Pebble Beach have a wide variety of courses to choose from as well. The problem is: which one will you choose? Maybe you'll stay long enough to try them all.

One thing's for sure: all of the manicured courses along the Monterey Peninsula offer amazing views of the Pacific Ocean. Such distractions may not help your handicap, but you'll feel like you are finally playing in a golfer's paradise. It is no wonder that avid golfers come back year after year to enjoy the professionally-designed challenges of the greens and the breathtaking views.

Beaches

There are all kinds of beaches here for every kind of sun worshipper. The Carmel Beach is wide and sandy and dog friendly. It's an ideal place to take a long walk or early morning jog. Lovers Point Beach is wedged between two high and imposing cliffs. Scuba divers can walk into the ocean from this beach and find a wealth of areas to explore.

Monterey State Beach is located right next to the famed Fisherman's Wharf and is a great place to take the whole family. Yes, the Monterey Peninsula even boasts its share of nude beaches, so there really is something for everyone.

Sightseeing

Of course, the area has some of the best aquariums around, so you don't have to get wet to get a close up view of Pacific Ocean wildlife. At the Point Lobos State Reserve (just south of Carmel) nature enthusiasts can watch the comings and goings of delightful sea otters and harbor seals.

Visitors can't come to the area without seeing the famous Old Fisherman's Wharf on Monterey Harbor. It is a smorgasbord of quaint shops, restaurants, and, of course, fresh fish! It is also a launching point for whale watching adventures, fishing expeditions, and restful cruises along the rugged coastline.

And because it's Northern California, there has to be wine! Did you know that Monterey County is home to over 85 vintners and growers? The wine produced here has a world class reputation, and most of the wineries in the area offer tours and wine tasting for those who enjoy a little taste of the grape.

The Monterey area offers a wonderful selection of activities to do and things to see and enjoy for everyone in the family. Take the time to stay and play in this beautiful part of California.