Pacific Grove Day Trip
I love vacationing in Monterey County, and often stay in Carmel by The Sea. This time I planned for a Pacific Grove day trip, and it was wonderful!
The coastal community of Pacific Grove is north of Carmel by The Sea and south of the city of Monterey. I was staying at Hofsas House in Carmel by The Sea and picked up a picnic lunch at the 5th Avenue Deli before I headed out for the day.
If you want to take the scenic route, you can cut through Pebble Beach and take 17 Mile Drive north to Pacific Grove. I’ve enjoyed that drive many times, but this time I wanted to maximize my time in Pacific Grove. So I headed north on Highway One and then west to my destination.
Photo Gallery
Lovers’ Point Marine Preserve
Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary
Point Pinos Lighthouse
Art Installations at Lovers’ Point
Tide Pools
John Denver Memorial
John Denver Crash Site
Kayak and SUP Rentals
The Beach House Restaurant
Dinner at The Beach House
Carmel by The Sea 5th Avenue Deli
Lovers’ Point
Day Trip to Pacific Grove
First, I headed to the coast, and found a scenic spot to enjoy my picnic lunch. Then, I visited the butterfly sanctuary where I saw thousands and thousands of monarchs. It was breathtaking to see so many in one place.
After that, I toured Point Pinos lighthouse, which has been continuously in operation since 1855! The views from the lighthouse are gorgeous, and I headed back to the coast for more views. I drove along Asilomar State Beach, saw the John Denver crash site memorial and went to the park and beach at Lovers’ Point. There are plenty of places to stop all along the coast, so I stopped frequently at many of the scenic viewpoints.
I shopped at the farmers’ market and listened to live music. Then, finished off the day with an amazing sunset and a delicious dinner at The Beachhouse at Lovers’ Point.
All in all, it was a great day, and I enjoyed every minute of my time in Pacific Grove.
Pacific Grove
Monterey County, Calfiornia
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