A California Coastal Drive
The Big Sur Coast is intoxicating, offering endless cliffside panoramic views. Scenic Highway1, the Cabrillo Highway is California’s crown jewel. Big Sur is a small village, but it generally refers to the famous stretch of coast between Carmel and San Simeon. The famous highway winds through spectacular cliffside views where you will be in the midst of sky, surf and birds. For decades, the area has been a stomping ground for painters, poets and sculptors.
It is approximately 26 miles from Carmel-by-the-Sea to Big Sur. The drive will take approximately 45 minutes on the winding coastal road. Plan for a leisurely day of driving where every turn yields yet another vista.
The Monterey Peninsula Airport provides convenient daily commercial air service to San Francisco, Los Angeles and Phoenix. Rental Cars are available at the airport for the 7-mile drive to Carmel. www.montereyairport.com
Begin with a two hour guided walking tour of Carmel-by-the-Sea. The tour will intrigue you with secluded courtyards, storybook cottages and lovely gardens. Carmel is a one-square mile village with winding streets and an abundance of art studios, galleries and boutiques. Stop in Clint Eastwood’s restaurant, “The Hog’s Breath Inn for a cocktail on the patio where outdoor brick fireplaces keep locals and tourists toasty.
Carmel Chamber of Commerce
San Carlos Btwn. 5th and 6th
Carmel, CA
800-550-4333
www.carmelcalifornia.org
The Chamber of Commerce is located in the Eastwood Building. Walk down the alley
and The Hog’s Breath Inn is in the back.
Hog’s Breath Inn
San Carlos & 5th
831-625-1044
www.hogsbreathinn.net
Carmel Walks
www.carmelwalks.com
Res: 831-642-2700
Tours: Saturday at 10AM & 2PM
Tuesday thru Friday at 10AM
$20 per person/private group tours available upon request
Carmel accommodations range from casual to extravagant. There is a multitude of cozy inns, charming B&B’s, moderate to expensive hotels and deluxe resorts. Many of the inns and B & B’s are ideally located steps away from the village.
A free personalized service of the area’s accommodations is available:
California Vacation Center
800-466-6283
www.stayinmonterey.com
The Cypress Inn is a landmark hotel owned by Doris Day; elegant ambiance located in the heart of Carmel.
Lincoln & Seventh
Carmel-by-the –Sea
www.cypress-inn.com 800-443-7443
Vagabond’s House Inn, this is a hideaway straight out of Hansel and Gretel. Breakfast is delivered to your room.
4rth & Delores
Carmel
800-262-1262
The Happy Landing Inn, one of Carmel’s romantic gems. Short stroll to shops and beach.
Monte Verde btwn 5th & 6th
831-624-7917
For Carmel’s Calendar of events: www.carmelcalifornia.org
Next, take the world famous scenic 17-mile drive through Pebble Beach. Encounter along the way the Lone Cypress -- one of the states most photographed landmarks. The drive takes you through much of the Monterey peninsula and by six world-class golf courses. Wildlife is plentiful. Throughout the drive, it is common to see sea lions, sea otters and cormorants. For avid golfers, there are three deluxe resorts located oceanside or on the fairways. Don’t forget to bring binoculars.
The Lodge @ Pebble Beach, The Inn @ Spanish Bay and Casa Palmero offer getaway and golf packages. www.pebblebeach.com
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