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 Or several tastes, as it were |
700 Cannery Row Suite KK Monterey and Carmel, CA 93940 United States +1 831 646 5446/ +1 888 646 5446 |
Here is an intelligent solution to the dilemma of how to wine-taste while navigating curvy mountain road: just make one stop. Make it in downtown Monterey, where there is nary a deer in sight. Spend the whole day. At this place, you can sample from dozens of vintages collected from nearly 40 local wineries. Taste the riches of Carmel Valley, Monterey and Arroyo Seco. Buy a few bottles or a few cases, as you like. When it is time to get some solid food in your overtaxed stomach, simply stumble on over to one of the many restaurants on Cannery Row. See website for online shopping, wine club details, event calendar and more. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 A shopper's paradise |
At the corner of Highway 1 and Carmel Valley Road Monterey and Carmel, CA 93923 United States +1 831 624 8886 |
For almost a quarter of a century this shopping center has been one of the best of its kind in all of California. With unique shops, galleries, salons, clothing stores and first-class restaurants, there is something here for every discerning shopper. The place is also surrounded by gorgeous gardens and brick walkways. You should not make a visit to Carmel without coming here. It is a great place for old-style shopping and the absence of any major department store makes it even more attractive. Credit card acceptance varies by store. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Seveny-five years running |
381 Cannery Row (Suite 3, at Drake Street) Monterey and Carmel, CA 93940 United States +1 831 645 9035 |
This winery's Monterey Zinfandel and Chardonnay have both won several silver and bronze medals in recent competitions. The family-owned operation has been in existence since 1925, and the tasting room in Cannery Row attracts many locals as well as tourists and wine connoisseurs. Step up to the marble bar and taste examples from all of California's grape-growing regions. The winery's California Merlot and Chardonnay make up the Scenic Cellars Collection, and the varieties of reds and whites in the standard collection are impressive. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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A Historic Street |
Cannery Row Monterey and Carmel United States |
Cannery Row is a fantastic waterfront street a mile down the coast from Fisherman's Wharf. The street is featured in John Steinbeck's book Cannery Row and Sweet Thursday. Cannery Row is named after old sardine canning factors, but those factors are no longer operational and instead house stores, restaurants and bars. You can easily spend days shopping and eating at wonderful restaurants. Cannery Row is also a marine sanctuary, so you'll probably see California sea lions sunning themselves. If you want to learn more or help the sea lions visit the Friends of the Sea Otter shop. And no trip to Cannery Row is complete without visiting the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Father Serra's favorite |
3080 Rio Road Monterey and Carmel, CA 93923 United States +1 831 624 3600 / +1 831 624 1271 |
Also known as Mission Carmel Basilica and more formally, as Mission San Carlos Borromeo del Rio Carmelo, this was the second of the nine missions founded by Father Junipero Serra. The area was originally chosen for its agricultural possibilities in 1771, but the temperate climate and exquisite landscape soon made it Father Serra's favorite. Indeed, he is buried, as per his wishes, in front of the church's main altar. The building, which fell into ruins in the 19th century and has since been completely restored, exhibits classic Mission-style, fortress-like architecture, with thick, bougainvillea-covered adobe walls and a central courtyard. A Moorish-style bell tower contains nine bells and is open to the public. Though some may find the climb up the steep staircase taxing, the views from that vantage point are magnificent. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Breathtaking winery |
8940 Carmel Valley Road Near Loma del Rey Monterey and Carmel, CA 93923 United States +1 831 624 2600 |
Spanning nearly 16 acres, this winery offers a breathtaking view. Step into the French chateau-style establishment and drink wine while seated at a huge antique table. Or, visit the conservatory, a glass building with handmade chandeliers and at night, a great view of the stars. The wines are Italian in style with a California flavor. The various whites, reds and varietals have won the winery quite a few awards. It's a must-see on any trip to the Monterey's wine-growing area. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Award-winning, world-class wine |
1645 River Rd Monterey and Carmel, CA 93908 United States +1 831 675 9463 / +1 800 625 2610 |
The Pinot and Chardonnay fields of this cellar are nestled in the verdant Salinas Valley on the western side. The grapes that create its award-winning Cabernet Sauvignon are grown in the hotter climate of Carmel Valley. All three varietals can be tasted at the Salinas tasting room. While this winery is relatively new and on the small side, it is a good one to put on the wine-tasting agenda. There are picnic tables out front and a sunny tasting room inside. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Historical landmark |
Pacific Street (between Madison and Jefferson streets) Monterey and Carmel, CA 93940 United States +1 831 646 5640 |
Way back in 1849, when Monterey was the first capital of California, this white stone building was used as a place to hold town meetings. It was also a public school, and later a jail was added to the building. The very first Constitution for California was drafted here (after a vitriolic debate). Now the place serves as a museum to educate visitors about Monterey's past. Admission is free, so come spend an afternoon and take in the history. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Bob Aronson  |
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Organic vineyards |
69 West Carmel Valley Road (at the corner of Crossroads Boulevard) Monterey and Carmel, CA 93924 United States +1 831 659 6220 |
Amassing 120 acres, this purely organic vineyard specializes in Chenin Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The estate also includes gardens filled with sculptures by Toby Heller, each of which is related somehow to the tasting experience at the vineyards. Started in 1969, the vineyard is now owned by Europeans and cranks out about 25,000 cases each year. The tasting room is top-notch, and also includes a doll museum and an outstanding gift shop. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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All estate-bottled |
18181 Cachagua Road Monterey and Carmel, CA 93924 United States +1 800 425 2683 |
This winery specializes in two distinct Cabernet Sauvignons, both of which are only available in limited quantities: Black Jack and Red Rose Hill. Both have received rave reviews from wine magazines and both are 100 percent Cabernet. The winery also offers a Cabernet Sauvignon Blanc as well as a Merlot. An Old West cowboy image is displayed with the names of the wines as well as the labels, which are replicas of handmade leather. The winery's Web site is also littered with cowboy quotes. Tasting is by appointment, and the 700-acre property is available for banquets and other events. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Miller and More |
Highway One Monterey and Carmel, CA 93920 United States +1 831 667 2574 |
Not only does this cultural center honor the work of controversial American author Henry Miller (1891-1980) with its collection of his rare editions and art, but it also provides a gathering place for writers and artists of all kinds. During Miller's heyday, Big Sur was a creative haven for writers like Jack Kerouac who immortalized the area in his novel of the same name. Amid a picturesque setting of redwood trees, expansive meadows, and the specters of the beatniks who loafed here, the Library functions as a community center where concerts, workshops, exhibits, lectures, and readings find loving homes. Miller used to call this place home too, but as they say in California, "mi casa, su casa." So make yourself comforable. There's free Internet access for all guests. The Library and its grounds, which include gardens and a redwood amphitheater, are available for private parties and events. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ed Bierman |
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Estate bottled wines from South Monterey |
24600 Blue Larkspur Ln Monterey and Carmel, CA 93940 United States +1 831 642 9200 |
Estate-bottled wines of the highest grade are made on this expansive estate in southern Monterey. Winemaker Stephen Pessagno is an experienced crafter and a dedicated oenophile. He and the other owners adhere to the strictest winemaking standards. The vineyard also sells grapes to other highly reputed wineries. It is the official wine of the Monterey Jazz Festival and is among the featured wineries of many other high-profile events. See their website for a schedule of upcoming tasting events. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Old World techniques |
2999 Monterey-Salinas Hwy #10 Monterey and Carmel, CA 93940 United States +1 831 375 0741 / +1 800 644 6401 |
Utilizing very detailed and exacting wine making techniques, the owners of this estate put their decades of experience into each and every bottle of wine. The whole of their product is of very limited production. Tasting rooms are located in the Ventana Vineyards and their 1998 vintage is now available for online ordering. A tremendous degree of care is taken in the production of these wines, the soil structure, the age of the actual vine, the yeast strains, and the originating locale of the barrels all being taken into account. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 World class aquarium |
886 Cannery Row (at the corner of David Avenue) Monterey and Carmel, CA 93940 United States +1 831 648 4888 |
This is one of the best designed aquariums going. A unique feature is the two-story tank, home to a kelp forest in which swim sunfish, sharks, and the occasional diver tasked with squeegeeing the algae off the tank walls. Sand dabs are displayed in shelf-like tanks ideally suited to the flat fish, and a school of sardines swim in an endless circle in their cylindrical tank home. If you want to interact with some aquatic dwellers, you're invited to pet the bat rays (oddly velvet-like). The jellyfish display shows that they are like something from another planet. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Incredible and all-encompassing |
2 Serrano Way (near Portola Street) Monterey and Carmel, CA 93940 United States +1 800 343 6437 |
Tour Monterey Peninsula by bus and get a full multimedia video accompaniment to all the places you see outside. The tour takes you to all the sights in the area, including Pebble Beach and the Lone Pine. The tour is about three hours long, and you get a free 72-page full color booklet to take home at the end. Even better, the tour comes in eight different languages including English, German, and Japanese. It is the only multilingual tour in the entire area. Tours depart at the Doubletree Hotel, Fisherman's Wharf. Call for group rates. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Karthik Karkal |
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Before you taste Monterey |
400 Camino Aguajito (Ste 1) Monterey and Carmel, CA 93940 United States +1 831 375 9400 |
Described by one winery as the "Convention and Visitor's Bureau of the Peninsula Wineries," this organization aims to inform tourists about all the ins and outs of the Peninsula wine industry. Find out which wineries are open to the public, which up-and-coming festivals should not be missed, and which stores and restaurants feature the best of the Peninsula varietals. For a Monterey County Tasting Room map and guide, please see the website. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Hands-on stuff for kids |
601 Wave St (Suite 100, at the corner of Hoffman St) Monterey and Carmel, CA 93940 United States +1 831 649 6444 |
Go ahead, touch it! Your kids are allowed to touch everything in this museum, which was designed to encourage hands-on discovery. Children can come in and explore the many exhibits including Creation Station, The Grill, and other exhibits which allow the kids to dress up, become a chef, run their own business, or get a geography lesson. This is a great place for the entire family. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Great Small Town Museum |
559 Pacific St (near Jefferson St) Monterey and Carmel, CA 93940 United States +1 831 372 5477 |
This museum is actually located in two different places, not too far from one another and in the oldest neighborhood of Monterey. At its primary location in an old adobe, the museum recently exhibited works in Chinese ceramics and textiles, paintings of Monterey 1910-1950, and bronzes by Charles Russell. The other location in the Civic Center (corner of Via Mirada and Fremont Street) has exhibited charcoal drawings by Tobin Keller, masks from Mexico and archaic vessels from Asia. This is one small town museum worth visiting. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: jenn leibhart |
 Photo: jenn leibhart |
 Period Homes & Gardens |
20 Custom House Plaza Near the corner of Scott and Olivier streets Monterey and Carmel, CA 93940 United States +1 831 649 7118 |
This is one of this beautiful city's many attractions. You can tour numerous historic period homes that date back to the 1800s as well as early adobe buildings. Each house is fully restored to its original condition and is decorated with authentic antiques to match. There are also sculpture gardens you can tour (from May through September every Tuesday at 1 p.m.). The historic homes are open for tours daily. Come experience a piece of regional and European colonial history. Admission to the park is free; walking tours are conducted on the hour starting at 11 a.m. and are USD5 (cash only). Meet at the Stanton Center. See website for info on special SHP events such as the Monterey Living History Festival. Wi-Fi Internet access. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jawahar Swaminathan |
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Original Wine Festival |
One Portola Plaza (Monterey Conference Center) Monterey and Carmel, CA 93940 United States +1 831 656 4282 |
The original California wine festival is now more than a quarter-century old. It all happens at this two-day festival: lectures, guided tours, wine tasting, auctions and much more. More than 800 wines from throughout the state are represented here. The festival often plays host to more than 4,000 enthusiasts who enjoy the many tasting events and gourmet cooking demonstrations. It is an absolute must-see for any wine enthusiast. At the Monterey Bay Aquarium on Thursday and the Monterey Fairgrounds on Saturday. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Tribute to John Steinbeck |
One Main Street (between Salinas Street & Station Point) Monterey and Carmel, CA 93901 United States +1 831 775 4728 |
Located in the Monterey County town of Salinas, the lettuce capital of the world, this museum is a tribute to Nobel Prize-winning author John Steinbeck. A Bay Area native, Steinbeck attended Stanford University in Palo Alto after he graduated from Salinas High School in 1919. His most famous works include Tortilla Flat (1935) and the Pulitzer Prize winner The Grapes of Wrath (1939). His birthplace and childhood home, The Steinbeck House, is two blocks away from the museum. In the cultural center you can see Steinbeck's works, letters and photographs, hear lectures and take tours. It also hosts an annual Steinbeck Festival in honor of the author. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: sarah shevett |
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Popular Spot Since 1846 |
Fisherman's Wharf (at the end of Alvarado Street) Monterey and Carmel, CA 93940 United States |
With many excellent restaurants, guided tours, and interesting shops, this landmark has something for everybody. Whether you wish to dine on incredible seafood, go for a whale-watching tour, look at historical artifacts, or purchase exotic candy, you can do it here. Some of the best eateries in all of Monterey are found here. It can also be a great place to buy freshly caught fish or just walk around and look at all the pelicans lingering about. Various special events are held throughout the year. Credit card acceptance varies by store. See website for more. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Plants, animals, geology & more |
165 Forest Ave Monterey and Carmel, CA 93950 United States +1 831 648 5716 |
This museum displays and documents the natural history of beautiful Monterey County. The bulk of its exhibits showcase the native geology, aboriginal populations, plants, and animals of the region. In addition to permanent exhibits, the museum also hosts special events including a celebrated annual wildflower show. After a trip to the museum, check out another local attraction, the Point Pinos Lighthouse. Admission is free to both places. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Geoffrey Einon |
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Oldest working lighthouse in the West |
Lighthouse Ave Monterey and Carmel, CA 93950 United States +1 831 648 5716 |
This lighthouse, located in Monterey County, has been operating since 1855, making it the oldest operating one on the West Coast. Aside from its rich history, it offers spectacular views from its vantage point. The trek to get there is lovely, too, and well worth the huffing and puffing that some may experience if they are a little out of shape. While you are in the charming and beautiful town of Pacific Grove, visit the Museum of Natural History. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 The Oldest Monument |
500 Church Street Monterey and Carmel, CA 93940 United States +1 831 373 2628 |
The San Carlos Cathedral, also known as Royal Presidio Chapel, has been into existence since 1770's. The cathedral was the first building made in Monterey, also it is the only one that has for so long served as a place of worship. The beautiful architectural style of this cathedral is what one should not miss, it has a Spanish and Moorish influence, that makes it look all the more beautiful. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Passport to Santa Cruz Wineries |
7605-A Old Dominion Court, Aptos Santa Cruz Mountains Winegrowers Association Monterey and Carmel, CA 95003 United States +1 831 685 8463 |
The Santa Cruz Mountains are home to around 50 wineries, most of which are small but create outstanding blends. The Santa Cruz Mountain Winemakers Association, therefore, holds its Passport Program to promote these establishments, and feature wines from virtually unknown wineries. The schedule includes wine tasting and sales, restaurant discounts, and more. When does all this take place, you ask? The third Saturdays of January, April, July and November! An individual passport costs USD25, and covers tasting fees. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Luxurious body treatment |
415, Carmel Valley Road Bernardus Lodge Monterey and Carmel, CA 93924 United States +1 831 658 3560 / +1 831 658 3400 |
The Spa at Bernardus offers rejuvenating therapies and treatments in an area of 5,300 square feet. Pamper your body and soul with the various massages, facials, water treatments and ayurvedic treatments on offer. The spa also offers nail care, an exercise room and a steam room for men and women. Sip on a glass of fresh wine from the Bernardus vineyard and let relaxation take over. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The pebble effect! |
17 Mile Drive Monterey and Carmel, CA 93953 United States +1 831 649 7615 / +1 888 565 7615 (Toll free) |
This spa promises the ultimate in rejuvenation techniques in all of Pebble Beach. 25 spacious treatment rooms and a wide range of body treatments, plus not to forget those oh-so-relaxing massages! But all this is available by appointment only. Reserve your spa service at least two weeks in advance and ask for the time that suits you best. There are two fully equipped fitness centers for all those interested in sweating it out. Check the website for more details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Over 100 Figures |
700 Cannery Row (Suite 2, at the corner of Prescott Street) Monterey and Carmel, CA 93940 United States +1 831 375 3770 |
Want to see John Steinbeck sitting around and drinking with friends? Then come to this wax museum. You can get a glimpse at almost 450 years worth of Monterey history here. The museum stocks more than 100 realistic wax figures, depicting a number of scenes throughout time. See figures of old cannery workers, prostitutes and Indians. This is one of the newest attractions in Cannery Row and a great place to bring the entire family. Admission: $4.95 adults; $2.95 kids 7-12. See website for more. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Special Treat of American Culture |
26304 Ocean View Avenue Monterey and Carmel, CA 93923 United States +1 831 624 1813 |
Tor House, one of the most prominent attractions in Carmel, was the home of poet Robinson Jeffers and his family from 1918 to 1978. This piece of property located on Carmel Point, with an absolutely breathtaking view of the coastline, consists of a stone house, Celtic tower and English garden. An hour-long docent-led tour interestingly mixes poem reading with story telling, as well as studying the stones and exploring the secret in the tower. Reservations for the tour are recommended. Admission is $7 for adults, $4 for full-time college students, and $2 for high school students. -Hoiyin Ip Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Award-winning winery |
2999 Monterey-Salinas Hwy (near Olmsted Road) Monterey and Carmel, CA 93940 United States +1 831 372 7415 |
This winery has won more awards than any other winery in the country, the Dry Chenin Blanc and the Reisling being the biggest winners. The same team of winemakers has been here for over two decades and the aesthetic is European with a California flavor. The winery carries a wide stock of whites, reds and varietals. The property also has a retail store and a tasting room where you can sample the many award-winning wines. The winery grows their own grapes and in the last decade has planted over half a million new vines. Review © 2007, Wcities |
