Karen’s Things To Do

HEY THERE, I'M KAREN LEWIS

Whether you’re visiting for a long weekend, planning your next getaway, or starting to imagine what it might be like to call this area home, this guide is designed to give you a deeper look at what makes the Monterey Peninsula so special. Beyond the well-known landmarks, there are incredible local restaurants, tucked-away coffee shops, oceanfront walks, and everyday moments that truly define the lifestyle here. I wanted to create something that goes beyond the surface and helps you experience the Peninsula in a more personal and meaningful way. Click through to explore each recommendation and start building your own list of favorite spots, because once you experience Monterey this way, it’s easy to see why so many people never want to leave.

LET'S EXPLORE THE PENINSULA

CARMEL

PERFECTLY PRESSED

A great selection of cold pressed juices and smoothies for a very healthy start to you day!

LA BICYCLETTE RESTAURANT

Stop in for lunch or dinner and enjoy the great atmosphere, European decor with a wood-fired oven, and delicious Mediterranean-inspired dishes.

MADS DOGS AND ENGLISHMEN

Have a coffee and people watch in their comfortable lounge and then rent a bike to cruise the scenic road along the ocean. Bonus, you can rent one with a sidecar so your four-legged companions can enjoy the ride alongside you.

THE CHEESE SHOP

The cheese shop has been a staple in Carmel for many years and is a perfect place to grab a picnic to take to the beach and watch a beautiful Carmel sunset.

CARMEL MISSION

Take a tour of the Carmel Mission which is both beautiful and steeped in history.

MISSION RANCH RESTAURANT

Mission Ranch restaurant offers lovely views overlooking the meadow with Carmel River State Beach in the distance. It opens daily at 3:00 PM with the piano bar nightly from 5:30-9:00 PM

POINT LOBOS STATE RESERVE

Located just south of Carmel, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve offers many hikes and trails with spectacular vistas. It truly is a beautiful, serene and peaceful place to spend a few hours.

BIG SUR

DEETJENS

The verbiage is good just the spelling was wrong.

NEPENTHE

Try one of Nepenthe's famous Ambrosia Burgers and take in the spectacular views of the Big Sur Coast.

PHEONIX SHOP

Peruse the Phoenix shop filled with local arts and crafts.

PEBBLE BEACH

THE INN AT SPANISH BAY

Listen to the bagpiper while watching the sunset on the terrace of the Inn at Spanish Bay.

17 MILE DRIVE

Take a drive along one of California's most scenic routes, past world famous golf courses, amazing ocean views, cypress trees and some of the most spectacular oceanfront estates.

PACIFIC GROVE

VINTAGE FINDS

Drive along the scenic coast road from Cannery Row to Asilomar State Beach. During the springtime it is carpeted with miles and miles of pink succulents that make it even more beautiful. Downtown Pacific Grove, known as "Butterfly Town, U.S.A.", is full of Victorian buildings, restaurants and vintage shops. Two of my favorite are The Grove Emporium and Vintage Finds - for a little "Nostalgia Americana".

THE RED HOUSE

Have lunch at The Red House, a lovely Victorian house that was built in 1895, for some good American comfort food. Maybe drive around some of the streets to see the lovely older Victorian homes.

THE WILD FISH

Local, organic dishes are served in this wonderful family-owned restaurant. They serve lunch and dinner daily and Fridays and Saturdays offer live music from 6:30-9:00 PM.

MONTEREY

PADDLE BOARDING/KAYAKING

If you are on the adventurous side, take a stand up paddle board or kayak out into the bay and cruise along the coast to see the views and perhaps an otter or two.

THE MONTEREY BAY AQUARIUM

The Monterey Bay Aquarium is truly a world class place to spend a few hours.

PRIVATE BOAT TOURS

Bella on the Bay is a private charter boat offering sailing and wildlife tours. Bring a picnic and they will supply blankets if it's chilly.

SANDBAR AND GRILL

The Sandbar and Grill on wharf number 2 is a must see stop on anyone's visit to Monterey. With its friendly staff, delicious food and wonderful location, it truly is a Monterey staple. Lunch is served daily from 11:00AM to 4:00 PM, dinner 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM, Happy Hour Monday-Friday 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the bar and a special Sunday Brunch menu that starts at 10:30 AM to 2:00 PM.

CARMEL VALLEY

PALO CORONA REGIONAL PARK

If you’re adventurous, hike up to the top of Palo Corona park, see all kinds of wildlife including bobcats, cows and turkeys, and admire the beautiful view once at the top.

REFUGE

After the hike, head over to Refuge for some R&R. Soak in the hot, warm, cool and cold tubs in between relaxing in the sauna and steam rooms. Maybe treat yourself to a massage to really relax

FOLKTALES WINERY & VINEYARD

Drive out towards Carmel Valley village and stop at Folktale Winery and Vineyard. They offer wine tastings, sustainable food, live music and events in a picturesque setting. Live music 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM daily.

CORKSCREW CAFE

One of my favorite restaurants is Corkscrew Cafe. It is a rustic and charming restaurant in Carmel Valley Village offering garden to table cuisine. They offer local wines in an indoor/outdoor setting that is casual, relaxed and dog-friendly.