This past weekend we explored a little bit of Monterey, a good bit of Carmel-by-the-Sea, and most of Big Sur.
We started with Monterey and Carmel on Friday. We wandered down Cannery Row and wove in and out of shops before landing at happy hour at Hula’s Island Grill where we had tiki-themed cocktails and fish tacos.
On our way to Carmel, we drove the scenic 17-Mile Drive. We ogled massive houses on one side of the road and admired the pretty coastline on the other. One of our stops, per AC’s request, was at the famous Pebble Beach golf resort where we got a photo at the 18th hole.
We arrived in Carmel after sunset, but the town was really cute, even in the dark! We wandered through lots of sweet little shops with knick knacks, desserts, clothes, and more. When we got tired, we found a spot at a park with a public restroom about a block above the main drag and called it “home” for the night.
Saturday morning started on a high note with a delicious breakfast at Carmel Bakery. AC ordered a cinnamon roll and a breakfast burrito–both so big that she saved half for later. I had a big ol’ scramble plate to prepare for our day of exploring.
Next stop: Point Lobos State Park. We did a short warm-up hike out to a view point, then drove a bit further down to China Cove. Part of the trail to China Cove led us to Hidden Beach where we picked through some colorful rocks. We were looking for Jade, but could only find wannabe Jade (Jadeite).
When we reached China Cove, we were surprised by some seals sunbathing on the beach. There was a little one who kept popping up his head and looking around. Eventually he decided to rearrange and we laughed at him flopping around to get comfortable.
Next we headed to Big Sur. The coastline, again, was beautiful. West coast beaches are much rockier and “cliffier” than east coast beaches. We went as far as we could down Big Sur since a landslide has blocked the road to the bottom portion. Along the way, we made several stops and, coincidentally learned that Californians are not the nicest (or smartest) drivers. One of my favorite stops on this drive was McWay Falls in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. These falls dump out the edge of a cliff right on the beach!
By this time we were tired so we made one more pit stop for a nap in the truck–it’s so nice to have a travelling bed–before heading back to the farm.
Sunday was rainy–perfect weather for a lazy day! After going to church in “the artichoke capital of the world” (aka Castroville, CA), we put our jammies back on and lounged around aaaaaall day.
Until next time,
Charli
Beautiful pictures! I am curious as to your least favorite part about sleeping in the truck?
It’s our super firm (not memory) foam mattress. My hips don’t like it. I’m officially old 😉