Answer: Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small, walkable town, but parking can be a challenge, especially with a large SUV. There are several paid options that allow you to spend a full day exploring the shops, galleries, and restaurants without constantly moving your vehicle.

Answer: For a 4 1/2 day girls’ trip focused on wineries, trees, and the ocean, both Monterey and Santa Cruz offer unique experiences, but your interests may help determine how to split your nights. Monterey is well known for the world-class Monterey Bay Aquarium, coastal scenery, and nearby wine regions like Carmel Valley. Santa Cruz offers a mix of redwood forests, coastal views, and smaller boutique wineries.

Answer: Whale watching in Monterey in July can be a fantastic experience, but the mornings on the water are usually quite chilly due to the marine layer and ocean breeze. Even if the sun is shining onshore, temperatures on the boat can feel significantly cooler.

Answer: Good question! Sounds like you’re talking about Roy’s at Pebble Beach / The Inn at Spanish Bay (not the Maui Roy’s), since you're in Carmel / Monterey County. The nightly bagpiper is a beautiful and very special tradition — here’s a detailed breakdown of when to go, what to expect, and some tips — especially for a May visit.

Answer: Yes, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is one of the best places along the Monterey coast to observe marine life without needing to get on a boat. The reserve offers dramatic coastal cliffs, coves, and trails that provide excellent vantage points for spotting sea otters, harbor seals, sea lions, and occasionally migrating whales from shore.

Answer: Great questions — you’re thinking the right way: pair the fixed item (whale watch Tuesday AM from Moss Landing) with the lowest-stress options for the busy coastal parks. Below I give a clear, practical plan for Tuesday afternoon + Wednesday, plus parking/logistics tips and two flexible “this-or-that” options so you can pick what feels best.

Answer: Caltrans has announced a full 24-hour closure of Highway 1 at Rocky Creek in Big Sur starting Friday, May 16 at 10:00 pm. This closure is necessary for a girder installation using two heavy cranes, one at each end of the project area. During this time, no vehicle travel of any kind will be allowed through Rocky Creek.

Answer: Monterey and the surrounding Monterey County area are lovely in mid-December. While the weather can be cooler and some wineries may have limited hours, many are still open for tastings and visits. The region is especially known for its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

Answer: Carmel and the nearby Monterey coastline offer some stunning spots for dinner and drinks with sunset views. Since the coastline faces west, you’ll want a location with an ocean view to catch the sun dipping into the Pacific.

Answer: Your itinerary looks ambitious but very doable with good planning. Here’s some detailed feedback and suggestions to help you make the most of your Monterey County trip with your family.

Answer: For a week-long anniversary stay in the Monterey Peninsula, each of your three options offers something unique, and your decision really comes down to the type of experience you want—romantic seclusion, scenic tranquility, or full-service oceanfront luxury. Here’s a detailed comparison based on your criteria:

Answer: Pacific Grove is indeed a charming coastal town with stunning ocean views, especially just south of Lover’s Point along Highway 1. For Italian cuisine enthusiasts, Il Vecchio is widely recommended and considered one of the best spots in town.

Answer: Monterey is a very walkable city, especially around Cannery Row and Old Town Monterey, so for a solo traveler without a car, staying near Cannery Row is definitely more convenient than the Portola Hotel & Spa, which is set slightly back from the waterfront and can feel a bit isolated if relying on walking or rideshares. Being closer to Cannery Row puts you within easy walking distance of restaurants, shops, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

Answer: For a mid-April trip to the Monterey Peninsula and surrounding areas, planning your lodging and routing carefully can make a big difference in maximizing your time and minimizing stress, especially given your late arrival at SJC on April 10.

Answer: For your trip from San Francisco to Monterey and back up to Point Reyes, you can plan a mix of scenic drives, nature exploration, wildlife watching, and charming towns. Since it’s your first visit to California, a combination of coastal beauty, redwoods, and safe mid-range accommodations will make for a memorable trip.

Answer: Both the Cypress Inn and Hotel Carmel are excellent choices in Carmel, but they offer slightly different experiences depending on what kind of birthday trip atmosphere you’re looking for.

Answer: Monterey Car Week in mid-August is one of the busiest times of the year in the Monterey Peninsula, particularly around Pebble Beach, Carmel, and downtown Monterey. Traffic congestion, fully booked hotels, and crowded streets are common, which can significantly impact sightseeing plans like visiting the Monterey Bay Aquarium or driving along scenic Big Sur routes.

Answer: Carmel-by-the-Sea is known for its charming atmosphere and excellent local seafood. There are several standout restaurants where you can enjoy fresh seafood in a memorable setting, perfect for a special dinner.

Answer: Your planned road trip along the California coast sounds fantastic! The drive from San Francisco down the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) offers incredible scenery, charming towns, and plenty of family-friendly stops. Here’s a detailed guide with recommendations for your family of four, focusing on Monterey, Big Sur, Santa Barbara, and interesting spots along the way.

Answer: Capitola is a lovely spot for a quiet getaway, and it sounds like your plans are well-suited for your husband’s mobility needs while still allowing you to explore.

Answer: If you’re staying near Cannery Row in Monterey and looking for an exceptional breakfast spot, Wave Street Cafe is highly recommended. It’s conveniently located on the walking and bike trail between Monterey and Pacific Grove, just about a 4-minute walk from the Monterey Plaza Hotel.

Answer: Traveling to the Monterey area via Amtrak is a fantastic idea, especially if your goal is to enjoy peaceful nature, easy to moderate coastal hikes, and opportunities to see wildlife like sea otters. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you plan your trip:

Answer: Yes, the Big Sur International Marathon on Sunday, April 27, will result in a full closure of Highway 1 to tourist and non-race traffic from 4 a.m. to 1 p.m. This affects anyone planning to drive along the Big Sur coastline during that time, including visitors trying to reach popular stops such as Bixby Bridge, McWay Falls, or Pfeiffer Beach.

Answer: Your Monterey & Big Sur itinerary looks ambitious but very doable, with a few minor adjustments to ensure pacing and enjoyment. Here’s a detailed sanity check and some suggestions:

Answer: Monterey offers some fantastic spots to enjoy dinner and drinks while watching the sunset. The best locations tend to be along Cannery Row or the waterfront, providing both ocean views and a relaxing atmosphere.

Answer: Good question. Here’s the current status (as best as publicly documented) for Paraiso Hot Springs / Paraiso Springs Resort in Soledad, Monterey County, CA, plus the history and what might happen next.

Answer: Thanksgiving in Pacific Grove and the surrounding Monterey Peninsula is a popular time, and while many small local eateries may close, several restaurants traditionally open for Thanksgiving service, often offering special holiday menus. Planning ahead with reservations is strongly recommended, as spots fill quickly.

Answer: Great question — biking on 17-Mile Drive is a wonderful experience, but it takes some planning (especially when you don’t want to do the entire 17 miles). Here’s a detailed breakdown of where to park, good segments to ride, and safety tips.

Answer: Good question. Yes — parts of Highway 1 (Big Sur) are still closed, and as of now, it's not expected to be fully open by next summer. Here’s a detailed breakdown of current conditions, how much you can drive now, and what your detour options are:

Answer: Visiting Monterey for a few nights is always a treat, and planning around the Aquarium area can be fun if you want to maximize your experience while avoiding overly touristy traps.

Answer: Monterey and the surrounding areas along the Pacific Coast are wonderful for a short getaway, especially if you're looking to lift spirits and enjoy fresh air and beautiful scenery. Since you're aiming for lodging under $225/night, there are several options both in Monterey itself and nearby towns like Seaside, Pacific Grove, and Carmel-by-the-Sea that balance affordability, cleanliness, and nice views.

Answer: Visiting the Asilomar sand dunes in Pacific Grove is a wonderful idea for a scenic and relatively easy walk, especially if you enjoy coastal views and natural dune landscapes.

Answer: Point Lobos is one of the most popular state parks along the California coast, and even after Labor Day it can attract a significant number of visitors. Timing your visit is key to finding parking and enjoying the trails without heavy crowds.

Answer: For visitors planning to drive 17-Mile Drive in Monterey County during the weekend of August 16-17, 2025, it’s important to note that access will be restricted due to the Concours d’Elegance events at Pebble Beach.

Answer: Visiting WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca for an event like the Monterey Pre-Reunion & Corkscrew Hillclimb can be a thrilling experience for motorsport enthusiasts and families, but it’s important to know what to expect, especially with younger kids.

Answer: Your 14-day itinerary is very ambitious but seems well thought out for a family who enjoys road trips and sightseeing. Since you have kids aged 7 and 11, pacing and flexibility will be key to keeping everyone happy and energized. Here’s a detailed critique and suggestions by segment of your trip:

Answer: Driving from San Jose (SJC) to Carmel via Santa Cruz can be a scenic and enjoyable route, and choosing between Hwy 17 and Hwy 9 depends on what kind of experience you want.

Answer: Monterey Bay Aquarium is one of the most popular attractions on the Central Coast, and parking can be challenging, especially on weekends and during the summer. Unfortunately, the Aquarium itself does not offer advance parking reservations for its main lots, so visitors must plan ahead to ensure a spot.

Answer: Carmel-by-the-Sea is a charming town that’s perfect for a walking tour with kids. The fairytale cottages, art galleries, and quaint streets make it a delightful exploration for both adults and children. With a 40-minute walking window in mind, you can plan a short loop that balances sightseeing with fun stops for treats.

Answer: Monterey is one of the best places for whale watching in California, especially in July when you have a good chance of seeing blue whales, humpback whales, and other marine life like sea lions, dolphins, and seabirds. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary makes the waters rich in food, attracting many species of whales during the summer months.

Answer: For a trip to Carmel and the surrounding Monterey Coast, both staying in town and choosing a VRBO slightly outside have pros and cons, especially considering your interests in hiking, biking, and cooking.

Answer: Monterey is one of the best places in California for whale watching, with many operators offering daily tours along the Monterey Bay. The most common species seen include gray whales, humpback whales, and sometimes blue whales, depending on the season. Tours typically range from 2 to 3 hours and depart from Fisherman’s Wharf.

Answer: Short answer: recent guest feedback for Best Western The Inn & Suites Pacific Grove is mixed — many guests praise the location, suite layout, friendly staff and value, while a subset of recent reviews specifically call out cleanliness issues and dated carpeting/hallways. That pattern (mostly positive overall scores but several recent negative-cleanliness comments) suggests the property still works well for lots of families, but you should take a few simple precautions when booking and checking in.

Answer: Your plan to break up the Thousand Oaks → Carmel-by-the-Sea drive is not only reasonable — it’s a very smart idea, especially if you’re not a fan of long stretches in the car. The drive straight through is indeed about 5 hours with no major stops, and that can feel long even for people who don’t mind driving. Spreading it over two days makes the trip more pleasant, gives you time to enjoy the coast, and turns the travel into part of the vacation rather than just the time spent getting from point A to point B.

Answer: Your early September plan for Monterey/Big Sur with a few days in SF sounds very doable. Here’s a detailed breakdown of your questions and suggested itinerary ideas:

Answer: Carmel-by-the-Sea is known for its charming, romantic dining experiences, perfect for celebrating a milestone wedding anniversary. Many restaurants in town emphasize local, fresh ingredients and have an intimate, upscale vibe, making them ideal for a special occasion.

Answer: For a family of four visiting Monterey, Carmel, and Santa Cruz, staying in a location that is clean, safe, and walkable to the waterfront or downtown will make your trip much more convenient and enjoyable. Monterey is a great base for exploring both Carmel and Santa Cruz as it is centrally located along the coast.

Answer: Driving from San Jose to Monterey late at night can feel a bit intimidating if you’re unfamiliar with the area. Both routes you mentioned are commonly used, but they have different characteristics in terms of darkness, traffic, and road layout.

Answer: If you are looking for a private driver with a van for a large group in the Carmel/Monterey area, there are several options to consider. These services are ideal for sightseeing, winery tours, or just traveling comfortably with your group without worrying about parking or navigation.

Answer: Finding restaurants in Carmel and the surrounding Monterey Peninsula area with convenient parking can be a bit challenging, especially downtown where streets are narrow. Since your dad has a handicap placard, prioritizing accessible parking spots or restaurants with their own parking lots is ideal. Below are some options that should suit your preferences for Italian, seafood, Chinese, or classic American fare, while avoiding the areas you mentioned.

Answer: Carmel Beach is a popular destination, and parking can be limited, especially on weekends and in the mornings. Arriving early will definitely help you secure a spot close to the beach. Here are some of the best options for parking near Carmel Beach:

Answer: Las Laureles Lodge is located in Carmel Valley, a scenic but relatively rural area of Monterey County. Because of its location, public transportation options are limited compared to urban areas, so most visitors rely on private transportation to reach the lodge.

Answer: Visiting Monterey and Pacific Grove in April is a great time for whale watching, as it is the tail end of the gray whale migration season and the start of other species appearing in the area. Whale watching tours are popular, especially on weekends and during spring break, so planning ahead can help ensure you get the date and time you want.

Answer: The Monterey Bay Inn is known for its prime waterfront location and comfortable accommodations, but regarding the pull-out couch in the rooms, feedback from past guests is mixed. Many report that the main beds are very comfortable, while the pull-out couch can be somewhat firm or slightly uneven. For short stays, children or smaller adults usually find it acceptable, but for taller adults or for multiple nights, it might not be ideal for sleeping.

Answer: Renting a car from Bullhead City, AZ to Salinas, CA for a 2-day trip is doable, but there are a few factors to consider. Since this is a one-way trip, you’ll want to make sure your rental company allows drop-off in a different state and city without excessive fees.

Answer: Your 7-day itinerary down the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) from San Francisco looks well-planned, balancing coastal scenery, iconic towns, and natural attractions. Since this is your first PCH experience for your kids, you’ll want to focus on a mix of iconic stops and manageable driving days.

Answer: Monterey is one of the best places on the California coast for whale watching, especially in October, when you can see humpback whales, gray whales, blue whales, and other marine life. Since you only have a day, it’s best to book a reputable company directly rather than relying solely on third-party sites like Viator, although they can provide convenience.