Monterey

The Monterey Peninsula is unique among all of California's regions. Here, time slows down, the houses are modest (with the exception of those in Pebble Beach), and the way of life is the ideal fusion of SoCal casual and NorCal chic. The town of Monterey draws the majority of visitors on the peninsula's northern side, while Carmel-by-the-Sea attracts the mellow, affluent crowd further south. Real estate is extremely expensive, which helps preserve the small-town feel along Monterey's breath-taking coastline.

This region is perfect for a pit stop on a road trip or a weekend getaway for two. Did we also bring up the golf courses? Some of the most sought-after fairways in the world are located along this section of the California coast. Additionally, it is a year-round whale-watching location and the starting point for several of the top California cruises. When you consider the wealth of natural beauty, five-star hotels, and seafood eateries, Monterey may be the ideal location for your upcoming vacation when you consider the ideal location.

The months of April and May are the ideal times to visit Monterey. Warmer weather, less crowds, and delicious food festivals like Pebble Beach Food & Wine and the Castroville Artichoke Festival are all benefits of spring. Though the sun's rays are at their fiercest during the summer, Monterey may still be chilly. Summer is the most well-liked season to travel to the Monterey Peninsula. Bring a sweater no matter the season because the area, which is close on the seaside, is prone to harsh gusts. Another great season to travel is in the fall, but beginning in October, there will probably be more rain. Due to its central California position, Monterey experiences mild winters, with an average low temperature of 48 degrees.

Fresh seafood is naturally a mainstay on menus all around the region because of Monterey's location along the Pacific Ocean. When looking for a taste of Monterey's renowned clam chowder, Old Fisherman's Wharf is frequently the first place people turn. Travelers, however, have found the places to be pricey and subpar despite the wharf's unrivaled views and plentiful free samples. Walk one pier over to LouLou's Griddle in the Middle for less expensive chowder and a delightfully quirky setting to escape the crowds and eat excellent fish.

Location: southern Monterey Bay in Monterey County, California.

Ranking:

• #2 in Best Day Trips from San Francisco
• #4 in Best Cheap Honeymoons in the U.S.
• #5 in Best Places to Visit in California
• #8 in Best California Beaches
• #8 in Best Small Towns to Visit in the USA
• #14 in Best Family Beach Vacations in the U.S.
• #15 in Best Beaches in the U.S.