Travel guide to Monterey and the North Cali Coast

Hi! Happy New Year everyone! Hard to believe its 2020 and we are in a new decade! I’m currently recovering from all my holiday travels and slowly getting back into the swing of things. Over Christmas I headed to Monterey and had the chance to drive the Cali Coast! It was soo beautiful and the views were breathtaking.

For those of you fans of the HBO show Big Little Lies, you’ll know Monterey is the backdrop for the popular series. I’m breaking down some must see spots from the show but also some other picturesque areas along the coast.

Views from Pebble Beach || Shop outfit details here

We stayed at Hotel Pacific in Monterey near the Fisherman’s Wharf. Loved this little quaint hotel, it was walking distance from the wharf and even had a delicious complimentary breakfast every morning. The Fisherman’s Wharf consisted of a boardwalk with tons of cute shops and restaurants and gorgeous views of the water. Be sure to visit the Portola Hotel for a buffet brunch where they serve a delicious European-style breakfast and some of the best omelettes made to order and bottomless mimosas! And for some delicious Mexican food and serene views, head to El Torito and be sure to order their flame grilled fajitas! Its the perfect restaurant for sharing dishes too because they serve generous portions.

Bixby Bridge: This bridge is featured in the opening credits of Big Little Lies and it was so crowded with visitors. The views were amazing and well worth the wait for a photo. It’s about 18 miles south of Monterey on the way to Big Sur.

Monterey Bay Aquarium: This aquarium was featured a ton in Big Little Lies and Jane was seen working at the aquarium. It is very close to the Fisherman’s Wharf and is known for its regional focus on the marine habitats of Monterey Bay.

Lover’s Point Park: This was the set for the coffee shop featured in season 2 of Big Little Lies and located about two miles from Monterey. While the coffee shop is dismantled the beach is definitely worth a visit.

Pebble Beach- 17 mile scenic drive: This iconic drive is world renown for its picturesque views and landscapes. At first the drive takes you through a lot of windy roads with dozens of beautiful homes and then you will see the beaches and vista points. It’s the perfect place for photo ops and its not too crowded due to the $10.50 admission. It’s pricey but if you want to enjoy the views of the pacific coastline and snap some great photos it’s well worth it.

Carmel by the Sea: This small beach city on Monterey’s peninsula is really quaint and known for its fairytale cottages and galleries all next to a picturesque beach. It’s bustling with tourists and locals and you’ll find lots of cute shops, restaurants, wine tasting rooms and art galleries.

The Ritz Carlton at Half Moon Bay: If you drive about two hours north from Monterey you will find the luxurious hotel perched on a bluff facing the Pacific Ocean. The majestic views are worth the drive and be sure to stop for lunch at the Ritz while you take in the views.

Views from Bixby Bridge, where Big Little Lies’ opening credits were shot

These are all the spots I was able to visit while I was in Monterey and I can’t wait to go back. For those who’ve been to the Cali Coast, what are some of your favorite spots? Share below in the comments!

Have a great week everyone! :)