Car Week - things to see, do, and eat around the peninsula!

Updated: May 4

While you're in town for the many 2024 car week events, there are many amazing sights to see! Here are a few of our favorites!

Sights:

Asilomar State Beach - One of our favorite places to walk and enjoy the sound of the ocean waves. Parking is available roadside. "Asilomar State Beach is a narrow, one-mile strip of sandy beach and rocky coastline in Pacific Grove, CA. Once called Moss Beach, this beach is known today as "Asilomar State Beach" named for the historic Y.W.C.A. Asilomar Conference Grounds adjacent to this coastline. The Asilomar Coast Trail begins just north of Asilomar's main beach and consists of a ¾ mile walking trail giving visitors access to Asilomar State Beach's rocky coastline and pocket beaches."

Garrapata State Park - Truly an overlooked gem, this beach showcases grand waves, and if you're lucky, you can spot whales breaching from shore. "Garrapata State Park has two miles of beach front, with coastal hiking and a 50-foot climb to a beautiful view of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, a federal marine protected area. The park offers diverse coastal vegetation with trails running from ocean beaches into dense redwood groves. The park also features outstanding coastal headlands at Soberanes Point. Sea lions, harbor seals and sea otters frequent the coastal waters and California gray whales pass close by during their yearly migration."

Monterey Bay Aquarium - A must-see for any visitor! "Located at the ocean's edge on historic Cannery Row, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is your window to marine life."

Food/Beverage Scene:

Alta Bakery & Cafe - Our favorite place in town to grab a coffee. We especially like the lush courtyard to relax in while sipping a beverage or having a bite. "Set in the restored Cooper Molera complex, this bakery & cafe serves an elevated New American menu."

Revival Ice Cream - Expect a line out the door every time! "Petite downtown ice cream shop serving creative, locally influenced scoops & housemade toppings."

Captain and Stoker - Fantastic coffee. "Single-origin coffee, espresso & seasonal cafe bites in airy quarters with cycling decor."

Ad Astra Bread Co. - Hands down the best bread in town. You can't go wrong! Go early, as certain loaves sell out quickly.

Rustique Wines - Family owned winery and tasting room. With outdoor seating overlooking hills, the vineyard, and a very majestic oak tree, this casual tasting barn is kid and pet-friendly.

Folktale Winery - A beautiful spot in Carmel Valley to relax. "Situated on 15 acres of sustainably-farmed vineyards and gardens along the Carmel River, Folktale Winery is an idyllic setting to discover and enjoy Carmel Valley, California’s great wines, food, natural beauty, and hospitality."

Corkscrew Cafe - Excellent food. The patio is lovely in warmer weather, with numerous pergolas and flowering vines. "Cafe with Mission-style decor & garden patios, serving simple, elegant fare with herbs grown onsite."