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There are few places on earth as incredibly dynamic, yet so quaint and picturesque as Carmel-by-the-Sea. Situated on Carmel Bay, nestled in a pine forest above the spectacular white-sand beach, the one-square-mile village of Carmel offers endless vacation and cultural opportunities, as well as plenty of other things to do. You'll have a wonderful time no matter what you choose to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea. |
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In the surrounding area, visitors can see the spectacular Big Sur coastline, explore shops, wineries and restaurants in the Carmel Valley, visit the acclaimed Monterey Bay Aquarium, golf at Pebble Beach and find endless opportunities to experience greater Monterey County. You will find that Monterey County is an epicenter for all things active. By paddle, peddle, foot or golf cart, you will have ample opportunity to do and see. |
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If your interests are in exploring art, music, food and wine, the offering in Monterey County is staggering with a festival and events calendar that is unrivaled anywhere on the west coast. The annual Carmel Art Festival, Carmel Shakespeare Festival, Carmel Bach Festival and Monterey Bay Blues Festival are just a sampling of events presented by professional artists, actors and musicians from Carmel and around the world. |
Each year, past guests of The Colonial Terrace Inn return to participate in these diverse festivals and events that promote and enhance the creative traditions of Carmel. When summer is upon us, Carmel visitors and locals alike will be participating in and enjoying other events such as the Monterey Wine Festival, Steinbeck Festival, MOTOGP World Championship, US Open Golf Championship at Pebble Beach Golf Links and the always incomparable Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. Utilize some of the resources below to tailor your own Carmel getaway. |
Major Attractions and Things to Do Monterey Bay Aquarium, Monterey |
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Visitors can also browse through an eclectic blend of specialty shops and local artists' galleries, sample Monterey County wines and gourmet foods and visit other attractions such as the world renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium and new IMAX theater. |
The aquarium is renowned for its dedication to marine research and conservation, interactive exhibits and ability to present marine life on a truly grand scale. |
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Cannery Row, Monterey Originally the center of numerous thriving sardine-canning factories, Cannery Row today is one of the most popular attractions of California’s Central Coast. Stretching along the historic streets and waterfront of Monterey Bay, Cannery Row features more than 25 restaurants offering a variety of cuisines from formal to casual. |
Old Fisherman's Wharf, Monterey Old Fisherman's Wharf in downtown Monterey is a perfect place to take in the sights, sounds and smells of Monterey. Because neighboring Wharf #2 (New Fisherman’s Wharf) is the heart of the area's thriving fishing industry, you can usually watch the working trawlers unloading the catch of the day. |
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Stroll down the wharf with a cup of hot clam chowder, or stop by one of several restaurants featuring fresh Monterey Bay seafood. You can photograph sea lions and otters frolicking in the calm inner harbor waters, or if you're feeling more adventurous, take to the waters with a glass bottom boat tour, deep-sea fishing trip or whale watching tour in season. |
17 Mile Drive, Pebble Beach and Pacific Grove Discover Nature’s treasures as you explore one of the most scenic drives anywhere in the world. 17 Mile Drive, which runs through Del Monte Forest, is seventeen miles of sea and sky, immaculate golf courses, and dream homes set graciously amongst the indigenous trees, behind elegant gates. |
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Here you will experience the magic of this legendary scenic tour that is home to The Lone Cypress, Seal and Bird Rocks, Fanshell Beach, Point Joe, and the colliding currents of The Restless Sea, as well as the natural habitat of the black cormorants, brown pelicans, California sea otters, harbor seals and idle sea lions. Additionally, along the way, you’ll encounter the emerald fairways of such famous golf courses as The Links at Spanish Bay, Spyglass Hill and the world-renowned Pebble Beach Golf Links. |
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Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, Monterey Experience the thrill of world-class motorcycle and auto racing in the heart of Monterey County. Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca is home to the popular Monterey Sports Car Championship and the Red Bull U.S. Grand Prix. |
Racing enthusiasts flock here by the tens of thousands each year to watch professional drivers scream through the hairpin turns at top speeds. |
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National Steinbeck Center, Salinas Works of literary art created by Monterey County's favorite native son, Nobel Prize-winning author John Steinbeck, care on permanent display at this new museum in the heart of Salinas. Let the diverse, interactive exhibits take you into the heart of such novels as Of Mice and Men, The Grapes of Wrath, and Cannery Row. |
Let the diverse, interactive exhibits take you into the heart of such novels as Of Mice and Men, The Grapes of Wrath, and Cannery Row. Also featuring rotating art exhibits and a gourmet café. Full catering and meeting facilities are available 7 days a week. |
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Monterey County Recreation
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