Monterey Bay: The beach, aquarium, delicious food, celebrities, and my hometown. Well to be exact I grew up in Seaside the smaller city right next to Monterey, but nonetheless Monterey Bay was my playground during my adolescent years into adulthood. Although growing up there wasn't the most exciting place in the world, I have many fond memories of Sunday's walking on the wharf, down cannery row, and taking a drive down the coast. I have very lovely memories of all the different tourist spots that locals to like to enjoy on occasion as well as some hidden gems. Monterey Bay has always been a favorite for tourists, but it is more than just a tourist spot, it is my hometown where some of my most vivid memories live. Here is a short, personal list of my favorite spots, both random and essential, of the Monterey Bay.
1. Doc Rickett's Lab, 180 E Franklin St, Monterey, CA
If you have read any of John Steinbeck's books, specifically "Tortilla Flat", you might remember the character Doc. Doc is based on real life person and one of Steinbeck's close friends, Ed Rickett's. Doc Rickett's lab is one of the last standing buildings of the Cannery Era that has yet to be touched by the city. A few years ago my boyfriend, now fiancé, signed us up for a tour of the lab knowing my fascination with Ricketts. Only happening a few times a year, the lab was opened for a private tour. We were able to step back in time and see inside the life of Rickett's and his close personal friends. You can imagine how surreal it was to be standing in the laboratory and hang out spot of some of the most historic people that once lived in Monterey. We were able to go into the lab to see what was left of experiments, well preserved glass jars of sea animals, as well as small mementos of the past such as his old record player and collages he and friends made on the walls. If you closed your eyes for moment it was if he was there.
2. Vivolo's Chowder House, 127 Central Ave, Pacific Grove, CA
Did you know that some restaurants put bacon in their clam chowder? Neither did I until I was told and I refused to eat it. Until my family and I found Vivolo's. Vivolo's Chowder House is one of the only places I know of that is safe for me to eat chowder, therefore it is one of my favorite restaurants on the peninsula. But the secret and most essential part of eating chowder at Vivolo's is when ordering the bread bowl you must get it with the garlic cheese lid. That is all I will say! You must try it for yourself.
3. Mission San Carlos Borroméo del río Carmelo, 3080 Rio Rd, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA
Maybe I am slightly biased due to the fact that I will be getting married here next fall, but Carmel Mission is the most beautiful mission in California. The mission was founded in 1770 by Father Presidente Junipero Serra who is also buried and was canonized as a saint last year on its grounds. The mission is filled with history and with it's beautiful architecture (some of the original building still remains and has been preserved) you cannot help but to stop and stare. There is also a museum which houses many interesting artifacts and a great gift shop filled with religious items.
4. The Coast
If you're ever in Monterey take the time to drive the coast as well as stop and park. As I mentioned before, I loved taking drives growing up and still do when I go back to visit. There is something about breathing the ocean air and listening to the waves crash against the rocks that is very relaxing. You may also get lucky and see a whale or some sea otters, so bring your binoculars!
5. Downtown Pacific Grove, Lighthouse Ave, Pacific Grove, CA
Downtown PG may seem dated but trust me it is worth the look into the shops and antique stores. My favorite jewelry shop in the entire world, A Niche in time, is located here. I love this shop and have spent hours with my mom "oohing" and "awing" and their wonderful new and vintage estate pieces. Their selection of crystal and stone jewelry is one of the best I've seen. Lighthouse is filled with fun shops and the AFRP animal shelter! So, if you ever wander into downtown PG, stop and take a look around. You might find a special treasure in one of the antique shops or find a forever friend at the animal shelter.
What are some of your favorite or memorable places? Share in the comments below!
