Guest Author - Louise Aiello
If you’re looking for a cozy seaside escape, head for Pacific Grove on California’s Central Coast. Nestled on the tip of the scenic Monterey peninsula, Pacific Grove is the area’s hidden treasure combining access to one of the most productive marine ecosystems on the planet with a friendly hometown feeling.
The town delights in celebrating its heritage and environment. In October it observes the annual migration of thousands of monarch butterflies to its eucalyptus and pine groves with a Butterfly Festival and parade. During the month of July its Lantern Festival commemorates its founders—Chinese immigrants who established a thriving fishing village in 1853 and Methodists who set up a seaside retreat center on Point Pinos in 1875.
Pacific Grove boasts over 500 beautifully restored Victorian homes built by its Methodist founders. Every October the town holds a Historic Homes Tour where you can get a closer look at the artistry of the construction.
Everywhere the sounds of seabirds and rhythmic waves beckon you to the bay.
A four mile section of the Monterey Bay Recreational Trail extends along the town’s rocky northern coast to Point Pinos then turns south hugging the shoreline along Asilomar State Beach where it ends at the gate to Pebble Beach’s 17–Mile Drive. Joggers, walkers and dogs share the trail with bicyclists and surreys (canopied quadricycles capable of seating up to six people). The trail is dotted with benches where you can sit and listen to the hypnotizing sounds of the waves.
You can rent a kayak to explore the bay or take a whale watching tour. But from the trail, even without binoculars, you can spot sea lions, sea otters, harbor seals and schools of dolphins as they glide across the blue waters of Monterey Bay. Between July and October, the bay also plays host to one of the largest gatherings of blue whales in the world.
White sandy beaches are easily accessible from the trail. At low tide the creviced rocks bubble with activity. Sea stars and hermit crabs mingle with mussels, urchins, and snails. In some of the inlets you can also observe sea otters only a few feet from you as they search for a meal. Hundreds of seagulls, pelicans and terns circle the rocks crying out as they join the otters in the search for food.
The beaches and coastal trail are within easy walking distance to downtown Pacific Grove where you can wander through unique shops and find your own tasty meal.
Once downtown, your first stop should be Marita’s Boutique. Marita’s offers a fabulous array of women’s clothing with name brands such as Flax and Cynthia Ashby in a wide variety of sizes. Marita takes great care with her clients; as the two of you are talking, she will watch what you select and, while you’re trying it on, she will bring you two or three items saying “you might like these.” And, viola! You look and feel fabulous—the sweater or jacket Marita selected fits your personality and body type just perfectly. You will leave eager to wear your new clothes—and with far more than you intended to buy.
Another shop to visit is Miss Trawick’s Garden Shop. As you wander through the pottery and fountains of the garden you will discover an inner store with unexpected treasures including French soaps, linens, and jewelry.
For reasonably priced appetizing meals try Peppers Mexicali Café; the quesadillas dinner is delicious as are the margaritas. If you prefer Italian, try one of the delicious veal specialties at the Victorian Corner. Or, for flavorful and ecologically sound meal choices using organic produce and sustainable seafood, dine at Passionfish.
Pampered lodging is available at a number of Victorian’s transformed into quaint Bed and Breakfasts. There are also a variety of pleasant cottage-style hotels just one block from the ocean along Asilomar Boulevard. One of the most comfortable properties in this area is Andril’s Fireplace Cottages where your dog will also be welcome.
After a good night’s rest, make sure to stop at Toastie’s for their pancake breakfast—they are the best in the world. Don’t worry, you’ll walk it off as you wander the shoreline and through the friendly shops of Pacific Grove.
