Santa Cruz, Monterey, Carmel and Big Sur Trip

If you live in the Bay Area, California, or just visit for a short trip, you could plan a trip to Santa Cruz, Monterey, or Carmel. Each of these destinations could take at least a day. Therefore it makes sense to plan for a hotel stay for your trip.

You could plan to stay in Santa Cruz, or Monterey and/or Carmel. The popular hotel chains like Marriott, IHG, Hyatt, Hilton and others all have properties you can stay in these tourist destinations. Usually a one-night-free stay award can be used. Popular Hyatt Regency is upgraded to category 5 and no longer allows free-night award. Points are easier to use. Other chains allow combining free-ight stay award that makes it easier to book.

Here is what your road trip could look like on a map:

A is San francisco
B is Santa cruz – You can stay in hotels in our near Santa Cruz
C is Monterey – You can stay for example in Hyatt Regency Monterey
D is Carmel-by-the-Sea – beautiful town with activities listed below
E is Hyatt Carmel Hylands Hotel
F is Big Sur which provides a pleasant drive by the coast, nice views and hiking opportunities for nature lowers.

Santa Cruz, CA

Things to do in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, California offers several activities and attractions for a day trip. Here are some things you can do:

  • Visit the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: This iconic amusement park features thrilling rides, including the Giant Dipper roller coaster, games, arcades, and beautiful ocean views.
  • Explore the Santa Cruz Wharf: Take a stroll along the historic wharf, enjoy scenic views of the coastline, shop for souvenirs, dine at seafood restaurants, and even go fishing.
  • Spend time at Natural Bridges State Beach: This beach is known for its natural rock bridges and tide pools. Take a walk along the sandy shoreline, explore the tide pools, and enjoy picnicking amidst the scenic beauty.
  • Roam through the Santa Cruz Mountains: If you enjoy nature, take a drive through the Santa Cruz Mountains. There are several beautiful parks and hiking trails, such as Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park or Big Basin Redwoods State Park, where you can experience towering redwoods and lush greenery.
  • Visit the Seymour Marine Discovery Center: Located on the University of California, Santa Cruz campus, this marine research and education center offers fascinating exhibits on marine life, touch tanks, and a chance to learn about the diverse ecosystems of the Monterey Bay.
  • Take a scenic drive along West Cliff Drive: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and stunning coastal scenery as you drive or walk along this picturesque road.
  • Explore Downtown Santa Cruz: Wander around Pacific Avenue, the main street of downtown Santa Cruz, which offers a variety of shops, boutiques, cafes, and art galleries. You can also find street performers and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
  • Go wine tasting: Santa Cruz has a number of vineyards and wineries where you can sample locally produced wines. Some popular wineries in the area include Bargetto Winery and Storrs Winery.
  • Boat trips are a fantastic addition to your day trip in Santa Cruz. Here are a couple of options for boat trips in the area:
    • Whale Watching: Santa Cruz is known for its proximity to the Monterey Bay, a rich marine ecosystem that attracts a variety of whale species. Several companies offer whale-watching tours, where you can embark on a boat excursion to spot humpback whales, blue whales, orcas, and other marine wildlife. These tours provide a unique opportunity to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
    • Sailing Excursions: If you prefer a more leisurely and scenic experience, you can take a sailing excursion in the Monterey Bay. There are companies that offer sailing trips, where you can relax on a sailboat and enjoy the coastal views, spot wildlife, and soak up the sun. Some tours even provide the opportunity to learn about sailing or assist the crew.
    • Before planning a boat trip, it’s recommended to check the availability, schedules, and safety guidelines of the specific companies offering these excursions. It’s also advisable to make reservations in advance, especially during peak seasons or holidays, to ensure availability on your preferred date.
  • Natural Bridges State Beach: Natural Bridges State Beach is famous for its annual monarch butterfly migration. Each year, thousands of monarch butterflies travel to the beach from November to February, seeking shelter in the eucalyptus groves. Visitors can witness the magnificent sight of clusters of butterflies hanging from the branches. There is a designated butterfly preserve area and a visitor center where you can learn more about these fascinating creatures and their migration patterns.
    • Monarch Grove Sanctuary: The Monarch Grove Sanctuary, located at Moran Lake Park in Santa Cruz, is another popular spot to observe the monarch butterflies. The sanctuary provides a protected environment for the butterflies during their stay. Visitors can walk along the trails and witness the fluttering orange and black wings of the monarchs. Information boards and docents are often available to provide educational insights about the butterflies and their conservation.

These are just a few suggestions, and there’s plenty more to explore in Santa Cruz. Depending on your interests, you can customize your day trip to make the most of your visit to this vibrant coastal city.

Dining in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz offers a variety of dining options to suit different tastes and preferences. Here are some popular restaurants you can try for a delightful dining experience:

  • The Crow’s Nest: Located on the Santa Cruz Harbor, The Crow’s Nest offers stunning views of the ocean and harbor. It serves a diverse menu featuring seafood, steaks, and pasta dishes. Enjoy a meal while taking in the picturesque waterfront scenery.
  • Shadowbrook: Nestled in the redwoods of Capitola, Shadowbrook is a charming and romantic restaurant known for its unique setting and delicious cuisine. Accessible by cable car, it offers a menu that includes seafood, steak, and creative dishes, along with an extensive wine list.
  • Oswald: Situated in downtown Santa Cruz, Oswald is a farm-to-table restaurant that focuses on using locally sourced ingredients. The menu offers a range of dishes inspired by American, Mediterranean, and Asian flavors.
  • Cafe Cruz: Known for its casual and friendly atmosphere, Cafe Cruz features a diverse menu with options like grilled meats, seafood, burgers, and vegetarian dishes. The restaurant emphasizes fresh ingredients and has a welcoming outdoor patio.
  • Laili: Laili offers a fusion of Mediterranean and Afghan flavors, serving dishes made with local and organic ingredients. Located in downtown Santa Cruz, this restaurant provides a warm and inviting ambiance.
  • The Picnic Basket: If you’re looking for a more casual dining experience, The Picnic Basket is a popular choice. Located near the beach, it offers a menu featuring sandwiches, salads, and ice cream, along with locally sourced ingredients.

Hotels in Santa Cruz

If you wish to stay in Santa Cruz, here are example list of hotels from Mariott website. You book these hotels using your points or using your free night stay certificate that you get every year if you have the Chase Marriott Credit card.

Monterey, CA

Monterey, California offers a wide range of attractions and activities for a day trip. Here are some things you can do in Monterey:

  • Monterey Bay Aquarium: One of the most renowned aquariums in the world, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is a must-visit attraction. Explore fascinating exhibits showcasing marine life from the Monterey Bay and beyond, including sea otters, penguins, sharks, and mesmerizing jellyfish.
  • Cannery Row: Take a stroll along historic Cannery Row, once home to sardine canning factories. Today, it’s a vibrant waterfront area lined with shops, restaurants, and galleries. Enjoy shopping, dining, and immerse yourself in the charm of this iconic street.
  • 17-Mile Drive: Embark on a scenic drive along the picturesque 17-Mile Drive, which winds through the Pebble Beach Resort area. Enjoy breathtaking coastal views, stop by iconic landmarks like the Lone Cypress and Pebble Beach Golf Links, and explore beautiful beaches and rocky shorelines.
  • Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary: Discover the diverse marine life of the Monterey Bay by embarking on a whale-watching tour or a boat trip to explore the marine sanctuary. Spot whales, dolphins, sea lions, and other fascinating creatures in their natural habitat.
  • Old Fisherman’s Wharf: Visit the Old Fisherman’s Wharf and indulge in fresh seafood at the various restaurants and seafood markets. Take a leisurely stroll along the wharf, shop for souvenirs, or enjoy a scenic boat ride.
  • Pacific Grove: Adjacent to Monterey, Pacific Grove offers charming Victorian-era architecture and beautiful coastal scenery. Explore the scenic Pacific Grove shoreline, known for its Monarch Grove butterfly sanctuary, or wander through the town’s quaint downtown area.
  • Point Lobos State Natural Reserve: Just south of Monterey, Point Lobos is a breathtaking natural reserve with scenic hiking trails that lead you to stunning ocean views, rugged cliffs, and diverse wildlife. It’s a perfect spot for hiking, photography, and nature lovers.
  • Monterey State Historic Park: Step back in time and explore Monterey’s rich history at the Monterey State Historic Park. Visit historic adobes and buildings, including the Custom House, California’s first state historic landmark.

 

Dining in Monterey, CA

  • The Fish Hopper: Visit the Fish Hopper website for more information and reservations.
  • Restaurant 1833: Explore the Restaurant 1833 website for menus, reservations, and additional details.
  • Monterey’s Fish House: Check out the Monterey’s Fish House website for their menu and contact information.
  • Old Monterey Cafe: Find out more about the Old Monterey Cafe and their breakfast and lunch offerings.
  • Pacific’s Edge: Visit the Pacific’s Edge website to learn more about their ocean-view dining and make reservations.
  • Montrio Bistro: Explore the Montrio Bistro website for their farm-to-table menu and dining options.
  • Cannery Row Brewing Company: Discover more about the Cannery Row Brewing Company and their craft beers and pub-style food.
  • Bistro Moulin: Check out the Bistro Moulin website for their French bistro offerings and reservation information.
  • Crema: Visit the Crema website to learn more about their artisanal coffee and pastries.
  • The Sardine Factory: Explore the Sardine Factory website for their seafood-focused fine dining experience.

Hotels in Monterey

For your stay in Monterey, you can chose from Hyatt, Marriott, IHG and others. It is easier to use free night certificates with Marriott and IHG. You can use points also. Chase Bank has credit cards for all of these hotels chains. The credit cards provide initial sign up bonus and free night stay certificate once a year. Here is a link to Chase Card info and example list of IHG hotels in Monterey:

Carmel by the Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, known for its picturesque coastal beauty and artistic charm, offers several delightful activities and attractions for a day trip. Here are some things you can do in Carmel-by-the-Sea:

  • Carmel Beach: Visit the Carmel Beach website to learn more about this stunning destination and plan your visit.
  • Scenic Drive: Explore the 17-Mile Drive website to discover the breathtaking coastal vistas and attractions along this iconic route.
  • Carmel Mission: Learn more about the historic Carmel Mission on their official website, which provides information about tours, events, and the mission’s rich history.
  • Art Galleries and Studios: Discover the vibrant art scene of Carmel-by-the-Sea by exploring the official Carmel website’s shopping section, where you can find information about local galleries and studios.
  • Carmel Village: Visit the official Carmel website’s shopping section to explore the charming shops, boutiques, and restaurants that make up the picturesque Carmel Village.
  • Point Lobos State Natural Reserve: Plan your visit to Point Lobos by accessing the official Point Lobos Foundation website, where you can find information about trails, wildlife, and visitor guidelines.
  • Carmel River State Beach: Learn more about Carmel River State Beach, including its features and amenities, on the California State Parks website.
  • Wine Tasting: Explore the Carmel Valley Wine website to discover the wineries and tasting rooms in Carmel Valley, renowned for their award-winning wines and scenic vineyard views.

Dining in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel offers fine dining options for your visit. Below are some of the tastes from Carmel that you might like:

  • L’Auberge Carmel: Indulge in fine dining at L’Auberge Carmel, where you can savor exquisite cuisine in a luxurious setting.
  • Casanova: Experience the flavors of Italy at Casanova, a charming restaurant known for its authentic Italian dishes.
  • Cantinetta Luca: Enjoy a taste of Tuscany at Cantinetta Luca, offering a menu inspired by the flavors of Italy’s regions.
  • Lobos: Dine at Lobos, a popular steakhouse known for its high-quality cuts of meat and elegant ambiance.
  • Cultura: Explore the vibrant Mexican cuisine at Cultura, where you can enjoy delicious tacos, ceviche, and mezcal cocktails.
  • Carmel Belle: Delight in farm-to-table cuisine at Carmel Belle, a charming eatery focusing on fresh and locally sourced ingredients.
  • Hog’s Breath Inn: Visit Hog’s Breath Inn, a historic restaurant that offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu featuring American classics.
  • Affina: Experience a unique wine bar and restaurant at Affina, where you can enjoy a wide selection of wines paired with delectable small plates.

Staying at Carmel Highlands Hotel

We have joined a timeshare presentation offered by Hyatt at their Hyatt Carmel Hylands Hotel. They typically invite you for 3 nights. In the middle of your stay, you are expected to attend a 1.5 hour presentation to sell you a timeshare. In return you get a steep discount for your hotel stay. It was fun to do this and we enjoyed our stay. Here are some photos from our stay at Hyatt Carmel Highlands.

Remember to check out your coupons in Groupon and elsewhere!

When visiting Santa Cruz, Monterey, and Carmel-by-the-Sea, there are several ways you can save money and make your trip more budget-friendly:

  • Plan your trip during the off-peak season: Visit Santa Cruz provides information on the best times to visit Santa Cruz, including the off-peak season with lower prices and fewer crowds.
  • Look for hotel deals and discounts: Check Monterey.org for hotel deals, discounts, and promotional offers in Monterey to find special rates and bundle packages.
  • Consider alternative accommodations: Explore vacation rentals, hostels, or bed and breakfasts in Carmel-by-the-Sea on CarmelCalifornia.com to find more affordable options compared to traditional hotels.
  • Utilize public transportation: Take advantage of Santa Cruz Metropolitan Transit District (SCMTD) buses or Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) to get around Santa Cruz and Monterey, respectively, as cost-effective transportation options.
  • Pack a picnic: Enjoy a picnic at one of the many beautiful parks or beaches in the area. Find information on parks and beaches in Santa Cruz, Monterey, and Carmel-by-the-Sea on California State Parks.
  • Take advantage of free attractions and activities: Visit Santa Cruz County Conference & Visitors Council for information on free attractions and activities in Santa Cruz. Check See Monterey for free attractions in Monterey, and explore CarmelCalifornia.com for free activities in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
  • Visit local markets and grocery stores: Find local markets and grocery stores in Santa Cruz on Yelp, explore options in Monterey on Monterey.org, and discover markets in Carmel-by-the-Sea on Yelp to shop for affordable meal options.
  • Look for discounted tickets and coupons: Check websites such as Groupon and RetailMeNot for discounted tickets and coupons for attractions, museums, or tours in the Santa Cruz, Monterey, and Carmel-by-the-Sea areas.
  • Research free parking options: Find information on free or low-cost parking options in Santa Cruz on City of Santa Cruz website. Visit Monterey.org for parking options in Monterey, and explore City of Carmel-by-the-Sea for parking information in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
  • Take advantage of visitor information centers: Gather maps, brochures, and valuable information about discounts, promotions, and free activities from visitor information centers. Visit Santa Cruz County Conference & Visitors Council, See Monterey, and CarmelCalifornia.com for visitor information in each respective area.