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Monterey is the perfect place to spend a honeymoon or to rekindle the flames of love. Romantic retreats often feature fireplaces, ocean views, and Jacuzzis, and some have spa facilities. If an elegant getaway is what you're after, try one of the resorts or luxury hotels. More rustic and cozy offerings include cottages or camp sites along the coast, among the redwoods, or in the mountains. See our Outdoors page for parks in the area.
Photo courtesy Laurie Giesen
• Romantic Accommodations
• Dining for Lovers
• Romantic Activities
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 See also Lodging
- Bernardus Lodge—A resort and spa nestled in the sweeping hills of the Carmel Valley wine country. Enjoy stone fireplaces, feather beds, oversized bathtubs, and outdoor terraces in each of the guest rooms, or dine in the Grand Award winning restaurant, Marinus.
- Spindrift Inn—A beachfront hotel on Cannery Row with European feather beds, wood-burning fireplaces and bayview window seats.
- Hotel Pacific—Goose-down beds, hardwood floors and fireplaces are featured in this Mediterranean villa-style hotel located on Cannery Row in downtown Monterey.
- La Playa—La Playa is located in charming Carmel. Styled after a Mediterranean villa, sweeping ocean views and lush gardens are part of this elegant hotel.
- Ventana Country Inn Resort—This unique resort in Big Sur has hosted many celebrities who enjoy the seclusion and beauty of the setting. All rooms have ocean or mountain views.
- Monterey Plaza Hotel—Right on the ocean front, the sound of the surf lulls guests at this Monterey hotel located on Cannery Row. Dine on the patio and watch the otters.
- Stonepine—330 acres comprise this resort located in the wooded hills of Carmel Valley. Soak in the Jacuzzi and watch the stars.
- Highlands Inn, Park Hyatt Carmel—Perched on pine-covered hillsides overlooking one of the world�s most magnificent seaside vistas just south of Carmel, the Highlands Inn is a romantic setting for weddings and honeymoons, and a popular destination retreat.
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See also Dining
BREAKFAST
Breakfast in bed might be your choice, but local restaurants also offer tasty breakfasts. Try breakfast at one of these eateries in Monterey or Carmel.
Old Monterey Caf� is a popular spot on Alvarado in Monterey. The short wait in line on weekends is worth it. Hashbrowns and a fabulous variety of pancakes.
Katy's Place is a favorite with Carmelites. Hearty breakfasts are served with a smile in this delightful setting on between 5th and 6th in Carmel-by-the Sea.
The Paris Bakery bakes superlative pastries and breads. This French bakery in Monterey has its regulars, who enjoy the flaky pastries and melt-in-your-mouth croissants with a cup of coffee.
LUNCH AND DINNER
Fisherman's Wharf is a great, centrally located choice for lunch. The Wharf is a vibrant place, with shops, fishing boats, views of the bay, and great seafood. Try clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl, taffy from the candy shop, or ice cream in a big waffle cone. The restaurants along the Wharf offer fresh fish, calamari and shellfish.
Abalonetti's Seafood Trattoria, Rappa's Seafood Restaurant, Domenico's on the Wharf and Caf� Fina offer views of the bay.
Take advantage of the cocktail hour to enjoy the glorious colors of an evening sky. The Inn at Spanish Bay has a tradition of Scottish bagpipe music as the sun sets. Enjoy the ocean view and the sight of deer grazing on the links.
- Schooner's Bistro on the bay in Monterey is a lively place with a waterfront patio. Located off Cannery Row, the bistro mixes sensational drinks.
- Highlands Inn in Carmel is poised over the sea with incredible views of the ocean from the bar, or you can sit outside in the Gazebo.
- The Fish Hopper is known for its oyster bar, exotic drinks and waterfront views. Relax on the outdoor patio and enjoy the view.
What more romantic way to spend an evening than over a candlelight dinner at one of the county's fine restaurants? Menus are always creative, always fresh, and vary from continental to California cuisine with its unique blends of American, Asian and Mexican flavors.
- Fresh Cream is located in lovely Heritage Harbor. The historic area surrounding the restaurant gives it its seaside charm. Classic French cuisine is served in this establishment offering views of the harbor lights. It's one of the Central Coast's most acclaimed restaurants.
- The Sardine Factory has been serving fine cuisine for over 30 years, housed in a historic building dating back to the early 1900s where sardines were processed. Four different dining experiences are offered in this restaurant near Cannery Row.
- Stokes Adobe in Monterey offers an innovative menu and a romantic dining experience in a historic adobe. Enjoy wine on the verandah and then come in to the cozy warmth of a crackling fire.
- The Forge in the Forest takes its name from the trees that surround the restaurant and the historic blacksmith's forge that was located here in Carmel. Features California cuisine.
- Portabella serves the regional dishes of Italy, Southern France and Spain. A warm and romantic setting beckons diners to this Carmel establishment.
- Tarpy's Roadhouse is located in the historic Ryan Ranch homestead. An innovative menu makes this restaurant a popular one. The pond and gardens make this a delightful place for a romantic dinner.
LATE NIGHT
In Monterey, enjoy late-night fun and live music at Cibo's Italian restaurant. Try Blue Fin where you can dance to live blues or rock n roll or shoot a game of billiards. Both offer after-dinner drinks and espresso.
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- Visit the Monterey Wine Country. There are over 40 wineries, 12 of which have tasting rooms that are open to the public. Some have picnic tables and scenic views.
See also
Wineries/Wine Tasting
- Try horseback riding at Holman Ranch or a hike in the Ventana Wilderness. There are trails from Ventana Inn. Garland Ranch is a popular place for hiking and welcomes dogs.
See also
Hiking
Horseback Riding
- Golf anyone? Eleven public courses are available with great views. Reserve to tee off at one of the many courses on the Peninsula.
See also
Golfing
- Rent a kayak, hang-glide or dive. All offer unique perspectives on the bay. Rollerblade down the Recreation Trail or rent a surrey for a look at the sea lions, birds and otters who call the bay home.
See also
Nature Activities
Recreation
- Visit some of Carmel's more than 70 galleries. Shop at The Barnyard and Crossroads for unique gifts. Stroll the soft white sands of Carmel Beach. Cannery Row has a colorful history, and now features shops and fine dining.
See also
Galleries
Shopping
- The Monterey Bay Aquarium protects the bay's unique environment and its inhabitants through fascinating live-animal exhibits. There's always something new at the Aquarium, so check their web site for the latest news. The Path of History explores the gardens and adobes of Old Monterey.
See also
Arts and Culture
Historical Attractions
- Don't forget to spend an afternoon at one of Monterey County's luxurious spas. Le Spa in Carmel, Spa on the Plaza in Monterey and Impressions Massage Group on Pebble Beach are three choices. Romance-by-Design will create a romantic atmosphere with candles, rose petals and bubble bath.
See also
Spas
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