The 17 Mile Drive and Carmel by the Sea


We got up early this morning and drove into downtown Monterey in search of coffee and breakfast. But first, we stopped at Fisherman's Wharf to look at the water. We walked out onto the quay, scanning the water for critters, and we heard the barking of sea lions. There were dozens of them sunning themselves on a jetty about a hundred yards from us. Not close enough to take a photo, but plenty close enough to hear.

However, on our way back off the pier we noticed this fellow lying in what appeared to be the most uncomfortable position ever. Pretty much lying on top of some submerged rocks:


We grabbed some delicious coffee and breakfast (including veggie quiche) at a coffee shop called Plume's right in downtown Monterey, went back to the hotel, packed up, and hit the road.

Our first stop was to visit the John Denver Memorial in Pacific Grove (which is an adorable little city). It was in a scenic spot right on the bay near where his plane crashed.



From there we took the iconic 17 Mile Drive. There were so many scenic spots along the way. The 17 miles probably took us two hours to travel, and it was probably the best 17 miles I've ever driven.


It's kind of hard to see, but that rock is COVERED with sea lions. They are also frolicking in the water in front of the rock:


The iconic lone cypress:


There was a new, beautiful vista around every curve: 



Along the 17 mile drive, we stopped at Pebble Beach. We strolled through the visitors' center and then down to The Bench, a restaurant directly next to the 18th hole. We grabbed a couple of beers and took them outside to sit in the sun and take in the scenery. For a few moments, I actually contemplated taking up golf. Not to worry. I quickly came to my senses.




After Pebble Beach, we then headed down to Carmel By the Sea. It was the cutest little town. (I used the term "cute" so much in the last day or two that I think I may have to turn in my "man card".) We strolled around and popped in and out of shops. For lunch, we ate at a wonderful place called Dametra Cafe. Gyro and falafel as good as we've ever had.


After lunch, we walked over to The Hog's Breath Inn. This was, until recently, owned by Clint Eastwood. It had some amazing atmosphere covered with Clint memorabilia.



After Carmel, we drove to our hotel in Cambria. It's called the Oceanpoint Ranch.  It's the coolest little motel, and it is RIGHT across the street from the ocean. After we checked in we took a walk down the the ocean to watch the sunset. I've never seen a West Coast sunset over the ocean. It was magical.


The plan tomorrow is to visit Hearst Castle and then drive to LA.





















Comments

  1. UnknownSeptember 21, 2019 at 5:42 AM

    I love the sunset. I agree, the 17 mile drive is just awesome. You guys are doing great😊🍺

    ReplyDelete

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