Monterey County is 120 miles south of San Francisco, 70 miles south of San Jose and 345 miles north of Los Angeles.
Average winter temperatures range from 44 to 61 degrees F.
Attractions
Monterey Bay Aquarium (www.montereybayaquarium.org) — Nation's No. 1 aquarium (Zagat Survey, U.S. Family Travel Guide); Nearly 200 galleries and exhibits showcasing the Monterey Bay’s marine life and habitats.
Big Sur (www.bigsurcalifornia.org) — An incredibly scenic area of Monterey County, encompassing a 90-mile stretch of dramatic coastline from Carmel south to the Monterey County southern border and Hearst Castle. A collection of restaurants, inns and camping spots can be found about 25 miles south of Carmel.
Carmel-by-the-Sea (www.carmelcalifornia.org) — Quaint village with boutique shops and 100+ art galleries. Quirky laws (no street addresses, live music, neon lights or high heels without a permit, and more) still exist.
