Famed for its dramatic Pacific coastline and stunning stretches of redwood forest, Northern California's Monterey County is hallmarked by countless tourist destinations known worldwide. With popular stops like the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Cannery Row, and Old Fisherman's Wharf, the coastal paradise brings in more than 3,000,000 visitors annually, each eager to explore its most renowned attractions.
But while Monterey may be a long-time hotspot for large crowds throughout the year, a little-known fact is that the beach county hides less populated gems that afford some of the most unforgettable views and memories along the Central Coast.
If you're planning a weekend hideaway in The Golden State, learn how you can experience a slice of California life — minus the bustling crowds — with these hidden stops in Monterey County.
Explore "Secret" Beaches
If you recharge with sand, sea, and gorgeous ocean views, you don't have to travel all the way to Santa Barbara or Southern California to achieve your goal. Less than an hour's drive from Carmel-by-the-Sea, the beaches at Big Sur are some of the most beautiful places along the Pacific Ocean. Most are only accessible on foot, making them ideal hideaways to observe wildlife and natural beauty.
To soak up the California sun without crowded sands, some "undiscovered beaches" in Monterey County worth adding to your itinerary include:
- Carmel Beach
- Carmel River Beach
- Asilomar State Beach
- Monterey State Beach
- McAbee Beach
- Carmel River State Beach
Take Legendary Scenic Drives
If you're really looking to avoid the large — or small — tourist crowds during your weekend trip to Northern California, Monterey's three scenic drives allow you to experience its breathtaking beach views from a distance.
Take California's Highway 1 for the "Drive of a Lifetime" along the Pacific Coast. The winding road passes 650 miles of ocean views, majestic Redwoods, and world-famous attractions like the Monterey Bay Aquarium.
If you're itching to take the 17-Mile Drive in Pebble Beach, you'll pass one of the most photographed trees in North America, the Lone Cypress, and experience gorgeous sunsets over the bay. As you drive this iconic route, you can view elaborate mansions and even stop for a visit to the Del Monte Forest.
For those looking for a shorter road trip during your weekend getaway, the scenic drive through Carmel is a quicker route where you can see quaint cottages, Clint Eastwood's Mission Ranch, and more glimpses of the ocean waves. Make it a speedy half-hour trip or spend two hours admiring the art and culture of the area.
Hike to Calla Lily Valley
Nestled along Highway 1 near mile marker 63, Garrapata State Park's Calla Lily Valley is the perfect place for a scenic hike or a relaxing resting point after a day of traveling. As a 1.1-mile loop trail just minutes from Carmel, this winding pathway takes you through patches of wildflowers to see the wonders of the Calla Lilly Valley, with a creek that flows into the nearby ocean.
Because this beginner-friendly walking path is marked only by a discreet gate, it's a hidden scenic spot that most easily overlook. If you're trying to see the valley at its peak — filled with thousands of blooming white calla lilies — many locals would recommend visiting during the late winter or early spring.
Visit Lower Presidio Historic Park
Featuring extraordinary views of Monterey Bay and Harbor, Lower Presidio Historic Park is an undiscovered gem that packs a natural sanctuary and rich California history in one stop. According to Old Monterey Foundation, this park and museum is potentially Monterey Peninsula's least visited historic site, largely because it is nearly unheard of by civilians and visitors alike.
Despite its lower visitor count, the roughly 26 acres of land is well worth paying a visit during your weekend trip to the coast. From the impressive hilltop Sloat Monument to the nearby Lower Presidio's Harbor Trail and beyond, this little-known secret has something in it for everyone, no matter if you're a history enthusiast or an avid hiker.
Go Sightseeing at China Cove
Secluded and teeming with wildlife, China Cove at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is a leading spot for outdoor enthusiasts and is ideal for a day trip to Monterey. As an emerald green cove with a sandy beach surrounded by rock walls, this scenic spot can be accessed by hiking the Bird Island Trail, a short loop around the China Cove area.
While many visitors to China Cove favor this site for its abundant sea-bird watching opportunities, you might even be able to scout harbor seals and their baby pups in their natural habitat if you visit in April or May.
Picnic at Jacks Peak County Park
If you're looking to see astonishing views of Monterey Bay, Carmel Valley, and the Santa Lucia Mountains in one stop, Jacks Peak County Park is just minutes from Highway 1. Ideal for a day hike, this 525-acre land offers 11 different trails fit for horseback riding and self-guided treks to stunning natural views. While the 8.5 miles of trails at Jacks Peak Park are almost all short hikes, the scenery of these winding paths and cathedral-like forests can't be underestimated.
If you embark on the Coffeeberry Trail or the Skyline Nature Trail, you'll get up-close glimpses of fossils, some dating all the way back to the Miocene epoch. If sightseeing the different flora of Northern California is more your style, Jacks Peak County Park hosts one of the only three remaining natural stands of the Monterey Pine in the U.S.
But if you're really looking to unwind in a scenic hideaway, you can never go wrong with a picnic in this hidden park. Featuring Jacks Peak, the highest point on the Monterey Peninsula, this stop affords all the best views of the Central Coast that can be admired over lunchtime sandwiches with the family.
Wine and Dine at La Bicylette
After a day full of adventure, sometimes all you want is simple, good food that is crafted from the heart. At La Bicylette, you'll find exactly that. Known for crafting "European Country Cuisine," using local ingredients and old-world artistry, La Bicylette is the ideal place to unwind after a day full of activities.
Known for blending traditional food and cooking techniques with creative new tricks, La Bicylette has everything from pizza to eggs Benedict. In the mood for a glass of wine to help you ease into the evening? La Bicylette offers an extensive list of wines sure to satisfy both the connoisseur and novice consumer.
From the delicious cuisine to the inviting atmosphere, La Bicylette will surely become one of your favorite Carmel stops.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Carmel a perfect weekend escape?
Carmel offers the ideal weekend retreat: far enough to feel like a getaway, close enough for a short drive, with beaches, wine, art, and dining all in a walkable village.
How far is Carmel from major Bay Area cities?
Carmel is about hours from San Francisco and San Jose, making it perfect for a long weekend without extensive travel time.
What can I do in a weekend in Carmel?
A perfect weekend includes beach time, wine tasting in Carmel Valley, exploring downtown galleries and shops, hiking Point Lobos, and savoring farm-to-table dinners.
Is Carmel busy on weekends?
Weekends are popular, but Carmel never feels overcrowded. The village's intimate scale maintains its peaceful atmosphere even during busier times.
Should I book the Green Lantern Inn in advance for weekends?
Yes, weekend stays are popular, especially in summer and during special events. Booking ahead ensures you get your preferred cottage.
Stay at a Carmel Inn
Whether you want a weekend at the beach, a hiking excursion, or an evening of wine tasting, Monterey County's Carmel Green Lantern Inn is a hideaway in itself, perfect for your mini vacation. Located in a quaint, peaceful neighborhood surrounded by Redwood and Cypress trees, this Carmel inn is away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, yet only one block from downtown.
After an exciting day of exploring, relax and unwind at our friendly inn with a personalized touch that delivers a memorable Carmel experience.
To learn more about the rooms and suites at our Carmel inn, book your stay today.
