How to Take a Vacation at Home in Monterey, California

Don't have the money to take a vacation this year? Take some time off work and take a vacation at home to enjoy the Monterey, California area. I know what you may be thinking - what's the fun in that? You've lived here for ages. Well, most people spend their free time traveling elsewhere to see different places leaving a good portion of our surroundings unexplored.

So, you don't live in or near Monterey but plan to travel here in the near future? This advice on what to see and do will pertain to you as well.

Visit the Tourist Information Center

Have you ever even been inside? As a local, you maybe thought there was no need to set foot. But you can find some wonderful ideas and tips on things to do during your vacation at home in Monterey. There is also a free museum attached to the information center which is also worth a browse. The Center is located at

Monterey Peninsula Recreation Trail

This is an eighteen mile stretch of trail hugging the Pacific coast line. It's paved so it's also bicycle and roller coaster friendly. One of the best stretches of this trail runs from Fisherman's Wharf in Monterey to Lover's Point. Take your time and view the sea life that congregates around the coast, stop at one of the restaurants or cafes along the way, visit the Aquarium or IMAX Theater, or just round up the family for a day of fitness and a picnic.

Take a Wine Tour

The Monterey Peninsula is a great wine area, particularly for Pinot Grigio. Visit nearby Carmel Valley or Soledad for some wine tasting. Though the children can't partake in the wine, there are some wineries that have fabulous grounds such as Chateau Julien in Carmel Valley. Bring a picnic lunch and taste some wines while the children play.

Go for a Hike at Garland Ranch

There is some wonderful hiking near Monterey. One of my favorite parks is Garland Ranch in Carmel Valley. It's a regional park which used to be a ranch. My favorite hike takes you up to Sniveley's Ridge and down through Mesa Point. If you just want a pleasant stroll, try the Lupine Loop. Garland is down the street from Chateau Julien and other Carmel Valley wine tasting rooms. You can do both in the same day!

Take a Drive Down to Big Sur

Follow the Pacific Highway (Route 1) south until you get to Big Sur. Pretty much the entire drive has some wonderful view points. If you don't want to venture all the way down to Big Sur, stop at Point Lobos State Park. This is a beautiful stretch of coast just south of Carmel. Go for a walk by the water and bring a picnic lunch and you're camera.

If you live in Monterey, you could easily take a vacation at home. Take a week off from work and treat your home town as a vacation destination.