Monterey and Carmel overnight

Dramatically overlooking the Monterey Bay, the Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa combines elegant European architecture, wide-sweeping coastal views and sophisticated style to create the perfect vantage point by which to enjoy the gentle sounds of surf, the fresh scent of sea air and the sight of sea otters at play. The Monterey Plaza's central location on Cannery Row makes it easy to enjoy the area's many attractions and activities including the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium just three blocks away. Launch an ocean kayak from the beach adjacent to the hotel, play a round of golf at one of 19 championship courses or skate along a nearby recreation trail. Sail, whale watch or scuba dive in the protected marine sanctuary of Monterey Bay. Walk to Fisherman's Wharf, Old Town Monterey or the Maritime Museum, or take a scenic drive to Carmel, Pebble Beach, 17-Mile Drive or Big Sur. Spa guests must be at least 18 years of age.

With dishes like Dumb Luck Coconut Shrimp and Lt. Dan's Drunken Shrimp, and specialty drinks like the Lava Flow and the Bayou Surprise, this shrimp restaurant in Cannery Row attracts tourists from all over, as well shrimp-lovin' locals. The place is usually packed and noisy, making for a great night out amidst the lights. The place has its own line of hats, shirts and other souvenirs. You will never find a wider variety of shrimp dishes anywhere else, and the service is excellent.

This is one of the best designed aquariums going. A unique feature is the two-story tank, home to a kelp forest in which swim sunfish, sharks, and the occasional diver tasked with squeegeeing the algae off the tank walls. Sand dabs are displayed in shelf-like tanks ideally suited to the flat fish, and a school of sardines swim in an endless circle in their cylindrical tank home. If you want to interact with some aquatic dwellers, you're invited to pet the bat rays (oddly velvet-like). The jellyfish display shows that they are like something from another planet.

Located right on the waterfront at Cannery Row, this elegant steak and seafood restaurant provides a spectacular view of the ocean. Along with several specialties of the house that change on a daily basis, the menu includes such show stoppers as Pacific Bay Snapper with with Gulf shrimp and Caribbean Seafood Pescadore. Order a drink like the Bucket of Fire and enjoy the rustic decor while you chow down a huge plate of seafood and check out the incredible view. The place is also a great one for parties and the service is excellent.

Carmel-by-the-Sea, a beach town in Northern California, maintains much of the natural beauty that inspired its founding. Thanks to roads that bypassed, rather than bulldozed, trees, the seaside city has been an inspiration for artists and architects alike, from Jack London and Upton Sinclair to actor/director Clint Eastwood, who was the city’s mayor at one point.

Sample a variety of cuisines, some of which include ingredients from both nearby Monterey Bay and the Salinas Valley. Check out the local arts scene—the small town has more than 90 galleries and annual events such as the Carmel Art Festival—or attend a performance at the historic Forest Theater, the first outdoor theater west of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains.

Want to know what it's like to cruise around Monterey in a 1929 Model-A Ford or a Mercedes? You can. You can get the thrill of the ah-ooga horn sound. Experience the coast from a wide-open convertible. The deal is great for a romantic drive, a wedding, or a trip for the whole family. Anyone can do it as long as you're over 21 and have a valid driver's license. With all the incredible roads in the area, a fun time should be had by all.

The Lodge complex features Georgian style architecture set in stunning surroundings, and comfortable, traditional furnishings in an atmosphere of relaxed elegance. A luxurious resort tucked between Del Monte Forest and the Pacific shore, offering magnificent views of forest, fairways and sea. An enclave for both golf enthusiasts and relaxation seekers, the resort graciously upholds its long tradition, offering attentive hospitality and personalized service.

One of the most scenic drives anywhere in the world, this stretch of highway runs between Pacific Grove and Carmel. You will see incredible beaches, six golf courses and more mansions than you can count. You will drive by several epicurean restaurants, all of which will refund the USD8 toll fee that you pay to drive this road. Pedestrians and cyclists can enter for free. The road snakes its way like a serpent, along the California coast and then through the Del Monte Forest. This drive is an absolute must for anyone visiting the Monterey Peninsula. Bring lots of film. See website for visitor details.