Going to Monterey this year - need travel advice

[s_wilwerding]

I'm planning on going to the Historics this year, but I've never been to Monterey (or California, for that matter).

What are the best options - where should I fly into, where to stay, what else to see, etc.?

[carreraken]

I always drive there, but you can probably fly into San Jose and drive down - not too far if you aren't in a hurry. There is a small commuter airport in Monterey, but I don't know who flies there.

Activities start a week earlier with the pre-Historics. Then there's the Concorso Italiano, Historics, Pebble Beach concours, auto auctions, and other car shows in the area.

Monterey has plenty of hotels. I stay in Pacific Grove where things are a little more relaxed. You can also stay in Carmel in the upscale 'hood.

Good luck!
Ken

[Hugh R]

Book early, lots of places to stay have a 3 or 4 night minimum.

[Zeke]

Pacific Grove is a must see if you do not stay there. However, it too is pricey.

[Nine17]

I live in the Monterey Bay Area, but if I was coming here I'd fly into any of the SF Bay Area airports and rent a car -- whichever one (SFO/OAK/SJC) has the best fare from where you live. Monterey airport is usually a premium and not worth the 90 minutes you'll save. As for lodging, I hear it's pretty dear. Once you're off the Peninsula (Monterey/P-G/Carmel) the outlying towns (Seaside/Marina/Salinas) are a combination of dull and nasty. Don't expect much there. You're either a high-roller or a lettuce-picker in Monterey County. I highly recommend being in Carmel on Thursday at lunchtime for the arrival of the Pebble Beach Tour d'Elegance. You'll see cars like this one on the road where they belong instead of parked on some golf course:

[Hebrewhomeboy]

Make sure to take a drive down Ocean View road (or drive, or blvd, can't remember), it's a gorgeous little drive and runs into 17 mile drive, which is equally gorgeous. Great views of the coast there.

Bring your appetite, especially if you like foreign food. There are restaurants representing practically every culture out there, and they're all tasty. For that matter, you can just stay on Alvarado and Lighthouse avenues and never run out of great places to eat. I was stationed there for 3 years at DLI myself, and I loved every minute of it. Bring a light jacket, as the temperatures are in the 60-65 degree range pretty much year 'round.

Every week on I think Tuesday (someone correct me if I'm wrong there) there is a farmer's market on Alvarado street, which is a great place to pick up some fresh fruits and veggies, maybe a flower for a loved one, etc.

Monterey is a wonderful place, you'll really enjoy it there.