Just a stone’s throw from the bustling northern California town of Monterey, Pacific Grove provides a quaint and quiet alternative to the more cosmopolitan atmosphere of its bigger neighbor. Yet despite being a popular tourist destination for its stunning coastal walking trails and exquisite dining, PG remains charming and peaceful, a fact which continues to attract visitors looking for that quintessential northern California charm.
The two and a half square miles of Pacific Grove are best explored on foot so that you can better absorb the lovely historic houses and quiet lanes that make up the fabric of this coastal community. The Pacific Grove Chamber of Commerce is the best place to get oriented before heading to George Washington Park to clear your head and breathe in the crisp coastal air.
Lighthouse avenue is Pacific Grove’s main thoroughfare, running all the way from Monterey to the lighthouse at the end of the peninsula. Forest avenue intersects the main drag and runs eastward to the Pacific Coast Highway and Lovers Point to the west. After you’ve explored town, check out the waterfront area and the point, where the iconic lighthouse provides some amazing photo opportunities.
Highlights
Point Pinos Lighthouse: the oldest working lighthouse on America’s west coast has been shining its light since 1855, and is one of the main attractions.
Marine Gardens Park: this protected stretch of shoreline is famous for its huge ocean views and colorful wildflowers, as well as its interesting tidal pool seaweed beds.
Lovers Point: you’re more likely to find sea otters playing in the kelp beds than teenagers making out at this popular ocean viewpoint.
Ocean View boulevard: ride your bike or drive your car along this incredibly scenic stretch of road which runs from the lighthouse to Monterey’s Cannery row.
Asilomar State Beach: secluded and pristine, this wonderful beach has sand dunes, walking trails and tons of wildlife waiting to be explored.
Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History: Pacific Grove is also known as Butterfly Town USA , and this small but interesting museum presents the story of the migrating monarch butterfly along with other local birds and animals which live in the area.
Pacific Grove Municipal Golf Course: an affordable alternative to neighboring Pebble Beach, this scenic course is packed with amazing views and challenging winds to go with its well-maintained grounds.