Monterey Peninsula and Big Sur

This trip took place in March 2014, a couple of months after we lost our oldest sibling, brother Don.  Don died at 69 years old after fighting a tough and valiant battle against lung cancer.  This trip post is dedicated to his memory, and the encouragement he gave me to follow through on my goal to travel this country.  He told me that I should not just talk about it, but get out there and do it.  Well, here goes big brother - you will be in my heart as I drive down those highways and experience the adventures I will have.

My " base camp" for this trip was a generic, ocean-front hotel in Monterey, with nothing to recommend it but the sound of the ocean in the background.  I spent little time there, so that's the only mention I will make of it. 

My first outing was to take the famous Pebble Beach "17-Mile Drive".  I took the route that started at the Highway 1 Gate, and followed the road which wound through some beautiful forest areas and ocean overlooks, until you arrive at The Inn at Spanish Bay.




Bella enjoyed the beach vegetation




This rock island was covered with sea lions!



One of the homes along the 17-mile drive



A reasonably quick 30-mile trip south from the Monterey Bay area takes you to the Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park in the Big Sur area.  While I enjoyed the drive and the ocean views, I have to say that I really have a greater appreciation for the Oregon coastline, I'm sure in part because of the wilder, more rugged nature of the geography there.  I made a stop at the McWay Falls, and walked the short distance on the trail that takes you to the overlook of the Falls.  You can't access the beach below, as it is a protected area.  The Falls cascades 80 feet to the sandy beach below, and is an amazing thing to see.


Trail to McWay Falls

McWay Falls



 





 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

On my last day in Monterey, I spent most of the morning at Fisherman's Wharf and along Cannery Row.  I went early to avoid the crowds, so most of the shops were still closed. 

 

Monterey Bay Inn
 

Mural on the seawall

 

 

 Unfortunately, the lighthouse was not open for visitors when I went through - maybe on another trip.
Overall, I enjoyed my visit to the Monterey Bay area.  The ocean is always fascinating and I can mark this one off my "bucket list".  Time to prepare for my next adventure!