Carmel to Santa Barbara
 

I am traveling (solo) down the coast from San Fran starting May 22nd to ultimate destination, Pasadena. I have a free place to stay in Carmel and thought I would do that for 3 nights. Next, I want to go to Santa Barbara. Would I be crazy to drive from Carmel to Santa Barbara in one day, keeping in mind that I will probably be stunned by the sights along the way? Or should I split up the drive by staying in Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, or something more divine.

Lastly, I'm a glass artist, metalsmith and jewelry designer. Any recommendations for galleries and gift shops to visit for possible sales calls? My work ranges in price from $35 to $2000.

Thanks in advance for your help.

Melter

There is a studio (or was the last time I was there) in Cambria that sells high end stuff (blown glass). I think they produce most of their own, but am not sure. It is right on the main drag through the village.

it is such a lovely drive i would hate to do it in a rush. lots of fans on this list of cambria and morro bay. there also is a place south of lucia where you can stay in a yurt and it has great views.

It is called Seekers. They have a website. I collect the small glass marbles from there. It's a gorgeous shop, you will have a great time looking around in there and I have found the sales staff to be very friendly and helpful. ***kim*** ((*))

Here's a vote for making a Morro Bay stop. That trip is meant to be savored.

In fact, when we did it, we took several days: Santa Barbara, Morro Bay, Big Sur and Pacific Grove.

And if nothing else, stop at Julia Pfeiffer Burns S.P. and take the walk out to McWay Falls....

There are a few galleries along US1 in Big Sur that sell glass. Wish I could remember their names, but I can't.

It isn't a difficult drive from Carmel to Santa Barbara. I don't think you will feel rushed. I like San Luis Obispo as an overnight stop, because my favorite restaurant (Big Sky Cafe) is there. At least stop in for a bite if you don't spend the night.