Hello!
I'm planning a 5 Day trip to Monterey at the end of May. We are flying in and out of San Jose, and would like to visit the following:
- Monterey/Carmel (2 days?)
- Big Sur (1 day?)
Is there any other destinations we could fit it in 5 days? What is the best place to visit first/last when flying out of San Jose?
Also, we are in our 30's and I'm 5 months pregnant, so looking for a nice relaxing trip. Looking forward to the 17 mile drive and any wildlife.

Thanks!
Danielle

I would just add a day to each location. If you're staying at Post Ranch Inn or Ventana in Big Sur, I would stay a minimum of two nights so you can fully use their facilities during the daytime - instead of having to check-in no earlier than 3 or 4 and depart by 11 or so.

There is plenty to do in Carmel/Montery for a relaxing 3 days.

Stu Dudley

I agree with sticking to Monterey and Big Sur without trying to add any more locations - unless you want to stop in Santa Cruz or San Juan Bautista for a few hours enroute between SJ and Monterey. Adding more locations for overnights will not result in a relaxing trip, IMO.

I don't think it makes much difference which location you visit first - unless you have a morning flight home, then Monterey might be good for the 2nd destination just so you will have a shorter drive back to the airport.

We have some great downtown areas on the way to/from the San Jose Airport. They are fun for a stroll and a break from driving. Consider stopping in Los Gatos (Santa Cruz Street), Saratoga, or Santa Cruz (Pacific Avenue). Capitola Village is also popular.

Los Gatos/Saratoga are only about 20-25 minutes from the airport. Santa Cruz/Capitola is more in-between Monterey and San Jose.

Be sure to stop at Point Lobos Reserve just south of Carmel.

I agree with not missing Pt. Lobos State Reserve, the Carmel Mission is also fun and educational. If you like to wine taste, venture out to Carmel Valley, making stops at Chateau Julien and Bernardus.

In Monterey, don't miss the Monterey Bay aquairum and Old Fisherman's Wharf. Check out one of the restaurants at the Monterey Plaza Hotel for a meal, the Duck Club and Schooner's are both great. Have fun! ***kim***

Good recommendations from CristyCruz. I like strolling in all of those places.

Driving down Hwy 1 to Big Sur you will see a sign on your right to the ROCKY POINT RESTAURANT. It is about 12 miles south from Carmel. This is a good place to stop for a drink on the outdoor patio. Great view of the Pacific and whales if they are in the area. Food is okay for lunch or snacks, not that great for dinner....but you cannot beat the view.

I would stay in Monterey for your last night and drive to SJ airport to leave. Just allow time for traffic depending on the time of day you will be departing. The Hwy 1 to 17 to SJC airport may look the best on the map, but the fastest route will probably be Hwy 1 to 156 east to 101 to SJC. I live in this area and 17 gets messed up on a daily basis. I drive the recommended route two times a week.

Be sure to drive the coast of PACIFIC GROVE when you are in the Monterey area. Part of the Monterey Bay Aquarium is actually in the city of Pacific Grove. Most of the coast line on the Monterey Peninsula is in Pacific Grove. They have a nice downtown about 1 block off the coast.

A new bistro restaurant opened in downtown Pacific Grove about 1 year ago....FAVALAROS....great food, excellent service, small and nice, not too expensive. The locals love it.

Another nice stop is SPANISH BAY RESORT. The bagpiper plays each night for 1 hour prior to sundown as you sit by the firepits overlooking the golf course and Pacific Ocean.

I would concentrate your visit to Monterey Peninsula/Big Sur. Just relax and enjoy the area. Avoid trying to drive all over everywhere and you will have a great 5 days.

We love Los Gatos - just a neat town to wander around.

Thank you all for the great tips! I'm still trying to plan out everything and taking all this into consideration!

If you go to Capitola, don't miss Shadowbrook restaurant - good food and an unbelieveable atmosphere!