Monterey or Carmel to sleep over
 

On our drive up the california coast from LA to S.Fran we have a night to stay over either in Carmel or Monterey. Which is more spectacular and more interesting to sleep in?

Carmel, because it is a charming village where, if you stay right in town, you can walk to shops, galleries, restaurants, down the hill to a gorgeous beach.

I would vote for Carmel, although I like Pacific Grove also.

My vote is for Pacific Grove too.

Beautiful location, very walkable, and not nearly as affected as Carmel ;)

Carmel HIghland's area is gorgeous, we have enjoyed stays at the Tickle Pink Inn and the Highland's Inn in this area. La Playa in Carmel proper is also very nice. ***kim*** ((f))

Carmel ... (but don't eat at Forge in the Forest.)

to some extent it's an economic issue. MOnterey has hotels/motels that are cheap to ok. carmel will be more expensive and more charming. pacific grove is beautiful an has a full range of places to stay--a number of b& bs on the water.

Carmet between the two you mentioned but I agree with the folks who suggest Pacific Grove.

Thank you to all of you. Taking your advice I am looking into places to stay in Carmel and Pacific Grove.

Carmel, I am learning has a steep trek down to the beach from the town. Are there any nice pleaces with great ocean views that are very near the beach - hence less trek?

Pacific Grove, I was recommended Borg's Ocean front Motel as closes to the ocean with best views. I called and the price seems quite low which makes me worry that it might not be that good a standard as we'd like. I know standard is hard to explain, but we were looking to spend up to $200 and expect something like a 3.5 or 4 star place for that (not a motel like you see in the movies which people on the run use:). Would you know if that one is up our alley or have another suggestion?