newtousmama

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?

xkenx

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.

trippinkpj

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

J_Correa

My vote is for Pacific Grove too.

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

kimamom

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***

elsiemoo

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

youngtom2910

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.

PamSF

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

newtousmama

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?