Hi, we are going to S.F. in February for a
convention and planning to take a trip to
Carmel, any suggestions on where to stay....
also how far by car is Carmel from S.F.?
And Sta. Barbara from San Francisco?
Thanks.

Los Lobos in Carmel, on the main drag, is great. It's on the west end of the strip, close to the water, shopping, restaurants, etc. You'll love it.

The Grandview Inn and the Seven Gables (next door to each other and owned by same people) are both outstanding B&Bs in Pacific Grove.

Re driving times: If you take Hwy 1 all the way from SF to Carmel, allow 2 hours. Using 280 to 17 to Santa Cruz and then Hwy 1 to Carmel, allow 1 1/2 hours--but it all depends on traffic. Using the inland route (101), SF to Santa Barbara is around 6 hours; using Hwy 1, it will be at least 8, and that's not allowing for sightseeing or weather--it's a mostly two-lane, very twisty road. I'd definitely recommend 101 instead in February.

We got married on a cliff in Carmel 3 years ago! We stayed at The Tickle Pink Inn. I know it sounds like a cheesy motel but it is an beautiful inn on the cliffs with the most spectacular views and beautiful suites. It is right beside The Highlands Inn which is also phenomenal but very expensive. We had our wedding dinner there. The dining room is all glass and sits above the ocean. It was very special and the food was incredible. They say that The Tickle Pink Inn has a better view than The Highlands Inn.