I always stay at Asilomar (California-owned beach/lodging of varying kinds) in Pacific Grove. There are deer roaming around all over the place, that beautiful beach on the 17-mile Drive to walk to or play on, and communal tables with other kids to have breakfast with - lots of space to run around in, plus a neat main lodge with games, a piano, and TV. Their rooms vary, but the newer ones are very, very nice (most have fireplaces, at least in the big main rooms) and the older ones are, to me, great fun. Fishwife restaurant is just across the street (you can walk to it) and has lots of choices for you all (their website has the menu). The girls would also enjoy the quaint lodging at Deetjen's Big Sur Inn -like being in a hodgepodge fairy tale - EXCELLENT food in their dining room! It's very near Nepenthe when you're going South on Hwy 1. Stopping at Nepenthe is required - one can see ocean for miles on a clear day - almost to China. And to get there, one must drive across the Bixby Bridge, which is something else! If possible, have dinner at Rocky Point restaurant (also on Hwy 1, going South, back closer to Carmel), if only to see the waves crashing 'way down below from where you sit, lighted by spotlights. The food could be better, but the view cannot be beat!! (They have specials listed on their website). I'll be out there in April, too, and will look for you!

<You REALLY should do the 17 mile drive. Hearst Castle is amazing and I would think your DDs would enjoy it.>

Except Hearst Castle is nowhere near 17 Mile Drive - it's over 75 mi. south of Pebble Beach on Hwy 1, probably at least 90 min. driving.

Very true hazel...but the OP asked if it was worth a visit. I just reread the proposed itinerary and you are right that it is probably not worthwhile. Although it's a beautiful drive.