PEBBLE BEACH RESORTS: The Pebble Beach Company, which has been in existence since the early 1900’s comprises three full resorts, four golf courses and has more than 1,600 employees. Nestled in the middle of the lush 17-Mile Drive, Pebble Beach Resorts are an oasis of splendor, even if you do not golf. Emerald green fairways, lined by cypress, ponds and an array of wild life ranging from exotic marine birds to deer wandering the courses. Cormorants, brown pelicans, California sea otters, harbor seals, sea lions all dwell close-by in their natural habitat. The surrounding acreage both on land and the beaches have been carefully preserved and pristinely tended to. World famous golf courses such as, Spyglass Hill, and Spanish Bay often sport such greats as, Tiger Woods or Arnold Palmer. Whether you decide to golf, have lunch at the famous “Roy’s” of Pebble Beach, or simply drive and picnic along the 17-Mile Drive, it is guaranteed to satisfy.

CLIMATE: The temperatures on the Monterey Peninsula range from 50-75 degrees year round and can vary throughout the course of the day. Marine layers and heavier fog at night and in the early mornings and dressing in layers is recommended. Between the months of April to October, rain is not common. The best weather is usually from August to the first part of November.

ACTIVITIES: Golf is certainly one of the most popular activities at Pebble Beach, but there is a wide range of activities to choose from, should golf not be on the agenda. The Del Monte Forest can be explored by either foot or on horseback. This is a rustic, beautiful source of forested hills, rocky shores and unsheltered beaches. With more than 25 miles of either riding or hiking trails, beginning at the Pebble Beach Equestrian Center, which offers guided trail rides. Asilomar State Beach is nearby where surfing, wind surfing, scuba diving are all allowed.

www.ridepebblebeach.com

www.adventuresbythesea.com

POINTS OF INTEREST:

§ Fanshell Beach Overlook: A scenic spot with white sand and harbor seals that return each year to birth their young. During the harbor seal pupping season from April 1 to June 1, this beach is closed.
§ Cypress Point Lookout: Dramatic views of the coastline. Closed from April 1 to June 1.
§ The Lone Cypress: World famous; a landmark in California. This tree, which grows out of a rock, is believed to be over 250 years old.

§ Spanish Bay: A scenic picnic spot and a very enjoyable spot for walking around the shoreline. Juan Portola, the Spanish explorer, and his crew camped there in 1769 while searching for Monterey Bay.
§ The Inn at Spanish Bay: Part of the Pebble Beach Company, this is a world-famous, five-star resort and Mecca for golf professionals and enthusiasts from all around the world.

LOCAL FLAVORS: Pebble Beach is in the Monterey Peninsula and is just minutes from the famous Cannery Row, Monterey Bay Aquarium, John Steinbeck Center, or Carmel by the Sea and all of its quaint shops, galleries and white sand beaches.

by: Carla Iacovetti
©2006Carla Iacovetti