3 Iconic Monterey Road Trips for Foodies

By Kathy Strong

With California set to fully reopen, it means one thing: time for a road trip! For food and scenic beauty lovers, Monterey County is a natural. Choose one of these three iconic trips (or combine them) for must-discover drives, accompanied by not-to-miss local food and wine throughout this breathtaking slice of California’s Central Coast.

Road Trip #1: Artichokes, Wildlife and Urban Wine

Travelers heading south from San Francisco along iconic Highway 1 should make their first stop in Moss Landing, a quaint fishing village in northern Monterey County. After marveling at the diverse wildlife found in the Elkhorn Slough, continue south to Castroville for a stop at Pezzini Farms – known for its artichokes for the past eight decades – and sample French-fried artichokes and other delicacies at the Choke Coach food truck onsite.

Continue southeast on Highway 1 to State Route 183 to marvel at acres upon acres of farmland on the way to renowned author John Steinbeck’s hometown of Salinas. Stroll historic Old Town Salinas and grab lunch at one of the dozens of authentic Mexican eateries located within just a few blocks (Villa Azteca is a locals’ favorite), and be sure to peruse the recently reopened National Steinbeck Center.

Take the back roads about 15 minutes west to Marina to indulge in Urban Wine Row: a fun tasting atmosphere that gives guests access to three boutique wineries in one spot. Then, enjoy some beach time at Marina State Beach, known for its steady winds for paragliding perfection. End the day at one of the area’s eclectic eateries showcasing a variety of cuisines – from Filipino delicacies at Lola’s Kusina to fresh Asian fare at longtime Marina staple, Ho-Wah Chinese Restaurant.

Road Trip #2: Coastal Trails, Fresh Catch and Craft Beer

Seafood lovers will want to start their road trip in Monterey along the bay, where the best Monterey-style clam chowder can be found at Old Fisherman’s Grotto. Grab a local, hop-forward ale at Alvarado Street Brewery & Grill in the heart of downtown Monterey before biking (or walking) the stunning Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail northwest to Pacific Grove.

Lovers Point Beach in Pacific Grove is a great location to take a dip in the ocean before relaxing at the adjacent Lovers Point Park. The park is a beloved spot for picnics with its ocean views and on-site snack shop, or head inland for sustainably sourced seafood at Passionfish. Ask for Pacific Grove Brewing Company beer at one of many restaurants in the area. Fun fact: Pacific Grove was the last town in California to allow the sale of alcohol. 

Continue on the 17-Mile Drive through Pebble Beach and stop to snap an Instagram-worthy photo with the Lone Cypress. End in the fairy-tale village of Carmel-by-the-Sea, known for its whimsical shops and cobblestone streets, where you can indulge in local seafood at Flying Fish Grill (try the seafood clay pot) and enjoy a second round of Alvarado Street Brewery beer at its sister location. Culminate the trip with a short walk along Carmel Beach to watch the sun set.

Road Trip #3: Rolling Hills, Vines and Crashing Waves

Start this adventure in Carmel Valley, which enjoys more than 300 days of sunshine each year. Known for its rolling hills, grapevines and tranquil experiences, indulge at Refuge – the nation’s first co-ed, outdoor spa. The cell phone-free site promotes silence and offers guests access to plunge pools with thermal waterfalls, Swedish and deep-tissue massages and breathtaking views of the Santa Lucia Preserve.

Continue to Folktale Winery & Vineyards, known for its Chardonnay and Pinot Noir but also boasting a crisp, warm-weather favorite: Folktale Sparking Rosé. Dine outdoors in the Wine Garden (reservations required), with menu specialties including fresh ceviche, wood-fired pizzas, artisanal cheeses and more. If you prefer multiple wine tasting options in a walkable footprint, head to Carmel Valley Village, which offers dozens of wineries within a three-block radius.

Next, head south to Big Sur to feel the open road along Highway 1. Stop in Carmel Highlands for lunch at the California Market at Pacific’s Edge. The restaurant offers dishes made with locally grown ingredients and unmatched views of historic Point Lobos State Reserve. Next, set out for a hike at the stunning Andrew Molera State Park, where you can marvel at the panoramic views of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Continue on to Henry Miller Library, which pays homage to the author who found great inspiration in Big Sur. End at Nepenthe, known for its unparalleled views of the coast and famous Ambrosia Burger.

 To plan an epic summer road trip, visit www.SeeMonterey.com.