Tag: Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

5 Things to Do in California’s Monterey Bay Area

Did you know that Monterey was the first capital of California? Fun fact – Monterey was the state capital from 1774 to 1849. Did you know that this beautiful bayside city is considered the “Sardine Capital of the World” thanks to these tiny fish that populated the waters here and the subsequent canning boom of said little fishes? Monterey is rich in history and is definitely worth a look-see when glamping at nearby Marina Dunes RV Resort. Here are five things not to miss…

1. Monterey Coast Trail: With 18 miles of paved trail, this is a great way to experience scenic ocean views, frolicking sea lions, sea otters, and coastal birds and access all the things along the way like the fabulous aquarium, Fisherman’s Wharf and more. You can choose to bike or walk this beautiful coastal trail.

Monterey Bay Aquarium
Monterey Bay Aquarium

2. Monterey Bay Aquarium: While the Aquarium has been in the news lately due to a certain t-shirt sported by Taylor Swift, this place is known for so much more like its unique, 28-foot high Kelp Forest, a multitude of interactive exhibits, including the newest exhibit “Deep: Exploring Our Undiscovered Ocean”, and the more than 35,000 creatures that make their home here.

3. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve: From the amazing shoreline views to the wildlife spotting and whale watching, do not miss the opportunity to visit what is considered the “crown jewel of California’s state parks.” Birders will enjoy a hike on the Bird Island Trail while China Cove and the Gibson Beach Trail offer hidden caves and high cliffs. Lovers of sea lions will want to hike the Sea Lion Point Trail to catch a glimpse of the sea lions lounging on the rocks. Don’t miss the historic Whalers Cabin, accessible from the Cabin Trail, which leads to this cabin built by Chinese fishermen in the 1850s.

Outside of the Historic Mission, Carmel Mission
Outside of the Historic Mission, Carmel Mission

4. Small-town Charm: There are several small towns in the area worth a visit and they include Salinas, home to the National Steinbeck Center that pays tribute to author John Steinbeck who was born and raised here; Pacific Grove, home to the Point Pinos Lighthouse and the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary, which is best when visited during migration season from November to February; Castroville, which is considered the “artichoke capital of the world” and is home to the world’s largest artichoke statue; and Carmel-by-the-Sea, home to the historic Carmel Mission, the unique Fairy Tale Cottages built in 1926 and plenty of shops and eateries. 

Glamping Cottage at Marina Dunes RV Park
Glamping Cottage at Marina Dunes RV Resort

5. This and That: Don’t miss the murals in Sand City, the setting sun at Asilomar State Beach in Pacific Grove, the clam chowder at Old Fisherman’s Grotto in Monterey, and the scenic 17-Mile Drive.

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Unwind by the Sea, Lake, or River on a Waterfront Vacation

Some people just can’t get enough of the water – swimming, snorkeling, or sailing across it, and then there are some who just like to look at the water. Just being near water is good for mental health – lowering blood pressure and bringing a sense of calm. Whether you’re a fish in or out of the water, these waterfront towns are contenders for some of the best places to enjoy “blue space” when glamping nearby.

Virginia Beach: Check into a glamping cabin at Thousand Trails Chesapeake Bay or Thousand Trails Williamsburg and you’re about an hour from the fabulous Virginia Beach Boardwalk which provides a scenic 3-mile stroll along the Atlantic shores. At 28-feet wide, the Boardwalk is great for biking, blading, running and walking. Plenty of restaurants, shops and attractions can also be found along the Boardwalk including the Atlantic Wildfowl Museum and the Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum. Don’t miss the statue of the King of the Sea, Neptune, who holds court on the Boardwalk towering above the visitors with his ever-present trident.

Cabin at Medina Lake RV Campground
Cabin at Medina Lake RV Campground

San Antonio: The serenity of the meandering San Antonio River is one draw of the San Antonio Riverwalk, one of the top attractions in this historic Texas town. Just about everything can be found along the 15-miles here including art (the San Antonio Museum of Art); waterfalls (The Grotto); a historic mansion (the Edward Steves Homestead Museum); and plenty of shops and restaurants. There are several options to explore this historic and scenic attraction from river cruises to guided walking tours and even a haunted walking tour! A glamping cabin at Thousand Trails Medina Lake is the perfect accommodation for your San Antonio Riverwalk exploration.

Yurt at Thousand Trails Long Beach
Yurt at Thousand Trails Long Beach

Long Beach, Washington: The boardwalk found in Long Beach, Washington is more serene than others in that it doesn’t offer carnival rides and other attractions, but simply an opportunity to connect with nature as you stroll along the grassy dunes on the shores of the Pacific Ocean. Watch for whales, seabirds and other wildlife or enjoy the kite flyers on windy days (Long Beach is known as the Kite Flying Capital of the US.) Named one of the top boardwalks in the US by Travel + Leisure magazine, there is a lot to do here including a visit to the odd, yet interesting, Marsh’s Free Museum where visitors can see “Jake the Alligator Man” among many other curious curios. Speaking of interesting, check out the yurt accommodations at Thousand Trails Long Beach for your glamping stay (cabins and cottages are also available here!)

Yurts at Marina Dunes RV Resort
Yurts at Marina Dunes RV Resort

Carmel-By-the-Sea: Book a stay at Marina Dunes RV Resort and take the scenic drive to charming Carmel-By-the-Sea. You will definitely feel transported in this quaint village with the European flair which people have described as Italian, German and British. To get the seaside effect, visit Point Lobos State Natural Reserve for spectacular views of the Pacific – views that are so spectacular that renowned landscape artist Francis McComas called Point Lobos the “greatest meeting of land and water in the world.” Back in town, take a self-guided walking tour to learn the history of the area (for a map, visit carmelcalifornia.com/carmel-walking-tour). Other options include shopping, dining and visiting the several wine tasting rooms located around the town.

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