The Pacific coastline is a biosphere unlike any in the world. Protected coastal dunes, rocky shores, inlets and tide pools with thousands of species of marine plants and animals to discover make this California State Beach and National Marine Sanctuary on the Monterey Peninsula a place of serene beauty and exploration.
Points of Interest
Pacific Grove Monarch Sanctuary
Open every day, from sunrise to sundown, the Pacific Grove Monarch Sanctuary is part of the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History. Many enjoy the monarch butterfly gallery they have open year-round; however, if you are looking to see clusters of live monarchs, the monarch butterfly migrates to this area between October - February. The sanctuary offers an up-close and personal experience to view these orange beauties.
Asilomar Walking Tours & Hiking
Enjoy notable Asilomar sites such as the Julia Morgan Architecture, Living Dunes, Coast Trail, and Forest Walk at the Asilomar State Beach & Conference Grounds self-guided tours. If you’re looking to trek out further, Asilomar has over 107 acres of beautiful terrain for hiking and walking enthusiasts. While enjoying your stroll, keep an eye out for birds like the Black-bellied Plover, the Glaucous-winged Gull, or the Pelagic Cormorant.
Golfing
The Monterey Peninsula is a world-famous golf destination with some of the most scenic golf courses. Although many of the courses in the area are highly-exclusive private clubs, there are many public golf options available. Pebble Beach Golf Links with its steep cliffs and staggering scenery is consistently rated the #1 public golf course in America. This bucket-list destination comes with a hefty price tag and tee times are typically booked months, sometimes years. If you are looking for a more wallet-friendly option, locals will tell you nearby Pacific Grove Golf Links—lovingly named “The People’s Pebble”. Offering the allure of seaside golf and the ability to accommodate last minute bookings, Pacific Grove is a must and is only about a 20-minute walk from the Asilomar Hotel and Conference Grounds.
Asilomar Hotel & Conference Grounds
Nestled in the town of Pacific Grove, the Asilomar Hotel & Conference Grounds offers charming architecture of Julia Morgan, with hardwood floors, and rustic furnishings. Enjoy ocean views, beach access, walking paths and tours, a delicious onsite restaurant, and a heated outdoor pool, just to name a few amenities. Book a cozy room or spacious cottage.
