Pacific Grove Dining, Lodging and Attractions

Overall Character: Our most quaint town with many historic Victorian houses dating back to the 1880's. Walk through the downtown shopping district on Lighthouse Avenue and up one of the side streets like Forest Avenue, and you won't notice the more frantic pace found in Monterey and downtown Carmel. Very friendly community with roots in hospitality.

Why should you go there: The history of the area, the beautiful parks (especially Lovers Point Park), the gorgeous B&B's (Seven Gables, Grand View Inn, Green Gables to name a few), the old fashioned shops, Monarch Butterflies, scenic Ocean View Blvd and Asilomar Beach.

Where to Stay: Depends on what type of places you are accustomed to staying. For the best bed and breakfasts, check out the Green Gables Inn, Seven Gables Inn, Grand View Inn and Gosby House Inn. For more of a luxury hotel, the only 4-star in town is the Lighthouse Suites (all rooms with fireplace and in room jacuzzi tubs). On the economy side, best values are the Butterfly Grove Inn, Pacific Gardens Inn, and Seabreeze Lodge.

Where to Eat: Check out our dining out page for more details. However, our absolute favorite dining spots are Passionfish, Fandango, Peppers, Red House Cafe and the White House. For a quick bite to eat, the 17th Street Grille does a very nice job. Check out more dining, at Pacific Grove, Carmel and Monterey Dining

Don't Miss these Attractions: Believe it or not, the Monterey Bay Aquarium has property in the city of Pacific Grove so technically don't miss the aquarium. Many people come for the Monarch Butterflies which are most plentiful in the late Fall. Whenever we are in town (which is often), we like to have a picnic at Lovers Point Park and walk down on the beach, drive down scenic Ocean View Blvd up to Asilomar Beach (for a nice walk on the boardwalk and down on the beach with our dog) and the down Asilomar Blvd to Lighthouse Avenue which will take you back into downtown. Park and walk up and down the streets and check out some of the eclectic shops (furniture, antiques, housewares) and cafes. Try to stop by the chamber of commerce -- friendly staff and the most energy you will find in such a small building!

PG is a community that markets itself as almost another destination within itself. The people who live there are very passionate about their community (attend a city council function and you will find that out). If you are coming to town, you must find time to spend here soaking up the history and the hospitality.