This California coastal hot spot offers plenty to do—or not do—on a glamping stay.
At the bottom of Monterey Bay, the coastal town of Monterey is one of the top destinations of the Central California Coast for good reason—marine life, renowned golf courses, picturesque coastline, world-class Monterey Bay Aquarium, kayaking opportunities, and coastal walking paths. It also sits next to charming Carmel-by-the-Sea. For a relaxing way to explore, check out the 17-Mile Drive, a fee-based route that highlights the natural beauty of the Monterey peninsula, from cypress trees to Spanish Bay to Asilomar State Beach. The neighboring Carmel Valley wine region features yurts and luxury tents that place you amid rolling hills, with the beach just a short drive away. Further south in Big Sur—coastal California’s crown jewel—rustic cabins, cottages, and canvas tents provide Riverside scenery or Pacific Ocean views. Monterey's climate is mild year-round with temperatures that don’t vary much. Expect rain in the winter with cool breezes.