Saturday, December 28, 2013 – Monterey to Santa Maria
We left Monterey and took the scenic 17-Mile Drive through Pebble Beach, admiring its majestic homes, famous golf course, and expansive views of the Pacific.
A family member suggested we stop at Point Lobos State Park for hiking and views, and at Nepenthe in Big Sur for lunch. So, after exiting the 17-Mile Drive we did both — and both were excellent recommendations. At Point Lobos, we hiked a good bit and were treated to sightings of seals, a sea otter up close, and whales offshore. Nepenthe, perched above a wooded canyon with a stunning ocean backdrop, was a breathtaking setting for a meal. The food was fantastic, and while we had to wait for a table, with views like that, we didn’t mind.
Continuing south on the Pacific Coast Highway, we covered the last few miles of our drive in darkness, which comes early that time of year. Our stop for the night was in Santa Maria, where the hotel clerk proudly informed us of the town’s famous local style of barbecue. Naturally, we had to try it. We dined at The Swiss, where the barbecue—though more akin to grilling than what a southerner would typically call “barbecue”—was delicious nonetheless. It was the perfect meal to end a spectacular day.
Where Are We Going Now? 