Remote Surveillance Trailer in Monterey, CA

There’s a reason Monterey County has long been a favorite getaway for those seeking both natural beauty and refined experiences. From championship golf and celebrated coastal resorts to spa experiences, world-class dining and 99 miles of Pacific coastline, Monterey County invites visitors to shape their stay their own way. Just over an hour drive from the Bay Area or a direct arrival through Monterey Regional Airport, it’s the perfect escape for Claire Kittle and Kristin Juszczyk, wives of San Francisco 49ers stars George Kittle and Kyle Juszczyk, whose home base is Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, host of Super Bowl LX on February 9.

This makes Monterey County the ideal place to rest, reset and extend Super Bowl weekend, or to transition seamlessly into the real Big Game, the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, February 9-15.

In a recent episode of their YouTube series Wife’d Up Mic’d Up, Claire and Kristen escape to Monterey County for a few days of relaxation, dining, golf and a visit to the sea otters at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Watch the episode (start at 14:47 for Monterey County), and follow along with their itinerary below.

Settle In: A Pebble Beach Hideaway

Tucked behind the gates of Pebble Beach, Casa Palmero offers a private, residential-style stay designed for rest and renewal. With just 24 rooms and suites, the experience feels intimate and serene, blending Mediterranean-inspired architecture with elevated service and wellness at its core. Begin the day with morning yoga, spend the afternoon poolside with refreshments from The Spa Juice Bar, and unwind in the evening in the estate library or over a tasting of local wines.

After settling into your room, spend some time along the 17-Mile Drive, and take in panoramic views of the Pacific, windswept cypress trees and dramatic shoreline. Continue on toward Cannery Row and experience one of the region’s most celebrated institutions: the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Allow a few hours to explore towering kelp forest galleries, expansive open-sea exhibits, and the newest deep-sea displays. The experience is both awe-inspiring and educational, offering an immersive look at the marine life that defines Monterey Bay.

Enjoy an evening in Carmel-by-the-Sea

As evening approaches, make your way to Carmel-by-the-Sea and stroll its charming streets. Arrive by late afternoon to browse local shops before settling in for dinner at Dametra Café. A longtime local favorite, Dametra is known for its warm hospitality, Mediterranean-inspired dishes, and lively atmosphere. With shareable plates, bold flavors, and occasional spontaneous music filling the room, the evening feels celebratory yet relaxed, a perfect reflection of Carmel’s village charm.

Golf at The Hay at Pebble Beach

The following morning begins at The Hay, a short course that pairs Pebble Beach history with a modern, fun approach to the game. First opened in 1957 by Peter Hay and thoughtfully redesigned by Tiger Woods in 2001, The Hay is inviting to players of all skill levels and types. Set along the coastline, enjoy a quick game of 9 holes, including the exact replica of the famous 106-yard hole No. 7 at Pebble Beach Golf Links, and break for lunch at Stillwater Bar & Grill. Indulge in thoughtfully crafted California Coastal cuisine featuring sustainable seafood and local organic produce while enjoying sensational views of the world-famous 18^th hole at Pebble Beach and stunning Stillwater Cove.

Relax at The Spa at Pebble Beach

Before departing, slow down with a visit to The Spa at Pebble Beach. A Forbes Five-Star destination, the spa draws inspiration from the natural elements of the Monterey Peninsula, incorporating plants, herbs, and minerals native to the region. It is the perfect final note, leaving visitors refreshed and ready for whatever comes next, whether that’s the AT&T Pro-Am fairways or the road home.

José Manuel Bolieiro, President of the Regional Government of the Azores, has been honored with the prestigious Peter Benchley Ocean Award, recognizing his leadership and commitment to ocean conservation, sustainable marine governance, and the protection of Atlantic ecosystems.

Bolieiro is scheduled to formally accept the distinction, often referred to as the “Oscars of the Ocean,” on May 7, 2026, at the Monterey Bay Aquarium in California, during the annual awards ceremony widely regarded as one of the leading global recognitions in ocean conservation.

The event, held in partnership with the Aquarium Conservation Partnership, celebrates individuals and organizations advancing marine protection and stewardship worldwide.

“This distinction reflects not only a personal honor, but above all the collective commitment of the Azorean people to protect and value the ocean that shapes our identity, economy, and future,” Bolieiro said in a statement. “The sea is our heritage — and safeguarding it is our responsibility to future generations.”

Founded in 2012 and named after author and ocean advocate Peter Benchley, the Peter Benchley Ocean Award recognizes outstanding leadership in ocean exploration, conservation policy, media, science, and environmental stewardship. The program honors individuals and institutions whose work promotes sustainable marine ecosystems and public awareness of ocean protection. Past recipients include scientists, policymakers, conservation organizations, and public figures whose efforts have had measurable global impact on marine sustainability.

Bolieiro received the honor in the Excellence in National Leadership category, highlighting the Azores’ role in advancing sustainable ocean policy and conservation initiatives. Under his leadership, the archipelago has strengthened international cooperation in marine research, climate monitoring, and biodiversity protection, including initiatives tied to the Blue Azores Program and the expansion of marine protected areas.

“The Azores demonstrate how small island regions can lead globally in marine conservation,” Bolieiro remarked. “We will continue to invest in science, cooperation, and responsible management to ensure that our ocean remains a source of life, opportunity, and knowledge.”

José Manuel Bolieiro, 60, a career politician, has served as President of the Regional Government of the Azores since 2020, following a long career in public service, including serving as mayor of Ponta Delgada (2016-2020). Widely associated with policies emphasizing sustainability, economic resilience, and diaspora engagement, his administration has sought to position the Azores as a strategic Atlantic hub for environmental stewardship, scientific cooperation, and transatlantic dialogue.

Carolina Matos/Editor

The Azores (population 250,000) is a region of Portugal composed of nine islands. The archipelago, discovered by Portuguese explorers in the 15th century, became an Autonomous Region of Portugal in 1976. The government of the Autonomous Region of the Azores includes the Legislative Assembly, composed of 57 elected deputies, elected by universal suffrage for a four-year term; the Regional Government and Presidency, with parliamentary legitimacy, composed of a President, a Vice-President and seven Regional Secretaries responsible for the Regional Government’s executive operations. The Autonomous Region of the Azores is represented in the Council of Ministers of the Central Government by a representative appointed by the President of Portugal. According to the latest US census, over 1.3 million individuals of Portuguese descent live in the United States, the majority with roots in the Azores. It is estimated that over 20,000 US citizens live in Portugal.

Plan a vacation in Monterey County during the ideal time of year for your travel musts. Discover seasonal draws, including popular annual events, things to do and suggested places to stay.

Use the jump-list below to help you plan and book an inspiring vacation.

Spring Vacation (March, April, May)

Spring brings warmer temperatures and longer days to explore. The top places to see wildflowers are in full bloom, like Pacific Grove’s purple carpet, making nature walks especially bright & beautiful. Scenic drives along the coast on Highway 1 and Pebble Beach’s 17-Mile Drive are a springtime must.

Book a picturesque room near the "purple carpet" wildflowers at one of the charming inns in Pacific Grove. Seven Gables Inn overlooks Lover’s Point Cove, and the nearby Centrella Hotel is an award-winning National Historic Landmark that encapsulates the town’s Victorian charm.

Summer Vacation (June, July, August)

Trade in your summer heat for the cool coastal breezes of Monterey Bay! Venture to Fort Ord National Monument & Los Padres National Forest to enjoy some well-deserved respite. Plus, nothing says summer like a California sunset at some local favorite places to watch the sunset.

Stay at Monterey Hotel for special deals! When you book an overnight stay directly with this boutique hotel, you get 2 complimentary beer flights at Alvarado Street Brewery with their Beer & Stay Package. Additional great hotels in downtown Monterey include the BLU Pacific Hotel and Hotel Abrego.

Fall Vacation (September, October, November)

Monterey County experiences a “second summer” during the fall, making this season the best time of the year for warm weather activities, like walking the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail, lounging at the beaches and hiking. The fall also brings the very special migration of monarch butterflies to the Pacific Grove, also known as “Butterfly Town U.S.A.” These inspiring butterflies are on the rise and can be seen at the Pacific Grove Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary. Plus, the fall in to winter are great times to visit for fewer crowds.

Spend autumn in sun-kissed Carmel Valley at Hidden Valley Inn & Los Laureles Lodge. The drive-in promises gorgeous valley & vineyard views, plus most of Carmel Valley’s wine tasting rooms are within walking distance from each other at Carmel Valley Village.

Winter Vacation (December, January, February)

Though the weather cools down a bit during the winter in Monterey County, there is no snow! Need we say more? The cool, crisp air lends itself well to hiking at Pinnacles National Park, especially on some of the more strenuous (but rewarding!) trails. And of course, there’s no better way to warm up during the winter than with a piping hot bread bowl of the best clam chowder in Monterey County.

Book a winter getaway with Inns of Monterey, a collection of five boutique hotels, including Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa, Spindrift Inn, Monterey Bay Inn, Victorian Inn and Wave Street Inn. All are in the city of Monterey, which is filled with holiday cheer during the holidays! Old Fisherman’s Wharf, Cannery Row and historic adobes throughout the city are festively decorated, with an ice-skating rink situated near the bay for family fun.

In August, classic and vintage cars will grace the streets of Monterey for Monterey Car Week 2025! Here’s everything you need to know before attending this unmissable celebration of car culture in the heart of Monterey County.​

What is Monterey Car Week?

The iconic Monterey Car Show spans 10 days, starting Friday, August 8, through Sunday, August 17, 2025, with auto shows, races, auctions, car unveilings and more. The festivities conclude with a showcase on the iconic fairways at Pebble Beach for the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance.

Monterey Car Week 2025 happens at various locations throughout Monterey County, including WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca and Pebble Beach Golf Links. Check out our Interactive Car Week Map to learn more about event locations, times and details.

Some of the key events to watch out for include:

To attend the various festivities at Monterey Car Week, we recommend purchasing tickets in advance on each event’s website. However, many shows, races and presentations also offer on-site ticket sales, so check before you go.

Bigger events, such as the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, offer multiple ticket types, ranging from general admission to VIP experiences. Be sure to get your tickets early to secure your spot. Additionally, you’ll find several FREE Monterey Car Week events that are worth checking out.

During Monterey Car Week, parking can be challenging due to the high volume of attendees. Designated parking areas will be available at major event locations, but it’s advisable to arrive early. Shuttle services are available from Carmel-by-the-Sea on Sunday, August 17, to the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. Also, you can check out the FREE Monterey Trolley Shuttle along its typical route in downtown Monterey.

Make sure to visit the Monterey Car Week travel alerts page for more information.

Be aware of road closures in Downtown Monterey and around event sites, which will be clearly marked. Planning your route in advance and utilizing shuttles can save time and reduce stress!

As for lodging, many local hotels and motels in Monterey are set to offer annual deals and specials you won’t want to miss!

No matter which events you attend for Monterey Car Week, you’ll find plenty of fun—and fabulous vehicles—to enjoy!

Monterey County is made up of a large community of diverse, family-owned businesses, including a variety of Hispanic-owned businesses. In recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from September 15 to October 15 and celebrates the generations of Hispanic Americans who have influenced and enriched our society, we have highlighted a few of the many amazing Hispanic-owned businesses here in Monterey County!

(Monterey) - Oaxacan influences. The chef is from Oaxaca.

(Carmel-by-the-Sea) - "Cultura’s cooking is inspired by the cuisine of Mexico, with particular attention paid to the region of Oaxaca. It might not be the right place to take abuela for an authentic taste of home, but the food is very good. Tucked among shops in a courtyard away from the street, this dining room resembles a sort of Mexican taberna, lined with deep red booths, coffered ceilings and wrought-iron accents. On fair nights, dine alfresco around the courtyard’s fire pits. Try the house-made Cultura mole with smoked pork, which arrives as a feast of freshly made tortillas and lightly pickled vegetable slaw for assemble-your-own tacos. Save room for desserts like the dense and dark Oaxacan chocolate brownie with a touch of chili and cinnamon cloaked in ganache." - MICHELIN GUIDE

Culturas Hidalgo & Oaxaca Restaurant (Salinas) - Local favorite restaurant specializing in Mexican cuisine from the regions of Hidalgo and Oaxaca

Cocina Yatzeche (Seaside) - Hidden gem best known by Seaside locals. Oaxacan cuisine features homemade tortillas, memelitas, tlayudas and hard-to-find authentic beverages like tejate (maiz and cacao beverage traditionally made in Oaxaca, originating from pre-Hispanic times) and chilacayote (a refreshing candied squash water drink).

(Monterey) -​Vegan health-conscious Mexican restaurant featuring Oaxacan specialties including memelitas and tlayudas.

El Charrito (Salinas and Monterey) - A family-owned business, known for its hand-stretch flour tortillas, that uses old Mexican cooking techniques to serve the community.

(Seaside) - "Since 1999, we have been a beloved and enduring fixture in the seaside community, serving as a cherished family staple of Oaxacan cuisine. Known for our commitment to authenticity, we have established ourselves as a trusted and dependable destination for traditional culinary delights." - La Tortuga

(Monterey) -​ Chef Mando emigrated from Oaxaca.

Nicolas Cocina de Herencia (Carmel-by-the-Sea) - Sister restaurant to Villa Azteca, this restaurant has an elevated take on modern Mexican cuisine.

(Castroville) - No frills restaurant offering delicious authentic Oaxacan food. Highlights include tlayudas, quesadillas de quesillo (a cheese unique to Oaxaca) and menudo.

Sarita's Mexican Grill Restaurants (Marina, Seaside, Monterey) - Sarita’s Mexican Grill has been serving homemade, authentic Mexican food since 1982, bringing classic flavors and time-honored recipes to Monterey County.

Villa Azteca (Salinas) - Chef Susana uses her vision and passion for traditional Mexican food with an innovative twist to ensure all guests have an amazing experience. Don’t forget to check out their signature cocktail menu and try out their Paloma flight!

El Volcan (Salinas)

Double Dz Birrieria (Salinas)

La Tequita Istmeña (Soledad) - "Established in 2021, La Tequita Itsmeña food truck was created to give an outlet to the authentic flavors and unique style from Oaxaca, Mexico. One family couldn’t help but notice that in an area populated by many with an Oaxacan background, there weren’t too many places that served up the flavors from the indigenous region. They decided to start up a food truck to showcase the delicious recipes of their mother who has been cooking these dishes since childhood. Today, an entire community is enjoying the delicious cuisine they know and love with a diverse style that makes it stand out amongst the rest." - La Tequita Istmeña

Lonchera La Paloma (Salinas)

Mariscos El Compita (Salinas)

Sabor Latin Fusion (Salinas)

Tacos Pacheco (Salinas)

Corral Wine Co (Carmel Valley) - Check out this family-owned and operated Corral Wine Co. in Corral De Tierra and have a glass of Pinot Noir at their tasting room located in Carmel Valley.

Lepe Cellars (Carmel-by-the-Sea) - Stemming from passion and dedication, Lepe Cellars offers organic, vegan and sustainable wine. The tasting room is located in Carmel-by-the-Sea and the wine is available in different locations around the area such as Alvarado Bistro and Rio Grill in Carmel, Stokes Adobe in Monterey and Village Wine and Tap Room in Carmel Valley.

La Preciosa Family Market (Seaside) - Here you can get fruits, vegetables and other ingredients for your lunch or dinner.

(Seaside) - "La Oaxaquena Inc. was born on April 2015 in the city of Oaxaca, Mexico, the main objective is to provide the Oaxacan community in the United States with high-quality products at fair prices, but also to create a gateway for the Latin American and American market towards Oaxacan culture." - La Oaxaqueña

Angelina’s Bakery (Seaside) - Looking for a last-minute cake for an event? Serving baked goods since 1998, Angelina’s Bakery has got you covered! They offer a selection of pastries and cakes custom-made, especially for your party or event. From 3 or 4 leches cake, eclairs or napoleons, they have something for everyone!

Emma's Bakery and Cafe (Salinas) - This bakery and cafe is devoted to serving customers mouthwatering dishes that feature the highest quality ingredients available. Try their breakfast and lunch items and finish off your meal with handmade fruit pies, cream pies or pastries.

(Salinas) - Mexican bakery specializing in traditional Oaxacan recipes, including pan de yema (a Day of the Dead bread from Oaxaca)

Guadalajara Bakery (Salinas)

La Plaza Bakery (Salinas)

Lupita’s Bakery (Seaside) - With its deep roots in family tradition derived from San Pablo, Oaxaca, Mexico, recipes have been passed along from generation to generation. Family-owned, the Morales brothers keep their mother's legacy going by providing quality bread and pastries for the community.

Panaderia Acambaritas (Salinas)

Panaderia Tres Hermanos (Salinas)

Zimatlan Bakery (Seaside) - "Family owned bakery with baking tradition passed on father to son through decades of experience with the aim to serve our community delicious Oaxacan cuisine, Mexican bread and custom made cakes." - Zimatlan Bakery & Deli