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Central Coast
Perfectly blending natural beauty and coastal culture
From world-class vineyards, shopping and dining to history and bucket-list road trips, there’ s a whole host of experiences to dive into. For many, the epic drive along the coast-hugging Highway 1 which winds its way through the Central Coast is sure to be a highlight. With stunning viewpoints, unspoiled natural scenery and diverse places to visit, it’ s truly memorable.
Ultra-mellow Santa Cruz is the quintessential California beach town with its history cemented in surfing. Stroll the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, visit a surfing museum or head out to sea in the hope of spotting whales. In Monterey, watch otters frolicking in the dense sea kelp, browse Cannery Row’ s quirky shops, rent a bike and follow the coast around the peninsula, or drive along 17 Mile Drive to scenic Pebble Beach. Veer inland to Monterey Wine Country, for wine tasting in the Salinas Valley.
Artsy Carmel-by-the-Sea’ s main street is lined with galleries, cosy gastropubs and welcoming inns. The Carmel Mission is beautiful and Carmel Beach’ s white sands are a lovely place to stroll.
One of Highway 1’ s most unforgettable stretches of coastline can be found at Big Sur, home to the famous Bixby Bridge. Further south at Piedras Blancas, see thousands of elephant seals on the narrow rocky beach just steps from the highway. Close by, in San Simeon, don’ t miss lavish Hearst Castle, the opulent estate-turned-museum or, visit charming Cambria, known for its beautiful pine forests and open spaces along a craggy stretch of the coast.
Pismo Beach is crammed with surf shops, seafood joints, an historic pier and a broad beach. Slightly inland, is charming Solvang to see its gingerbread architecture, windmills, bakeries and kitschy souvenir shops.
Chic Santa Barbara is flanked by the towering Santa Ynez Mountains and brims with Spanish-style architecture. Must-do’ s here include a visit to Stearns Wharf to sit and feast on a portion of fish and chips; browse the shops of State Street or splash around the waterfront in a kayak.
• Santa Cruz
Pebble beach
17 mile drive • Monterey
• Carmel-By-The-Sea
Bixby Bridge San Simeon •
• Big Sur
Pismo Beach •
Piedras Blancas •
Best time to go: It’ s possible to explore this iconic route year-round, although you can expect it to be busy during the summer( June-August).
Carmel Beach
1
• Cambria
Solvang •
Santa Barbara • from £ 77 per person per night from £ 109 per person per night
Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection
4H Santa Cruz
Blending natural beauty with urban edge, the hotel mirrors the unexpected character of Santa Cruz itself. Centrally located in the city, Hotel Paradox offers convenient access to the area’ s top attractions, including the beach which is around a 20 minute walk away.
Enjoy time by the hotel pool, maintain your wellness routine with time in the gym and, maybe hire an electric bike from the onsite BCycle Station.
At the hotel’ s Solaire Restaurant & Bar a nature / nurture-themed menu highlights tasty, locally sourced cuisine.
NEW
The 170 boldly designed rooms and suites feature floor-to-ceiling windows for gorgeous natural lighting and an array of locally inspired elements including reclaimed wood panelling. There’ s also a hairdryer, mini fridge, iron & ironing board and safe.
Standard room
Portola Hotel & Spa
4H Monterey
Located near downtown Monterey and Old Fisherman’ s Wharf, this bayfront hotel is a wonderful place to escape whether travelling as a couple or with the family.
During those warm sunny California days, where better to cool off than the swimming pool, which is surrounded by a lush landscape and cool coastal breeze. Alternatively, revitalise body and mind at the award-winning spa and maybe hit the fitness room. Children aged 3-12 are sure to love the hotel’ s Pirate Programme.
The choice of dining venues includes Peter B’ s Brewpub, for crave-worthy comfort food washed down with a craft beer and, Jacks Monterey for California cuisine made from local sustainable ingredients.
Each of the 379 coastal-inspired guest rooms and suites offer a variety of views and feature contemporary furnishings, a coffee maker, hairdryer and safe. Upgraded courtyard rooms also have a patio, plus there are partial harbour view rooms and spacious studios or suites.
The hotel is also proud to be on the list of“ Top 10 eco-friendly hotels in the USA”, thanks to green efforts within the community and initiatives in place throughout the property.
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