Whenever you’re planning your next visit, these are the top 3 places for whale watching in Pacific Grove.
Dog-Friendly Whale Watching
With small groups up to 20 people, this tour is for all, pups included! Open seven days a week, the crew is passionate and eager to share their knowledge with you!
Bill Murray’s a Fan
From sea lions to humpback whales, if you’re looking for a reliable whale watching tour, this Monterey base is a sure bet! (If it’s good enough for Bill Murray…)
For Great Pics to Remember
If you want to be in the moment (aka, forget your phone) but still want to remember the moment, this tour is for you! A professional photographer forms part of the crew and takes stunning shots you can purchase at the end of your trip.
Whichever tour you embark upon, don’t forget to take some seasick medicine! And take lots of pics (or buy them.)
If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to reach out! We’d love to help you plan your trip. And for more ideas of what to do in Pacific Grove, check out our blog!
Bet you didn’t know that the world’s longest-running jazz festival takes place right here in stunning Monterey, California, did you? Here’s everything you need to know.
Fast Facts
This year marks the 66th celebration of creativity and expression. So make sure you don’t miss a thing! Here’s the nitty gritty of this annual music festival.
- What: 3-day jazz festival celebrating some of jazz’ most legendary & upcoming musicians
- When: September 22-24, 2023
- Where: Monterey County Fairgrounds
Acts to Know
Dee Dee Bridgewater
Three-time Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter and Tony Award-winning stage actress, Dee Dee Bridgewater’s iconic voice has been a fixture of jazz music for decades. Just listen to see what we mean.
Listen here.
Las Cafeteras
Afro-Mexican beats that use lyrical storytelling and rhythm to build bridges and create positive change and energy to all. Their positive energy has accompanied legends such as Juanes, Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros, Talib Kweli and Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra on stage.
Listen here.
Akira Tana & Otonowa
This quintet brings its unique mix of Japanese and Japanese American roots to jazz interpretations of traditional Japanese folk melodies. This rich reimagining of Japanese stories through an American artform is truly unique.
Listen here.
Next Generation Women in Jazz Combo
This small combo features top high school women jazz musicians from across the country. Brimming with talent and directed by award-winning musician, vocalist and composer, Katie Thiroux, they workshop with Teri Lyne Carrington at the Berklee College of Music. This might be your chance to see some of the future’s top talent.
Listen here.
To buy tickets and for more information, check out the festival’s official website. And don’t forget to book your stay ahead of time, this year’s festival is sure to fill up!
Looking for the best outdoor dining in Pacific Grove? Check out this list of the highest-rated spots and start making your reservations like… now.
California dining at its finest. Overlooking Lover’s Point Beach, this Pacific Grove fixture is a must.
If you happen to make it over on the weekend, you’ll enjoy live jazz music while you dine on sustainably-sourced seafood and American dishes. Feel free to take them up on their wine pairing suggestions, they know what they’re talking about.
For sustainable seafood and contemporary American fare with a beachfront view, look no further than Schooner’s.
With a varied offerings for breakfast, lunch and dinner, this seasonally-minded menu is as delicious as the space is charming (with a touch of European flair).
Don’t miss out on these local favorites with a view. And if you try somewhere else that you think is one of the best outdoor dining options in Pacific Grove, let us know! We’d love to support other local businesses and add them to the roster.
Happy dining!
Don’t leave your Father’s Day plans for the last minute this year. Put together something special to say you care. And what says you care more than a personalized weekend away?
Here are a few ideas for making the best Father’s Day plans in Pacific Grove…
Reserve a Nice Dinner
Tables will book ahead, so go on and sneak a peek at Pacific Grove’s culinary gems so you can be sure to reserve a delicious dinner Dad will love!
Dust Off Your Driver
With a course for every taste and budget, there’s plenty for golf lovers right here in Monterey.
Revel in the Wildlife
Just a hop, skip and a jump away, the Monterey Aquarium is a must visit for any marine life lover!
Hike, Bike, You Name It
Cruise on through to win “Dad’s Favorite” by keeping him company along the Monterey Recreation Trail – 18 miles of coastal bliss perfect for biking, running, walking or just viewing.
Take In a Live Show
The Golden State Theatre in downtown Pacific Grove draws acts from all over, and for all tastes. Check out their roster for upcoming shows!
Get Outside
Whether it’s for a hike in Garrapata State Park or to see the annual Magic Carpet bloom, get outside to take in the fresh air.
Sightsee
From the Point Pinos Lighthouse to the Pacific Grove Museum of Art, there are plenty of sights to see, from historic to modern art.
Whatever his taste, start by booking a brief respite from the daily hustle and bustle at the family-owned Olympia Lodge – think old-fashioned charm meets coastal escape. Then take your pick from this list! And if you still need help drumming up the perfect Father’s Day surprise, just reach out. We’d love to help!
Looking for things to do in Pacific Grove? Any visit to our sanctuary by the bay entails plenty of fresh air, gorgeous views of the Pacific Ocean, strolls through our charming downtown, scrumptious dining in our restaurants and so much more.
Sneak a peek at some of these ideas to get you started!
Take in the Wildflowers
With more moderate weather all year long, it’s always time to get outside and, quite literally, smell the flowers! Spring and summer are particularly beautiful with more in bloom. Not sure where to go? Check out these 8 Places to View Wildflowers near and dear to us!
Cruise Along the Monterey Recreation Trail
Rent a bike or bring your own to explore this beautiful coastal trail! With 18 miles to enjoy, we’re sure you’ll find unforgettable views.
Enjoy a Wine Tasting
If you’re of age and are ready to disconnect, there are plenty of wine tasting options in and around Pacific Grove! Whether you want something close by so you can simply walk to and from your wino experience, or are looking for a complete vineyard experience, this guide is sure to help you find what you’re looking for.
Brunch It Up Your Way
No vacation would be complete without some good eats! Actually, make that good brunch. Luckily for you, there are plenty of yummy brunch options right here.
Hit the Links
If your idea of a good time is best spent on the back nine, you’re going to love these best golf courses in Monterey.
Whatever you’re looking to do, we’re sure you’ll find it here. And if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out! We’d love to help you figure out your perfect coastal escape.
Thanks so much for reading!
xo,
The Olympia Lodge Team
Unique to Pacific Grove, the Magic Carpet, is a natural phenomenon that’s as beautiful as it is fleeting. Each spring people from all over the world make their way to see the quiet coast turn magenta.
So, what is it? When’s the best time to see it? Everything you need to know is right here.
What Is It?
This brightly-hued flower is not native to California’s coast and was actually brought in by explorer Hayes Perkins in the late 1930’s. At the time, poison oak ruled the coastline, posing an itchy problem for beach-hungry guests. Over the years, Perkins nurtured this South African native plant to the lush “carpet” we know today.
Fun fact: Not only is it beautiful, but this plant helps fight erosion! Win-win.
When to See It?
The best time to catch this vibrant wonder is in April and May! It usually lasts a little over a month, so book your stay ahead of time to make sure you make it!
Fun fact: These blooms “sleep” until around midday, so your best bet is to go around midday on a sunny and warm day!
Where Can I See It?
This beauty colors the coastline in Pacific Grove. You can take it in while you stroll, jog or bike along the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail (starting at the Lover’s Point Park, for example). Or if you’d like to experience it from the comfort of your car, you can cruise along Ocean View Boulevard towards Pebble Beach.
Where Can I Stay?
Family-owned, the Olympia Lodge is where old-fashioned charm meets modern comfort. Right in the middle of all that Pacific Grove has to offer, this conveniently located lodge has everything you need to rest up and recharge!
