The Great California Road Trip

2015 Autumn Getaway to Monterey County

Buckle up for the great California road trip. Destination: Monterey County! Autumn on this part of the California Coast is simply magnificent. Gas up, here we go!

The Great Beach Connection: Whether it's sinking your feet into the soft lavender sands at Pfeiffer Beach in Big Sur, cozying up to a bonfire at dog-friendly Carmel Beach, or exploring the turquoise tide pools of Point Lobos State Park, Monterey County makes beach-goers giddy with options: Check out the 7 secret beaches of Monterey.

Food, Wine, Music Fest: Outdoor events hit all the right notes in Monterey, especially the one voted the world's best jazz festival four times over: the Monterey Jazz Festival (September 18–20). Hungry for more? Try Taste of Carmel!

Favorites + Hidden Gems: Surprise! Some of Monterey's most famous spots also harbor hidden gems. Cannery Row has the Monterey Bay Aquarium, whose creative exhibits are a favorite with visitors. But did you know you can enjoy a Monterey County wine tasting experience next door? A Taste of Monterey—set right above the lapping waters of Monterey Bay—serves a variety of the region's top-rated wines. Tip: Pair your tasting with sunset for a Bayutiful moment.

See all the upcoming food, wine, and cultural events, plus find great deals on fall lodging and dining at SeeMonterey.com/Fall.

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    What is it about tiny islands in the middle of lakes? There’s something that just draws you in. It’s even more fun when getting there is half the adventure because you have to reach it by canoe, kayak, paddleboat, or a ranger-guided boat tour!

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  2. Golden Gate's Blue Heron

    Golden Gate Park’s Blue Heron Lake is home to birds of many feathers, turtles lounging on rocks, visitors from afar, and locals who love this urban oasis in San Francisco. Try the "Boats and Breakfast" rowboat or pedal boat deal.

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    Rio Del Mar State Beach in Aptos might be one of the best places for a treasure hunt. Its location between two other beaches makes for a good stroll featuring a spectacle of wildlife as you search the sand for sea glass and seashells.

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    Head to Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve for a 4-mile out-and-back hike on the Bay Area Ridge Trail that offers a front-row seat to spectacular sunsets.

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    Some people visit national parks to marvel at the iconic sights, while others come seeking solitude in nature. With visitation on the rise, it can be hard to find both. But in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, this pair of trails offers both....

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  2. Walking the Los Angeles River Trail Through Frogtown

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    Fall for It All in Reno Tahoe

    The best kind of getaway? Less time on logistics, more time on memory-making. Jackpot! You’ve got Reno Tahoe.

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