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Whether you’re looking to visit area attractions like the Monterey Bay Aquarium or take in the beauty of California’s central coast, Ramada Monterey offers comfy accommodations to rest from your sightseeing. Our location makes it easy to take Monterey California day trips. Are you looking to get out and explore the area? Here are a few of the best places to check out when you stay in Monterrey.
Big Sur
Visiting Big Sur is a quick and easy day trip from our hotel in Monterey. Located between Carmel and San Simeon, Big Sur offers spectacular views of the Santa Lucia Mountains and the Pacific Ocean.
Rent a convertible and take it for a spin down State Route 1, sandwiched between soaring cliffs and crashing Pacific Ocean waves. You’ll spot abundant wildlife like seals, whales, and the endangered California Condors (North America’s largest bird). Take a ride over the scene Bixby Bridge or stop at one of the many beaches and parks to get a closer view.
Hearst Castle
Gazing at Hearst Castle, which stands on a hilltop overlooking San Simeon, may make you believe you traveled to Europe instead of Monterey California day trips. This American palace is a National Historic Landmark and was once the home of newspaper publisher William Randolph Hearst. When the estate was completed in 1947, it included the main house, three guesthouses, and spacious gardens. A variety of tours are available to view the “Enchanted Hill,” as W.R. Hearst called it. These tours dive deep into specific aspects of the home and also include holiday and evening tours.
San Francisco
Visiting San Francisco should be on your list when planning Monterey California day trips. At only two hours from Ramada Monterey, exploring San Francisco is a place you simply have to see if you’re visiting Central or Northern California.
There are so many great sightseeing opportunities when you visit San Francisco. No visit would be complete without seeing the Golden Gate Bridge. To visit the Golden Gate Bridge, you can explore the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, which includes both sides of the bridge. Hike and explore one of the nation’s best known national parks while gazing at the majestic bridge. There is also a separate visitors’ center where you can take free walking tours and learn about the bridge’s history.
You can also see the Golden Gate Bridge when you visit Fisherman’s Wharf. This tourist hub and waterfront community is home to bus and bike tours, souvenir shops, a marina, and tons of seafood restaurants. From Fisherman’s Wharf, you’ll also spot Alcatraz Island, another must-see activity in San Francisco. Experience the history of the military and federal prison by taking a tour at this national park.
Santa Cruz
Just 40 minutes from Monterey lies the historic beach town of Santa Cruz. Santa Cruz is known for its vintage boardwalk, which will take you back to the turn of the 20th century. The boardwalk has an amusement park that opened in 1907. It’s home to some of the oldest rides in the country: the 1911 Loof Carousel (which is National Historic Landmark) and the Giant Dipper Roller Coaster built in 1924. The boardwalk also hosts food stands, shops, and an arcade.
Be sure to make time to stroll down Pacific Avenue in Santa Cruz’s downtown area. You can browse boutique shops, take in a movie at one of four historic movie theaters, or pick up some fresh fruits and vegetables at the weekly farmers’ market. There are many other scheduled events that you can experience throughout the year.
Explore California’s Central Coast
With so much to do and explore around California’s Central Coast, staying at the Ramada Monterey is the perfect place to rest from a day of sightseeing. Make your reservation now!
