North or South? That is the question that many people find themselves asking when it comes to Northern California’s premier vacation spot, Lake Tahoe. Growing up, my family always went to South Shore since my parents have a fondness for the casinos. As an adult my choice has always been the North Shore since I did not inherit the gambling bug. Whichever you favor, there is no wrong choice, the entire Lake Tahoe area can be described in one word: beautiful.
During my childhood, we would scramble to the beach and spend all day there playing in and out of the water. Canoeing and river rafting were family favorites as well as my personal favorite, horseback riding. Of course in the evening my parents would leave us with a babysitter and head to the other fan favorite: the casinos. The slot machines and dinner shows were always my parents and their adult friends’ choice.
The entire Bay Area, Northern California and most of Nevada uses this destination as an annual, weekly and second home vacation spot. Other visitors come from around the world to see this region that I would definitely describe as “God’s Country”. The lake, mountains and small communities that dot the shoreline all contribute to the entertainment value that Lake Tahoe is known for. Golf, skiing, (water and snow) canoeing, river rafting, kayaking, horseback riding, trail and mountain hiking, biking, fishing and swimming are just some of the outdoor activities that are available for tourists and residents alike.
This time of year (late summer at this writing) the drive to Tahoe is very comfortable. Since I spend most of my time at the North Shore when I go to Lake Tahoe I decided to spend some time at the South Shore and open my mind to new experiences.
The weather has been moderate and it’s perfect for being outdoors and being near water. I love beaches, as attested in last issue’s travel article, whether it is a lake beach or an ocean. One of my favorite things to do is to sit on a beach and relax and just watch the views. I also love to walk on the beach, your legs get the best exercise and the smells of a beach are incredible. Lake Tahoe is no exception but I have to say I am just mesmerized from the moment I come over the mountain range and see the first views of the lake to sitting right on the beach. I can literally sit for hours and be happy.
Avalon Lodge on the South Shore hosted us for late summer vacation and what a wonderful group of people. From the lodge you can walk to the beach in summer or the gondolas in winter, which is why I picked this location. I wanted to come to Tahoe and park and not have to drive everywhere. At the lodge you can sip a drink by the fireplace, ride one of the bikes to the village, or settle in with a great book. Relax in the Jacuzzi, take a dip in the pool, or stroll to the lake and bask in the tranquility as you watch the sunset. I pretty much felt that if I didn’t have to leave the lodge, I could call this trip a success.
Canoeing, kayaking and river rafting are also favorites of mine. I have crew rowed, so paddling is very comfortable for me. I did my first kayaking and what a blast! I liked that I could go at my own pace and didn’t necessarily need to be in a boat with someone else like you do in canoeing or river rafting. I was told I was a pro after the first hour since I have a strong stroke and now I am trying to figure out how Ben can kayak with me.
I also made some time to look into one of my favorite pastimes, horseback riding since I get asked about riding destinations all the time. The Lodge recommended Zephyr Cove Stables, so I had to check them out. You can take hour rides, half- and all-day rides at this ranch, and they seemed like pros in pairing you with a horse. This is very crucial since the last thing you want is to be paired with a high anxiety and “fresh” horse when you are a novice. I also remind people that want to go horseback riding at vacation destinations, that it is ultimately not about the horse but the vistas and enjoyment you get from the experience.
The website www.tahoesouth.com has a complete list of shows, events and activities for the entire family. Whether you are into the casinos and shows, hiking, bicycling, shopping and spas, local culture, nightlife or water recreation, Lake Tahoe has it all. I had a wonderful time paddling, riding, bicycling and just relaxing enjoying the fabulous views – I am sure you too will have an adventure of a lifetime.
Lake Tahoe is so close to our homes here in the Bay Area that we can enjoy many experiences here throughout the year. So in hindsight, Lake Tahoe cannot be described in one word, it would take quite a few to tell the story of this picturesque lake.
Golf in South Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe Golf Course
Located in a mountain meadow surrounded by the High Sierras, this spectacular 18-hole golf course will challenge golfers of all levels. Breakfast and lunch are served daily, or you can enjoy cocktails on the sun deck featuring the best view in town.
2500 Emerald Bay Rd., South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
(530) 577-0788
www.laketahoegc.com
Tahoe Paradise Golf Course
A top executive course in nearby Meyers along Highway 50.
3021 Hwy. 50, Tahoe Paradise, Meyers, CA 96150
(530) 577-2121
www.tahoeparadisegc.com
Bijou Municipal Golf Course
Bijou is the oldest golf course in South Lake Tahoe. This golf course is perfect for beginners and families with a 9-hole, par 33 layout, and the best bang for your buck. Bijou Golf offers Senior discounts throughout the week and is kid-friendly.
3464 Fairway Ave., Fairway Ave & Johnson Blvd.,
South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
(530) 542-6097
cityofslt.us/index.aspx?nid=267
Carson Valley Golf Course
Carson Valley Golf has been in the family for more than 40 years. With more trees than any other course in Carson Valley, you get a longer golf season and you play cooler in the summer, especially with the cool rush of the Carson River nearby.
1027 Riverview Drive ,Gardnerville, NV 89460
(775) 265-3181
golf@carsonvalleygolf.com • www.carsonvalleygolf.com
Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course
is considered one of the most breathtaking courses in the country. It boarders Lake Tahoe with manicured fairways. It’s home to the American Century Championship, and also one of Golf Digest’s top 25 public U.S. golf courses.
100 Lake Parkway, P.O. Box 5400, Stateline, NV 89449
(775) 588-3566
Toll-Free (888) 881-8659
edgewood@edgewood-tahoe.com
www.edgewood-tahoe.com
Genoa Lakes Golf Resort
offers two championship golf courses within two miles of each other . You’ll be awestruck by the encompassing views of the Carson Valley and the wide array of wildlife as you make your way around the incredible layout.
1 Genoa Lakes Drive, Genoa, NV 89411
(775) 782-4653
www.genoalakes.com
Family Fun
South Lake Tahoe isn’t just for the young at heart—actual children can have a great time here, too. And if you bring your kids, no one will look at you funny when you start a snowball fight or a game of Marco Polo in the lake.
Or get those kids back to nature. Take ‘em biking by the lake or hiking up the Rubicon trail. Finish the day with s’mores around the campfire and take part in the time-honored tradition of spooking the whole family with swear-they’re-true ghost stories.
Not in the mood to rough it? Head out on the town for dinner at one of South Lake Tahoe’s many family-friendly restaurants.
There’s just as much to do in winter: sledding, snow tubing, ice skating and school (ski school, that is). South Lake Tahoe’s ski resorts have ski instruction for all levels, as well as kids’ camps. There’s even daycare for little ones as young as two months.
Whatever the season, South Lake Tahoe is an unbeatable family destination with gazillions of activities. In fact, your kids are likely to crash early from all the excitement, giving you some hard-earned grown-up time in the evening. How’s that for the gift that keeps giving?
Deanna Baillie and Ben, her Australian Shepherd, are great travel companions. They invite you to keep up with them on their blog at www.localhappeningsmagazine.com.
Lake Tahoe
North or South? That is the question that many people find themselves asking when it comes to Northern California’s premier vacation spot, Lake Tahoe. Growing up, my family always went to South Shore since my parents have a fondness for the casinos. As an adult my choice has always been the North Shore since I did not inherit the gambling bug. Whichever you favor, there is no wrong choice, the entire Lake Tahoe area can be described in one word: beautiful.
During my childhood, we would scramble to the beach and spend all day there playing in and out of the water. Canoeing and river rafting were family favorites as well as my personal favorite, horseback riding. Of course in the evening my parents would leave us with a babysitter and head to the other fan favorite: the casinos. The slot machines and dinner shows were always my parents and their adult friends’ choice.
The entire Bay Area, Northern California and most of Nevada uses this destination as an annual, weekly and second home vacation spot. Other visitors come from around the world to see this region that I would definitely describe as “God’s Country”. The lake, mountains and small communities that dot the shoreline all contribute to the entertainment value that Lake Tahoe is known for. Golf, skiing, (water and snow) canoeing, river rafting, kayaking, horseback riding, trail and mountain hiking, biking, fishing and swimming are just some of the outdoor activities that are available for tourists and residents alike.
This time of year (late summer at this writing) the drive to Tahoe is very comfortable. Since I spend most of my time at the North Shore when I go to Lake Tahoe I decided to spend some time at the South Shore and open my mind to new experiences.
The weather has been moderate and it’s perfect for being outdoors and being near water. I love beaches, as attested in last issue’s travel article, whether it is a lake beach or an ocean. One of my favorite things to do is to sit on a beach and relax and just watch the views. I also love to walk on the beach, your legs get the best exercise and the smells of a beach are incredible. Lake Tahoe is no exception but I have to say I am just mesmerized from the moment I come over the mountain range and see the first views of the lake to sitting right on the beach. I can literally sit for hours and be happy.
Avalon Lodge on the South Shore hosted us for late summer vacation and what a wonderful group of people. From the lodge you can walk to the beach in summer or the gondolas in winter, which is why I picked this location. I wanted to come to Tahoe and park and not have to drive everywhere. At the lodge you can sip a drink by the fireplace, ride one of the bikes to the village, or settle in with a great book. Relax in the Jacuzzi, take a dip in the pool, or stroll to the lake and bask in the tranquility as you watch the sunset. I pretty much felt that if I didn’t have to leave the lodge, I could call this trip a success.
Canoeing, kayaking and river rafting are also favorites of mine. I have crew rowed, so paddling is very comfortable for me. I did my first kayaking and what a blast! I liked that I could go at my own pace and didn’t necessarily need to be in a boat with someone else like you do in canoeing or river rafting. I was told I was a pro after the first hour since I have a strong stroke and now I am trying to figure out how Ben can kayak with me.
I also made some time to look into one of my favorite pastimes, horseback riding since I get asked about riding destinations all the time. The Lodge recommended Zephyr Cove Stables, so I had to check them out. You can take hour rides, half- and all-day rides at this ranch, and they seemed like pros in pairing you with a horse. This is very crucial since the last thing you want is to be paired with a high anxiety and “fresh” horse when you are a novice. I also remind people that want to go horseback riding at vacation destinations, that it is ultimately not about the horse but the vistas and enjoyment you get from the experience.
The website www.tahoesouth.com has a complete list of shows, events and activities for the entire family. Whether you are into the casinos and shows, hiking, bicycling, shopping and spas, local culture, nightlife or water recreation, Lake Tahoe has it all. I had a wonderful time paddling, riding, bicycling and just relaxing enjoying the fabulous views – I am sure you too will have an adventure of a lifetime.
Lake Tahoe is so close to our homes here in the Bay Area that we can enjoy many experiences here throughout the year. So in hindsight, Lake Tahoe cannot be described in one word, it would take quite a few to tell the story of this picturesque lake.
Golf in South Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe Golf Course
Located in a mountain meadow surrounded by the High Sierras, this spectacular 18-hole golf course will challenge golfers of all levels. Breakfast and lunch are served daily, or you can enjoy cocktails on the sun deck featuring the best view in town.
2500 Emerald Bay Rd., South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
(530) 577-0788
www.laketahoegc.com
Tahoe Paradise Golf Course
A top executive course in nearby Meyers along Highway 50.
3021 Hwy. 50, Tahoe Paradise, Meyers, CA 96150
(530) 577-2121
www.tahoeparadisegc.com
Bijou Municipal Golf Course
Bijou is the oldest golf course in South Lake Tahoe. This golf course is perfect for beginners and families with a 9-hole, par 33 layout, and the best bang for your buck. Bijou Golf offers Senior discounts throughout the week and is kid-friendly.
3464 Fairway Ave., Fairway Ave & Johnson Blvd.,
South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
(530) 542-6097
cityofslt.us/index.aspx?nid=267
Carson Valley Golf Course
Carson Valley Golf has been in the family for more than 40 years. With more trees than any other course in Carson Valley, you get a longer golf season and you play cooler in the summer, especially with the cool rush of the Carson River nearby.
1027 Riverview Drive ,Gardnerville, NV 89460
(775) 265-3181
golf@carsonvalleygolf.com • www.carsonvalleygolf.com
Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course
is considered one of the most breathtaking courses in the country. It boarders Lake Tahoe with manicured fairways. It’s home to the American Century Championship, and also one of Golf Digest’s top 25 public U.S. golf courses.
100 Lake Parkway, P.O. Box 5400, Stateline, NV 89449
(775) 588-3566
Toll-Free (888) 881-8659
edgewood@edgewood-tahoe.com
www.edgewood-tahoe.com
Genoa Lakes Golf Resort
offers two championship golf courses within two miles of each other . You’ll be awestruck by the encompassing views of the Carson Valley and the wide array of wildlife as you make your way around the incredible layout.
1 Genoa Lakes Drive, Genoa, NV 89411
(775) 782-4653
www.genoalakes.com
Family Fun
South Lake Tahoe isn’t just for the young at heart—actual children can have a great time here, too. And if you bring your kids, no one will look at you funny when you start a snowball fight or a game of Marco Polo in the lake.
Or get those kids back to nature. Take ‘em biking by the lake or hiking up the Rubicon trail. Finish the day with s’mores around the campfire and take part in the time-honored tradition of spooking the whole family with swear-they’re-true ghost stories.
Not in the mood to rough it? Head out on the town for dinner at one of South Lake Tahoe’s many family-friendly restaurants.
There’s just as much to do in winter: sledding, snow tubing, ice skating and school (ski school, that is). South Lake Tahoe’s ski resorts have ski instruction for all levels, as well as kids’ camps. There’s even daycare for little ones as young as two months.
Whatever the season, South Lake Tahoe is an unbeatable family destination with gazillions of activities. In fact, your kids are likely to crash early from all the excitement, giving you some hard-earned grown-up time in the evening. How’s that for the gift that keeps giving?
Deanna Baillie and Ben, her Australian Shepherd, are great travel companions. They invite you to keep up with them on their blog at www.localhappeningsmagazine.com.
(Point Reyes National Seashore, Tomales Bay) There is a trail to the beach but it is short enough that the dogs and kids won’t complain. The wildflowers and grassy hills make the walk worth it and the scenery puts you in your Zen-like mode that is necessary for the beach. Remember to bring your own food since there aren’t many restaurants nearby.
Baker Beach: (Gibson Road, San Francisco) The fabulous views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the picnic areas are the definite to this beach. Warning: The north end is optional clothes, so don’t stray too far unless you’re prepared for nudity.
Limantour Beach: (Point Reyes National Seashore, Point Reyes Station) I love this beach since it is so peaceful, you will enjoy a quiet day without crowds. Not to mention, the parking is free!
Fort Funston: (Skyline Boulevard, San Francisco) The walk to this is a little tough, but there will be tons of dogs and their owners to keep you company. (For all you horse lovers out there; you can also go horseback riding here!)
Lands End: (El Camino del Mar, San Francisco) The cypress trees beckon you here. You will think you are in Monterey. There are other small beaches nearby if the rugged coast is not for you.
Crissy Field: (1199 East Beach, San Francisco) One of my favorites, having spent a lot of time in San Francisco as a young adult I found it early on. The dogs can run and play in the water while you enjoy your picnic. (Check before going since at some times during the year leashes are required in the Wildlife Protection Area at the west end.)
Ocean Beach: (Point Lobos Avenue/Great Highway, San Francisco) Not my favorite since dogs are allowed off-leash on Ocean Beach only in some areas. Even so, it’s a great place to watch the surfers.
Doran Beach: (201 Doran Beach Road, Bodega Bay) Crabbing anyone? You can here, and it’s a great place for camping. Ben loves to camp!
Dillon Beach: Dillon’s rolling hills, dunes and coves provide a secluded area for some grade A relaxing. Great place to rent a beach house.
Top 5 Beaches in San Francisco
San Francisco Beaches: http://www.sftravel.com/beach-san-francisco.html used under copyright license from: http://www.sftravel.com/
#1 Beach: Ocean Beach The adjective which best describes Ocean Beach is “pleasant”. One of the reasons Ocean Beach is the best of the beaches in San Francisco; it offers a break from city life and lets you remember that you are so close to nature when you are here. And yet, it is easy to access so that you don’t have to go far at all to get back to the busy life you left behind. Ocean Beach is the largest of the San Francisco beaches, taking up the entire west side of San Francisco and offering a Panoramic View of the Pacific Ocean. It offers approximately five miles of peaceful surf and sand, where both locals and visitors go to meditate, reflect and let their imaginations get a little bit more of a natural influence than is possible in the city itself. Although it is a quiet beach, it is not unpopulated. On warmer days, surfers come here to practice their skills, writers come to jot in their journals and dog walkers bring their broods to enjoy the mixture of leashed and unleashed dog-friendly areas located here. Even on warmer days, though, it can get kind of chilly on this strip of sand, so make sure to stop in at Java Beach coffee shop for a warm drink or enjoy a hot meal at the Cliff House.
#2 Baker Beach – It is known by many as the “nude beach” but Baker Beach is actually the best of the beaches for clothed (or yes, unclothed) people of all ages. It is located just on the western side of the Golden Gate Bridge, providing the best ocean view of that most famous of San Francisco landmarks. Perhaps because of this striking view, Baker Beach is also the most crowded of San Francisco beaches, but that’s not a bad thing. This is the beach to head to when you are looking for some fun. Swimming, surfing and sandcastle-building are also frequently enjoyed activities on Baker Beach.
#3 Aquatic Park – This is an urban beach, meaning that it is located right in the heart of the city. Travelers enjoy this beach because it is so close to the tourist spots of Fisherman’s Wharf and Ghirardelli Square and locals enjoy this beach because it is a nice little get-away which is easy to reach when coming home from the office or before heading out for the evening. Aquatic Park visitors can pick up a sourdough bread bowl filled with clam chowder or get a famous Ghirardelli Sundae and take it over to the steps at this beach to enjoy it out in the open air. There is a wading area here where children and adults alike enjoy the rippling soft waves hitting the shore. This is a bay beach, not an ocean beach, so the water is softer and the sand is easy to walk along. There is also a paved walkway along a portion of this beach, making it accessible to visitors in wheelchairs or bicyclists out to see the water.
#4 East Beach –This beach is commonly known as China Beach, named after the history of Chinese fishermen who camped here in days past. It is located in Pacific Heights, at the intersection of Seacliff and 28thAvenue. This is one of the safest beaches for families, with shallow waters for the kids to play in and lifeguards on duty during the summer. There are also picnic areas here with grills available so people who want to get out and enjoy some barbecued food at the beach will find East Beach to be the best location. Travelers who want to make sure to see all there is to see in this neighborhood will want to make stops at the Exploratorium and Crissy Field on the day they visit this beach.
#5 Stinson Beach – People who have explored all of the beaches within San Francisco should cross the Golden Gate Bridge and venture over to the Marin County Beaches to see something new. Stinson Beach is reached after a peaceful winding drive which leads through beautiful Muir Woods. It makes an excellent day trip location for San Francisco locals and visitors, offering easy access to state park hiking and facilities for picnicking and swimming. This is where my family would always come when I was growing up, lots of great family memories.
Bonus #6 Bolinas Beach – Bolinas is a favorite beach just outside of San Francisco with a beautiful setting. The locals are colorful and there is lots of marine life. There are cool murals on all of the walls and the beach has some secluded areas where no one will bother you. It is about an hour North of the San Francisco and can be difficult to find since there is no sign telling you where to find the town. Be mindful of a large high tide.
Beaches in the SF Bay Area for you to explore:
A
Albany Beach
Año Nuevo State Park
Lake Anza
B
Baker Beach
Bean Hollow State Beach
C
China Beach, San Francisco
Crissy Field
Crown Memorial State Beach
D
Devil’s Slide (California)
G
Glass Beach
(Benicia, California)
Goat Rock Beach
Gray Whale Cove State Beach
H
Half Moon Bay State Beach
K
Keller Beach
King Philip Shipwreck
L
Lighthouse Field State Beach
M
Manresa State Beach
McNee Ranch State Park
Miramar Beach, California
Montara State Beach
Muir Beach, California
N
Natural Bridges State Beach
New Brighton State Beach
O
Ocean Beach,
San Francisco, California
P
Pacifica State Beach
Pescadero State Beach
Pigeon Point Lighthouse
Point Molate Beach Park
Pomponio State Beach
Poplar State Beach
R
Radio Beach
Rockaway Beach, Pacifica, California
S
Salt Point State Park
San Gregorio Nude Beach
San Gregorio State Beach
Santa Cruz
Beach Boardwalk
Seacliff State Beach
Sonoma Coast State Beach
Stillwater Cove
Stillwater Cove Regional Park
Stinson Beach, California
T
Lake Temescal
Thornton State Beach
Tomales Bay State Park
Twin Lakes State Beach
Deanna Baillie our Travel Guide Extraordinaire – read more about her comings and goings on her daily blog, just click on the Blog link at the top of the page
I believe that sometimes the residents of the San Francisco Bay Area forget how wonderful they have it living here.
The Bay Area is famous worldwide; I believe that San Francisco has been voted one of the most beautiful cities in the world more than once. We are also home to the Napa Valley as well as the oceans and mountains of the many cities and towns that make up this region.
One area I believe the residents never forget how lucky they are is the Monterey Peninsula, home to Carmel, Monterey, Pacific Grove and Big Sur. The cities and towns that dot this coastal county are some of the most sought after zip codes for living, visiting and touring. Whether you are into hiking, golfing, eating, sightseeing, wine tasting or walking your dog, this is the place for you!
I personally love the Carmel/Monterey area and it holds a lot of personal feelings and memories from my life. The drive is so easy since everything is right off the highway that it makes it an easy decision to go down for the weekend or even a day trip. I recently went down to Carmel for the day just to go to a dog park and the beach and was home on my couch by 8 p.m. – perfect! But, staying for a few days is even better as I found out in February when Local Happenings Magazine went down to visit the Monterey Peninsula for a little travel field trip.
We all arrived at the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa on Del Monte Golf Course in the afternoon and what weather we had – sunshine all around. We literally sat overlooking the 17th green of the Del Monte Golf Course drinking cocktails in February – unbelievable. We were able to sit and relax and get unpacked in our room before heading to dinner that night at the restaurant located at the hotel, TusCA Ristorante.
TusCA Ristorante, located right off of the lobby is surprisingly intimate and has a menu that equals any other white table cloth restaurant in the area. With golf course views and a very comfortable setting, we dined on hearty cuisine inspired by Italy’s Tuscan region. With great service and fabulous Monterey County wine, our first evening was a HUGE success.
The next day we took a walk along Fisherman’s Wharf in Monterey (five minutes from the hotel) and then came back to have breakfast and relax in the lobby of the hotel that has a cozy family-room style ambience complete with fireplace. The best was yet to come though since we then had massages at the Accista Spa, also located right on the hotel property. Fabulous! The Accista Spa was relaxing and serene with once again a comfortable atmosphere, not stuffy at all. Their menu of services was complete and would rival any spa I have ever visited.
The best was yet to come though. Later that night we were whisked away in the biggest stretch limousine I had been in (an extended Excursion) to the Hyatt Carmel Highlands in Carmel. This is truly a destination spot and MUST NOT be missed. When you enter the property (it was night and very dark outside) you get the feeling that you are entering a mountain lodge. The main room resembles something you might find in the Grand Tetons. The walls are covered with the most beautiful black and white photographs, all of the Carmel/Big Sur coast. I immediately wanted a room big enough at home in order to hang all of these photos to forever look at them. A good reason to go back!
We were led through the main dining room of the restaurant Pacific’s Edge to a private working wine storage room. Again, fabulous! The glass-walled room was stunning with the candles and low lights showcasing the bottled walls on the opposite side of the room from where we entered. The table was set for royalty and we truly felt special, but nothing could prepare us for the absolutely spectacular meal that was prepared for us by Executive Chef, Matt Bolton. You MUST make this restaurant a priority when you come to Carmel. The views, food and exceptional service has to be experienced. I had no idea until I came that this is one of the most popular wedding sites as well because of the views. Thanks to the staff for making us feel so welcome and for our tour of the property including Matt, previously mentioned, Jonathan P. Doepke, Resort Manager Jacques Melac, Pacific Edge’s Manager and Paul Fried, Wine Director.
We hated for this evening to end but we finished off with drinks back at the Hyatt Monterey next to their fireplace; very cozy and just the right amount of intimacy.
The next day we leisurely woke up and decided to enjoy brunch at the TusCA Ristorante. What a spread they do! We enjoyed our champagne brunch as well as our entire stay very much. The Hyatt Monterey is perfectly located to enjoy the entire area and right off the highway for easy access. Bring the golf clubs, the kids and Rover since they are pet friendly. Ben had an awesome stay.
We next headed into Carmel so we could enjoy some beach time. Ocean Avenue is always busy with international travelers and locals shopping and eating at one of the many cafes and restaurants. It is almost overwhelming so you might need a couple of trips to find your favorites. Ben was so happy since Carmel is probably THE MOST dog-friendly place in the world. Complete with poop bags, downtown Carmel is littered with dog treat baskets, water bowls and the friendly canines themselves. The beach at the end of Ocean Avenue is one of my most favorite places in the world. The sand is white and soft and no matter the weather, you cannot find a more beautiful and picturesque location. This beach is one of the reasons I am sure the locals stay, and why the tourists keep coming back. This is No. 1 on the list of what to do when you visit Carmel.
For our stay in Carmel proper, we stayed at a very different hotel from the Hyatt Monterey. Carrie Theis, owner/manager of Hofsas House right on San Carlos Street off of Ocean Avenue between 3rd and 4th Avenue, was our hostess. Hofsas House is located within walking distance to everything in Central Carmel. Their famous mural painted by Maxine Albro in 1957 greets you as you enter their driveway so you cannot miss it. This unique mural was originally created to offer a welcome from the family to their guests.
For over 60 years, the Theis family has been providing European hospitality designed to suit everyone’s travel tastes. The magic of Germany is showcased in the 38 rooms, many with ocean views, overlooking the pines in the quaint village of Carmel-by-the-Sea.
The Theis family aspires to provide the highest level of personal service. From the continental breakfast each morning with French Roast coffee, tea, fresh pastries delivered from a local bakery, juice and fruit to the personal concierge services and traditional family hospitality, the Hofsas House has something for everyone – including your four-legged friends. The Bavarian-inspired hotel offers pet-friendly rooms and concierge services, heated swimming pool, European-style dry saunas, WiFi, cable TV, off-street parking as well as the aforementioned continental breakfast. Ben and I loved the location to the beach where he could run forever and he loved his doggie basket that came with the room complete with Frisbee, dog shampoo and his own personalized dog tag!
The hotel offers the Tail Wagging Package, House Crafting Package, The Reunion Package as well as some special packages with the different seasons. Please call Carrie and the rest of the amazing staff at (831) 624-2745 or visit their website at www.hofsashouse.com for more information.
You might think, “When does this amazing trip end?” I was saying this to myself quite often but it was not over yet. One other must do in Carmel (#2) is to visit Pebble Beach and the various resorts that make up this world-famous destination. One that I personally feel is a MUST is the Spanish Bay Resort, home to the serenading bagpiper. If you love relaxing on an outdoor terrace in front of fireplaces wrapped up in blankets viewing one of the most beautiful vistas ever and listening to the lyrical sounds of a bagpipe, this is the place for you. Every evening a bagpiper serenades the setting sun as if to signal the end of another magical day. We thoroughly enjoyed our cocktails on the terrace as the bagpiper walked through the headlands to the final green on the golf course to finish his performance.
After leaving Spanish Bay, take your time driving the 17-mile drive if you have time – it is definitely worth it. We left quickly since we had reservations at Fandango in Pacific Grove.
Fandango is a local’s favorite and can accommodate families as well as a romantic rendezvous. We had an exceptional dinner and had most of the other diners entertained with Ramon, Rory and Veronica’s singing and visiting. (Thanks kids for making the night memorable!)
The menu reflects Mediterranean items like spaghetti Siracusa, paella, calamari steaks, croque monsieur, sand dab filets and their specialty, rack of lamb. A popular Sunday brunch ranges from French toast and cheese blintzes to hamburgers, salad Nicoise and pasta dishes. An impressive wine list accompanies the broad menu of Basque, French, Spanish, Italian and North African influences.
Fandango is located at 223 17th St. in Pacific Grove. (831) 372-3456 or go to www.fandangorestaurant.com.
Fandangos is not the only restaurant where we were given the best treatment, Bistro Beaujolais was also on that list. This quaint bistro is located right in the pulse of Carmel at Carmel Plaza right on Ocean Avenue and Junipero. They offer courtyard seating, live music, can accommodate private functions and special events as well as being pet-friendly of course. Their menu is so varied that I think I can realistically say that everyone can find something to eat here. Homemade pastas, fresh fish, beef, poulet, canard, lamb, paninis and pizzas – what else could you ask for?
The owners of Bistro Beaujolais also own a couple of other popular restaurants, da Giovanni and Bistro Giovanni. All three are located right in downtown Carmel. To make it easy to find them you can go to one website for all three restaurants; www.3carmelrestaurants.com. The Firok Shield family is known locally for their restaurant hospitality and I can personally attest to VERY GOOD food. Thanks again for accommodating Ben and the rest of us!
On our last night in Carmel we decided to go to a very quaint and local restaurant, Mundaka (a Spanish tapas restaurant). As a group we thoroughly enjoyed the very artistic ambiance and knowing that everything in the restaurant was made with sustainable materials and recollected materials. I was told that Mundaka opened as a result of great friendships, a love of food, wine, music, and a long-term romance with Spain and its culture. Open in March 2009, Mundaka continues to evolve daily with the creations of their chef, Brandon Miller.
We sat at a family-style table and everyone ordered various tapas and tried to go with the chef suggestions versus looking at the menu. I have to say as a persnickety eater I was a little apprehensive about the food, especially since I was eating vegetarian because it was during Lent and I had given up red meat for this self-induced 40-day sacrifice. I loved it, especially the Coliflor; cauliflower gratin, horseradish, Gruyère. SOOOO GOOD! Robert ordered the Chuleton, a 22-ounce rib eye served rare with arugula and potato salad. We were all tired since this is now the end of 4 days of non-stop eating, drinking and driving. This was just perfect to end the trip.
Before heading back the next morning we all had breakfast and took in our last views of the beach and the beauty of this quaint village. I personally had to walk the beach once again and breathe in the fresh salty air and watch the golfers on the bluff of Pebble Beach. Whether you have one day or two weeks, Carmel/Monterey/Big Sur is a must for families, singles, lovers and dogs – make your reservations today!
On a personal note – if you have a dog then you MUST visit Terry’s Lounge inside The Cypress Inn which is owned by Doris Day and who personally made Carmel THE #1 place to visit with your dog. Ben is a regular!
Reasons to Visit Carmel, Monterey and Big Sur
• Golfers’ Paradise
• Food & Wine
• Art, Arts and Entertainment
• Romantic Escapes
• Beach Bumming
• Pet-Friendly
• Car Buffs
• Fairy-Tale Weddings
• Relax and Rejuvenate
• Nature Lovers Paradise
• Celebrity Sightings
MUST Adventures on Monterey Peninsula
• Point Lobos State Reserve
• Historic Cannery Row
• Monterey Bay Aquarium
• Old Fisherman’s Wharf
• Lovers Point
• Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca
• Big Sur
• Carmel Valley
• 17-Mile Drive
• Ocean Avenue Beach
Deanna Baillie and Ben, her Australian Shepherd, are great travel companions. She invites you to keep up with her and Ben on her blog at www.localhappeningsmagazine.com.
I have always loved the coast, the fog, the romance and mystery that surrounds it. Maybe it was reading Jane Eyre as a child. Maybe I’m looking for Heathcliff. Whatever it is, trips to the coast during summer, spring, winter or fall have always been a favorite of mine. So recently, when I was asked to go to Mendocino, it was a no brainer that I jumped in the car. Of course my brain is always running on overdrive and I thought, “This could be our first Travel Section piece.” Guess what, it is!
Mendocino is such a wonderful place that I can’t remember ever having a bad experience there. I love just walking around and being lazy and this was no exception. I was expecting rain since this was at the end of November. As we started our drive there were indications that we should expect rain because, it was raining! This did not deter my happy thoughts of getting to Mendocino. We stopped along the way and had a beer in Boonville, a great little town, and guess what? We learned a new language: Boontling. I had never heard of such a thing but according to the bartender it is spoken only by residents of Boonville.
Wikepedia says:
Although based on English, Boontling’s unusual words are unique to Boonville, California. Scottish, Gaelic and Irish, and some Pomoan and Spanish, also influenced the vocabulary of the language. Boontling was invented in the late 19th century and had quite a following at the turn of the 20th century. It is now mostly spoken only by aging counter-culturists and native Anderson Valley residents. Because the town of Boonville only has a little over 700 residents, Boontling is an extremely esoteric dialect, and is quickly becoming archaic. It has over a thousand unique words and phrases.
It goes on to give a complete dictionary of Boontling. Amazing but true.
Onward we went, and as we drove into the town the rain subsided. For the rest of the two-day trip we had sunshine and beautiful weather.
No matter where you stay, your accommodations will be homey and comfortable. We stayed at the McCallum House on the Hill in their suites and what a treat! The room was spacious and, what a view.
Mendocino sits right on the coast with beautiful headlands and a sleepy little town. The restaurants are amazing, the shops are quaint, the art galleries are amazing, need I say more? All around there are things to do. You can choose to hike, walk the dog, shop, visit the little towns that border Mendocino, golf or just admire the beautiful vistas. Whatever you choose – go, have a great time and let us know how it was.
Pet Friendly
Mendocino County is a pet-lover’s paradise, with trails, beaches, bluffs and campgrounds galore to share with your four-legged friends. The off-leash beach at Noyo Harbor offers your dog a chance to run and get his exercise in the surf, and many of the businesses and activities around the county welcome dogs as well. There are pet-friendly wineries and state parks. Ben found many businesses that gave him treats as well.
Things to do in Mendocino:
• Walk, hike or run on the headlands
• Visit the many art galleries
• Learn the history of the area
• Ride the Skunk Train
• Attend one of the many Festivals
• Visit Point Cabrillo Lighthouse
• Go horseback riding
• Golf at Little River Inn
• Get married! (People come from all over to for their destination wedding)
Visit www.mendocinocoast.com for more information.
Deanna Baillie loves her Australian Shepherd, Ben, just as much as she loves her family, red wine and cheese! OK, a little more than the wine and cheese.
