It’s a bit of a tourist trap, crowded with tour buses and cars. And you have to pay $11.25 to drive your own car for 17 miles. Is it worth it? YES! This stretch of coast is absolutely stunning and studded with amazing photo opportunities.
The giant artichoke was worth a quick stop and a photo… if you love artichokes or are drawn to oversized roadside attractions… and it’s already on your route. The produce stand and restaurant that flank the sides of the artichoke were very sad and run down. Produce was old, overpriced, and the fruit flies were thick.
This is a lovely location to take in the view of Monterey Bay and the Pacific Ocean but that’s true of every bench and viewpoint along the coastal trail. Make a point to walk the trail, but don’t worry about finding this exact spot.
I’ve been here twice, and enjoyed both visits.
Pros:
-comfortable and well appointed guest rooms with tasteful art, nice linens, and good lighting. Bonus points for motion activated soft glow night lights under the bed! So much safer then stumbling around in the dark.
-great outdoor atmosphere with a large communal fire pit and s’mores making. Lots of games for kids and adults like bocce, giant jenga, and corn hole.
-pool and hot tub were well maintained and had lots of lounge chairs.
-restaurant was amazing, some of the best food we had in all of Monterey.
Cons:
-overpriced for what you get, but that’s true of everywhere I’ve stayed in the region.
-in hallways the smell of dogs was very strong and carpets were pretty filthy.
-dog friendly hotel resulted in us hearing dogs bark. For hours.
-it can be hard to find parking near your room when at full occupancy.