At the crossroads of the Central Coast and the San Francisco Bay area, the Monterey Bay makes a perfect end to the Original Road Trip. Here you’ll discover towering sea cliffs and fog-cloaked redwood forests in Big Sur, a ballet of ever-shifting sand dunes in Fort Ord National Monument, and maybe even a California condor among the ancient volcanic formations at Pinnacles National Park in San Benito County. 

Linger a while at the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium and Monterey’s historical waterfront, which John Steinbeck vividly portrayed in the novel Cannery Row. Head to Carmel-by-the-Sea, where a small village feel provides a welcoming haven for a rich arts scene, or visit San Juan Bautista’s historic mission.  Don’t miss bohemian Santa Cruz, famous for its vintage seaside amusement park and the reputed birthplace of mainland surfing in the U.S. Head inland to the Santa Clara Valley to spice up your trip in Gilroy, the Garlic Capital of the World, or visit Morgan Hill’s cherry orchards and vineyards.

4/1/2024: Be advised that closures on Highway 1 are impacting travel to and from northern Big Sur. Currently, only essential travel is allowed on Highway 1 past Palo Colorado Road. Conditions and closures are rapidly evolving, so check current conditions before traveling. 

More here. https://www.seemonterey.com/resources/travel-alert/