Pacific Grove Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Nestled along the picturesque coastline of California, Pacific Grove is a hidden gem that offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Known for its breathtaking natural beauty and charming small-town atmosphere, this coastal city is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking tranquility and outdoor adventure.

One of the main attractions in Pacific Grove is its stunning coastline. Take a leisurely stroll along the famous Asilomar State Beach, where you can witness the mesmerizing waves crashing against the rocky shoreline. The beach is also home to a rich marine ecosystem, making it a popular spot for tidepool exploration and wildlife sightings. For a more adventurous experience, head to Lover's Point Park, a scenic spot that offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and even scuba diving.

Nature enthusiasts will also appreciate the Monarch Grove Sanctuary, a sanctuary dedicated to protecting the delicate monarch butterfly population. During the winter months, thousands of monarch butterflies migrate to this sanctuary, creating a surreal and awe-inspiring sight. Visitors can learn more about these fascinating creatures and their life cycle through educational exhibits and guided tours.

In addition to its natural wonders, Pacific Grove boasts a rich history and vibrant cultural scene. Explore the charming downtown area, filled with quaint boutiques, art galleries, and local eateries. Indulge in fresh seafood at one of the waterfront restaurants, or sample locally-made wines at the boutique wineries scattered throughout the city.

For history buffs, a visit to the Point Pinos Lighthouse is a must. This historic lighthouse, dating back to 1855, is the oldest continuously operating lighthouse on the West Coast. Take a guided tour to learn about its fascinating history and climb to the top for panoramic views of the coastline.

Alternative names: Founded: 1875 (149 years ago)Population: 15.7 thous.Area: 4 mi²Elevation: 105 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 36°37'16"N, 121°55'12"W

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CaliforniaUnited States

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Pacific Grove Top Attractions

Pacific Grove Attractions - What to See and Explore

Pacific Grove offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Asilomar State Marine Reserve, Point Pinos Lighthouse, Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History, Asilomar State Beach. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Nature • Natural attraction • Beach
Asilomar State Marine Reserve
Asilomar State Marine Reserve is one of four small marine protected areas located near the cities of Monterey and Pacific Grove, at the southern end of Monterey Bay on California’s central coast. The four MPAs together encompass 2.96 square miles. The SMR protects all marine life within its boundaries.
Lighthouse • Vernacular architecture
Point Pinos Lighthouse
Point Pinos Lighthouse was lit on February 1, 1855, to guide ships on the Pacific Coast of California. It is the oldest continuously operating lighthouse on the West Coast of the United States and even the lens is original.
Science museum • Museum • History museum
Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History
The Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History is a museum of natural history located near the Monterey Bay Aquarium in Pacific Grove, California, United States.

Beach • Pacific Grove
Asilomar State Beach
Asilomar State Beach, officially Asilomar State Beach and Conference Grounds State Park, is a state park unit of California, United States. It provides public access to rocky coast and dune habitat on the Monterey Peninsula.
36°37'8"N • 121°55'5"W
Frank LaVerne Buck House
The Frank LaVerne Buck House, located at 581 Pine Ave. in Pacific Grove, California, is a historic house that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Also known as the Pacific Grove Inn, it was built in 1904.
36°37'11"N • 121°55'52"W
Asilomar Conference Grounds
Asilomar Conference Grounds is a conference center built for the Young Women's Christian Association. It is located east of what was known as Moss Beach on the western tip of the Monterey Peninsula in Pacific Grove, California.
36°37'4"N • 121°54'36"W
Trimmer Hill
Trimmer Hill is a historic Queen Anne style house at 230 6th St. in Pacific Grove, California that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It was built in 1893. It was built for medical Dr. Oliver Smith Trimmer, first mayor of Pacific Grove, and mayor for 20 years. It was listed on the NRHP in 1982.
36°37'22"N • 121°55'1"W
Centrella Hotel
The Centrella Inn, at 612 Central Ave. and other addresses in Pacific Grove, California, United States, is a complex of four historic buildings that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Laboratory • Universities and schools
Hopkins Marine Station
Hopkins Marine Station is the marine laboratory of Stanford University. It is located ninety miles south of the university's main campus, in Pacific Grove, California on the Monterey Peninsula, adjacent to the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

Day trips

Pacific Grove – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Pacific Grove, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Monterey Bay Aquarium (Monterey), Winchester Mystery House (San Jose), Santa Cruz Surfing Museum (Santa Cruz).

1.1 miE
Sprawling marine life attraction
Monterey Bay Aquarium, Monterey
Nestled on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is a window to the wonders beneath the waves and a jewel in the crown of Monterey, California. This celebrated institution is more than just a showcase of marine life; it's an immersive educational...
48 milesN
Quirky mansion with odd design details
Winchester Mystery House, San Jose
The Winchester Mystery House, a sprawling mansion with a labyrinthine layout, stands as an architectural wonder and a testament to the eccentricities of its owner, Sarah Winchester. Located in San Jose, California, this historic Victorian structure has captured the...
24 milesN
Museum, Specialty museum, Vernacular architecture
Santa Cruz Surfing Museum, Santa Cruz
The Santa Cruz Surfing Museum stands as a tribute to the rich history and vibrant culture of surfing in Santa Cruz, California. Nestled within the Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse at Lighthouse Point on West Cliff Drive, this museum offers visitors a glimpse into over...
31 milesNE
Theme park, Garden, Amusement park
Gilroy Gardens, Gilroy
Nestled in the scenic city of Gilroy, California, Gilroy Gardens stands out as a unique family amusement park dedicated to horticulture and educational themes. This charming theme park, known for its garden-centric attractions, is a delightful escape for families...
48 milesN
Sport venue, Sport, Arenas and stadiums
San Jose Municipal Stadium, San Jose
San Jose Municipal Stadium, a quaint yet historic ballpark nestled in the heart of San Jose, California, beckons baseball aficionados and leisure seekers alike. Established in 1942, this storied stadium serves as a testament to the city's rich sporting heritage...

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Best Time To Visit Pacific Grove

Learn when is the best time to travel to Pacific Grove weather-wise and what to expect in each season.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the top attractions to visit in Pacific Grove?

The top attractions to visit in Pacific Grove are:

What is the best time to visit Pacific Grove?

June and July are the busiest months in this location. The highest air temperature is in July, August, September and October. While the coldest is in January, November and December.