The Pacific Grove center is approximately the area of Downtown Pacific Grove and 1 mile north of Presidio of Monterey.
One of the most popular times to visit Pacific Grove is during the summer. The weather in the area doesn't get too hot during July and August, thanks to the constant cool breeze off of the Pacific Ocean. The golf courses are open, the beaches are busy, and the boardwalks are packed with vendors. This is also when hotel prices are at their peak. If you plan to visit during the summer months, be sure to book your hotel well in advance to get the best deal.
If you want to enjoy summer weather without the crowds, come to Pacific Grove during the spring or fall. It's not as busy, but it is still very warm. You can enjoy average temperatures of about 70 degrees during the day, but it can get cooler in the evenings, so be sure to pack a sweater. Hotel prices are cheaper during the spring and you'll likely be able to get a great discount between March and May and September and November.
The winter is a nice quiet time to visit, but it is also the wettest season of the year. If you want to come to the area to simply get away from the bustling city living and to relax in a historic bed and breakfast, winter is the perfect time to visit Pacific Grove. Hotels rates are at their lowest during this period, and you can get yourself a great bargain on a boutique hotel or oceanfront inn.
If you're a AAA member, be sure to book yourself into the Rosedale Inn to receive up to 10 percent off of the regular room rate. Just be sure to bring your AAA or CAA membership card with you when you check in. Every room has a fireplace, an LCD flat-screen television, and a kitchenette with a microwave and refrigerator. Your stay also includes a complimentary continental breakfast.
If you're headed to the area with a group, be sure to check out the group discount available at the Holiday Inn Express at Monterey Bay. The hotel is located in the neighboring town of Seaside, about 3 miles from Pacific Grove. Depending on what time of year you want to visit the city and how many rooms you'll require, the hotel can offer up to 40 percent off of the individual room rate.
There are a plethora of hotels in Pacific Grove that offer excellent value for money. The Centrella Inn located right on Central Avenue in Pacific Grove is one of them. The hotel is a National Historic Landmark and offers guests that perfect Victorian experience without the huge price-tag. Rent bicycles from the front desk to explore the area or simply relax in the hotel's gardens. Make sure to wake up in time to enjoy the full breakfast that is included with your stay.
Lighthouse Lodge and Cottages is also a great value hotel in Pacific Grove. It's within walking distance of the beach and right next to Pacific Grove Golf Links. There is also an outdoor pool, a garden, free Wi-Fi, and a complimentary continental breakfast served each morning.
There is so much to do around Monterey Bay, you'll want to extend your stay. If you're a golfer, there's no doubt you've come to the area to see Pebble Beach Golf Course. It is consistently rated the number one golf course in the country and is open to the public. If you stay at one of the hotels at the Pebble Beach Resort, you can reserve a tee time up to 18 months in advance. If you do not stay at the resort, you need to call 24 hours before you want to play. If you can't get a tee time, head to one of the other nearby golf courses like the Pacific Grove Golf Links, which has great views and a much lower price tag per round.
If you've come to Pacific Grove for the beaches, get yourself over to Asilomar State Beach. It's the last strip of sand before you reach Pebble Beach. The sand is soft and the waves are gentle, making it a popular spot for families. If the weather isn't perfect for sunbathing, take a walk along the cliffside path which will lead you back into downtown Pacific Grove.
The Point Pinos Lighthouse is worth a visit while you're in the area. It is the oldest continuously operating lighthouse on the west coast and has been guiding boats around the peninsula since 1855. Take the tour to learn more about the history of Pacific Grove as well as the history of the lighthouse. Just be aware it is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, so plan your trip accordingly.
If you visit Pacific Grove between October and February, don't miss the wintering-over of the Monarch Butterflies. Bring a pair of binoculars and head to the Monarch Grove Butterfly Sanctuary to see these fragile creatures in action. It's mesmerizing for both children and adults. Just be sure not to touch them, as it is against the low and could end up costing you up to $1,000.
There are so many reasons to visit this wonderful seaside city. Whether you're looking for a luxury getaway with your spouse, a golf weekend with your friends, or simply a relaxing place to unwind like many people did back in 1875 when the town was first founded, you're bound to find plenty to love about Pacific Grove. There are hotels for every budget all located only minutes from beaches, museums, restaurants, and golf courses.
Below are reviews of the city of Pacific Grove, CA from an actual visitor's perspective.
Very dog friendly.
I liked the small town feel of the area. Nice, safe area to stroll and window shop.
Beautiful! Beach House Restaurant right across the street was excellent for dinner. Beautiful town! Beach accessible!
Love Pacific Grove!
The ocean!
I liked Pacific Grove First Friday Art Walk. Good art and interesting shops. Excellent restaurants like Wild Fish. Ocean View Road is beautiful.
Loved the area!
The closeness to the ocean!
The location is breathtaking.
The rooms were clean, staff friendly and helpful.Quite and peaceful. Meet many friendly people.
The ocean!
Several excellent restaurants.
Beautiful views, good food, lots to do!
Great eateries, walkable, beautifully maintained.
The quaint streets, well kept gardens along the pathways, pet friendly, walking and biking paths, beach accessibility, eatery variety, grocery stores, short drive for major shopping area.
Beautiful and peaceful.
Beautiful and peaceful area.
Love the walk along the seashore, Monarch Butterfly Reserve and the great food.
Pacific Grove has everything for decompressing--charming homes, wonderful restaurants and fun boutiques, book stores and thrift stores. Best of all, the coastal trail goes right along the bay in the Pacific Grove area.
Beautiful area, clean, lots of eateries.
Everything was within walking or a very short distance drive. The morning view was priceless.
I love being close to the ocean and beaches, especially Asilomar!
The coastline is spectacular.
Safe, clean, friendly.
Very quaint, small seaside town. Very comfortable there.