Pacific Grove (4 miles or 12 minutes from De Anza Inn)

The coastal community of Pacific Grove is only a few miles from De Anza Inn, perfect for exploring Victorian-era houses, charming B&Bs, and the historic Point Pinos Lighthouse, the oldest continuously operating lighthouse on the West Coast since 1855. Stroll along Lighthouse Avenue to discover great dining options, and don’t miss the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary, where thousands of butterflies gather from October through March. Other highlights include the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History, 17-Mile Drive, Pacific Grove Golf Links, and the Asilomar State Marine Reserve. For scenic views and photo opportunities, drive along Ocean View Blvd to visit Lover’s Point Park, the Kissing Rock, and the John Denver Memorial.

Carmel (5.5 miles or 10-15 minutes from De Anza Inn)

Known for its art galleries, fairytale cottages, and dog-friendly atmosphere, Carmel-by-the-Sea offers a picturesque escape just minutes from De Anza Inn. Discover unique spots like the Carmel Mission Basilica Museum and the Clifton Walker House by Frank Lloyd Wright, or take a self-guided tour of the famous fairytale houses with the VoiceMap app. Carmel’s high-heel ban adds a quirky touch to this seaside town’s charm. For foodies, Carmel Food Tours offers a Small-Group Food and Wine Walking Tour to sample local flavors.

Big Sur (30 miles or 45 minutes from De Anza Inn)

Experience the rugged beauty of Big Sur, just a scenic drive along Highway 1 from De Anza Inn. Known for its towering seaside cliffs and breathtaking vistas, Big Sur offers numerous state parks and scenic lookouts perfect for hiking, camping, and beachcombing. Highlights include the famous Bixby Bridge, Pfeiffer Beach with its iconic Keyhole Rock, and Sand Dollar Beach for surfing and fishing. Limekiln State Park combines forest trails with a historic lime kiln and a beautiful beach.

Carmel Valley (16 miles or 24 minutes from De Anza Inn)

Just a short drive from De Anza Inn, Carmel Valley is a wine lover’s paradise. Explore renowned wineries like Cowgirl Winery, Georis Winery, and Bernardus Winery, each offering unique tasting experiences. Enjoy fine dining at the Carmel Valley Chophouse, a favorite for steaks and wine pairings, or visit the Moto Talbott Motorcycle Museum, home to over 170 iconic motorcycles from around the world.

Salinas (17 miles or 24 minutes from De Anza Inn)

Salinas, known as the “Salad Bowl of the World” for its rich agricultural landscape, is a short drive from De Anza Inn. As the hometown of Nobel laureate John Steinbeck, Salinas has a literary legacy and is the setting for many of his famous works. Visit the Salinas Sports Complex, home of the California Rodeo, or catch a game at the Rabobank Stadium, a state-of-the-art venue for soccer, football, and rugby.