Food & Wine,  Travel

Ten Most Romantic Picnic Spots in Monterey County

Photo @aesthetic_and_inspiration_

Monterey County is filled with so much history and beauty. It can be overwhelming with so much to see and do. Inbetween all the sight-seeing and activities, you may want to just regroup, find a quiet spot to relax and eat lunch, or just unwind with your love(s). Picnic lunches offer the perfect opportunity for this. Whether you pack your own or grab take out, these are the very best places for intimate and romantic picnics.

  1. Lovers Point. Nestled next to the sea, this area features striking views and intricate rock formations. For more information see Lovers Point: Legendary Park in Pacific Grove.

2. Moss Landing. Wildlife is abundant here, including sea lions, sea otters, whales, and a plethora of birds. What better place to enjoy the scenery with a picnic lunch? For more information, see Elkhorn Slough & Moss Landing.

3.  San Carlos Beach & Breakwater Cove.  Located just north of Cannery Row in Monterey, this area offers a view of all the fun ocean activities available here.  You can claim a picnic table or bench and watch scuba divers, kayakers, and fishermen from the beautiful shoreline.  For more information see Cannery Row: What to See & Do!

3. Point Lobos. Magical and serene, this is one of the most popular attractions in the area. Captivating views surround you, creating a most romantic scene for an unforgettable picnic. For more information, see Point Lobos: Crown Jewel of State Parks.

4. Carmel Beach. Enjoy a cozy bonfire on the beach and snuggle under a blanket while enjoying a lovely picnic at this unforgettably gorgeous beach. For more information see Quarantine in Captivating Carmel-by-the-Sea.

5. Asilomar Beach. Follow the boardwalk to this secluded cabana and enjoy the sunset with a picnic lunch and a bottle of wine. For more information, see Asilomar Beach.

6. Garrapata Beach in Big Sur is breathtakingly romantic. Follow the beach until you see Doud Creek as it rushes into the sea. If you follow the creek inland, you will find exquisite masses of calla lilies blooming in early spring. For more information, see Calla Lily Valley’s Springtime Beauty.

7.  Pebble Beach.  After a few rounds of golf or a day of sight-seeing, bring a picnic lunch to the Seal Rock picnic area in Pebble Beach and enjoy the views.  Be aware that it can be quite cool and gusty here, be sure to bring cozy jackets and blankets.  For more information, see Pebble Beach & 17-Mile Drive’s Beautiful Vistas.

8. Pfeiffer Beach in Big Sur. In late December through early January, there is a seasonal alignment of the sun with the Keyhole Arch here. What could be more romantic? Be prepared for amazing views. For more information, see Purple Sand & Stone Arches at Pfeiffer Beach in Big Sur.

9.  Sand Dollar Beach in Big Sur.  No sound but the ponderous crash of waves as the break on to the beach and the whispering of the wind through the foxtails.  Jagged cliffs plunge recklessly below to the sea.  This is wild Big Sur at its best.  The perfect place for a romantic picnic.  For more information, see Sand Dollar Beach & Jade Cove in Big Sur.

10. Pinnacles National Park, located in the southeast corner of Monterey County, is well worth the trip. The result of volcanic activity millions of years ago, the park features spectacular rock formations, caves, and in the spring, waterfalls. Native Americans left stone artifacts here 2000 years ago. There is a feeling of the sacred here even now. Pinnacles is the perfect place to take in nature’s beauty and serenity while enjoying a picnic. For more information, see Pinnacles.

Thank you for visiting my blog!  I hope you are able to enjoy a picnic at one of these beautiful and romantic places in Monterey County.  Wishing you peace, love, happiness & beautiful vistas.

Living life simply on a small farm in Monterey County.