Coastal Curators Contact a Coastal Curator

Wellness

Discover wellness on the shores of the Pacific with a delightful day of relaxation and exploration in Monterey. Begin your morning at Schooners Monterey with a nourishing breakfast of fresh-pressed juice, a refreshing fruit plate, and house-made granola. Then, head to the rooftop Vista Blue Spa, where you can borrow a yoga mat for a soothing beach yoga session, surrounded by the serene beauty of the coast. Afterwards, take some time to unwind in the spa’s outdoor eucalyptus steam room, allowing the invigorating scent to energize you for the day ahead.

Now that you’re energized and ready for adventure, head to Adventures by the Sea to pick up a complimentary beach cruiser bike and embark on a leisurely ride along the picturesque recreational trail leading towards downtown Monterey. Along the way, you'll pass public basketball courts, the Monterey Tennis Center, beach volleyball courts, and the Monterey Sports Center if you wish to continue with more recreational activities. Take a moment to enjoy a seaside picnic from Tidal Coffee and immerse yourself in a meditation journey on the soft sands of Del Monte Beach.

After your bike ride, return to the hotel and indulge in a rejuvenation massage at Vista Blue Spa, followed by some well-deserved downtime in our relaxation room. To enhance your spa experience, bask in the tranquil atmosphere of our oceanfront, rooftop hot tubs, and conclude your day with a relaxing session in the dry sauna, where the gentle warmth soothes your senses. As the day winds down, make your way to Coastal Kitchen for a delectable dinner featuring sustainable, locally sourced seafood.

Wildlife

From the moment you step into our hotel lobby, you’ll be captivated by the stunning wildlife that surrounds you. Gaze through our expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the breathtaking Monterey Bay kelp beds to see if you can spot any birds or animals. With a touch of patience, you might even witness a remarkable sight known as a "raft" – a group of sea otters holding hands, a heartwarming display of nature's harmony.

Stepping outside and strolling just one block to the left, you'll find yourself at San Carlos Beach, renowned as one of the world's most popular diving destinations. The flourishing giant kelp forest in these waters supports a vibrant ecosystem of invertebrates, fish, snails, and sponges. Keep an eye out for the fascinating marine life that call this place home, from jellyfish and starfish to octopuses and harbor seals.

As you continue your walk along the Coast Guard Pier, you'll encounter the fascinating realm of California sea lions, replete with their characteristic sounds and distinctive aromas. The Brandt Cormorant, an equally captivating species, also takes up residence here, often seen diving deep into the bay's waters in search of sustenance. These seabirds frequently perch on the Coast Guard Pier and our neighboring Aeneas Cannery building.

Following the scenic trail towards downtown Monterey, you'll arrive at Fisherman's Wharf, a hub of boat excursions that offer an array of adventures and captivating whale-watching expeditions. The Monterey Bay's unique geography welcomes various whale species throughout the year: humpback whales in spring, blue whales in summer, and gray whales in fall and winter. Orcas, displaying a variety of migration patterns, can be spotted all year round, ensuring that there's always something extraordinary to see.

For a more extended wildlife escapade, a short 20-minute drive south will lead you to the Point Lobos Wildlife Reserve. This state park boasts a diverse range of trails suited for all skill levels, providing the opportunity for an hour's leisurely walk or an entire day's exploration. With over 20 species of land mammals, including deer, rabbits, and the majestic peregrine falcon, you'll be immersed in a pristine natural environment.

Conclude your wildlife odyssey at the Pacific Grove Butterfly Sanctuary, where thousands of Monarch butterflies migrate annually from October through February, offering a stunning spectacle of nature's wonders. Your journey from the lobby to these natural wonders promises a memorable immersion in the coastal treasures of Monterey, and we are here to assist you every step of the way.