Day Trips
Tickle Pink Inn is perfectly situated as a starting point for fun and inspiring day trips to the surrounding towns of the Monterey Peninsula. Read on for our recommendations for the perfect day trip.
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
California has 280 state parks, and Tickle Pink Inn is less than two miles away from the "crown jewel" of them all— the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve.
Thought to be "the greatest meeting of land and sea in the world," Point Lobos is home to breathtaking views and diverse flora and fauna. That diversity spills into the activities available for guests to enjoy. From sightseeing, SCUBA diving, hiking and photography, the beauty of Point Lobos can be enjoyed in so many ways.
Begin your day with a hike on the Granite Point Trail. Here you may visit the Whaler Cabin Museum or take a break and enjoy the natural beauty of Whaler's Cove. You'll likely be able to see otters, harbor seals and more—at some parts of the reserve, visitors can also spot migrating gray whales from December to May! As Point Lobos is a State Natural Reserve and not a park, wildlife is given the utmost protection and visitors are asked to be conscientious guests to preserve the fragile beauty.
Local Tip: Parking within Point Lobos is limited, so be sure to arrive early. Not only will you have an easier time finding a spot, you'll also get to experience the trails with fewer visitors.
Highway 1 Dream Drive to Big Sur
Driving on Highway 1 is a dream drive that is on many traveler's bucket list—as it should be! The stunning views and the winding curves that follow the coastline make this a perfect day trip from the Tickle Pink Inn.
Join in the grand tradition and hit the road to Big Sur, which spans the Pacific Coast from Carmel to the coastal range of Santa Lucia. A fun day trip full of discoveries awaits, with rocky cliffs, towering redwoods, and surf as your backdrop. Dolphins, otters and even blue whales can be spotted from shore by keen eyes.
Your day has a treasure trove of wonders ahead. Stop for a stroll at Garrapata State Park, drive across the famous Bixby Bridge and stop for lunch at Nepenthe, a Big Sur Landmark that's known for their Ambrosia Burger, beautiful gift shop and lovely views. Take a short hike to feel the spray of McWay Falls or dig your toes in the white sand at Pfeiffer Beach before stopping for a beverage and snack at the Big Sur River Inn restaurant on your way back to Tickle Pink Inn.
Local Tip: Take it slow. Not only do you not want to rush past the idyllic scenery, but Hwy 1 is a two-lane highway that sees its fair share of traffic.
Carmel Valley
A quick 20-minute drive from Tickle Pink Inn will lead you to sunny Carmel Valley that's a favorite of wine enthusiasts and locals alike, and provides for a perfect afternoon outing.
No need for a car once you arrive—Carmel Valley's tasting rooms are a short stroll from each other. Visit Bernardus Winery, Joyce Vineyards, and Georis Winery to experience the flavors of Monterey County in an intimate, knowledgeable and friendly setting.
Once you've had your fill of sips and steps, stop in at one of the Valley's renowned restaurants. Taste tapas and small plates at The Wine House or try the Corkscrew Cafe for a sophisticated take on California's culinary scene served in a charming garden.
Local tip: Leave your car at the Inn and let the professionals guide you by booking a guided wine tour for an exclusive trip through the Valley. Our front desk staff is happy to help you book the tour that's best for you.
Carmel-by-the-Sea
Tickle Pink Inn's close proximity to Carmel-by-the-Sea makes it one of the most popular destinations for guests to explore. Spend a day (or two, or three) wandering through the many hidden nooks and crannies in this European-style village. You might find that getting lost unveils many great surprises.
In fact, in this charming village full of hidden courtyards and secret alleyways, you'll find one-of-a-kind experiences such as world-class dining at more than 60 locally owned restaurants, wine tasting, boutique shops, art galleries and live theater. You'll quickly discover why Carmel-by-the-Sea—and the world-famous white sand of Carmel Beach—remains one of the top destinations for discerning travelers around the world.
Local tip: Keep some of your time unstructured so that you may discover Carmel-by-the-Sea naturally. Between the shops, self-guided walking tours, and art galleries, you'll find plenty of reasons to linger—particularly once you discover the 20 wine tasting rooms that are all within walking distance of each other.
17-Mile Drive
Known as "one of the most scenic drives in the world," this drive along the coast of the Monterey Peninsula will introduce you to the wonders California's native wildlife, stunning scenery and history. This 17-Mile journey takes you through mystical forests, and along coastal cliffs and beautiful beaches, each stop a diverse and scenic snapshot of the area.
You'll begin at Carmel Gate, a quick 15-minute drive on Highway 1 from Tickled Pink Inn. From here, you'll witness some of Pebble Beach's most famous views, including the Lone Cypress, Seal Rock and Bird Rock, Fanshell Beach, Point Joe, and the renowned fairways of The Links at Spanish Bay, Spyglass Hill, and Pebble Beach Golf Links.
Local tip: Before you begin your adventure, stop at Bruno's Market & Deli, 5th Avenue Deli, or Nielsen Brothers Market in Carmel-by-the-Sea and bring a picnic lunch for a seaside dining at Seal Rock. This tucked-away beach is home to vibrant marine and bird life—the perfect venue for an unforgettable picnic and photo op.
