10 PLACES FOR A PICNIC

It's that time of year to get outdoors and enjoy some of Monterey's famous natural beauty! Picture-perfect weather awaits, inviting you to indulge in the warmth of the coast and valleys and what better way to enjoy these moments than with a lovely picnic? Pack your basket and visit one of our favorite spots to spread your picnic blanket.

If you don't want the stress and mess of packing your own picnic, stop by Lady and Larder in Carmel Valley to pick up one of their picnic mini boxes, The Meatery in Seaside and choose between various fresh, made to order sandwiches or Alta Bakery in Monterey to grab some sweet treats.

Don't forget, while enjoying your picnic, please be mindful and keep our beautiful surroundings pristine for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to clean up after yourselves, dispose of any trash responsibly and leave the area just as beautiful as you found it.

1. Lovers Point Park

This Pacific Grove gem is one of the first choices that come to mind when brainstorming the perfect setting for a picnic lunch. With epic views of Monterey Bay and easy access to the beach and coastal recreation trail, there is something for everyone at your picnic party to enjoy. The barbecue pits are a bonus!

2. Point Lobos

To scope out some local oceanic wildlife while enjoying a high noon break, pull into Point Lobos off Highway 1. This favorite is home to sea lions, harbor seals, elephant seals and sea otters and is a year-round stopping point for orcas. Picnics are only allowed in the three areas with tables: the Whaler's Cove parking lot area, where you can admire seals, birds and scuba divers; the Bird Island area, where you enjoy a shady lunch with a view of the rock from which the area takes its name; and the Piney Woods area, which features both sunny and shady tables surrounded by the forest.

3. El Estero Park

If you don't mind sharing a bit of your lunch with some local ducks and geese then Lake El Estero is the place for you! Pick up a bread bowl to-go at nearby Fisherman's Wharf or set up a barbecue pit at the picnic area and enjoy the peaceful views of the lake and the willow trees dancing in the sea breeze.

4. Jacks Peak Park

A lesser-known option is Jacks Peak Park. This unique spot off of Highway 68 is perched near the top of the peak and has expansive views of Monterey Bay. Several picnic tables and grills are located near the parking area, perfect for lunch before or after a short hike.

5. Toro Regional Park

For a more inland approach to your outdoor fare check out Toro Regional Park in Salinas. This popular hot spot (literally, as temperatures in the sunny inland areas are much warmer than the coastal picnic options) offers several opportunities for outdoor fun including mountain biking trails, horseshoe pits, equestrian trails, volleyball courts and of course, picnicking!

6. Carmel Beach

Looking for a little romance? Head to Carmel Beach for a classy take on picnicking. Pick up some of your favorite local wine and cheeses for a sunset picnic and crank up the romance by snuggling next to a beach fire during sunset. If you want to bring Fido along Carmel Beach is also a great spot to let your pup run free and splash in the waves while you relax and enjoy the breathtaking views.

7. Devendorf Park

Located right across the street from Carmel Plaza, this park offers an expanded lawn surrounded by stone pathways, benches and shady trees. Although dogs are not allowed at Devendorf Park, this is still a great place to enjoy an afternoon stroll and picnic.

8. Laguna Grande Park

This park is located in Seaside and Monterey. The Seaside part of the park includes the lake, walking trails, barbecue pits, picnic tables, a playground and public restrooms. On the Monterey side of the park, it includes a walking path, playground and athletic facilities.

9. Moss Landing State Beach

The dunes at this beach make this a beloved destination for picnickers. They are vital to blocking the afternoon winds that could otherwise come up and disturb your peaceful setting. Moss Landing State Beach is also a popular bird-watching destination so be prepared to see brown pelicans, sea ducks, loons, grebes and seagulls, just try not to feed them. The beach is located off Highway One on Jetty Road just 16 miles north of Monterey.

10. Seal Rock Picnic Area

One of the stops along the famed 17-Mile Drive in Pebble Beach is Seal Rock. This is an excellent place to stop while en route to the Lone Cypress, Bird Rock, The Pebble Beach Lodge or Spanish Bay. There are several picnic benches at your disposal the hard part is just picking one! Don't forget that there is a $12 entrance fee to access 17-Mile Drive.