For this gathering of the family, we wish to provide ample opportunity to strengthen our ties and friendships. We are arranging several group activities for Wednesday and Thursday to allow us to deepen our connections with each other by sharing new experiences. Each recreational activity offers an opportunity to experience a special or unique aspect of Monterey and its environs. One of our family will serve as a leader for each activity to provide information, direction and assistance as required. We hope you will review the information on this page, check out a few of the links, and come along with us on an adventure that's sure to teach all of us something new about ourselves, each other, our family and our world.

The Monterey Bay Aquarium is the leading institution for study and observation of the diverse yet unique ecosystem that is Monterey Bay. Just a short walk from our hotel, the aquarium offers spectacular exhibits containing a vast array of sea life. Ideal for children of all ages, our visits to the aquarium will include a behind-the-scenes tour and lunch in the aquarium cafeteria. Aquarium admission with tour is $28 (child 3-12 years), $38 (minor 13-17), and $40 (adult). Lunch is extra. We plan to offer aquarium tours both Wednesday and Thursday. We ask that children be accompanied by an adult.
	Experience the Best of the West by taking a horseback ride along the Big Sur River to the Pacific Ocean and Andrew Molera State Beach. Ride along the white-sand beach to the sound of crashing waves while gazing south to the majestic Big Sur coastline. A local guide and experienced family riders will accompany us, so all levels of experience are welcome. Children must be at least 6 years old and accompanied by an adult. Pregnant women are not eligible. Cost is approximately $70 per person plus lunch. Wednesday only.
Get to know the next big California wine destination on a full-day tour of the Salinas Valley. Our group will visit four wineries in the Santa Lucia Highlands AVA (American Viticultural Area) that is becoming increasingly famous for its Chardonnay and Pinot Noir vintages. We will have an opportunity to taste wines, tour winery facilities and take a short walk in the vineyards. A picnic lunch is included. Cost is $125-150 per person, depending on the number subscribing to the tour. All participants must be at least 21 years of age. The full-day tour is Wednesday. An abbreviated, half-day tour may be available Thursday if enough persons express interest.
	Meet the world's larger mammals on a half-day excursion into Monterey Bay. Humpback Whales and Blue Whales migrate to central California waters each year to feed during summer and fall, and Monterey Bay is a prime feeding location for these whales. It is also common to see various species of dolphins and even orcas. Learn about these fantastic animals, their habits and habitats from an accompanying marine biologist. Cost is $45 for adults, $35 for children (under 12). Morning excursions (departing 9:00 a.m. for 4-5 hours) are available Wednesday and Thursday. An afternoon excursion (departing 2:00 p.m. for 3-4 hours) is available Wednesday, returning about 6:00 p.m.
Self-propelled adventure awaits right across the street from our hotel! Take to the water in a sea kayak for a tour of Monterey harbor and the coastline, or ride a bicycle along the Coast Trail to Pebble Beach. Guided 2-3 hour sea-kayak tours are availalble for roughly $50 per person, and include a local guide knowledgeable about the wildlife you will see on the tour. For the self-motivated, kayak rental is $30 per person for the day, including instruction. Bicycles are available with helmet and lock for $25 per day. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Be advised, coastal weather can be cold and damp - even in July. Available full-day Wednesday, half-day Thursday, or at your leisure.
	The quaint village of Carmel by the Sea is tucked amid the cypress just above the rocky coast south of Pebble Beach and just a few minutes' drive from our hotel. A haven for artists, artisans and afficionados, Carmel offers a dense collection of galleries, shops and restaurants in a pleasant, accessible setting. You'll have the opportunity to peruse all types and genres of art and craft, enjoy a sophisticated lunch, and find a comfortable place to sip a relaxing tea or your favorite libation. Carmel has something unique for everyone, and should not be missed - especially if someone is hoping for a special gift when you return home.
Tee off into some of the most spectacular scenery on the planet. Join fellow golfers for an experience you're not likely soon to forget: playing a world-class course on the Monterey peninsula. Famous courses such as Pebble Beach (right) or Spanish Bay (left) can be as challenging and enjoyable as they are pricey. For frugal fun, why not try the Pacific Grove Municipal Golf Course for less than $50 a round? Same ocean, same views, fewer fashion faux pas. We'll arrange this one based on demand. Club rental extra.