On June 18, 2012 my family decided to take a trip on our rented, 36 foot RV down the coast of California from Sacramento. We journeyed to Monterey Bay; a wonderful ocean side and city that impacted me greatly. There is so much to do in Monterey, that anyone who is an outdoorsy, ocean loving person will certainly have their fill of summer vacation in this one location.
We planned ahead and reserved an RV campground at Marina Dunes RV Resort located off of Highway 1. Staying there costs from $65 to $80 a day depending on how extensive you want your RV hook ups to be. The place was absolutely perfect and dreamy for any ocean lover. The beach was only a short walk away and had plenty of vacant room for anyone who enjoys peaceful solitude on the sandy shore. An added bonus to exploring the unending shores of Monterey was all the exercise you can get while sightseeing and having fun. There is such a variety of exercise opportunities such as hiking sand dunes, running along the shore, long walks, or even a pick up soccer game along the beach.
One of the most breath taking walks you can go on is in Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. With a budget friendly entrance fee of $10 and located only 20 minutes down Cabrillo Highway in Big Sur, you can hike or walk, climb or jog, while taking in one of the most majestic coastlines. Sitting off one of the high rocky cliffs, I saw several seals, sea lions, and even an otter! But sea creatures aren't the only wildlife you can find. Birds are everywhere and even deer scamper around every once in a while. Another neat place to sight see is from a low rock off shore where you can feel the mist splash on your face as the waves crash below your feet. Point Lobos is very beautiful and captivating in every aspect. I highly recommend taking a long walk down the path alongside the rocky cliff shore at Point Lobos.
My absolute favorite place to learn and discover would have to be Monterey Bay Aquarium. The price for adults is $34.95 and $21.95 for kids under 13. And although this may be pricey, it is well worth it. This aquarium exhibits around 550 species and is one of the biggest Marine Biology researching stations in California. This aquarium provides a lot of learning opportunities along with many extraordinary shows and hands-on experiences. In just a little over 175,000 square feet you can explore the unknown depths of the ocean in a video tutorial, see hundreds of fish swim and interact during a feeding show in a 1,200,000 gallon tank, discover the feeling of different kelp and starfish in one of the extraordinary touch pools, see the amazingly colorful and diverse jellyfish in the newly designed Jelly Experience exhibit, and so much more you can experience and remember for the rest of your life! I, personally, was impacted by the detail the Monterey Bay Aquarium staff put into their exhibits making them a fun and educational experience. I have always been interested in a biological field, but after taking this vacation and exploring Monterey Bay Aquarium I am looking forward to majoring in Marine Biology next year.
My adventure in Monterey only touched the surface of all the things you can see and do. Whether it is a family vacation, adventure or a honeymoon you are looking for, whether the budget is small or limitless, Monterey is the perfect choice.
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