“I live in Pacific Grove and had walked right past Pavel’s many times (in the afternoon, when smells weren’t wafting out…). My Minnesota family came to town last week, and we made a point to visit all of the local favorites; this highly reviewed little Bakery certainly lived up to all of your recommendations, so thanks, fellow Yelpers!!

Prices weren’t posted, which is a shame, because Pavel’s pastries are so cheap and generously portioned, we may have scooped up even more if we’d known! Our chocolate croissant, donut, mixed berry danish and cinnamon roll came in under 10 dollars, and easily fed my family of five.

We’d already had coffee, and didn’t pick up a $1.50 “recession-proof cappuccino”, but will certainly try it next time.

As for the quality of the goods — best I’ve tasted since moving to The Monterey Peninsula a few years ago. Really, if you haven’t visited this little spot yet, you’re missing out.

Rock on, Pavel’s!”

Mmmm... remember to share!

On a starry summer’s night, in the quiet Carmel woods, “Beetlejuice,” a la Michael Keaton, makes his revival on the big screen.

‘Tis a Wednesday at 8:45 p.m., far later than normal operating hours in Monterey County, and here I am surrounded by rowdy college students, children in colorful pajamas, and pet-friendly locals (yes, even at a theater).

But this isn’t just any theater; it’s Carmel’s Forest Theater. ”The oldest outdoor community theater west of the Rockies” projects classic and modern movies onto a big inflatable screen, which is flanked on either side by ambient, toasty fire pits. The movies are sponsored by the Forest Theater Guild and run all summer as part of the “Films in the Forest” event, taking place between play productions of “Treasure Island” (June) and “Alice in Wonderland” (July). Thus, the giant tea cup and mushroom onstage.

My friends and I arrived early, not really knowing what to expect. Maybe a dirt floor to spread our blankets on? A field? Not the case! The Forest Theater has stadium seating, with benches, a stocked concession stand, raffle drawings, and an enthusiastic crowd (clapping during the good parts!?).

Perhaps what was truly the “icing on the cake” was the fact that it was June 14th — Bastille Day — a French national holiday! In celebration of it, a local theater volunteer was kind enough to share a French culinary spread, with everything from imported cheese to sparkling champagne. For free.

Prizes in the form of Mrs. DeLish’s cupcakes, a local treat, were given out before showtime to those who were knowledgeable enough to know the history of this momentous day. Thankfully for me, I at least knew the country that was in question and got the first cupcake. Well worth the effort. And luckily for everyone else, Mrs. DeLish’s cupcakes were available at the fully-stocked concession stand.

Movie time came and went, as did the sandworms, and I left with a smile. All in all, cannot wait to go again. It always makes me angry when I discover the local gems a little too late in the game. Therefore, don’t miss out! Movies end July 29th!

Tamatha’s Top 6 Films in the Forest Tips:

1. Directions: Take the Ocean Avenue exit off of Highway 1. At Junipero Street, make a sharp left onto Mountain View Road (you’ll see the signs for the Forest Theater as you turn). Head down Mountain View for awhile into the forest and you will eventually see the entrance for the theater on the left. Guadalupe Street is too far.
2. Admission is $6… but free for children under 10 years old.
3. Movies start at dusk and last for no more than two hours. However… ARRIVE EARLY. The theater opens for business at 6:30 p.m. Yes, that does imply two-point-something hours of sitting around. However, with the right food, beverages (alcohol is permitted), and seat cushion, you’d be surprised how fast darkness falls. Plus, parking at the actual theater is limited… so arriving early saves you a walk through the gnarly backroads of Carmel.
4. Dress warmly. This is Carmel after all. I’d advise a blanket… maybe even a sleeping bag if you dare. Or colorful pajamas?
5. Feel good about going. After all, profits benefit the Forest Theater Guild and The Michel Willey Youth Scholarship Fund!
6. During weekends in July, check out the Forest Theater’s production of “Alice in Wonderland.” If the onstage set is an indicator of the actual performance, then I have a feeling it’ll be pretty good.

For a list of movie showtimes and ticket information for “Alice in Wonderland,” check out http://www.foresttheaterguild.org/.

About the Author:

Tamatha Roman is an English-as-a-second-language teacher, recent MIIS graduate, avid “couch-surfing” host, world traveler, and a frequent VisitCarmel.com research-mission companion.

Check out more of Tam’s adventuresome contributions:

Vacation Karaoke: Because Nobody Knows Your Name

Four Ways to Watch: The Peninsula’s Best Movie Theaters

We Found the Carmel Nightlife, Baby

The MIIS Talent Show: Video Highlights

Carmel, California’s Elusive Public Restrooms

The upshot? I’m opening this space up to everyone else who loves, visits, or works in Carmel.

Do you want to rave about your favorite restaurant? Promote your business/service (for free!)? Write a “top-ten” article about Carmel Beach — just for the experience? Send along your text and photos, and I’ll edit and publish your content.

1. Articles/photos must relate to Carmel and the surrounding areas (Pebble Beach, Pacific Grove, Monterey). I want site visitors to find what they’re looking for, not an ad for a completely unrelated business in Ontario.

2. This is a family-friendly site. Keep it PG.

3. I may edit your content, or even choose not to publish it, but will always notify you of my intentions for your work.

4. Please include your name and status as a local/visitor/business owner with your work; we’re all about transparency here.

Please send submissions to:

Editor@hotelmarketingstrategies.com

Looking forward to hearing from you!

Katie

Maybe he gave the world’s best shoulder-rides, used songs and silliness to teach the times tables, taste-tested your first culinary experiments, explained philosophy and history on the way to swim practice, or forgave you for reverse-accelerating his Mustang into your grandma’s living room.

Dads are extraordinarily forgiving, but this is still a bad idea. Photo courtesy of www.stangpit.com

Maybe he sat through forty other kids playing chopsticks in a stuffy auditorium just so you’d get a wave and a thumbs-up from the audience; “Of course, your unique rendition of chopsticks was worth the wait.”

Prodigies in the Making

That, my friends, is unconditional love, and it’s payback time.

This year, Father’s Day weekend coincides with golf’s biggest, busiest event, The Pebble Beach-hosted US Open. You’ll save alot of money, not to mention your sanity, by waiting until next weekend to join your family on a sights and activities-packed trip to Carmel.

To help you along, we’ve created five guides for five types of fathers. Mix and match to your heart’s content, then check out 6 Ways to Celebrate Mother’s Day in Carmel, California for even more ideas.

Carmel Weekend Get-Away Plans for Five Types of Fathers

1. The Family Man

Uncle Dale: Grill Master

The devoted and selfless Family Man resists the celebratory spotlight, but secretly loves any holiday that unites his favorite people. He’s laid-back and appreciates tradition, so don’t mess with his annual Father’s Day backyard bbq. Instead — surprise him next weekend, or in a few weeks, with a mini-family reunion in Carmel; bonus points if you wrangle together out-of-state siblings, aunts and uncles. Choose a centrally located hotel with a pool and lots of rooms to serve as “home-base”, and accommodate diverse interests by breaking into smaller groups for area attraction-exploration, then meet up for dinner* at Il Fornaio or Forge in the Forest. Both spots are friendly, classy, and not at all stuffy; sound like someone you know?

* Always make dinner reservations for larger groups.

Related Articles:
We Found the Carmel Night Life, Baby
The Carmel Inns-by-the-Sea Flow Chart

2. The Outdoorsman

My fiancee and fish wrangling future father-in-law, Paul

School’s finally out; why are you being dragged out of bed at 6am? It’s fishing season, of course. You’re not nearly as thrilled as your dad, who woke an hour earlier to assemble your license, poles, tackle and maps, then managed to pack two meals, snacks, bottled waters, and a few sodas into a 6-pack cooler. He’s a man of the elements — prepared, determined, steadfast. Your hero.

Paul Teaches us a Lesson in Emergency First-Aid

Years later, you understand that those long afternoons on the lake and in the brush were about more than just conquering the elements and scoring fresh, tasty meals.

An expedition through Carmel and Big Sur, complete with horseback riding, fishing and whale watching tours, kayaking, hiking, biking, sailing, scuba diving, and Carmel Beach surfing says, “Thanks, Dad, for passing on your sense of adventure, your level-headed confidence and strong character — and for teaching me valuable everyday skills, like how to remove a rusty fish-hook from my index finger without fainting overboard.”

Related Articles:
5 Pacific Grove Parks and Regulations: Nothing Ruins a Picnic Faster Than a City Citation
Oh Deer! And More Central Coast Wildlife
Carmel Beach Surfing Tips from a Local Expert
Earth Day, Any Day: The Peninsula’s Top Ten Eco-Activities

3. The Big Kid-at-Heart

Zucchini's, on Cannery Row

He’s light, playful, and manages to turn even typically tedious errands into games. Not one to restrict the fun to his own family, he routinely shares his driveway basketball court, game room, and backyard paintball field with every kid in the neighborhood, and his little league coaching seasons are the stuff of legend. Child-like, but not childish, this dad is personally committed to exampling fair play, good sportsmanship, and universal respect, especially towards the young and soft-spoken.

Thinker Toys, Carmel-by-the-Sea

Reward your favorite fun-seeker with a spontaneous trip to Carmel, where he and your family can visit Thinker Toys — the area’s coolest independent toy store, play frisbee on Carmel-by-the-Sea Beach, imagine hilarious exchanges between Todd White’s wacky painted characters, indulge your inner prankster at Zucchini’s Tricks n Things on Cannery Row, shoot a few rounds of pool at Blue Fin Billiards, then head downstairs to The Cannery Row Pizzeria and Wine Cellar to try your hand at Karaoke, spend an afternoon exploring the Monterey Bay Aquarium, swap vacation stories with your trolley companions, and wind down with a family-movie night. You can’t go wrong with Toy Story 3 (98% fresh!), which is showing at Monterey’s Del Monte Theater in Disney 3D and Pacific Grove’s Lighthouse Cinemas in 2D.

If you don’t mind an extra 45 minutes on the road, set aside a bonus day for Gilroy Gardens, and bring this coupon for 1/2 off weekday passes in June and July.

Related Articles:
Four Ways to Watch: The Peninsula’s Best Movie Theaters
Vacation Karaoke: Because Nobody Knows Your Name
Like Cartoons? You’ll Love Todd White and Eyvind Earle’s Carmel Art Galleries
Kids in Carmel: Two Totally Unboring Art Galleries
Uncovered: Monterey’s Top 12 Cannery Row Coupons and Outlets

4. The Class Act

2010 US Open Contender Phil Mickelson, Keeping it Classy

His calm, unassuming demeanor belies a passionately intuitive internal compass, a steadfast commitment to quality, honor, and respect. Charismatic and authentically charming, he ignites spontaneous friendship wherever he goes. He holds the door. He carries quality conversations. He’s unstoppable with a 9 iron. Heck yes; he’s your dad, and he’s a class act.

You’ve always admired his tenacious initiative; seize this opportunity to show him you’ve been paying attention. It’s so easy. Carmel’s his kind of town.

The Carriage House Inn, Carmel-by-the-Sea

Classy trips needn’t be ridiculously expensive, and your dad prefers a quality experience over a pricy one, anyways. Focus on a couple of his favorite past times and experiences, set him and your mom up in the four-diamond, authentically styled Carriage House Inn, and explore Carmel-by-the-Sea’s boutiques and fine art galleries by foot.

Chateau Julien Winery, photo courtesy of www.bondmag.com

If your dad’s into golf, challenge him to an afternoon on Pebble Beach’s world-famous links, home to the recently-concluded US Open. More ways to experience quintessentially-classy Carmel: tasting your way through the Chateau Julien Wine Estate, dining in Carmel-by-the-Sea’s Casanova restaurant, investing in a Robert Talbott hand sewn silk necktie, and catching a performance at Carmel’s Sunset Theater.

Related Article:
Best of Carmel Close-up: the Winfield Gallery

5. The Professor

My Favorite Teacher

He might be an eccentric inventor, a pensive philosopher, an english literature lover, or a well-traveled cultural anthropologist. To you, he’s just “Dad — the best storyteller EVER.”

Thanks to him, you’re inquisitive, open-minded, and probably a lot of fun at dinner parties. The Professor thrives on unique learning opportunities, namely, exploring The Monterey Peninsula’s distinctive history and exchanging observations with like-minded theorists — like you!

Follow Old Monterey's Path of History to The Larkin House

For starters, check out The Carmel Mission, The Monterey History and Maritime Museum, The Pacific Grove Natural History Museum, The Monterey Bay Aquarium, and Old Downtown Monterey’s Path of History, and The Monterey Museum of Art.

The Carmel Coffee House on Ocean Avenue, Cafe Cardinale

Discuss antique shop highlights and rare book finds at Ocean Avenue’s Carmel Coffee House, grab a bottle of wine and chat with locals at The Carmel Barnyard Farmer’s Market, and relive dad’s legendary stories around a Carmel-by-the-Sea Beach bonfire.

Related Articles:
Coffee Shop Flow Chart: Get Your Fix Faster
Soulful-by-the-Sea
6 Ways to Celebrate Mother’s Day in Carmel, California

Wishing you were here, Dad. Happy Father's Day.

As you put the finishing touches on your Epic Carmel Vacation Plan, just remember, your dad’s an original, baby, and won’t fit neatly into a single type. Celebrate his quirks, inside jokes, and everything else you love about him — your way.

The Outlet Mall's Buried Treasure -- Cannery Row's Best Coupon Booklets

Clearly, an impromptu coupon test-drive followed by a full report back to our awesome visitors (you!) was in order. Here are The 2010 Book of $aving’s best deals, Tin Cannery highlights, lots of photos and extra insider-tips — because we love you, so.

Warmer... Warmer... Disco. The Coupon Booklets are Down this Corridor, on the Ground Floor.

Before we dive in, I’ll spare you loads of eye-straining small print with an all encompassing disclaimer — none of these offers can be combined with another discount, most businesses prefer that one person per day use a coupon, they all turn back into pumpkins at the strike of midnight (or at closing time) on December 31st, 2010, and only a real sleaze would try to pull a photo-copy switcheroo, right? So we don’t even have to go there. Stay classy.

The 2010 Book of $avings: Awesome Cannery Row Coupons

Discounted Summer Kicks at Nine West

1. Nine West $avings Coupon: 10% off any one item. CODE: 058402102. Not valid at Nine West specialty stores or ninewest.com. Not valid on previous purchases or purchases of gift cards. Not redeemable for cash or store credit.

2. Bass $avings Coupon: 10% off a purchase of $50 or more.

Nine West may sell the cutest kicks, but comfy sole-seekers are better off at the Bass outlet, next door.

Archie's Diner, Home of The Row's Best Garlic Fries

3. Archie’s American Diner $avings Coupon: 50% off second item/entree purchased of equal or lesser value.

You’ll get a kick out of Archie’s retro-1940’s vibe, and the atmosphere is family-friendly; the paper table cloths and crayons are the perfect backdrop for silly sketches, tic-tac-toe, and any other pre-garlic fries game you can think up.

It's Nothing Personal, Sharky

Imax Sharky Coupon: $2 off an adult ticket, or $1 off a child’s ticket to Ultimate Wave: Tahiti 3D.

vs.

4. Imax $avings Coupon: Purchase 1 full price Imax ticket, receive 50% off 2nd Imax admission ticket of equal or greater value.

Let’s do some Imath on this one. 2 tickets at $15 each = $30. With two Sharky coupons, $26, and with one $avings coupon, $23, and you can see any show. It’s nothing personal Sharky — we can still be friends.

Visit Central California's ONLY Full Dippin' Dots Shop. Those 4-Flavor Carts are for Sissies.

Follow the Dots to Some Seriously Nostaligia-Inducing Cups of Flash Frozen AWESOME

Crossing Abbey Road with the Dippin' Dots

5. Dippin’ Dots $avings Coupon: $1 off purchase of $5 or more.

I work at Dippin’ Dots Cannery Row every weekend (and painted the mural), so I can promise, coming from a place of utmost authority, that “Yes — those granulated rainbow pebbles ARE, indeed, ice-cream. Flash-frozen, mixable, ‘funky-preservative’-free, negative forty-five degree ice cream.”

They’re also delicious, which you may already know, thanks to childhood trips to the Santa Cruz boardwalk, just about any amusement park, Chicago’s Navy Pier, or Minnesota’s Camp Snoopy (holla). Unlike those nostalgia-inducing little stands, however, the Cannery Row location serves over 20 flavors, including a new (caffeinated) Mocha Cappuccino, a dairy-free Rainbow Ice, and the eternally best-selling Banana Split. Stop in for a sample… or two… or a cup — and remember your coupon!

The Smiley Orca Lady-Artist is a Hoot, and Amazing with Kids

Smiley Orca AND The Monterey County Youth Museum's Wheelie Mobilee. Now it's a party.

6. Smily Orca Face Painting $avings Coupon: Buy one face painting and get one FREE of equal or lesser value.

Visit Lisa at her Smiley Orca face-painting stand any Saturday, on the corner of Cannery Row and Prescott, and if you don’t have a second kid — use that coupon on yourself, big guy. You’re on vacation.

Rocky Mountain's Gourmet Candy-Apple Factory

Rocky Mountain Illustrates Reason #743 You Should Get Married on The Monterey Peninsula

7. The Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory $avings Coupon: One free caramel apple when you purchase any Gourmet Caramel Apple of equal of lesser value.

These aren’t normal caramel apples. They’re hand-dipped, multi-layered, generously-sized gourmet desserts, so take a box back to the hotel — where you can slice and savor them properly.

Wine Tasting, an Appropriate Prelude to the Mirror Maze and Blacklight Miniature Golf?

8. Scheid Vineyards $avings Coupon: Complimentary tasting for two with this coupon. ($20 value)

We’re all about FREE. Free wine — even better! Remember your I.D.

Try the All-Day Mirror Maze Challenge, If You Dare.

9. Monterey Mirror Maze Lazer Challenge $avings Coupon: $2 off a 5-pack combo: Unlimited Mirror Maze and Lazer Challenge.

Hey parents — unlimited-”lazer”-tag-induced early slumber for them, a night of rightly earned solitude for you. Winners all around.

Bubba Gumps, Cannery Row

10. Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. Restaurant and Market $avings Coupon: Complimentary Bubba’s “Far-Out” Dip with purchase of 2 entrees.

Watch the movie, first — you do know which movie, right? How old are you, anyways, readers?– then try to stump Bubba’s quizzical hosts and servers. Ice-cream contests, spontaneous song-and-dance processions and outstanding ocean views are commonplace here. If you don’t mind rolling up your sleeves and getting handsy with your meal, order the 1/2 pound “peel n’ eat” cajun steamed Shrimper’s Net Catch.

Coming this June to Cannery Row: Monterey's First On-Site Brewery!

11. Cannery Row Brewing Company $avings Coupon: One Free Dessert to share with two paid entrees. Limit TWO coupons per table.

The Cannery Row Brewing Company is Monterey’s first on-site brewery, and they allow two coupons per table, awesome. Only one hitch. It isn’t open yet — leaving only one possible explanation — we found a coupon from the future!

Really though, their coupon initiative is impressive considering Monterey’s notorious procrastination, which the city formally acknowledged in 1985 with a plaque titled:

“Grand Procrastination. This simple bronze plaque honoring the work of John Steinbeck was sculptured in 1938 by William Gordon Huff. It was dedicated that same year by noted Western historian Dr. Charles L. Camp with all the unwavering oratorical profundity which traditionally distinguishes this ancient and honorable order. It took 47 years, however, to get around to mounting it. Credo Quia Absurdum.

Rededicated and mounted at last on this 13th day of July, 1985.”

The plaque adorns one of the city’s historic Wave Street buildings — the very same building that The Cannery Row Brewing Company will soon call home. True story.

I have a sneaking suspicion, reinforced by their under-construction website, that the coupons aren’t early; the Brewery’s opening is late. Permanently-affixed homage to foot-dragging jokes aside, the local buzz is that this spot is worth the wait; I think you’re gonna dig it, too.

Candy World, and if You like Variety: Taffy Heaven

12. Candy World

It’s so big, you can’t help but feel like a little kid again. The best part? Thanks to Jelly-Belly style dispensers, some of which are full of actual jelly bellies, you can pick and choose between dozens of candies, creating a perfect grab-bag. No more putting up with inferior flavors sullying your sweet treats — I’m looking at you, green Sour Patch Kids. Another way to feel like a little kid, or Alice after one too many cake crumbs, for that matter….

One Last Silly Squeeze at the American Tin Cannery -- Don't get Stuck!

For the hyper-vigilante planners out there — I count myself among your proudly neurotic ranks — here’s the entire Book of $avings retail list. How good are the rest of the deals? You’ll have to pick it up and see for yourself… or send me an email; that’s cool, too.

2010 Book of $avings Retailers and Restaurants:

American Tin Cannery: Archie’s American Diner, Bass Shoes, Capt’n Ben’s, Enstyle 11, Izod, Monterey Bay Espresso, Pendleton, Mrs. Z’s Gem Lab, Mr. Z’s Fine Jewelry, Nine West Outlet, Oceans 18 Miniature Golf, Pet Pal’s Dog and Cat Grooming, VanHeusen

Cannery Row Shops: California Classics, Candles & Clay, Cannery Row Sardine Co, Charms by the Bay, Del Sol, Coastal Painting Gallery, Down Family Lane Gifts, European Jeweler and Goldsmith, For Garlic Lovers, Galleryi Fine Art, Great Things Home, la Dolce Vita, Let it Bead, Lids, The Light Garden Antiques and Home Decor, The Little Hat Shop, Monterey Bay Harley-Davidson, Jewelry Art N’ Stone, Pebble Beach on Cannery Row, Sand to Glass, Silver Sand and Stone, Sockshop Cannery Row, Steinbeck Jewelers, Super Silver, Tamara G Custom Jewelry Design, Tiny Dot Toys and Gifts, Z Folio Gallery, Zucchini’s Tricks N’ Things

Cannery Row Activities/Spas: Aqua Massage of Monterey, Doc Wenzel’s Old Time Portraits, The Energia Spa, GG’s Salon and Spa, Cannery Row IMAX, Mirror Maze Lazer Challenge, Smiley Orca Face Painting, Vista Blue Spa

Cannery Row Restaurants: Bubba Gump Shrimp Co, Captain Bullwacker’s Pub and Restaurant, Cannery Row Pizzeria and Wine Cellar, C Restaurant and Bar, Cafe La Strada, The Cannery Row Brewing Company, The Duck Club Grill, El Mariache Restaurant y Cantina, El Torito Mexican Restaurant, The Fish Hopper, Louie Linguini’s, Schooners Bistro on the Bay, The Sardine Factory, Blue Fin Cafe and Billiards

Cannery Row Wineries: A Taste of Monterey – Wine Center, Bargetto Winery, Baywood Cellars, Scheid Vineyards Wine Lounge

Cannery Row Treats and Cafes: Dippin’ Dots Ice Cream, Ghirardelli Ice Cream and Chocolate Shop, MYO Frozen Yogurt, Nestle Toll House Cafe, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Lilly Mae’s Cinnamon Rolls

*** Obviously, the top picks are skewed by my personal tastes, which inevitably reward the most entertaining, sugar-loaded, tipsy-making, juvenile-behavior-enabling businesses of the bunch. Enjoy.

Have a favorite of your own? Share it in the comments.

Related Articles:

Vacation Karaoke: Because Nobody Knows Your Name

Ten Trolley Follies, and How to Avoid Them

Cooking for Solutions with the Monterey Bay Aquarium, May 21-22 2010

Free Starbucks Coffee on Cannery Row Tomorrow: Happy Tax Day!

Hot Pink Flamingos and Beyond: A Sneak Peek Inside The Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Newest Exhibit

Four Ways to Watch: The Peninsula’s Best Movie Theaters

Centsational Post About Carmel: Carmel-by-the-Sea is for Me

The P.G. Farmer's Market, Lighthouse Avenue -- with Eventual Plans to Relocate to Central Avenue

Monday: The Pacific Grove Farmer’s Market
4pm – 8pm (summer)
3pm — 7pm (winter)
Lighthouse Ave. between Forest Ave. and 17th St.
Pacific Grove 93950

Head to P.G. on Monday for some Farmer's Market Flora

You’ll Love: These freshly cut flowers, especially the 50 cents-a-stem gerbera daisies.

I Bet You Know a Gerbera Daisy-Lover Who Could Use a Pick-Me-Up...

* According to the Monterey Herald, the Pacific Grove city council has unanimously voted to relocate the farmer’s market to Central Avenue, between Fountain and Forest, and halfway up Grand towards Lighthouse Avenue. Until the permits are changed, the market will remain on Lighthouse. I’ll keep you guys updated.

Pacific Grove Farmer's Market Map

Tuesday: The Carmel Farmer’s Market (May-September)
9am-1pm
3690 The Barnyard
Carmel, CA 93923
Monterey Herald Shout-Out

Carmel Farmer's Market Photo Courtesy of MontereyBayFarmers.org

Carmel's Market-Fresh Produce, Photo Courtesy of MontereyBayFarmers.org

You’ll love: Environmental crusader and bee-keeper Lynne Bottazzo’s organic Amen Honey stand.

Itty-Bitty Honey-Stand Photo Courtesy of MontereyBayFarmers.org

Carmel Farmer's Market Map

Tuesday: The Old Monterey Marketplace
4pm-8pm (summer)
4pm-7pm (winter)
Alvarado Street and West Franklin Street
Monterey, CA 93940
Reviews

Tuesday's Old Monterey Marketplace, on Alvarado

You’ll love: The delicious and broad selection of internationally inspired prepared food. OldMonterey.org elaborates, “Arts and crafts vendors come from around the world, selling treasures from Africa, Colombia, Mexico, Russia, Japan, China, and Yugoslavia, just to name a few.”

Browse Surprisingly Affordable Cashmere Scarves on Western end of Alvarado

“Our food vendors also serve up delicacies that are as international as our products serving up Indian, Japanese, Korean, Mexican, Mediterranean, and BBQ delicacies. In our Baker’s Alley you can find fresh pastries like baklava, European breads, cookies, muffins, pies, and cakes.” When in doubt, go for the gourmet cupcakes!

Smoky BBQ Goodness at Monterey's Farmer's Market

The Best. BEST. Root Beer Around.

Monterey Farmer's Market Map

Wednesday: Santa Cruz Farmer’s Market (Downtown)
2:30pm – 6:30pm
Lincoln and Cedar Streets
Santa Cruz, CA 95060

You’ll Love: The (ever-expanding) size, selection, cooking demonstrations, veggie valet, and unofficial but enthusiastic sitar-playing hippies. It’s a market for market-lovers, and you’d have to be; Santa Cruz is an hour’s drive north of Carmel. Ideally, you’ll plan ahead and pass through Santa Cruz on the way to, or home from, Carmel. Imagine the car-ride snacking opportunities!

Downtown Santa Cruz Market Photo Courtesy of SantaCruzFarmers.org

Santa Cruz Farmer's Market Photo Courtesy of SeasonalChef.com

Downtown Santa Cruz Farmer's Market

Thursday: The Monterey Peninsula College Farmer’s Market
2:30pm-6pm
Monterey Peninsula College
930 Fremont Street
Monterey, CA 93940
Monterey Herald Shout-Out

You’ll love: Kay Gatanaga’s roses, and the Community College’s ample public parking.

Kay Gatanaga's Roses, at the MPC Farmer's Market, Photo Courtesy of MontereyBayFarmers.org

Monterey Peninsula College Farmer's Market Photo Courtesy of MontereyBayFarmers.org

Monterey Peninsula College Farmer's Market Map

Friday: Local Grocery Favorites

Visiting during the only market-free day? If you’re dead-set on eating in, want some tasty locally prepared snacks to tide you over between meals, or spaced out and forgot to pack a toothbrush — resist the Walmart-urge; check out these independently owned groceries:

Bruno’s Market and Delicatessen in Carmel-By-The-Sea
6th and Junipero
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923
(831) 624-3821
Reviews

You’ll love: Bruno’s sandwiches — legendary among locals.

Bruno's Produce, Photo Courtesy of www.brunosmarket.com

Bruno's Deli Map, Carmel-by-the-Sea

Nielsen Bros. Market in Carmel-By-The-Sea
7th and San Carlos
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923
(831) 624-5939
Reviews

You’ll love: The huge wine selection and early-afternoon tastings!

Nielsen Brother's Market & Deli, Carmel-by-the-Sea

Neilsen's Brother's Map, Carmel-by-the-Sea

Grove Market in Pacific Grove
242 Forest Ave
Pacific Grove, CA 93950
(831) 375-9581
Reviews

You’ll love: The homey small-town vibe, and experienced meat department staff. Last year, they rightfully earned The Monterey County Weekly’s “Best Butcher Shop and Hometown Market” title.

The Grove Market, Pacific Grove, Photo Courtesy of Yelp.com

Grove Market Map, Downtown Pacific Grove

Troia’s Market in Old Montereyy
350 Pacific Street
Monterey, CA 93940
(831) 375-9810
Reviews

You’ll love: The rare international goods, and friendly run-ins with the market’s worldly neighbors — Monterey Institute of International Studies students.

Troia's Market, Photo Courtesy of Yelp.com

Troia's Market Map, Old Monterey

Saturday: Salinas Certified Farmer’s Market
9am-2pm
Main Street and Central Avenue
Salinas, CA 93901

You’ll love: The affordable prepared food (2 dollar tacos!) and ample picnic table seating.

Salinas Farmer's Market Hot Dog Vender Photo Courtesy of Flikr.com

2 Dollar Tacos at Salinas' Certified Farmer's Market, Photo Courtesy of Flikr.com

Salinas Certified Farmer's Market Map

Sunday: Del Monte Farmer’s Market (June-October)
8am-noon
Del Monte Shopping Center
1410 Del Monte Center
Monterey, 93940
Monterey Herald Shout-Out

You’ll love: The location. Post-market, spend a lazy Sunday afternoon browsing The Del Monte Center, and anything accidentally omitted from your grocery list can be snagged from Whole Foods — right next door.

A Still from the Del Monte Market's Televised Grand Opening

Del Monte Farmer's Market Map

Sunday: Marina Everyone’s Harvest Certified Farmers’ Market
10am-2pm
215 Reservation Road
Marina, CA 93933

You’ll love: The market’s dedication to the community and small-scale family farmers.

Marina Everyone's Harvest Market Photo Courtesy of EveryonesHarvest.org

Marina Everyone's Harvest Farmer's Market Map

Share your favorite markets and vendors in the comments; happy foraging, visitors!

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Service dates and hours of operation for The WAVE (Waterfront Area Visitors Express) , which loops around downtown (old Monterey), The Fisherman’s Wharf, Cannery Row, and The Monterey Bay Aquarium:

Memorial Weekend – July 4th

10am to 7pm daily

July 5th – Labor Day

10am to 7pm weekdays

10am to 8pm weekends and holidays

Service dates and hours of operation for The Carmel Trolley, which loops around downtown Carmel, Carmel Beach, Carmel Mission, and the Sunset Center:

Weekends Only + Labor Day

Saturday, July 4th – Monday, September 7th

10am to 6pm

*MST trollies are wheelchair accessible, and depart every 10-12 minutes.

Avoid These Trolley Follies:

1. Fumbling for you wallet. It’s free. The Free MST Trolley. Gratitude and courtesy are the only currency you’ll need.

2. Not practicing common courtesy. Treating everyone like your own grandmother/child/best friend is always a good idea. Go ahead, make their day.

3. Tuning out. Local tidbits, current attractions, and upcoming stops are piped through the sound system, so yank out those earbuds. Frequent riders are understandably exempt from this suggestion.

4. Taking the wrong trolley to the Aquarium… on purpose. There are a few occasions, notably at the Fisherman’s Wharf stop, where it may be tempting to take the first trolley that arrives. Yes, they all end up at the same place, but wait three extra minutes for the right trolley, and save yourself a 25 minute detour through old Monterey.

5. Forgetting the hours of operation. Missing the last trolley home is a major bummer. Scroll back up the “the basics” and take note. Your aching feet will thank you.

6. Sneaking food. The driver is your friend. They don’t want to hassle you, so don’t make them. Wait for your stop, then break out those delicious foodstuffs.

7. Not asking for help. About three quarters of your trolley compatriots are visitors; the others are area info gold-mines(hi!). Voice those concerns, ask for suggestions, and if you’re still unsure, ask your driver.

8. Rushing the door. Standard public transit rules apply:

a. Passengers exit.

b. New passengers board.

9. Not checking the routes ahead of time. You’re in a hurry and just missed your ride. Luckily, you studied these maps, walk to a nearby stop, and catch it on the flip-side.

The WAVE Map

The Carmel Trolley Map

10. Trying to flag down the trolley between stops. (S)he’s jumping, waving, stepping into traffic to catch the driver’s attention, and totally obnoxious. Frequent stops negate any need for these antics. Please don’t be “that guy”.

Have a favorite stop, trolley story, or travel tip? Share it in the comments.

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1. Enjoy Carmel’s Asiatic Outdoor Attractions and Zen Retreats

Chinese Lantern Flowers, Near Carmel Plaza

The Devendorf Park Koi Pond

Junipero, between Ocean & 6th
Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93923
Website

Look around with fresh eyes, and take in the area’s naturally asiatic features, which include Japanese lantern flowers, bougainvilleas, and bamboo. Give your journey a lucky-start with a visit Devendorf Park’s koi pond. The colorful breed, created during the Chinese Jin Dynasty, are technically just fancy domesticated carp, but when you consider the area’s circling hungry-sea-bird population, their “lucky” reputation is perfectly justified.

The Devendorf Park Koi Pond

Monterey Bay Zen Center and Sculpture Garden

Carl Cherry Center for the Arts
4th & Guadalupe
(831) 375-7826
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923
Website

Nestled into a residential area three blocks above downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea, The Carl Cherry Center’s Zen Center and Sculpture Garden encourage quiet reflection, and provide a sun-dappled respite from the hustle and bustle of your day. Wanna really zen out? Sign up for one of the center’s workshops.

The Carl Cherry and Monterey Bay Zen Center, Perched a Few Blocks Above Carmel-by-the-Sea, at Guadalupe & 4th

The Center's Peacefully Zen Sculpture Garden

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Unmissable Event: The 17th Annual Carmel Art Festival

Check Out Carmel’s Top 5 Eastern Eateries

1. Flying Fish Grill

Carmel Plaza
Mission & 7th
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93921
(831) 625-1962
Reviews

Carmel Plaza’s rustically intimate Flying Fish Grill is a local favorite, and a terrific value. The reasonably priced and generously portioned meals are created with love by the head chef, and owner, Kenny Fukumoto, and the knowledgeable and attentive servers guarantee an exceptionally memorable experience. The Flying Fish is popular year-round, so remember to call ahead for a reservation.

The Flying Fish Grill

2. Tommy’s Wok

Mission, between Ocean & 7th
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923
(831) 624-8518
Reviews

The delicious smells wafting from Tommy’s Wok hit you from half a block away, making its alleyway location on San Carlos a little easier to find. Many diners opt for take-out, but if you want to unwind, aren’t bothered by the small-ish dining room, and manage to score a window seat, you’ll enjoy an outstanding fountain courtyard view.

Tommy's Wok, Mission Street, Carmel-by-the-Sea

The View from Tommy's Wok

3. Sushi Heaven

Dolores & 8th
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923
(831) 625-2067
Reviews

Ask any in-the-know local to name Carmel’s best sushi restaurant, and they’ll direct you to Sushi Heaven. The lively, friendly owners, fresh Korean food, and reasonable lunch and appetizer options are only a few rockin’ reasons to visit. Check out these rave visitor reviews for even more.

Sushi Heaven, on Dolores

Sushi Heaven's Affordable Apps and Lunch Specials

Local and Critical Sushi-Heaven-Love

4. Hanagasa Japanese Restaurant

On 8th, between Mission & San Carlos
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923
(831) 625-4470
Reviews

We had trouble finding this extra-hidden gem, and according to their Yelp Reviews, we’re not the only ones. Carmel outlaws neon signs, but they should really make an exception for Hanagasa, which is nearly invisible from the street. Once you’re in, though, the authentic japanese food is top notch.

We've Got Hanagasa in Our Crosshairs: Study and Search!

Hidden Hanagasa

Hanagasa's Japanese-Style Sushi -- Worth the Search, Photo Courtesy of Yelp.com

5. Robata Grill and Sake Bar

3658 The Barnyard
Carmel, CA 93923
(831) 624-2643
Reviews

Locals rave about Robata’s sushi and drink specials, late hours, and Asian infused atmosphere, but we want to know if this hot spot is the real deal, as in –authentically Japanese. My willing and eager formerly Japan-dwelling friend puts Robata’s to the test and amiably grills our bartender, Toshi, in Japanese. We’re all charmed and delighted when Toshi, who moved to California from Sapporro, Japan eight years ago, totally schools her. He also shares Robata’s best dishes, like their deep-fried avocado, the generously portioned Kaissenn Maki, and The Crunchy Carmel — an outstanding salmon, cream cheese, and crunchy tempura shrimp sushi platter, created by Robata’s experienced, and also Japanese, sous chef.

Needless to say, Robata Grill and Sake Bar passed with flying colors.

Robata Grill and Sake Bar, in the Carmel Barnyard Shopping Center

Robata's Toasty Patio

Specials!

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3. Explore Carmel’s Authentically Oriental Arts and Antiques Scene

Lu Lu’s Silk Art Gallery

Mission, between 5th & 6th
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923
(831) 620-1122
Website

Traditional silk art, which requires meticulous training and patience, is increasingly rare, and we’re so thankful to LuLu’s Silk Art Gallery for spreading its beautiful history. The gallery’s pieces are woven with hand-split threads, using 40 different kinds of stitches, a process that the sweet representative enthusiastically shares with visitors, and photos just don’t do the craft justice; check them out in person!

Silk Art at LuLu's Carmel Gallery, Photo Courtesy of www.lulusilkartgallery.com

Conway of Asia

Dolores, between Ocean & 7th
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923
(831) 624-3643
Website

The adjacently situated Conway of Asia and the China Art Center form Carmel’s very own itty-bitty Asia on Dolores. Antique fans will especially appreciate the broad range of authentic and history-steeped pieces. The China Art Center prohibits photos of paintings, but guests are allowed to snap photos of other artifacts. Just be sure to ask first, as a courtesy.

Conway of Asia, on Dolores

Conway's Persian Rugs

Beautifully Detailed Antique Room Divider

Hand-Carved Shaving Brushes

China Art Center

Dolores, between Ocean & 7th
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923
(831) 624-5868
Website

China Art Center, on Dolores

China Art Center Interior

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4. Browse Carmel’s Asian-Inspired Home and Garden Treasures

Aslan’s Garden (and Gallery)

Lincoln, between Ocean & 7th
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923
(831) 624-1160
Review
Website

Aslan’s Gallery Representative mused, “I’ve been working here thirty five years. It takes locals twenty years to find us, and it takes tourists two days.” To that I say, thank you, Mr. Internet! It’ll only take you about two minutes. Walk along Lincoln, from Ocean to 7th, dart between and past the interior galleries, and you’ll be treated to a lush outdoor garden shop, packed with oriental knickknacks, inspirational messages, and brightly ornamental yard decor. The carved wooden wind-chimes are a nice change from their classically clanging metal counterparts, and the birds back home may not know the difference, but you’ll love watching them flit to and fro from their new, technicolor houses. The interior galleries are stocked with functional home art, like organically shaped marble sinks and cinnamon pots.

An Intricate Wooden Wall Hanging in Aslan's Gallery

The Secret Garden

Dolores, between 5th & 6th
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923
(831) 624-4955
Website

The Secret Garden and Pilgrim’s Way Bookstores’ attention to Eastern spiritual practices, and vast selection of philosophical how-to books, make this a must-stop for Karmic believers looking to expand their horizons.

Bring Home a Bonsai(!) from the Secret Garden

Pilgrim’s Way Bookstore

Dolores, between 5th & 6th
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923
(831) 624-4955
Website

The Pilgrim's Way Bookstore, on Dolores

Bonus Treasure Trove: The Mole Hole of Carmel

Mission & 7th
Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93923
(831) 626-1640
Website

Dig Dig Dig! The Mole Hole’s globe-spanning whimsical goods are your Carmel treasure hunt’s ideal finale.

The Mole Hole of Carmel

Looking into The Mole Hole

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Have you explored outside of the box? Tell us about your unexpected Carmel finds and favorites in the comments.

When it’s not too windy, Monterey’s Del Monte Beach is an ideal picnic spot. While you’re there, scope out the local Bay-life. We spotted a Southern Sea Otter yesterday, and followed it with our Flipcam for a couple minutes — check it out!

Southern Sea Otter Video (YouTube)

Sea Otter, Photo Courtesy of TylerCrockerPhotography.com

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Let’s Talk About the Weather

In fact, we’ve assembled the best Carmel eHow articles for you guys, with a little disclaimer — the four biggest reasons writers can’t stand the eHow information factory:

1. eHow rewards quantity over quality. Minimally researched how-to articles will always make more money than thoroughly researched original content.

2. They pay terribly. Sometimes referred to as a “writer sweatshop”, eHow promises limitless income growth opportunities, which may very well be true, but usually not for the people creating content.

3. eHow has complete control. Contributers send their work into the eHow machine, it gets tinkered with by editors, possibly makes it online, and can be taken down by eHow at any time. Back up your work, writers!

4. It’s boring. eHow is notorious for burning out writers, who thrive on projects that nourish their passions, autonomy, and creative growth.

That being said, we hope these six area info summaries make your trip planning a little easier — and maybe you’ll help a few underpaid writers pay the bills — that’s how we roll here at visitcarmel.com.

1. How to Plan a Dog-Friendly Vacation to Carmel-by-the-Sea

A Happy Carmel Visitor and His Person

2. How to Find Hotels in Carmel, California

Carmel-by-the-Sea's Dolphin Inn

3. How to Plan a Romantic Weekend in Carmel, California

Old Monterey's Fisherman's Wharf at Sunset, Photo Courtesy of www.TylerCrockerPhotography.com

4. How to Enjoy Monterey, CA

Check Out Monterey's Coastal Trails

5. How to Enjoy a Weekend in Carmel Valley, California

Honestly... It's Hard NOT to Enjoy a Weekend in Carmel Valley

6. How to Plan a Trip to the Carmel Missions

Aerial View Photo Courtesy of CarmelMission.org

Time for an info-pallet deep cleanse — check out these fantastic mass content how-to sites; they provide consistently well-researched, creatively written, and beautifully presented content.

1. HowStuffWorks.com

HowStuffWorks.com Screen Shot

2. Instructables.com

Instructables.com Screen Shot

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