Historic Hideaway

Want to overnight right in the privacy of a seaside state park? Try the historic and woodsy Asilomar in Pacific Grove. This state-run ocean-front hideaway has hardwood floors and cozy rooms—with no phones or TVs to distract you. Spend an extra ten bucks and get your own fireplace. The tranquility and solitude are sweet enough, but here’s an added bonus: some of Monterey County’s best surfing lies just steps beyond your backyard. But make sure you return in time to fill up on breakfast—we’re not talking stale donuts and muddy coffee: you’ll get a full spread of fresh food here (all included with your stay). Other nearby activities are kayaking (thanks to a partnership with Monterey Bay Kayaks) and hiking the boardwalk along the Asilomar coast. For lunch or dinner, grab a bite at an old standby, the Fishwife. Their famous Fisherman’s Bowls and pints of draft are a great end to a turf and surf day.

Asilomar, 800 Asilomar Ave., Pacific Grove; 888-733-9005. Weekend rooms start at $121 for two guests.
Fishwife at Asilomar Beach, Sunset Dr. at Asilomar Ave., Pacific Grove; 831-375-7107.