Bed and Breakfast

Romance Destination: Central California Bed and Breakfast

Story Published on October 3, 2008 ⋅  Email this Story ⋅  Print this Story ⋅ Post a comment ⋅

Many travelers to California head north or south, but forget about all the fun to be found in the middle of the Golden State. Central California offers plenty of interesting attractions, from a historic castle to giant redwoods to miles of unforgettable seashore. There are lots of great Central California bed and breakfasts, as well. Here are some vacation ideas for travelers to this region.

Santa Cruz County has a wide variety of attractions, from museums to shops to outdoor activities. For more than a century, the Santa Cruz Boardwalk has been one of Central California’s most popular tourist attractions. Today’s guests will find arcade games, miniature golf, bowling, a wooden roller coaster that was built in 1924, and a carousel that dates to 1911. Travelers can view some of the world’s oldest and tallest trees at Big Basin Redwoods State Park.

The West Cliff Inn, located in a stunning restored Victorian, sits on a bluff above the ocean offering views of Cowell’s Beach and the nearby Santa Cruz Boardwalk. There are nine guestrooms, several with an ocean view. Some also have a jetted tub and all the rooms include a fireplace and king bed. Rooms are filled with amenities, such as luxurious linens, fine European bath products and fluffy towels, as well as televisions with DVD players. You can borrow a movie, book or board game from the innkeepers. A concierge service also is available, and the innkeepers are happy to help with restaurant and activity recommendations. In the mornings, a full breakfast buffet is served, and wine and hors d’oeuvres are set out in the afternoons.

As you head south from Santa Cruz, you’ll find plenty to see and do along Monterey Bay, which includes such notable spots as Carmel, Pebble Beach and Pacific Grove. Monterey itself is home to Cannery Row and the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Carmel, known as an artists’ community is famous for its many galleries, as well as its annual Bach festival. The event draws visitors from around the world. The 17-Mile-Drive from Pebble Beach to Pacific Grove is a sight not to be missed, showcasing the jagged coastline and cypress trees. Pacific Grove is home to several wonderful bed and breakfasts and has more Victorian houses per capita than any other U.S. city. Day trips from the area include visits to Hearst Castle. It’s a two-hour drive to the castle, located in the tiny hamlet of San Simeon, but as you must cross through spectacular Big Sur, it’s well worth the time.

At the Green Gables Inn, guests enjoy one of California’s best views and some of the state’s finest hospitality. The restored Queen Anne Victorian includes 11 romantic guest rooms, some of which are cozy quarters tucked up near the inn’s gables. Other choices include spacious suites in the carriage house. Several rooms include a fireplace or jetted spa tub and some even offer ocean views. The innkeepers provide a full breakfast buffet, afternoon wine and treats and freshly baked cookies throughout the day. There is a chocolate turndown service and beds are topped with fine linens, soft pillows and one of the inn’s signature teddy bears. Best of all, you just step out the door; cross the street and you’re at the beach!

The Gosby House is another memorable Pacific Grove bed and breakfast. The historic Victorian is painted a welcoming shade of yellow, and the interior is just as charming. Beautifully decorated rooms are a perfect catalyst for romance, and several have sitting areas with a fireplace. The Carriage House has two suites, each with a double spa tub, fireplace and balcony. This Monterey Peninsula bed and breakfast is just a few minutes from the bay in downtown Pacific Grove.

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