Monterey

Located two hours south of San Francisco and 5 1/2 hours north of LA, Monterey retains the charm of a small town while boasting some of the best dining, shops and attractions on the Central Coast.

Cannery Row, immortalized in the 1945 John Steinbeck novel, is one of Monterey's top attractions. Today, Cannery Row's sardine factories are now home to quirky shops, chain restaurants and posh hotels. Monterey Bay Aquarium, housed in historic Hovden Cannery, is a must-see attraction. A downstairs exhibit displays Steinbeck memorabilia and vintage sardine machinery.

We stopped for lunch at Old Fisherman's Grotto, known for its fresh cracked crab and the best clam chowder in Monterey. I have to say, it lived up to its reputation.

For a great locals-style breakfast, pop in to Old Monterey Cafe on Alvarado Street.

Next, rent a surrey from Bay Bikes and explore Monterey State Historic Park, just a few blocks up the street. You'll find some of the best preserved adobes in California here, including Custom House, built by Mexico in 1827 for sea trading, and California's First Theatre, built in 1846 as entertainment for local sailors. California's first state constitution was drafted at Colton Hall in 1849.

When booking Monterey hotels, plan well in advance. The town books up quickly in September during the Monterey Jazz Festival and in June during the Monterey Blues Festival.

Looking out at the pristine protected waters of Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, it's easy to fall in love with this stunning coastal getaway.