I can still clearly remember the first trip, I ever took alone. I was scared out of my mind, in fact, I became physically ill. Yet, I made the hotel and airline reservations, packed my bags and set off.

THE DRIVE TO CARMEL ALONG HWY. 1

I decided to go to Carmel and Big Sur California because I had heard so many great things about both places and, I love the ocean. I'm one of those people who loves the beach and cooler temperatures. I flew into San Francisco International airport and then rented a car for the drive to Carmel. I jumped on Hwy 101 South and headed toward Carmel.

You'll encounter some amazing scenery and towns while making the drive south, so I would advise that you allow time for stops. I would suggest arriving on a morning flight to San Francisco and giving yourself the majority of the day to explore. After driving for about 40 minutes, the first town that I happened upon was, Half- Moon Bay, California. This town sits on the Pacific Ocean on the coast of San Mateo County, California and known for the best restaurants, family friendly farms, beaches and surfing to name a few.

I had heard great things about the Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay, so I stopped there for lunch. The hotel offers three restaurants for dining, and I choose the Ocean Terrace because I wanted to sit outside and enjoy the sounds of the crashing waves. This terrace had the most amazing view of the ocean, that I'd ever seen. After dining for a couple of hours and enjoying the view, I continued on to Carmel.

The next town where I stopped was Santa Cruz. Santa Cruz is known for it's famous boardwalk, its beaches, hiking trails and the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum. If you haven't had lunch before getting to Santa Cruz, the Picnic Basket comes highly recommended and it's located across the street from the boardwalk. I didn't stay long in Santa Cruz, but I did have the opportunity to enjoy the boardwalk and people watch for a bit.

There are two things I must mention about drive down the coast. Firstly, you must stop and take pictures because the view is breathtaking. It's as if the sky and ocean are one (like they melted into each other on the horizon). Secondly, just take the time to enjoy the view. I literally have no words to describe the beauty of the ocean, the seagulls and the other marine life that you'll see.

Monterey, California was my next stop before reaching Carmel. Monterey is well know for its Monterey Bay Aquarium, Old Fisherman's Wharf, Cannery Row and a park called Lover's Point. Since Monterey is a mere fifteen minutes from Carmel, this can be the perfect day trip.

CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA

I stayed at the Coachman's Inn Carmel, a small boutique hotel, that's located five minutes from the beach, many restaurants, cafes and the Carmel Plaza Stores. The inn used to offer a complimentary breakfast and wine and cheese in the evening, yet now they offer a picnic basket to go, which can be enjoyed on the beach. My room was super comfy with amazing linens and a fireplace. After checking in, I decided to walk to the beach to just enjoy the ocean, and it was spectacular. Just sitting by the ocean and watching the sunset with the orange, yellow and gold colors reminded me of the goodness of God.

After a great night's sleep, I headed out the next morning to explore Carmel. After walking a short distance, I ate breakfast at a local restaurant called Katy's Place. They have the largest menu of omelettes and benedicts in California. I had an omelette and coffee and the food was outstanding! My other recommendations for breakfast are Village Corner Bistro, The Cottage Restaurant, Carmel Coffee House (best coffee), Carmel Bakery and Lafayette Kitchen and Cafe.

BIG SUR

After breakfast, I headed out to explore Big Sur. The drive to Big Sur is around forty minutes from Carmel. I must advise, that it is mostly a two lane highway and the roads are very narrow, so please execute extreme caution when driving. There are places to stop on the side of the road to appreciate the view and take photos (do not stop in the middle of the highway -- I've seen people do this and it's very dangerous).

You definitely won't miss the Bixby Bridge, because it's the unofficial entryway into Big Sur, California It's kind of like what the Golden Gate Bridge is to San Francisco. It's an amazing structure that was completed in 1932. There are plenty of places to stop and take photos of this iconic piece of history.

My next stops were Julia Pfeiffer State Park, several beaches (if you're lucky you'll see whales near the shoreline or a condor flying above) tons of sea otters and seals. The view of this coastline is unparalleled to any other that I've had the pleasure of seeing. The other sights that I recommend seeing are Hearst Castle (it's farther up the coast in San Simeon ), Esalen (It's a retreat center that offers classes) and it's perched on a rugged cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

I've been out for a few hours and I'm heading to the renowned restaurant Nepenthe. Nepenthe sits on a cliff overlooking the ocean, giving a view that only a bird would otherwise see. The view offers the fogged mountains and the blue of the ocean below. I'd recommend going here just for the view, but I must say the food was delicious. I had the Ambrosia burger and coleslaw for lunch and it's by far one of the best meals I've ever had. The offer and extensive menu that fits many dietary needs. After lunch, I sat enjoying the view for a few hours, heading back to Carmel-by-the-Sea, before nightfall. I didn't feel comfortable driving on Highway 1 at night, because it's a very winding and narrow road, yet use your own discretion.

If you are staying in Big Sur longer, I'd recommend staying at the Post Ranch Inn, Ventana Big Sur, and Ragged Point Inn and Resort.. They are both amazing hotels with great restaurants. The Post Ranch Inn boasts Sierra Mar and Ventana Big Sur boasts The Sur House. The Ragged Point Inn is approximately fifteen minutes from Hearst Castle, and offers amazing views of the Pacific Ocean below. Also, another great place for breakfast and lunch is Big Sur Road House.

I choose to eat at La Bicyclette restaurant, in Carmel, for dinner, and it was a great choice. La Bicyclette is a french restaurant that also offers wood fired pizzas. I had the salmon dish, which was cooked to perfection. I'd also recommend dining at La Balena (Italian) and Akaoni (Sushi).

I recommend traveling to Carmel-by-the-Sea in March or October. During this time you are really likely to see migrating whales and the weather is sublime. I suggest packing the following:

My trip only lasted for three days, yet I had an amazing time. I will definitely go back soon.

Also, before leaving Carmel-by-the-Sea, you must take the 17-mile drive through Pebble Beach and see the Monterey Aquarium.