Central Coast California is the name for a picturesque area of Northern California and home to vacation hotspots Carmel-by-the-Sea, Santa Barbara and Santa Cruz . Tourism and agriculture are the two main industries here and the locally grown artichokes, lettuce and strawberries are enjoyed on dinner tables across the country.
 
Carmel is one of the crown jewels along the Northern California coast . This artists’ enclave is home to some of the finest galleries and restaurants in the state and offers boutique shopping, gourmet meals with wine tastings from local vineyards and stunning scenery at every turn.
 
A visit to the California coast would not be complete without a meandering trip down 17 Mile Drive through the Del Monte Forest and Pebble Beach golf course. For a $9.25 toll, sightseers can take a leisurely drive from Carmel to Pebble Beach while drinking in the intoxicating views of the Pacific Ocean and the lush homes surrounding. A can’t miss treat is the "lone cypress," the official symbol of Pebble Beach. Though much of Pebble Beach is a private club, The Lodge at Pebble Beach and the Inn at Spanish Bay are open to visitors as well as the restaurants at Spyglass Hill and Poppy Hills golf courses. For those wishing to dine alfresco, ample picnic spots are available along 17 Mile Drive and gourmet treats can be purchased at the Pebble Beach Market.
 
The sunny seaside town of Monterey Bay is just a short drive from Carmel. Visitors here can stroll along the water and see the sea lions sunning themselves on the rocks. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a world class aquarium dedicated to ocean conservation. From Fisherman’s Wharf to Cannery Row, dining and entertainment options abound in Monterey Bay.