Monterey car week makes its grand return on August 6th through the 15th for 2021. There is a multitude of events to attend from the auctions, to driving tours and the Pebble Beach Concours just to name a few. The question is, where does your Monterey, California adventure start? Not to worry, we curated a list of great recommendations to help you plan and even found some cool rental cars in the area.
Sightseeing in Monterey: Additional adventures
Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion at The WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca
On August 12th through the 15th, take a trip back in time to the Laguna Seca Raceway and check out race cars from all eras of automotive history. These race cars are not just on display – You can see (and hear) the cars roar to life on the track! Walk the hallowed grounds of the paddock and follow the footsteps of racing legends such as Dan Gurney, Bobby Rahal, and many others. This year’s feature is Ford in Trans-Am, celebrating the 55th Anniversary of the Pony Car Wars. Come on out and see Monterey Car Week’s ultimate celebration of motorsports past!
Moto Talbot Motorcycle Museum
Situated in nearby Carmel Valley, Moto Talbot is a must-see for motorheads. Check out the largest motorcycle collection on the west coast, made up of over 170 motorcycles from 17 different countries. See rare memorabilia and motorcycles ranging from dazzling Ducati’s to priceless barn finds. Moto Talbot is open Thursday through Sunday from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Concours d’Lemons
Check out the west coast edition of the ultimate car show of the unexceptional on August 14th from 8:00 AM to 1:30 PM. Concours d’Lemons is coming to town to troll on the Pebble Beach Concours. Tour the show field situated at Seaside city hall and embrace the malaise. Participants have the chance to win special awards, such as Slightly Better Than a Go-kart, Sight for Sour Eyes, Driving on a Prayer, and much more! Lemons is a free, fun and lighthearted show for all ages. Stick around and see which car wins the coveted title of Worst in Show.
Drive Carmel-by-the-sea
While you are in the area for the Pebble Beach Concours, take a cruise to Carmel-by-the-sea, a small beach city on the Monterey Peninsula that is home to a private, breathtaking 17-mile winding drive in which motorcycles are banned. The cost of admission is $10.75, and we believe it’s worth every penny! Take your time and enjoy the rocky beaches, exquisite homes, and scenic overlooks.
Cannery Row
Immerse yourself in Monterey culture at Cannery Row. This vibrant historic district gets its name from the many sardine canning factories that used to line the street. Cruise down the row and check out the eclectic shops. Come hungry, as Cannery Row has a diverse choice of eateries, many with outdoor seating.
Sight Seeing in Monterey: Great Eats
Crystal Fish
Discover the delicious fusion cuisine that has put California on the culinary map. Crystal Fish takes immense pride in sourcing out the freshest fish from local fisheries. Enjoy traditional Washoku dishes such as sashimi, tempura and teriyaki or change things up with a modern fusion dish. No matter what direction your meal takes you, don’t forget to indulge in a slice of tempura cheesecake!
Bistro Moulin
Enjoy a taste of France at Bistro Moulin, a favorite of both locals and travelers alike. This family-owned restaurant has been a steeple of downtown Monterey for over a decade. Delve into a delicious menu of French favorites in a cozy and casual atmosphere. Dinner is served at Bistro Moulin from 3:30 PM to 8:30 PM with indoor and outdoor seating, reservations strongly encouraged and take-out options are available. Bon Apitite!
Sandbar & Grill
Go where the locals meet to eat, the Sandbar & Grill uniquely hangs right off the pier on Municipal Wharf #2. Guests are treated to fresh seafood fare and views of the bustling marina. A perfect place kick back with a cocktail with good company. The Sandbar and Grill is open daily from 11 AM to 9 PM and serves brunch on Sunday’s 10:30 AM to 2:30 PM.
For a special evening out
The Whaling Station Steakhouse
Treat yourself to the #1 steakhouse in Monterey County. The Whaling Station Steakhouse has been serving up high-quality cuts for the better part of 50 years. Enjoy mouth-watering steaks paired with satisfying salads tossed tableside. Thirsty? The Whaling Station has a full bar with an impressive selection of beer and wines to compliment your feast. The Whaling Station Steakhouse is open for dinner daily from 4:30 PM to 9:00 PM. Come hungry!
Turn 12 Bar and Grill
Rev up your dining experience at Turn 12 Bar and Grill. This restaurant gets its name from the famous Laguna Seca Raceway and its intense series of turns. Dine in true motorsports style amongst vintage motorcycles and racing photographs of yesteryear. Turn 12 is open Monday-Friday from 11:30 AM-1:00 AM, Saturday from 11:00 AM to 1:00 AM, and Sunday from 10:00 AM to 1:00 AM. It’s the perfect pitstop to satisfy your comfort food cravings!
Places to stay close to Monterey Car Week events
Spindrift Inn
This charming boutique Inn is found right on the shores of Monterey Bay. The Spindrift Inn is the perfect place to call home for those looking to make the most out of Cannery Row. The Inn’s convenient location puts you within walking distance to many of the famous restaurants and nightlife that Monterey Bay is famous for. Visitors rave about the spacious European-style rooms and breathtaking bay views.
The Clement Monterey
Experience ultimate luxury at The Clement Monterey. This intercontinental hotel offers a refined home away from home. Wake up to beautiful panoramic views of Monterey Bay. Relax in ultramodern rooms with beautiful furnishings. Step out and enjoy the nightlife at the C restaurant + bar. The C is open for breakfast and dinner – room service is also available.
On the Higher End
The Old Monterey Inn B&B
Escape to the Old World at this nationally acclaimed bed and breakfast. The Old Monterey Inn is the perfect place to disconnect and relax in a time long since passed. Stroll through the lush English gardens, feast on a scrumptious gourmet breakfast, and rest in Old World comfort. This Inn is an excellent choice for couples.
Hotel Pacific
The Hotel Pacific offers a taste of the California coast lifestyle. Guests will enjoy luxurious suites with hardwood floors, fully furnished private balconies, and contemporary décor throughout. Have work to tackle? No worries! The Hotel Pacific has spacious work areas to get the job done. A wonderful place to kick back and recharge after a long day of car spotting.
Hotel Arebgo
Located in downtown Monterey and close to the high-octane action of Monterey Car Week is Hotel Arebgo. This hotel is jam-packed with amenities at a reasonable price. Enjoy free parking, relax at the outdoor pool, and stay on track at their complimentary fitness center and spa. Arebgo has onsite dining, serving breakfast and dinner.
Experiencing Monterey Car Week with a cool car
Tired of mundane rental cars? Motor over to DriveShare and upgrade to a cool car you’d like to be seen in. Life is far too short to drive a boring car! Like this guide? Checkout more dream destinations here
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