What will we miss between San Fran & Monterey on PCH?

[minniemam]

We are finalising our route now, going to San Francisco 4 nights, onto Mariposa (visiting Yosemite) 3 nights then next stop is Monterey. It looks quicker to drive straight from Mariposa to Monterey, but will we be missing too much beautiful scenery?

We were originally going to Yosemite first then San Francisco so we could go straight on to Monterey. Is this first section of the PCH not to be missed?

[400ixl]

If you will then be going from Monterrey down PCH past Big Sur etc then I don't think missing the coastal part north will be an issue as you will get great scenery on that drive down anyway.

[minniemam]

OK thanks ... saves an extra couple of hours driving for my DH

[jdouds]

Hi this is what a lot of people do . How many nights Monterey,have you planed whale watching .

[Northtim]

Santa Cruz Boardwalk is very cool, especially if you liked The Lost Boys film! Not sure it merits a diversion if you are coming from Yosemite though. The PCH gets best south of Monterey.

[minniemam]

Thanks guys ...

Originally Posted by jdouds

Hi this is what a lot of people do . How many nights Monterey,have you planed whale watching .

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3 nights Monterey, so 2 full days ... booking everything this week including whale watching

[jdouds]

For whale watching we have used sanctuary cruises on 2 occasions and would highly recommend . They go from 15 mins north of Monterey at moss landing, I believe e this gives you a quicker journey to the main sighting areas. The aquarium is very good but gets very busy so would suggest you you go early. 17 mile dr, Carmel ,the beach at Carmel all great to spend some time. If your into your sport go and have lunch at the fire pits overlooking pebble beach.

[minniemam]

Thanks ... getting excited now !

Sanctuary Cruises are 19 miles back from where we came (they don't have afternoon cruises so can't do it on the way to Monterey), is it worth driving there when Monterey Bay Whale watch is nearby?