NEIGHBORHOOD GUIDE: Pacific Grove & Pebble Beach
Pacific Grove and Pebble Beach combine charm, natural beauty, and world-famous coastline in one unique region. Pacific Grove is beloved for its Victorian architecture, walkable downtown, monarch butterflies, and top-rated schools. Pebble Beach offers spectacular forested neighborhoods, the iconic 17-Mile Drive, and world-renowned golf courses surrounded by ocean vistas. Families in both areas enjoy access to beaches, tide pools, nature preserves, and a peaceful, high-quality lifestyle.
MEET YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD INSIDER: SABRINA HILTUNEN
Pacific Grove truly lives up to its nickname, America’s Last Hometown. It’s one of the most beautiful places in the world, with a strong sense of community and an incredible variety of family-friendly restaurants, shops, and activities. Whether we’re walking the coastline, visiting local parks, or exploring downtown, there’s always something special waiting just around the corner.
SABRINA’S PICKS
FAMILY FUN: Lovers Point Beach is the heart of Pacific Grove and one of our family’s favorite spots. We often pack a picnic with sandwiches from Goodies and settle in for a relaxing day by the water. The coastal trail from Lovers Point to Asilomar is our go-to walk—easy, scenic, and filled with incredible ocean views. Strolling through Perkins Park is always a highlight, especially in spring when the famous “Magic Carpet” of purple ice plants bursts into bloom. Along the coastline are small beaches dotted with tide pools perfect for curious kids, and the boardwalk offers a safe, comfortable way to explore Pebble Beach’s rugged shoreline.
FAMILY-FRIENDLY DINING: Lucy’s on Lighthouse has a laid-back surf-and-skate vibe that’s perfect for families. Kids can roam the patio, play games, enjoy live music, and dig into hot dogs, tater tots, and Marianne’s ice cream. Adults can relax with mimosas, wine, or beer on tap.
For families with adventurous eaters, Julia’s Vegetarian Restaurant offers a wonderfully eclectic menu with pizzas, mushrooms, French toast, and more. Even the whimsical themed bathrooms are a fun surprise for kids. Downtown, Pepper’s is another family favorite, offering excellent Mexican food in a welcoming, kid-friendly setting.
DATE NIGHT: Pacific Grove’s downtown has a lively mix of options for a night out. We love catching live music, trivia, or dancing at The Monarch Pub and Restaurant, Pop & HISS, The PG Meeting House, or Hops and Fog Brewing Company. For a romantic dinner, the Beach House at Lovers Point offers gorgeous views of the bay paired with great food and a relaxed coastal atmosphere.
SHOPPING: Pacific Grove’s small businesses make shopping a joy. The Quill offers unique gifts, stationery, home décor, and children’s toys, while Artisana Gallery showcases work by local artisans and has been a staple since 2008. The Grove Market is beloved for its exceptional butcher shop, and Lighthouse Avenue is lined with charming boutiques and specialty stores perfect for browsing.
PARKS: Caledonia Park is a local favorite thanks to its central location, secure gated design, multiple play structures, swings, basketball court, and grassy area. George Washington Park provides a wooded setting where kids can run, explore, and enjoy nature-inspired play alongside traditional structures and swings—including a bucket swing and an ADA-adaptive option. Older kids looking for a challenge love the climbing features and jungle gym at Arnett Park.