Moon Monterey & Carmel: Including Santa Cruz & Big Sur (Moon Handbooks) by Stuart Thornton
What makes this Monterey and Carmel travel book stand out from countless others? This is the fourth travel guide written by Stuart Thornton for Moon Travel Guides. He takes his passion for adventure into his own stomping grounds, an area he calls a microcosm of the state.
You’ll find local knowledge of little-known spots, day trips and hot spots. This book is packed with local knowledge. Includes a special wine-tasting section which should prove educational and delicious in the up-and-coming wine region. Learn about the River Road Wine Trail, which is growing in popularity, perhaps because it lies directly in the Salinas Valley’s sunbelt. Check out the special section for water sports and read about the Annual Beach Sportsfest.
As an avid diner, I can vouch for his Carmel restaurant choices. The unadvertised Flying Fish Grill (which once opened on its day off on a whim, and had lines out the door) and Akaoni are two of the best hidden gems in town!
Covers Santa Cruz to Big Sur.
About the Author
Stuart Thornton fell in love with the California coast while working at the Big Sur Ranger Station after college. There, he advised visitors on every topic, from campsites to restaurants. On his days off, he took his own advice and regularly sought out the best spots for hiking, backpacking, surfing, and snorkeling along that striking coastal region.
Stuart later moved to nearby Monterey to become a staff writer for the “Monterey County Weekly, ” where he is still a contributor. He is the proud author of “Moon Coastal California, Moon Santa Barbara & The Central Coast, ” and the forthcoming “Moon Monterey & Carmel.” In addition, Stuart has contributed to National Geographic Education, “Relix” magazine, and Ed Grant s “Piers of the California Coast, ” a coffee table book highlighting the Golden State s piers and wharves.
While researching and writing this book, Stuart hiked through lesser-known sections of Yosemite National Park, discovered the stunning Eastern Sierra community of June Lake, stared deep into the Grand Canyon, and enjoyed the diverse offerings of San Francisco, Las Vegas, and Los Angeles.
He spends his time off searching for the next secluded beach, uncrowded wave, or mountaintop vista. Learn more about his adventures and projects by visiting stuartthornton.com.