I run along the ocean and Sunset Drive in Pacific Grove almost every day and usually hit the boardwalk along Asilomar Beach. As I mentioned it to some friends, I realized that did not know it was there because the entrance is hidden from the road. If you are on Hwy 1, take the Pebbe Beach/ Pacific Grove exit onto Hwy 68, then a left on Sunset Drive. The trail head is about 100 meters after passing the Fishwife Restaurant on the left in between some trees. Parking is free anywhere on the side of the road. It is roughly a half mile boardwalk that runs between the beach the golf lynx of Spanish Bay Golf Resort. It is usually maintained well, but occasionally can be sandy in parts if the winds have been strong. It connects to the parking lot inside the Pebble Beach Gates where you can continue your run or you can turn left before the parking lot and head up to the Spanish Bay Golf Resort.
If you are looking for a nice romantic afternoon stroll or just want to let the kids run and soak in lots of fresh air, I highly recommend it. You can head up to Inn at Spanish Bay and hit either Roy’s or Sticks for drinks, food and a great views. Both offer outdoor seating and fire pits. Spanish Bay is Scottish links course so in keeping with the theme, a bagpiper walks down the fairway to the outdoor fire pit area behind Roy’s every night at sunset. Assuming your kids aren’t too crazy, there is grassy area for them to play while you sip your drink of choice.
If you are wanting a cheaper option a picnic on the beach might be the way to go. Grab some drinks and food at Phoebe’s Cafe in the Asilomar Conference Center before starting your hike.
