How to Plan a Trip to the Monterey Peninsula

Traveling can be expensive, and you don't want to waste any time or resources going to the wrong places. Follow these steps to ensure a good time and no regrets.

It sounds simple but just think about what you like to do and then research it on the internet.

For example, if you like to kayak, do a search for "Monterey Kayaking" to find sites related to this activity. From there, you will discover that you can kayak in several different places, with or without a guide, in a tandem or single kayak. You can also make advance reservations and look for the best deal.

When you are already in town and looking for something to do, check out the Coast Weekly for a listing of "Best Bets" as well as a "Club Grid" so you know where to find the best music and happy hours.

Stop by the visitors center at Lake El Estero. Ask one of their friendly agents what is fun to do. Caution: They get asked this a lot and could tell you to go to Fisherman's Wharf (popular tourist attraction). You may like it or you may be bored out of your mind as you watch people kayaking by the pier (what you REALLY wanted to do).

Book your hotel room early and research this as well. Take a look through some of the sites that offer real travel reviews such as Trip Advisor. Don't rely on a hotels web site as hotel photographs often portray just the best way the room has ever looked. You may also try one of the local hotel room finding services for an often unbiased view of hotel accommodations.

Keep flexibility in your schedule. There is nothing worse than coming back from a vacation -- and needing a vacation because you are so exhausted!

Tips

• Why are you coming to the area? Family, romance, shopping? Plan accordingly