| there's a spa, a golf course and 9 tennis courts, plus 2 outdoor saltwater pools, a gym and a business center. sophisticated suites feature fireplaces and private decks, plus flat-screen tvs, free wi-fi, ipod docks and keurig coffeemakers. dining options include a sleek organic restaurant, a grill eatery and a cafe. some suites add kitchenettes or separate dining areas. set on 500 acres in carmel valley, this upscale resort is 3 miles from hiking and biking in garland ranch regional park and 9 miles from the ocean at carmel bay. check-in time: 4:00 pmcheck-out time: 12:00 pm
Norman
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve (16 min)
Scenic coastal area features a variety of sea animals & wildlife, hiking, diving & a whaling museum. Carmel Mission Basilica Museum (12 min)
Venerable, circa-1771 church featuring 5 on-site museums, a serene courtyard, tours & more. Garrapata State Park (20 min)
Park with 2 miles of beachfront & coastal hiking, including a 50-foot climb to a Pacific Ocean view. Old Fisherman's Wharf (20 min)
Iconic waterside complex & event site featuring seafood eateries, shops & water-sports activities. WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca (18 min)
Paved, 2.2-mile road-racing track used for auto & motorcycle racing, plus special events. Carmel Beach (16 min)
White sandy beach backed by a trail & cypress trees popular for dog walking, volleyball & surfing. Pebble Beach Golf Links (21 min)
Famed & highly touted 18-hole coastline public golf course with dramatic sea views & a clubhouse. Point Lobos (18 min)
Rocky, shoreline nature preserve featuring trails to hidden coves, sea lions & dramatic ocean views. Monterey Bay Aquarium (23 min)
Well-known aquarium on a rocky coastline with exhibits ranging from otter habitats to touch pools. Lovers Point Park (24 min)
Petite beach park with swimming, surfing & other water recreation, plus kayak & bike rentals & more. Dennis The Menace Playground (18 min)
Spacious kids' playground & park featuring activities such as a maze & a rock climbing wall. Carmel River State Beach (16 min)
This mile-long beach offers bird watching opportunities & a popular scuba diving entry point. Bixby Creek Bridge (29 min)
Iconic concrete canyon crossing on Highway 1 & standing 280 feet above Big Sur, open since 1932. Asilomar State Beach (22 min)
Tranquil place featuring a 1-mi. stretch of sandy beach & rocky coves, along with a walking trail. Garland Ranch Regional Park (4 min)
Rustic, dog-friendly park offering extensive hiking trails through woodlands, canyons & chaparral. | 
