The Area, Pebble Beach

Some visitors come to Pebble Beach to tee off at one of the many über-exclusive courses, where a round of golf can cost between $227 and $450 a head. Others come to rub elbows with Hollywood glitterati (actor/director Clint Eastwood and comedian George Lopez, both golf fanatics, have homes in Pebble Beach), but the best reason of all to visit is to experience the ultimate in pampering and live like the really rich and famous. Located in the most affluent part of the Monterey Peninsula, this coastal connection between Pacific Grove and Carmel opened as a scenic carriage ride in 1881 for Hotel Del Monte guests. By the 1920s most guests were using automobiles to cruise along 17-Mile Drive, home of the legendary Lone Cypress. Locals and tourists marvel at the austere, manicured homes. Annual events like Concours D’Elegance and the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am attract A-list celebrities, with entry to Club XIX being the hottest ticket in town.

GUESTLIFE DON'T MISS

Sunset Serenade

If you can’t pay to play in this playground for privileged, a visit to The Inn at Spanish Bay at sunset might do. The property overlooks the classic Scottish-style golf links of the Spanish Bay Golf course and one of the most scenic stretches of California coast. One of the favorite traditions at Pebble Beach Resorts takes place daily, just before dusk, when a lone kilted Scot walks the links, saluting the setting sun with his bagpipes. As people enjoy cocktails on the clubhouse terrace and the commanding coastal view, the fading echoes of the bagpipe stir the souls of the insouciant and signal the end of another day at Spanish Bay.

Information: (831) 647-7500