Karissa FryeExplorer

Asilomar translates to “refuge by the sea,” a phrase that accurately depicts the Asilomar Conference Grounds. The area started as a YWCA women’s empowerment camp in 1913 and has since transitioned into a well-preserved state beach. It is located in the beautiful Monterey Peninsula.  If you find yourself within the conference grounds, be sure to check out the beach volleyball court! It is surrou...

At Asilomar State Beach, adventure is accessible in many forms. I had the opportunity to rent a bike from Adventures by the Sea. Rentals start at $25, and while you are not permitted to ride along the boardwalk that leads you to the beach, you may walk your bike through the exquisite sand dunes Asilomar Conference Center  has until you reach the road along Asilomar state beach. A quiet road run...

Asilomar State Beach covers 107 acres of land. It is home to a delicate ecosystem that has been sustained through the years after it was almost destroyed. The intricate dunes at Asilomar are what have survived after the over-grazing back in the early 1900's that damaged about 480 acres of dunes. Asilomar put a boardwalk in place to protect these dunes from traffic. The delicate plant life in th...

There are a few ways to approach Granite Peak. The most popular route is the Mystic Lake trail in West Rosebud. It lies primarily on opinion as to which route is the best, easiest, or most scenic. I chose to start at the Phantom Creek trailhead in the East Rosebud Valley. You will follow this trail up "the switchbacks from hell" for around seven miles, gaining approximately 3,500 feet in elevat...

Asilomar, or “refuge by the sea” definitely lives up to its name. The beach is expansive and less-populated than other nearby destinations. With large sandbars and rocky outcroppings, it is a great place to enjoy sunset.  This beach is also known for its premium surf, so expect a show from the locals! There are many staircases right off the road that lead you down to the ocean. Trails can be sp...

Getting there: Drive to the bottom of Ocean View Boulevard in Pacific Grove, California. You will reach a small parking lot. Unfortunately, the parking here is limited. On the bright side, this means the crowds never get too big! The ocean has open swells for surfers, diverse marine-life for snorkelers, and can be mellow enough for even beginner stand-up paddle-boarders. The waves here can be s...