Local Events
Cherries Jubilee

September 6th, 2012
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While Classic Car Week showed of the best of the best in foreign and domestic antique and early model autos, Cherry’s Jubilee brings a decidedly more homegrown flavor to the Central Coast. Dubbed the “biggest oldies party of the year”, the “Cherry’s” as it is fondly referred to, takes place all over the Monterey Peninsula and is a celebration of the restored and supped up American Muscle Cars and Hot Rods made popular in the 1950’s and 60’s.

In its 20th year, the Cherry’s Jubilee is presented by the Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital Foundation and proceeds benefit the hospital itself. The event runs September 12th – 16th and features locations throughout the area including: Cannery Row, Fisherman’s Wharf, Downtown Monterey, Old Town Salinas and a poker run through Pacific Grove, Carmel Valley and Pebble Beach.

What sets the Jubilee apart from some of the other local auto events is the passion and hours of loving restoration the owners have put into their cars. Very few are acquired in mint condition with the majority are painstakingly refurbished from the ground up and are actually driven to and from these “show and shine” events. Even more impressive, is the willingness of the owners to share their tips and stories to fans of their autos.

Cherry’s Jubilee will bring back fond memories of malt shops and car hops and may just remind you of a simpler time. Oh, and the cars are pretty cool to look at too!

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Craft Beer
2nd Annual Monterey Beer Garden

September 4th, 2012
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There is just something inherently right about enjoying a beer outdoors. Whether it’s on a hot summer day, tailgating at a football game on a crisp autumn afternoon or simply relaxing with friends in the backyard, fresh air and a freshly poured beer go hand in hand. That’s why the return of the Monterey Beer Garden is being met with such anticipation.

The second annual event held on September 22nd from 12pm-4pm at Monterey’s historic Memory Garden at Custom House Plaza is shaping up to be a Who’s Who of the Central Coast Craft Beer scene. With local heavy hitters Peter B’s Brewpub and English Ales leading the way and Seabright Brewing, Rock Bottom Brewing and Hollister Hills Brewery among the 11 participants, attendees are sure to get a sense of the skill and imagination of our local brewers.

Sponsored by the Portola Hotel & Spa, The Offset Project, The Monterey County Weekly and Peter B’s Brewpub, the event features unlimited beer tasting, BBQ and live music from local favorite Cheeky Spanks with proceeds of the event benefiting local environmental non-profit, Save Our Shores. And if that was not enough, Save Our Shores will also be raffling off a number of great prizes.

Tickets for the event are still available and can be purchased online at www.montereybeergarden.com . Raffle tickets are sold separately at the door.

Good Friends, Good Cheer, Good Time, Great Beer!

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Portola Packages
Breakfast for Two

August 29th, 2012
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Ahhhh breakfast. It starts you off right and gets you ready for the day ahead. Such a popular meal, that many restaurants now offer it for dinner! What’s better than enjoying a vacation on the Monterey Peninsula when you’ve just had one the finest breakfasts around? Nothing, unless that breakfast is part of the Portola Hotel & Spa’s Breakfast for Two Package.

Begin your morning with a scrumptious breakfast buffet at Jacks Restaurant. The fresh, seasonal, European style buffet features made-to-order omelets, assorted petite pastries and muffins, sliced cold cuts, fine artisan cheeses and much, much more. Not to mention bottomless mimosas! Dine in our cozy fireside dining room, or breathe in the fresh coastal air on our outdoor, pet-friendly heated patio.

Along with breakfast buffet for two, this fantastic package also includes accommodations in a nautically inspired guest room and a warm homemade chocolate chip cookie on arrival. So start your day and your vacation off right with the Portola Hotel & Spa’s Breakfast for Two Package.

Click here for package details!

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Craft Beer
Growlers & Growlettes

August 22nd, 2012
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Whether you are a diehard aficionado or someone who likes the occasional cold one, beer is synonymous with many different things. Most of us can agree, however, that beer is best enjoyed in its tapped form; fresh and foamy, served in a chilled pint glass or mug. You’d be hard-pressed though, to get that “straight from the tap taste” at home. Sure, some companies have tried to market the “take home keg” but most have sorely missed the mark. What’s a beer lover to do?

Thank goodness we have Kevin Clark in our midst. The visionary Brewer from Peter B’s Brewpub located behind the Portola Hotel & Spa has graced our taste buds with his wonderful creations for a couple years and now he is offering the perfect way to enjoy them at home. Ladies and Gentlemen, may I introduce you to the Growler & Growlette!

The six pint Growler ($25 or $10 for refills) or two pint Growlette ($10 or $5 for refills) allow fans of Clark’s wizardry to choose their favorite flavor and enjoy the taste at home. The brown glass bottles keep the beer fresh and can be returned for refills as needed, but must be consumed off property. Clark is constantly debuting small batch craft brews to go along with his regular offerings so contact the folks at Peter B’s Brewpub to see what’s on tap!

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Spa On the Plaza
Spa On the Plaza Fall Specials

August 20th, 2012
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As summer starts to turn to fall, don’t you deserve a little break from the end of summer/back to school madness? Whether you are rushing to pack in that last bit of fun in the sun or sprinting to fill your kid’s school supplies list everyone could use some “me” time. That’s why Spa on the Plaza at the Portola Hotel is offering a full line-up of relaxing and rejuvenating specials sure to soothe even the most harried mom or dad.

Always inventive with their offerings, Spa on the Plaza has infused the tropical favorite, coconut into several of its treatment packages. The Mini-Vacation includes a coconut balm massage and a pedicure for only $129. The coconut helps with disease prevention and anti-aging and when coupled with the Spa’s other award winning services can make your visit something more than just a simple spa service.

The Refresh ($175/120.00 minutes) includes the coconut balm massage as well as the CEO Facial and hand treatment. The CEO emphasizes essential oils, while it relaxes, helps to diminish fine lines and improve facial circulation. If that was not enough, you can also request the Rejuvenation Package ($190/180 minutes) which also includes the Coconut Balm Massage, a Spa Mani-Pedi and an exhilarating hand and foot scrub.

Spa on the Plaza is one of the largest spas in the country with over 6,000 square feet dedicated to spa services, health and fitness. It is also one of the most decorated with numerous “Best of” awards from local and regional publications. So if the end of summer has you going a little “nuts”, slow things down at the Spa on the Plaza at the Portola Hotel & Spa. Relaxed, Refreshed and Rejuvenated are the three “R’s” for moms and dads! Call (831) 647-9000 or visit www.spaontheplaza.com to book your well-deserved spa day!

 

 

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Local Events
Top 10 Automotive Activities

August 15th, 2012
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With so many events scheduled during the Monterey Peninsula’s Classic Car Week Monday, August 13 through Sunday August 19th is an automotive fan’s head might start spinning like the wheels on one of those amazing machines trying to decide what to see. There is something for everyone, but since the fun is just around the corner, we thought we would give you a little primer.

Here are the unofficial Top 10 Automotive Activities (in random order) during Classic Car Week:

10. The Portola Hotel & Spa – All week long

A fan favorite among enthusiasts taking part in Classic Car Week, the Portola is home to the famous RM Auctions. Known as a hot spot during the festivities to locals, return visitors and collectors, the Portola is a great location for casual viewing of some awesome autos.

9. Legends of the Autobahn – Friday, Aug. 17, 9am-5pm at Rancho Cañada Golf Club, Carmel Valley

Guttenta! BMW’s, Audi’s and Mercedes-Benz’s are on display for owners, enthusiasts and aficionados of these distinctive German cars.

8. McCall’s Motorworks Revival – Wednesday, Aug. 15, 5pm-10pm at the Monterey Jet Center, Monterey

This exclusive party for the elite held at the Monterey Jet Center, features exhibits ranging from motorcycles and cars to deluxe jets,

7. The Little Car Show – Wednesday, Aug. 15, Noon-5pm, Downtown Pacific Grove on Lighthouse Avenue

Showcasing the small, but mighty, this event in historic Downtown Pacific Grove includes “little cars” up to 1,601cc engines and electric cars.

6. Carmel-by-the-Sea Concours of the Avenue – Tuesday, Aug. 14, 10a-5pm – Ocean Avenue, Carmel-by-the-Sea

An annual event featuring classic, sporting, luxury, hot rods and muscle cars gathering on Ocean Avenue in downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea.

5. The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering – Friday, Aug. 17, 10am-4pm at Quail Lodge, Carmel Valley

A mixture of fantastic sporting autos and food on the Quail Lodge Golf Course.

4. Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion – Aug. 17-19 at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, Monterey-Salinas Highway

Motorsports history is on display with authentic racecars competing on a Mazda Laguna Seca’s world-class track.

3. Tour of LeMons – Saturday, Aug 18, 10am-1pm along 1234 Canyon Del Rey Boulevard, Seaside

Relaxed and fun. This alternative event showcases misfits, lemons and junkers.

2. Concourso Italiano – Friday, Aug. 17, 9am-3pm at Laguna Seca Golf Ranch, Monterey-Salinas Highway

This celebration of Italian style, culture and craftsmanship is sure to get your motor running.

1. Pebble Beach Concours d ‘Elegance – Sunday, Aug. 19, 10:30am, Pebble Beach Golf Course, 18th Hole

Around since 1950, the Consours is known to be the world’s premier celebration of the automobile.

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Local Events
Events on the Monterey Peninsula

August 13th, 2012
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Everyone knows that the beauty of the Monterey Peninsula is without question. Whether you are walking along the Coastal Recreation Trail, driving the scenic 17-Mile Drive in Pebble Beach or hiking the winding trails of Big Sur, the sights and sounds of this wonderful area are there to behold on a daily basis. But what to do when you are done with all nature has to offer? How about experiencing any one of the numerous local and world-class events held right here on the Central Coast. Check out what’s on tap this August and September:

  • Monterey Auto Week – August 13 – 19
  • Pebble Beach Concours d ’Elegance – August 15 – 19
  • “Beauty & the Beast” at the Forest Theater – August 16 - 19
  • Sand City West End Celebration – August 24 – 26
  • Mumford & Sons’ Gentlemen of the Road Stopover at the Monterey Fairgrounds – August 25
  • Turkish Festival – August 25
  • Monterey County Fair – August 29 – September 3
  • Monterey Bay Greek Festival – September 1 – 3
  • Tri-California Triathlon at Pacific Grove – September 7 – 9
  • Fiesta Italia – September 7 – 9
  • Continental Sports Car Festival – September 7 – 12
  • 2nd Annual Monterey Beer Garden – September 22
  • Blue Ocean Film Festival – September 24 - 30
  • Carmel Authors & Ideas Festival – September 28 – 30

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Local Events
Classic Car Week 2012

August 8th, 2012
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Imagine being transported back to a simpler time, when the constant pull of technology was non-existent, craftsmanship took center stage and the flash of the time combined with a timeless elegance. Every year that feeling returns, the week of August 13, 2012, with the world renowned Classic Car Week. The entire Peninsula is transformed into a car lover’s playground with showcases, auctions, runs and races scheduled throughout the week. Most of the action centers on the major viewing competitions and the various auctions. From the tony Pebble Beach Concourse d’ Elegance and the horsepower and high fashion of the Concorso Italiano to the Quail, a Motorsports Gathering and the RM Auctions Sports & Classics of Monterey auction, the multitude of offerings is almost too many to fathom.

The Portola Hotel & Spa is not only right in the thick of the action, but it also home to the RM Auctions Sports & Classics auction event. With secure covered parking and a number of alternate transportation options right at your fingertips, classic car owners or fans of the cars themselves can easily access any of the events around the Peninsula. Just steps from the Monterey Bay and some of the area’s best attractions the Portola is the perfect place to get away from the rev of the engines, if even for just a moment. Featuring Jacks Restaurant & Lounge and Peter B’s Brewpub, guests of the hotel mingle with auction and event attendees and participants while enjoying the rejuvenated menus of both locations.

It’s time to polish up your four-wheeled classic and hit the road to Monterey and the Portola Hotel & Spa.

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Family Fun
Kids on the Peninsula

August 2nd, 2012
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When most people think of the Monterey Peninsula they think of beautiful golf courses, million dollar homes and some of the world’s most famous events. Others think of miles of pristine coastline, romantic walks along the water and shopping and dining. But some do not realize the amount of kid-friendly activities available.  With as many family friendly activities as there are par fours, Mom, Dad and the little ones can have the time of their lives. Oh, and if the “little ones” are actually teenagers…there is plenty for them to do as well.

The Monterey Bay Aquarium on Historic Cannery Row is one of the world’s premiere displays of aquatic marvels. The Splash Zone is entirely devoted to kids and kids of all ages and the aquarium as a whole can keep the family interested for hours, but what about the next day?

How about Dennis the Menace Park located by Lake El Estero in Monterey? Hank Ketchum, the legendary creator of the cartoon icon Dennis the Menace made Carmel his home and this park brings the same smile to all who come. Free and open seven days a week, the park is perfect for families and offers a multitude of play structures, tunnels, bridges and a maze. The cornerstone of the park is an actual Steam Engine that can be climbed and played upon, if you’re looking for something indoors, try the interactive, hands-on Monterey County (MY) Museum.

If you are traveling with kids a little older, check out the paddle boats available for rent on Lake El Estero directly behind the park. It’s a great time and you can get up close and personal with the ducks, Canadian Geese and swans that make the lake their home (don’t forget the breadcrumbs!) Or, for a more radical departure, make a visit to the free skate park also adjacent to Dennis the Menace. With exciting elements to challenge the skills of skateboarders and in-line skaters, this park was created with input from community skaters resulting in a fantastic design overlooking the lake. Between glow-in-the-dark mini golf on Cannery Row, hiking at Point Lobos to kayaking on the Bay, an activity for every member of the family awaits!

Most all of these activities are within walking distance of the Portola Hotel & Spa making a trip to the Peninsula one of ease and most importantly fun! With green grass, picnic benches and the beach just across the street, why not order a delicious lunch to go from Peter B’s Brewpub and enjoy a wonderful day!

 

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Explore Monterey
Top 10 Picnic Spots

July 31st, 2012
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It’s summertime, and with all the vacations, camps, games and other activities, we sometimes forget that this time of the year is supposed to be relaxing.  Even mealtime seems hurried as we try to fit one last thing into the longer summer days. So why not downshift and spend a little quality time with the family (and don’t forget to bring the dog) while taking in the beautiful scenery of the Monterey Peninsula? Food, family and fun are always a recipe for relaxation so here is our unofficial Top 10 (in random order) picnic spots on the Peninsula and a little beyond.

1. The nearest park or open-space or enchanted garden. Keep it simple and enjoy each other’s company, explore the Custom House Plaza and nearby Memory Garden/Pacific House or Old Whaling Station Garden.

2. Lovers Point Beach: What’s better than a lush park right next to a beach, with a view of Monterey Bay?

3. Dennis the Menace Park: Picnic tables and grills behind the park overlook Lake El Estero and a skate park. Perfect for kids of all ages (dogs not allowed in the park gates).

4. Marina State Beach: Miles of beach are perfect for flying kites and the occasional hang glider make for great entertainment; make sure to bring a windbreaker, as that’s why this is the best place for kite flying!

5. Colton Hall: Revel in the beauty downtown Monterey and sit among shady trees, beautiful architecture and a lush lawn.

6. Garland Ranch: Work up an appetite with a hike before sitting down to drink in the beauty of Carmel Valley.

7. 17-mile Drive: Beach, forest, golf or all of the above are offered along this famous stretch of road. The views aren’t half bad either!

8. Asilomar State Beach: Catch one of the area’s great sunset spots and white sand beaches, build a small bonfire, go tide-pooling and a walk amongst the dunes.

9. Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail: By bike, foot or surrey rental you can take-in the views and stop at any of the numerous benches and open spaces along the route for a meal.

10. Pfeiffer Beach State Park: This State Park offers it all and is a wonderful way to explore nature with your family and enjoy the majestic views and tranquility of Big Sur.

If you are looking for the perfect culinary compliment to this family fun, why not stop off at Peter B’s Brewpub or Jacks Restaurant at the Portola Hotel & Spa and pick up a delicious lunch for your group. With choices galore, your family and your taste buds will thank you!

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