Visiting Monterey and the aquarium

THE BEST WAY TO MONTEREY

It’s about 320 miles (5 1/2 hours) from downtown Los Angeles to Monterey. From LAX, American, United and US Airways offer nonstop service to Monterey; restricted round-trip fares begin at $148.

WHERE TO STAY

The Clement Monterey, 750 Cannery Row, Monterey; (831) 375-4500, www.intercontinental.com. This upscale waterfront hotel, part of the InterContinental chain, has 208 rooms, restaurant, bar, spa, modest lap pool and kids’ club, all a block from the aquarium. Doubles begin at $208.

Pacific Gardens Inn, 701 Asilomar Blvd., Pacific Grove; (800) 262-1566 or (831) 646-9414, www.pacificgardensinn.com. Within walking distance of the beach; 28 rooms (25 with fireplaces, six with kitchens). Continental breakfast included. Rates from $90.

Asilomar Conference Grounds, 800 Asilomar Ave., Pacific Grove; (888) 635-5310, (831) 642-4242 or (831) 372-8016, www.visitasilomar.com. Rugged 107-acre oceanfront setting. No TV or phones in rooms, but some have fireplaces and/or balconies. Restaurant on site. Breakfast included. Rates begin at $150.

WHERE TO EAT

Passionfish, 701 Lighthouse Ave., Pacific Grove; (831) 655-3311; www.passionfish.net. Top-notch seafood. The deep, narrow dining room can get loud. Dinner only, daily. Entrees about $16 to $24.

Fandango, 223 17th St., Pacific Grove; (831) 372-3456, www.fandangorestaurant.com. A longtime local favorite. Open daily for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. Seafood, steak, paella and Basque accents. Entrees $17.50 to $35.

First Awakenings, 125 Oceanview Blvd., Pacific Grove; (831) 372-1125, www.firstawakenings.net. Great breakfast spot. Opens at 7 a.m. Breakfast and lunch daily. Dishes up to $10.99.

TO LEARN MORE

Monterey Bay Aquarium, www.montereybayaquarium.org.

Monterey County Convention & Visitors Bureau, www.seemonterey.com.