Hyatt Regency Monterey: A Perfect Weekend Escape

Escape to California's Monterey Peninsula

Monterey, Calif. – As a cool autumn morning swept into our Northern California home, we packed our bags and quietly snuck out of town for a long and relaxing weekend on the Monterey Peninsula.

Any trip to this famed part of California is always met with great anticipation and this weekend would be no exception. A celebration of sorts as we took this opportunity to reminisce, reconnect and look toward the future.

Luckily for us, an invitation to take up residence at The Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa in Monterey was just what "the doctor" ordered.

Checking In

Arriving around noon, we promptly checked into our quiet and comfortable room nestled alongside the Del Monte Golf Course.(The oldest golf course in continuous operation west of the Mississippi River, according to their website). Our room was very clean and modern with all the convenient amenities. We particularly enjoyed the view and serenity of the golf course vistas outside our sliding glass door.

The bucolic scenery and peacefulness quickly set the tone for the weekend. The fantastic weather only added to our stay. Sunny with temps in the mid-60's feels surprisingly warmer here than it does in the valley.

Pool and Fitness Fun

We immediately donned our swimwear and made a beeline for one of two heated pool and hot tub areas. The pool area on the northern part of the property had a more secluded and relaxed vibe during our stay. The southern pool area was a bit livelier, perhaps due to its proximity to the action. An outdoor fire pit, games for all ages including table tennis, shuffleboard and cornhole. It was a hub of activity and grabbing a drink or bite was only a few steps away.

After unwinding at the pool, we decided to take advantage of the 24 Hour Stay Fit Fitness Center for a brief workout which energized and prepared us for the evening's activities. (Treadmills, free weights, elliptical, weight machines are available)

Chillin' on the Patio

Next, it was off to the outdoor patio area to mingle with travelers and converse while soaking up some sun. Friendly hosts served up cold drinks and tasty treats. The patio is the relaxing, low-key place to take in some scenery and watch golfers as they perfect their game.

Delicious Dining

Caught up in the fun, we lost track of time and before long it was time for dinner.

On this evening, we opted for the TusCa Ristorante, fine dining which prides itself on providing food from natural, local and sustainable sources. Executive Chef Steve Johnson and his staff offer up a seasonal menu of hand-crafted culinary delights. We had the privilege of feasting on a delicious array of Valasso Salmon, Diver scallops, and Niman Ranch NY steak. Our meal was topped off with a dessert of Salted Carmel Pot De Creme paired with a 20 year old port wine. The quality of each entree was excellent and the chef's attention to detail in presentation was beautiful. We were predictable in our top picks choosing Verlasso salmon and Diver scallops along with NY steak and Salted Carmel Pot De Creme.

Entree wine pairings were provided by local Twisted Roots Vineyard farmer and up and coming winemaker Josh Ruiz. We thoroughly enjoyed each offering which included a 2013 Chardonnay, a 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon, a 2012 Petite Sirah and a 2013 Old Vine Zinfandel. Our favorite palate pleaser of the evening was their very smooth and gentle 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon. Learn more at Twisted Roots Wines.

Jazz Lounge

Following dinner, we headed over to one of the highlights of our stay and must-stop for guests. The Jazz Lounge is a mid-century modern designed centerpiece with the coolest vibe and music to match. The Hyatt has a long history with local and world renowned jazz musicians. Our visit came on the heels of the iconic Monterey Jazz Festival held just down the street. You never know who might show up at the Hyatt and sit in for a jam session. An eternally glowing fireplace anchors the center of the room as musicians hone their craft for enthusiastic audiences. Candlelit tables that surround the room only add to the charm.

We found ourselves repeatedly drawn to the lounge throughout our stay. The jazz lounge is a really cool place to hang out and terrific way to complete your day.

Breakfast

Guests have their pick of onsite dining options at The Hyatt Regency Monterey. For breakfast you can grab a quick coffee and pastry in the jazz lounge or enjoy a full complement of options at TusCA. Following the previous night's fiesta, we grabbed a quick coffee in the lounge before beginning the day. The next morning we returned to TusCA for a breakfast of fresh fruit, coffee, and oatmeal. The breakfast buffet offers a large selection of fresh food options to jumpstart your day.

Lunch & Drinks

Knuckles Sports Bar is a casual and popular choice apparent by the large and lively crowds on hand. Grab a beer or bite and stay for a game on the more than 20 TV screens throughout the bar. We had a busy afternoon planned, so we grabbed a beer while waiting for our lunch to go.

Monterey Bay Aquarium & Asilomar Beach

Next up, it was onto the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Constantly changing and evolving, there's always something new to see at this world-class aquarium. We spent a couple hours exploring before the short ride to Asilomar Beach. The weather was perfect as we settled on the beach to watch young children tussle with the cold breaking waves as a pair of surfers paddled out in search of the perfect wave. After a beachside stroll, we decided to head back to our base at the Hyatt.

One of the most enjoyable aspects about this visit to Monterey was the more relaxed mood. Often on mini-vacations we find ourselves running around in an attempt to see and do it all. Not this time. The Hyatt Regency Monterey is a resort that makes it easy to just kick back and relax while still having easy access to all the things you know and love on the Monterey Peninsula.

Whether you're looking for an adventurous getaway or a low-key one, the Hyatt Regency Monterey offers a superb landing spot for your next adventure to the Monterey Peninsula. A true California classic!