Every year, the first full week in February marks the Pebble Beach Pro-Am golf tournament. Also every year, on that same week, it usually rains most days. This year, however, it feels like summer in Pebble Beach and everyone is enjoying it immensely.
Quite the amateur list.
Once again the amateur players' list is quite a mix. Bill Murray has made his annual pilgrimage to the links. Other household familiar names include Bret Baier, Mike Bloomberg, Larry the Cable Guy, Carson Daly, Wayne Gretzky, Toby Keith and Condoleezza Rice to name a few.
Top golfers are there.
The tournament has attracted a very good mix of golfers including Dustin Johnson (2 previous championships), Jon Rahm, Jordon Spieth and Rory McIlroy. With great weather and such a good lineup, the spectators are here for exceptional enjoyment.
It is not just the golf.
Tourists come not just for the golf and the fun of seeing both pros and celebrities. The views of the ocean that can be seen from the golf course, the interesting surrounding sights and the food available in the area, along with the current great weather, is making it a full fun vacation get away.
Nearby there are forests that have trails for hiking and a quick visit to Big Sur for a more pristine getaway (45 minute drive) can be easily accomplished and enjoyed during the trip to Pebble Beach. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is only 15 minutes away also.
Explore the Monterey Bay Aquarium.
The world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium is also within minutes of the golf tournament. It is always fascinating seeing the exhibits and learning new facts about the great underwater world. I never get tired of going there. The exhibits are always changing and the information is never ending.
You can count on good food.
There is no shortage of good restaurants in the Pebble Beach area. Roy's at Pebble Beach provides interesting and tasty Hawaiian-fusion type food. Being right in Pebble Beach, there is easy access.
I have plenty of other favorites that include Nepenthe's in Big Sur, Anton and Michel's in Carmel, Taste Cafe and Peppers in Pacific Grove as well as Jacks Monterey and Cibo's in downtown Monterey. If you are here enjoying the tournament, you are encouraged to enjoy when you can.
Enjoy now or at another time.
If you are fortunate enough to be at the tournament, I hope you have a fine time. If not, plan a trip, there is something for everyone to see and do.
For living well, it's important to have time to relax, have fun and explore. That's my viewpoint!
