Welcome to Pacific Grove
Nostalgic coastal town with gorgeous ocean views and scenery.
Often referred to as “America's Last Hometown,” Pacific Grove has a cozy charm that’s simply unmatched. Misty oceanside mornings frequently greet residents as they soak in scenic views of this breathtaking small town. The city is located at the very top of the Monterey Peninsula and has a thriving population of 15,522. It is home to attractions such as the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary, Point Pinos Lighthouse (the oldest operating lighthouse on the Pacific Ocean), the John Denver Memorial, and the Pacific Grove Art Center.
Prospective home buyers have access to sprawling oceanfront homes, charming bungalows that are brimming with character, and ultra-luxurious inland mansions. Wherever you decide to settle down, you’ll be minutes from outstanding conveniences, amenities, gorgeous scenery, and fun things to do.
What to Love
- Nostalgic, small-town, coastal feel
- Highly-rated public schools
- Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary
- Beautiful views of the ocean and natural landscape
- Nearby shopping and dining
Local Lifestyle
Life in Pacific Grove is best described as peaceful, quiet, approachable, and laid-back. Residential roads are surprisingly undisturbed, making for serene neighborhood environments. The pace of living here is definitely influenced by easygoing California coastal culture. Here, you can escape the busyness of big-city life and take everything one day at a time. Stroll along Asilomar State Beach at your own speed, hike the Asilomar Trail or spend time among the lovely monarch butterfly population at the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary.
Dining, Entertainment, and Shopping
Pacific Grove is a hidden gem for fantastic shopping and dining. Conveniently, the vast majority of the city’s retailers and restaurants can be found along (and just off of) the centrally located Lighthouse Avenue.
While in the area, locals recommend trying the menu offerings at restaurants such as Jeninni Kitchen + Wine Bar, Wild Fish Restaurant, Mezzaluna Pasteria & Mozzarella Bar, Peppers Mexicali Cafe, Aliotti’s Victorian Corner Restaurant, Passionfish, Red House Cafe, The Monarch Pub and Restaurant and Poppy Hall. Additional recommendations include First Awakenings, La Mia Cucina, Vivolo’s Chowder House, and Fandango Restaurant.
Interested in visiting Pacific Grove’s top retailers? As you explore the town center, stop into stores such as Grove Market, Marita’s Boutique, Chatterbaux Children’s Shoppe, The Quill, Mum’s Place, and Bana Home Decor & Gifts. From upscale furniture for your new home to everyday necessities, this commercial district has everything you could want or need.
Things to Do
Have some leisure time? Instead of heading to a nearby town, explore the best that Pacific Grove has to offer its residents. Don’t miss the seasonal Good Old Days event, held in May. This giant street fair hosts music acts, hundreds of arts and craft vendors, and a phenomenal selection of local food vendors. The Little Car Show, held in August, is another popular event in Downtown Pacific Grove.
Schools
Families appreciate the excellent selection of highly-rated public schools throughout Pacific Grove.
