The Ultimate ‘Big Little Lies’ Guide to Monterey, California
Explore the dramatic scenery, iconic locations, and local highlights of Monterey as seen in HBO’s ‘Big Little Lies’.
Immortalized by the sharp drama and coastal scenery of HBO’s Big Little Lies, Monterey, California, captivates both on screen and off. With its rugged coastline, historic landmarks, upscale eateries, and idyllic neighborhoods, the area is rich in real-life locations that set the backdrop for the hit television series. Whether you’re a fan eager to walk in the footsteps of Madeline, Celeste, and Jane, or a traveler in search of the Central Coast’s finest, this guide will take you through Monterey’s must-see spots, inviting you to see why it’s a star in its own right.
Why Monterey Was Perfect for Big Little Lies
The decision to set Big Little Lies in Monterey was strategic and atmospheric. The rugged cliffs, dramatic ocean vistas, and cozy small-town feel set an emotional tone for the series, contrasting the characters’ serene outward lives with their underlying tension. Filming across Monterey, Pacific Grove, Carmel, and Big Sur, HBO’s crew transformed real-life settings into visual metaphors for the secrets and struggles at the show’s heart.
Key Filming Locations from ‘Big Little Lies’
Below are some of the show’s iconic filming locations, many of which are open to visitors eager for a behind-the-scenes adventure.
1. Breathtaking Beaches and Coastal Spots
- Old Fisherman’s Wharf – This colorful harbor, rich in shops and seafood restaurants, is featured throughout the series. It’s where Madeline and Jane have their famous heart-to-hearts, and it’s a hub for local whale-watching tours, saltwater taffy, and views of sailboats bobbing on the water.
- Del Monte Beach – Known for its undisturbed beauty and wooden boardwalks, Del Monte Beach’s expansive sands are the backdrop for the main characters’ sunrise walks, school drop-offs, and pivotal plot moments. The unique light and crashing waves are as much a character in the series as the stars themselves.
- Bixby Creek Bridge – Perhaps the show’s most iconic landmark, the bridge’s dramatic arch is seen in the opening credits. Perched above a deep canyon along Highway 1, it’s a must-stop for breathtaking selfies.
- Pacific Grove – This neighboring gem is showcased for its quiet, Victorian-lined streets and sweeping ocean views. The show leverages Pacific Grove’s charming neighborhoods to embody its characters’ picturesque lives.
2. Where the Characters Dined, Drank, and Lingered
- Blues Blues Café (Café Flora at Monterey Bay Aquarium) – The fictional “Blues Blues” is a central hangout spot in the series, but its real-life counterpart is Café Flora at the renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium. Here, you can grab a coffee (and maybe a pastry) while watching marine life glide by.
- Del Monte Grill & Café – A local favorite, the Del Monte Grill & Café provides classic American breakfasts and has a cozy, welcoming feel echoing the community spirit seen in the show.
- Paluca Trattoria (on Old Fisherman’s Wharf) – Paluca is the real-life café that stood in as ‘Blues Blues’ during shooting. With its laid-back patio, Italian menu, and harbor views, it’s the ideal place to sip espresso and people-watch.
3. The Monterey Bay Aquarium
One of the coast’s most celebrated attractions, the Monterey Bay Aquarium appears in several key scenes. Its backdrop of ocean tanks, interactive exhibits, and kelp forests not only delights families but also underscores the centrality of marine conservation to the local identity. The spectacular waterfront building anchors the eastern end of Cannery Row and makes for a rewarding visit, whether as a solo traveler, couple, or family.
4. Cannery Row
Once the hub of sardine canning, Cannery Row is now a lively strip of shops, galleries, and restaurants, while maintaining echoes of its industrial past. The row’s transformation—and its literary legacy in John Steinbeck’s Cannery Row—resonates with visitors retracing the steps of Big Little Lies’ formidable cast.
Stay Like a Star: Hotels That Take Center Stage
Several of Monterey’s hotels offer not only comfort and luxury but also featured prominently in the series, inviting travelers to experience first-class hospitality with a cinematic twist.
- Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa – Perched directly above Monterey Bay, this luxury hotel is the epitome of coastal elegance. Stars of the series reportedly stayed here during filming, and its ocean-blue views, rooftop hot tubs, and waterfront dining offer spectacular settings for a memorable stay.
- Spindrift Inn – With its romantic rooms and panoramic windows overlooking the water, the Spindrift Inn is another fan favorite for an immersive experience. Request an ocean-view room and enjoy fireplaces, window seats, and complimentary continental breakfast delivered to your door.
- InterContinental The Clement Monterey – Located on Cannery Row, The Clement places you in the heart of the action, a stone’s throw from the bay and steps from the area’s best shopping and attractions.
The Neighborhoods: Where ‘Big Little Lies’ Characters Would Live
Monterey’s real estate is every bit as luxurious—and exclusive—as depicted on screen. Fans and homebuyers are inevitably drawn to:
- Carmel-by-the-Sea – This fairytale village, with its storybook cottages and upscale boutiques, resembles the glamorous homes of Madeline and Celeste. A stroll through the leafy streets offers a glimpse of carefully tended gardens, hidden courtyards, and the Pacific peeking through the trees.
- Pacific Grove – For those with an eye for Victorian architecture, Pacific Grove is replete with lace-trimmed homes, artisan bakeries, and peaceful coastal paths. The Butterfly Sanctuary is an added delight from October to February, when Monarchs cluster in the eucalyptus groves.
- Pebble Beach – Known worldwide for its championship golf courses, glitzy estates, and exclusive feel, Pebble Beach is a star in its own right, favored by A-listers and driving enthusiasts on the scenic 17-Mile Drive.
Culinary Gems Worth Visiting
Fish and produce don’t get any fresher than in Monterey, and several restaurants merit a spot on your dining itinerary:
- Coastal Kitchen (Monterey Plaza Hotel) – Featuring locally sourced, seasonal tasting menus with ocean views through floor-to-ceiling windows. The wine pairing is thoughtfully curated, ensuring an unforgettable experience.
- Cantinetta Luca (Carmel-by-the-Sea) – Known for wood-fired pizza and house-cured meats, this cozy Italian is as inviting as it is delicious.
- La Balena – A local haunt offering handmade pasta, fresh salads, and a warm, romantic ambiance.
- Seventh & Dolores (commonly known as 7D) – A chic steakhouse with a contemporary menu, from dry-aged meats to vegan bourguignon. Perfect for a stylish night out.
- Sea Harvest Fish Market & Restaurant – For casual eats packed with local flavor, this spot offers market-fresh seafood in a laid-back, nautical setting.
The Best Views: Scenic Drives and Walks
- 17-Mile Drive – This famous coastal route runs through Pebble Beach and Pacific Grove, offering dramatic ocean vistas, windswept cypress groves, and sightings of wildlife like sea lions and harbor seals.
- Point Lobos State Natural Reserve – Reputed as the “crown jewel” of California’s state parks, this reserve’s trails wind along rugged cliffs, through cypress forests, and past hidden coves. Nature lovers and photographers alike will find endless inspiration along these paths.
- Pacific Grove’s Ocean View Boulevard – Ideal for a relaxed stroll, this stretch gives you uninterrupted views of the Pacific with benches and picnic spots for pausing to soak in the surf.
Shopping and Antiquing in Monterey
Cannery Row is not only about restaurants and ocean views—it’s also a shopper’s haven. Don’t miss:
- Cannery Row Antique Mall – With more than a hundred vendors, this two-story antique wonderland lets visitors comb through vintage dishware, collectibles, clothes, and quirky memorabilia. Each booth is curated and brimming with treasures waiting to be discovered.
- Locally Owned Boutiques – From hand-thrown ceramics to artisan jewelry, investigate the small shops tucked between the main draws for a memorable souvenir.
Wine Tasting: Savor the Flavors of the Monterey County AVA
Monterey County’s wine region is up-and-coming, with cool breezes and unique microclimates supporting world-class pinot noir and chardonnay. Explore tasting rooms along the River Road Wine Trail and sample vintages at:
- Wrath Wines – Known for elegant pinot noirs and crisp whites.
- Bernardus Winery – In the Carmel Valley, Bernardus pairs stunning views with robust reds and sophisticated blends.
- Joyce Vineyards – Worth a stop for lively rosé and remarkable chardonnay.
- Many hotels and local restaurants showcase Monterey County wines in their cellars and menus.
Bonus: Day Trips from Monterey
With Monterey as your base, you’re well-placed to explore:
- Big Sur – Journey down Highway 1 for staggering cliffs, redwood forests, and beaches like Pfeiffer Beach, known for dramatic purple sands and crashing surf.
- Carmel Valley – Just inland, the valley boasts sunny vineyards, laidback luxury, and scenic countryside drives.
- Santa Cruz – Just over an hour north, Santa Cruz blends boardwalk amusements, surfing, and redwood hikes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Which beach is featured in the opening credits of ‘Big Little Lies’?
A: Bixby Creek Bridge and the surrounding coastal stretch are the most recognizable from the opening sequence, but Del Monte Beach and Monterey’s scenic spots are also seen throughout.
Q: Can I visit the cafés and restaurants from the show?
A: Yes! Paluca Trattoria, Café Flora (Monterey Bay Aquarium), and Del Monte Grill & Café are all open to the public and offer a taste of the show’s atmosphere.
Q: Are Monterey’s walking trails and coastal drives open to the public?
A: Absolutely. Popular scenic routes, like 17-Mile Drive and the trails in Point Lobos and Pacific Grove, are public and offer ample pullouts, picnic spots, and viewing areas.
Q: What is the best time to visit Monterey for ‘Big Little Lies’ sightseeing?
A: For mild weather and lighter crowds, visit in late spring to early fall. Fog often rolls in during late summer mornings but typically burns off by midday, leaving clear skies for exploring.
Q: Is Monterey suitable for families and children?
A: Very much so. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is world-class, local beaches are perfect for family walks, and numerous restaurants cater to all ages.
Plan Your Monterey Getaway
Whether you come as a fan of Big Little Lies or simply to explore the California coast, Monterey offers drama, beauty, and adventure at every turn. From scenic drives and gourmet meals to coffee at the show’s favorite cafés, every corner offers a new story. Ready to step into the scene? Monterey is waiting.
