Introduction

Welcome to a comprehensive exploration of the Big Sur Land Trust (BSLT), an organization committed to the preservation and conservation of the remarkable landscapes of Big Sur. In this extensive blog post, we'll dive deep into the history, objectives, conservation efforts, volunteer opportunities, and the significance of the BSLT. By the time you finish reading, you'll have a profound understanding of why this organization is a vital guardian of one of California's most stunning regions.

History

1978 marked the inception of the Big Sur Land Trust, a pivotal moment in the ongoing saga of preserving Big Sur's natural splendor. This organization was born out of a shared love for the Big Sur coast and a deep-seated desire to protect its breathtaking landscapes. A group of dedicated individuals came together, recognizing the urgent need to safeguard the region's unique ecosystems from the pressures of urbanization and development.

The BSLT's journey began with the acquisition of its first piece of land, and it has continued to grow ever since. Over the years, it has evolved from a small grassroots organization into a prominent force in the world of conservation. The BSLT's enduring commitment to its mission is a testament to the passion and determination of its founders and the countless individuals who have joined the cause.

Conservation Efforts

Protecting Natural Beauty

At the core of the BSLT's mission is the preservation of Big Sur's natural beauty. The organization achieves this through a multifaceted approach that includes land acquisition, conservation easements, and habitat restoration.

Land Acquisition: The BSLT strategically acquires parcels of land in Big Sur, ensuring that these pristine areas remain untouched by development. These lands are protected in perpetuity, allowing future generations to experience the unspoiled grandeur of Big Sur.

Conservation Easements: In addition to land acquisition, the BSLT works with private landowners to establish conservation easements. These legally binding agreements restrict the development of the land, ensuring that it remains ecologically intact while still belonging to the landowner.

Habitat Restoration: Beyond preservation, the BSLT actively engages in habitat restoration projects. These efforts involve reviving damaged ecosystems, reintroducing native species, and implementing sustainable land management practices to maintain the delicate balance of the region's ecology.

Biodiversity Conservation

Big Sur is a biodiversity hotspot, home to a stunning array of plant and animal species, some of which are endangered or threatened. The BSLT takes its role as a steward of this biodiversity seriously.

Protection of Wildlife: The organization plays a pivotal role in protecting the habitats of numerous species, including the elusive California condor, playful sea otters, and the majestic mountain lion. By conserving their natural habitats, the BSLT ensures that these creatures have a place to thrive.

Restoring Watersheds: Clean, healthy watersheds are essential for both wildlife and human communities. BSLT's work in watershed restoration helps maintain the quality of water sources in the region, benefiting all living beings in Big Sur.

Sustainable Land Management

Sustainability is a core principle of the BSLT's operations. To ensure the long-term health of the land, the organization follows responsible land management practices.

Trail Maintenance: Maintaining hiking trails is essential to providing access to Big Sur's beauty while minimizing the impact on fragile ecosystems. Volunteers and staff work diligently to keep these pathways safe and accessible for visitors.

Environmental Education: The BSLT is committed to educating the community about the importance of conservation. Through educational programs and community events, they inspire a deep connection to the natural world.

Preventing Overdevelopment: The BSLT actively opposes overdevelopment in Big Sur, advocating for responsible land use policies that prioritize the preservation of open spaces and the region's unique character.

Volunteering Opportunities

If you're eager to contribute to the BSLT's conservation efforts, there are several ways to get involved:

Trail Maintenance: Join volunteer teams that help maintain hiking trails throughout the region. By doing so, you'll ensure that visitors can enjoy the beauty of Big Sur while minimizing their environmental impact.

Habitat Restoration: Participate in habitat restoration projects, working to revitalize damaged ecosystems and protect local wildlife. This hands-on work allows you to make a tangible difference in the health of the land.

Education and Outreach: Help spread awareness about the importance of conservation by volunteering in educational programs and community events. By engaging with the community, you'll inspire a new generation of environmental stewards.

Fundraising: Support the BSLT by volunteering your time and skills to assist in fundraising efforts. Financial support is essential for the organization to continue its vital work, and your contribution can make a significant impact.

Why It's Important

The significance of the Big Sur Land Trust's work cannot be overstated. Preserving the Big Sur coastline is not merely about protecting a beautiful landscape; it's about securing the future of our planet.

Climate Change Mitigation

Big Sur's vast forests play a crucial role in mitigating climate change. The towering redwoods, in particular, are exceptional carbon sinks, absorbing and storing significant amounts of carbon dioxide. By conserving these forests, the BSLT contributes to the fight against global warming.

Clean Water

Big Sur's watersheds provide clean, fresh water to the region's communities. The BSLT's efforts in watershed restoration ensure that these sources remain pure and uncontaminated, benefiting both humans and wildlife.

Biodiversity Conservation

Big Sur is a haven for biodiversity, with rare and endangered species relying on its unique habitats. Without the protection provided by the BSLT, many of these species could face extinction.

Inspiring Environmental Stewardship

Perhaps most importantly, the BSLT inspires a deep sense of environmental stewardship in the hearts of all who encounter the beauty of Big Sur. By engaging the community and fostering a love for the natural world, the organization ensures that future generations will continue to champion conservation.

Conclusion

In the heart of California's rugged coastline, the Big Sur Land Trust stands as a testament to the power of dedicated individuals coming together to protect the environment. Their work serves as a reminder that, with determination and collective effort, we can safeguard our planet's most precious treasures. Join the Big Sur Land Trust in their mission, and become a guardian of Big Sur's natural bounty. Together, we can ensure that this majesticlandscape continues to thrive for generations to come.

As we conclude this exploration of the Big Sur Land Trust, it's clear that their impact extends far beyond the boundaries of the California coast. Their commitment to conservation, sustainability, and education is a model for organizations worldwide. By protecting the natural beauty of Big Sur, they are also contributing to a global effort to combat climate change, preserve biodiversity, and inspire environmental stewardship.

In a world where the pressures of development and environmental degradation are ever-present, the Big Sur Land Trust serves as a shining example of what can be achieved when a community comes together with a shared vision. They prove that by valuing and protecting our natural heritage, we can ensure a brighter, more sustainable future.

So, whether you're a hiker seeking adventure, a wildlife enthusiast, or someone who simply cherishes the serenity of pristine landscapes, consider becoming a part of the Big Sur Land Trust's journey. Your involvement, whether through volunteering, supporting their fundraising efforts, or spreading the word about their mission, can make a significant difference.

In Big Sur, where the mountains meet the sea and nature's beauty knows no bounds, the Big Sur Land Trust continues to write a story of hope, preservation, and unity. Join them on this extraordinary journey and be a part of the legacy that ensures Big Sur remains a sanctuary of natural wonder for generations to come.

Thank you for joining us on this exploration of the Big Sur Land Trust. Together, we can protect and preserve the landscapes that make our world truly remarkable.

Get involved with the Big Sur Land Trust today and be a part of something truly extraordinary! Your contribution will help ensure that Big Sur's natural beauty continues to inspire and enrich the lives of generations to come.

https://bigsurlandtrust.org/

The ocean is an enigmatic and boundless frontier, home to some of the most intriguing and peculiar creatures on the planet. Scientists, with their unrelenting curiosity, strive to decode its secrets, and every discovery made is a testament to the wonders that lie beneath the surface. One such groundbreaking discovery was made off the coast of Central California, in the mysterious depths near the Davidson Seamount, an extinct underwater volcano located 80 miles southwest of Monterey. Researchers stumbled upon a hotspot, now famously referred to as the 'Octopus Garden', where tens of thousands of pearl octopuses have made their abode on the deep sea floor. This revelation was not just fascinating, but also important from a scientific perspective, as it allowed researchers to closely monitor the life cycle of these mysterious creatures, from mating to nesting, and ultimately, death.

A Deep Dive into the Discovery

The first traces of this octopus congregation were found by researchers from NOAA’s Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary and Nautilus Live in October 2018. The Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI) and Moss Landing Marine Laboratories, along with other organizations, collaborated in this study. A total of 14 dives were conducted using a custom-built remotely operated vehicle (ROV) called Doc Ricketts, equipped with a 4K camera and instruments to measure environmental conditions such as temperature and oxygen levels within the octopus nests.

The species discovered was the Muusoctopus robustus, commonly known as the pearl octopus, due to the opalescent pearls they resemble when nesting on the rocky sea floor. Astonishingly, the researchers found a site nearly two miles deep, bustling with life. More than 6,000 octopuses were counted in just a portion of the site, leading scientists to estimate that there could be 20,000 or more octopuses residing in this nursery, making it the largest known aggregation of octopuses on the planet.

Why is the 'Octopus Garden' so Popular?

The peculiar choice of nesting grounds led scientists to question why this particular site was so popular among the cephalopods. The crevices in the hydrothermal springs bathing the rocky seafloor provided a clue. The warmer water, reaching up to 51 degrees Fahrenheit, accelerates the development of octopus eggs, shortening the incubation period and reducing the risk of developing embryos being injured or eaten. This is a stark contrast to the conditions in other parts of the ocean, where water depths of 10,500 feet have temperatures hovering around 35 degrees Fahrenheit, resulting in octopus incubation periods lasting as long as five to eight years. The conditions in the 'Octopus Garden' allowed the eggs to hatch in less than two years, according to MBARI.

Adaptations to the Deep Sea

Jim Barry, a senior scientist at MBARI and the lead author of the new study, highlighted the adaptations these creatures have developed to thrive in one of the most challenging environments on Earth. The deep sea is characterized by frigid temperatures, perpetual darkness, and extreme pressure. Despite these challenges, animals have evolved clever ways to cope, and the 'Octopus Garden' is a testament to this. Barry also mentioned that there might be many more areas like this that remain undiscovered.

A Glimpse into the Future

The discovery of the 'Octopus Garden' has not only provided valuable insights into the life cycle and nesting behaviors of the pearl octopus but has also opened up new avenues for research. The ability to closely monitor these creatures in their natural habitat will aid in the understanding of their behaviors, reproduction strategies, and adaptations to the deep-sea environment. Moreover, it will also contribute to the broader understanding of deep-sea ecosystems, which remain largely unexplored and hold the key to unlocking many of the ocean's secrets.

Conclusion

The 'Octopus Garden' off the coast of Central California is a remarkable discovery that has captivated the imagination of scientists and ocean enthusiasts alike. Home to tens of thousands of pearl octopuses, it is the largest known aggregation of octopuses on the planet. The warm water from hydrothermal springs accelerates the development of octopus eggs, making it an ideal nesting ground. This discovery has shed light on the adaptive strategies of these fascinating creatures and has paved the way for future research into the mysteries of the deep sea. As scientists continue to explore the ocean's depths, it is exciting to think about what other wonders await discovery in the vast and mysterious underwater world.

Car enthusiasts and automotive aficionados, get ready for an exhilarating week of automotive excellence! This blog will take you on a thrilling journey through the much-anticipated Car Week on the Monterey Peninsula. Buckle up and let's explore this extraordinary event that attracts car lovers from around the world.

The Epicenter of Automotive Passion

Every year, the picturesque Monterey Peninsula in California transforms into a haven for automotive enthusiasts during Car Week. This internationally renowned event is a grand celebration of all things automotive, showcasing rare and exquisite vehicles that span the entire spectrum of automotive history.

A Showcase of Automotive Heritage

Car Week offers a breathtaking display of automotive heritage, featuring classic cars and rare vehicles that leave car enthusiasts in awe. From vintage beauties to modern marvels, visitors have the opportunity to witness automotive history come to life. Prepare to be mesmerized by the elegance and timeless appeal of these iconic automobiles.

Auctions for the Enthusiastic Collector

For collectors and car aficionados looking to add a rare gem to their prized collection, Car Week's auctions are a true highlight. Renowned auction houses attract bidders from all corners of the globe, offering an exclusive opportunity to acquire collector cars of unparalleled prestige. The thrill of the bidding process and the chance to own a piece of automotive history make these auctions an unforgettable experience.

Racing Legends Come to Life

Car Week wouldn't be complete without the electrifying presence of historic race cars and legendary drivers. The renowned Monterey Historic Races draw motorsport enthusiasts who witness these powerful machines in action on the racetrack. The roaring engines, the smell of burning rubber, and the adrenaline-pumping atmosphere create an experience like no other.

Exclusive Exhibitions and Concours d'Elegance

Car Week's exclusivity is elevated by its prestigious exhibitions and the highly anticipated Concours d'Elegance. Luxury cars from renowned brands take center stage, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology. The meticulous attention to detail and the pursuit of automotive perfection make these events a true spectacle for discerning car enthusiasts.

Unforgettable Experiences Await

Car Week on the Monterey Peninsula offers more than just visual delights. Visitors can participate in driving experiences, guided tours, and engage in conversations with fellow automotive enthusiasts. The chance to bond with like-minded individuals and share a common passion creates lasting memories and a sense of belonging within this vibrant automotive community.

Conclusion

Car Week on the Monterey Peninsula is an automotive extravaganza that captures the hearts of car lovers worldwide. From classic cars to racing legends, exclusive auctions to luxury exhibitions, this event is a true celebration of automotive excellence. Prepare yourself for a sensory overload as you immerse yourself in the world of automotive splendor and experience the magic of Car Week on the Monterey Peninsula.

The San Francisco Bay Area, with its unique combination of technological innovation and cultural diversity, is a vibrant place to live. Yet, a new trend is unfolding, as more and more residents are finding themselves irresistibly drawn to the more relaxed and picturesque Monterey Bay Area. Here, we break down the top five reasons behind this migration in greater detail.

1. An Unparalleled Oasis of Natural Beauty

The natural splendor of Monterey Bay is an irresistible draw for former San Francisco Bay residents. This stunningly diverse landscape boasts everything from magnificent coastal vistas to towering redwood forests, offering a daily feast for the senses.

The iconic 17-Mile Drive, a winding road through Pebble Beach and Pacific Grove, offers scenic views that are truly postcard-worthy. The nearby Big Sur, a rugged stretch of California’s central coast, is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers, with its impressive cliffs, verdant forests, and the vast Pacific as a backdrop.

Marine life thrives here too, thanks to the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. A trip to Monterey Bay Aquarium provides an up-close and personal encounter with this vibrant underwater world.

2. Significantly Lower Cost of Living

Life in San Francisco Bay certainly comes with a hefty price tag, which is why the relative affordability of Monterey Bay is a significant draw. According to data from Zillow, the median home price in Monterey is about half of that in San Francisco. This makes owning property more accessible and lessens the financial stress for many families and individuals.

Moreover, the cost of general day-to-day items, from groceries to healthcare, is also lower on average in Monterey Bay compared to San Francisco Bay. This lower cost of living allows residents to enjoy a higher quality of life, with more disposable income to spend on recreational activities.

3. Tight-Knit and Welcoming Communities

Monterey Bay is known for its friendly, welcoming communities. Small towns such as Carmel-by-the-Sea, Pacific Grove, and Monterey itself have a charm that's often hard to find in the bustling environment of San Francisco Bay.

In Monterey Bay, community events such as local festivals, farmers' markets, and neighborhood gatherings are not just occasional happenings, but a way of life. These events foster a strong sense of community and belonging, something many former San Francisco residents find refreshing and comforting.

4. A More Relaxed Pace of Life

While the hustle and bustle of San Francisco Bay can be exhilarating, it can also lead to burnout. Monterey Bay, on the other hand, is cherished for its slower, more relaxed pace. The area's expansive open spaces and less congested streets allow for leisurely walks, bike rides, or simply a moment of quiet reflection.

Attractions like the Asilomar State Beach, with its sandy shores and scenic trails, or Fisherman's Wharf, with its quaint shops and eateries, are perfect places to relax and enjoy the slower pace of life that Monterey Bay offers.

5. An Underrated Culinary Scene

San Francisco's culinary scene is well known, but Monterey Bay is rapidly making a name for itself in the gastronomic world. The area's coastal location ensures an abundant supply of fresh seafood, showcased at places like Fisherman's Wharf.

Additionally, Monterey Bay is nestled in one of the country's most fertile agricultural regions. The Salinas Valley, often referred to as the "Salad Bowl of the World", supplies a plethora of fresh, locally-sourced produce to local eateries. This has given rise to a vibrant farm-to-table movement, making dining in Monterey Bay a truly unique and delightful experience.

From the breathtaking natural beauty to the close-knit communities, relaxed pace of life, and impressive culinary scene - it's no wonder why so many people are choosing to trade in the city lights of San Francisco Bay for the coastal charm of Monterey Bay. Each of these factors contributes to a lifestyle shift that many former city dwellers are finding to be both beneficial and enriching. And for those contemplating a similar move, Monterey Bay might just be the perfect destination.

If you're a homebuyer or seller, you may have heard about a 2/1 buydown. But what exactly is it, and how can it help you save money on your mortgage payments?

A 2/1 buydown is a financial arrangement where the home seller (or a third party) pays an upfront fee to a lender to lower the interest rate on the buyer's mortgage for the first two years of the loan. This reduces the buyer's monthly payments during the early years of the mortgage, making it easier to manage their finances and save money.

For example, let's say you're buying a home with a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage. Without a buydown, your interest rate might be 6%. But with a 2/1 buydown, your interest rate could be 4% for the first year and 5% for the second year, before returning to the original 6% rate for the remaining years of the loan. This lower interest rate means lower monthly payments during the early years of the loan, which can be especially helpful if you're a first-time homebuyer with limited income.

If you're a home seller, offering a 2/1 buydown can make your property more attractive to potential buyers. It can help you sell your home more quickly and at a higher price, by making it easier for buyers to manage their mortgage payments during the early years of the loan.

Navigating the 2/1 buydown process can be complex, so it's important to work with a trusted real estate professional who can help you understand the costs and benefits. Keep in mind that the upfront fee paid to the lender can be a significant expense, and it may not always be the best option for every buyer or seller.

In addition to the upfront fee, there are other costs to consider, such as closing costs, origination fees, and prepaid interest. It's important to factor in these costs when deciding whether a 2/1 buydown is the right choice for you.

Overall, a 2/1 buydown can be a smart way to save money on your mortgage payments and achieve your real estate goals. Contact a trusted real estate professional to learn more about how to navigate the process and find the best option for you.

The housing market experienced a slowdown in activity last year as mortgage rates rose, resulting in fewer offers and longer market times for homes. However, the tides are turning as rates are now beginning to drop and buyers are starting to re-enter the market. In fact, the Mortgage Bankers Association reports a 7% increase in mortgage applications last week compared to the previous week.

This shift presents a unique opportunity for those who have been considering selling their homes. As we approach spring, the market is poised for a return of buyers and experts are forecasting the favorable conditions that will drive this trend.

Mike Fratantoni, SVP and Chief Economist of MBA states, "Mortgage rates have reached their lowest level since September 2022, and the beginning of the spring buying season presents an increased affordability for first-time homebuyers with the combination of lower rates and a greater number of homes on the market."

Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist of National Association of Realtors, also highlights that "mortgage rates appear to have already peaked and have been declining since mid-November, signaling a return of buyers in the upcoming months."

Thomas LaSalvia, Senior Economist at Moody’s Analytics, predicts a robust labor market with rising wages, allowing for increased opportunities for homeownership as interest rates stabilize. And Sam Khater, Chief Economist of Freddie Mac, adds that "homebuyers are waiting for further rate decreases and a strong job market, along with a large demographic tailwind of millennial renters, will support the purchase market."

So, if you are ready to take advantage of this shift in the market, it's time to take action. Get in touch with a local real estate professional to gain a deeper understanding of buyer demand in your area and the optimal time to list your home. Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to sell your home at a favorable market condition.

In conclusion, with the combination of lower mortgage rates, a return of buyers, and a robust job market, the housing market is primed for sellers to take advantage of favorable conditions. Stay ahead of the game and get your home ready to sell now.

Prop. 19: Transferring Low Property Taxes in Monterey County

Prop. 19, also known as the "Property Tax Transfers, Exemptions, and Revenue for Wildfire Agencies and Counties Amendment," is a new law that affects property taxes in California. In Monterey County, it has the potential to significantly impact the way that property taxes are transferred between generations. This article will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the pros and cons of Prop. 19 and how it may affect you if you're considering buying or selling a property in Monterey County.

Pros of Prop. 19:

1. Flexibility in location: One of the key changes brought about by Prop. 19 is the ability for homeowners over the age of 55, severely disabled homeowners, or those affected by wildfire or natural disaster to transfer their primary residence's property tax base to a replacement residence anywhere in California. This is a significant change from the previous law, which only allowed for transfers within the same county.

2. Cost savings: This change can be a huge benefit for homeowners in Monterey County who are looking to downsize or move to a different area of the state, as it allows them to keep their low property tax base when purchasing a replacement residence. It can also be a great option for homeowners who have been affected by wildfire or natural disaster, as it allows them to move to a new area without having to pay significantly higher property taxes.

Cons of Prop. 19:

1. Limitations: There are some limitations to this new law. The replacement residence must be of equal or lesser value than the original residence, and the property tax base can only be transferred once every three years. Additionally, certain types of property, such as vacation homes, are not eligible for the transfer.

2. Complexity: The law is complex and can be difficult to navigate. It's important to consult with a tax advisor or a real estate agent with the proper knowledge of the law to evaluate if this law affects you and if it is a good option for your specific situation.

3. Impact on the County's revenue: Prop. 19 also allows certain homeowners to transfer their property tax base to a replacement residence of equal or lesser value anywhere in California, which may cause revenue loss for the county and the state.

Overall, Prop. 19 is a new law that can provide a great opportunity for homeowners who are looking to move or downsize, and for those affected by wildfire or natural disaster, with the ability to transfer their property tax base to a replacement residence anywhere in California. However, it's important to understand the limitations and evaluate if this law affects you and if it is a good option for your specific situation. It's always recommendable to consult with a professional to help you navigate the complexity of this new law.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Who is eligible for the property tax transfer under Prop. 19?

• Homeowners over the age of 55, severely disabled homeowners, or those affected by wildfire or natural disaster are eligible for the property tax transfer.

2. Can I transfer my property tax base to any location in California?

• Yes, under Prop. 19, homeowners can transfer their property tax base to a replacement residence anywhere in California.

3. How often can I transfer my property tax base?

• The property tax base can only be transferred once every three years.

4. Are vacation homes eligible for the property tax transfer?

• No, vacation homes are not eligible for the property tax transfer.

5. Will Prop. 19 impact the county's revenue?

• Prop. 19 may cause revenue loss for the county and the state, as it allows certain homeowners

During my years as a licensed real estate broker in Pacific Grove CA, I've met many first time home buyers. Everyone dreams of buying their first home and the road to buying a home is not always smooth or straight. Despite what you hear on HGTV, it's a lot more than just submitting an offer and signing some paperwork- sellers have to be convinced to accept your offer, you have to have enough money for a down payment, you have to get pre-approved for a loan, etc. 

There are so many road blocks that keep people from being able to buy the home they want. In this video, I share some common red flags that can pop up during the process and why it could impact your loan approval:

Have questions about the process of buying or selling in the current market? Let us give you a hand. Reach out today for a local opinion of value - benottmar@gmail.com or (831) 601-1370. 

Pacific Grove is home to one of the most picturesque drives in California, the 17-Mile Drive. This scenic route takes you through some of the most beautiful and exclusive residential areas in the country, as well as offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the natural beauty of the coastline. Whether you're a local looking for a new way to explore the area or a visitor looking for a unique experience, 17-Mile Drive is a must-see destination.

The 17-Mile Drive starts in Pacific Grove and winds through several towns along the way, including Pebble Beach,Carmel-by-the-Sea, and Spanish Bay. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to take in the natural beauty of the coastline, as well as visit some of the area's most iconic landmarks and attractions.

One of the most famous stops on the drive is the iconic Lone Cypress Tree. This tree has stood tall on a rocky outcropping for 250 years and is considered a symbol of the rugged beauty of the California coast. The tree is located along 17-Mile Drive and is a popular spot for visitors to take photos.

Another highlight of the drive is the Pebble Beach Golf Links. This public golf course has hosted the U.S. Open and other major tournaments and is considered one of the most beautiful and challenging courses in the world. Even if you're not a golfer, it's worth taking a drive through the course to see the stunning views of the ocean.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is also a must-see destination on the drive. This charming town is home to many art galleries, shops, and restaurants, and is known for its picturesque streets and Mediterranean-style architecture. The town is also famous for its many dog-friendly policies, so don't hesitate to bring your furry friend along for the ride.

Another notable stop on the 17-Mile Drive is Spanish Bay. This beautiful and peaceful beach is surrounded by scenic cliffs and offers visitors a chance to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. It's also a great spot for tide pooling and beachcombing.

If you're looking for a guided tour of 17-Mile Drive, there are many tour operators that offer guided tours by bus or car. These tours offer an in-depth look at the history and natural beauty of the area and are a great way to make the most of your visit.

The drive is open year-round, but the best time to take it is in the spring or summer when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its best. There is a fee to drive on 17-Mile Drive, but if you plan on doing several things in the area, such as visiting Pebble Beach Golf Links or The Lodge at Pebble Beach, you can get reinbursed if you spend $35.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to explore one of the most beautiful drives in California. 17-Mile Drive offers something for everyone, from the iconic Lone Cypress Tree to the Pebble Beach Golf Links, and the charming shops and restaurants in Carmel-by-the-Sea. With its stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the natural beauty of the coastline, it's a must-see destination for anyone visiting Pacific Grove. So, plan your visit and make the most of your time on 17-Mile Drive, whether you prefer a self-guided tour or take a guided one, it's worth the experience.

The real estate market in Carmel, Ca saw a decrease in the number of homes sold in November 2022, with a total of 8 sales, compared to the 12 sales that occurred the month before. This represents a 33% decrease in sales activity from October 2022 to November 2022.

Despite the decrease in the number of homes sold, the median sale price for the 93923 area saw a significant increase in November 2022. The median sale price is the price point at which half of the homes sold for more and half sold for less. In October 2022, the median sale price was $2,155,000, but it rose to $2,750,000 in November 2022, representing a 28% increase. This suggests that there may have been a higher number of higher-priced homes sold in November 2022 compared to October 2022.

There was also a decrease in the days on market (DOM) in November 2022, with an average of 16 days, compared to 19 days in October 2022. The DOM is the number of days that a home is listed for sale before it is sold. A lower DOM can indicate that homes in the 93923 area are in high demand and are selling more quickly.

On average, sellers in the 93923 area received 97% of their asking price in November 2022. The asking price is the price that the seller originally lists their home for sale. Receiving a high percentage of the asking price can indicate that the market is strong for sellers, as buyers are willing to pay close to the listed price for homes in the area. This can also indicate a high level of competition among buyers, as they are willing to pay higher prices in order to secure a home in the 93923 area.