Several national parks are within driving distance of Monterey. Pinnacles National Park is a little over an hour's drive to the southeast and is named for its distinctive rock formations. There’s more to see here than stone, however, thanks to the abundant wildlife and variety of landscapes on display. If you drive three and a half hours to the northeast, you’ll find stunning Yosemite National Park. Half Dome, Lower Yosemite Falls, Soda Springs, and more await. Sequoia National Park is a bit over four hours to the southeast, but the Ancient Sequoias here are well worth the drive. Mountains, valleys, and caves beckon in this national park.
If you take a 35-minute drive north on California’s legendary Highway 1, you’ll arrive at Sunset State Beach. Top-notch views of Monterey Bay, lovely RV campsites, and great places for surf-fishing can be found in this park. Given the nature of California’s coast, the fact that you can drive 40 minutes south on Highway 1 and find another awesome state park like Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is hardly surprising. This park is often referred to as “Little Yosemite” due to its stunning views and lovely hiking trails. New Brighton State Beach is 40 minutes north of Monterey just outside of Santa Cruz. Swimming, paddle boarding, boogie boarding, and hiking are favorite pastimes here.
Monterey Bay Aquarium is one of California’s top landmarks, but there are plenty of other landmarks and monuments in the Monterey area. There is, of course, the Old Custom House, which is California’s oldest building and thus California State Historical Landmark No. 1. Another landmark is the Point Pinos Lighthouse, which is the Pacific coast’s oldest continually operating lighthouse. In Steinbeck Plaza, you can visit the Cannery Row Monument, which is a tribute to legendary author John Steinbeck and other important figures from Monterey.
One great place to park your camper in Monterey is the Monterey Fairgrounds RV Park. This RV park at the Monterey Fairgrounds features full hookups, wireless internet, showers, and laundry facilities. If you’d rather stay somewhere else along Highway 1, there are a couple of campgrounds within a few hours of Monterey. One is Kirk Creek Campground in Big Sur, which is located in the Los Padres National Forest and can accommodate rigs up to 30 feet long. Another is in Big Basin Redwoods State Park, which offers multiple RV campsites near the ancient redwoods that soar majestically over this park.
How do I properly navigate and park a Class A motorhome rental in urban areas or tight spaces in Monterey, CA?
Class A motorhomes can be large and require a bit of practice and patience to navigate and park in tight spaces. When driving in urban areas, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and plan your route ahead of time to avoid narrow streets, low overpasses, or weight restrictions. When parking, look for spacious lots that allow for easy entry and exit. It may also be helpful to have a spotter help guide you into your parking spot.
Are there any special licensing requirements or restrictions for operating a Class A motorhome rental in Monterey, CA?
In most cases, a standard driver's license is required to operate a Class A motorhome rental.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on a Class A motorhome rental during my rental period?
As an RVshare customer, the only maintenance required is keeping the motorhome clean and returning it in the same condition it was received.
Do I need to know any weight restrictions or bridge height limitations when operating a Class A motorhome rental in Monterey, CA?
Yes, it's important to be aware of weight restrictions and bridge height limitations when operating a Class A motorhome rental. It's important to check with your RV owner or local authorities for any specific restrictions in your area.
Can I bring my bicycles or other outdoor equipment to use with the Class A motorhome rental, and what storage options are available for these items?
Yes, you can bring your bicycles or other outdoor equipment to use with the Class A motorhome rental. Many motorhomes come equipped with exterior storage compartments or bike racks for convenient storage. Check with the RV owner to see what storage is available to you.
How do I properly level and stabilize a Class A motorhome rental at my campsite or RV park, and what equipment or tools do I need for this?
Sometimes stabilizing a Class A motorhome is needed to ensure a comfortable and safe stay at your campsite or RV park. Confirm the type of campsite you’ll stay at and any stabilizing actions or equipment necessary with the RV owner.
What fuel efficiency considerations do I need to consider when operating a Class A motorhome rental, and how can I minimize the impact on my fuel costs?
Class A motorhomes typically have lower fuel efficiency due to their size and weight. However, there are ways to minimize fuel costs such as driving at a steady speed and avoiding abrupt stops and starts.
Do I need to bring entertainment equipment or appliances for the Class A motorhome rental, such as a home theater system or outdoor grill?
Most Class A motorhomes come equipped with basic entertainment equipment and appliances such as a TV, DVD player, and refrigerator. However, if you have specific entertainment needs or preferences, it's best to check with your RV owner to ensure these items are provided or if you should bring your own.
Are any unique features or amenities available in Class A motorhome rentals that may not be found in other RVs in Monterey, CA?
Class A motorhomes often feature high-end amenities such as leather seating, residential-sized kitchens, and luxurious bedding. Some may also feature high-tech entertainment systems or outdoor kitchens. It's best to check with your RV owner for any specific unique features or amenities that may be available in your rental.