Located on the Monterey Peninsula in Pacific Grove, Asilomar (meaning "a refuge by the sea") State Beach and Conference Grounds offer breathtaking views of the cypress, surf and sand. The Center began in 1913 as a camp and conference site for the YWCA. It has been operated by the State of California since 1956. With buildings designed by the California architect Julia Morgan, the Asilomar Conference Center is a complex of meeting halls, dining facilities, and guest rooms situated on 105 secluded acres of scenic forest and sand dunes. A boardwalk across the dunes gives access to the beach and tide pool area. Recreational facilities include a heated pool and social hall with ping pong, a grand piano and billiards. It is minutes from popular tourist destinations in Carmel and Monterey - 17 Mile Drive and surrounded by neighboring Carmel, Cannery Row, Monterey Bay Aquarium and Fisherman's Wharf. Served by Monterey Peninsula Airport.

• Take the scenic 17 mile drive for spectacular views of this beach.