Road Trip from San Francisco to Monterey

The cast of Big Little Lies is loaded with A-listers, but the HBO series has also made a star out of the picture-perfect Monterey, California. Thanks to its world-famous aquarium, the coastal city has seen its profile boosted by the award-winning drama and sleepy sites in the county turned into tourist destinations. Here are just a few of the real spots from the show you can visit — and some of the cast's favorite local hangouts. Prepare to channel your inner Madeline Martha Mackenzie and have an amazing insta-worthy road trip to Monterey, California! 

ROAD TRIP TO ICONIC BIG LITTLE LIES FILMING LOCATIONS & CREW FAVORITES

DRIVE OVER THE ICONIC BIXBY BRIDGE

The stunning arch bridge featured in the show's opening credits is actually located in Big Sur, 18 miles south of Monterey and absolutely worth the gorgeous drive. Big Little Lies' location Manager Gregory Alpert suggests pulling off the highway just north of the bridge for the best photo opportunity. Blast Leon Bridge’s River and truly feel like you’re in the show.

GRAB A BITE AT REESE WITHERSPOON’S FAV CAFE

Witherspoon dubbed this healthy cafe "the cutest place to eat in Monterey." Her go-to drink: the lavender lemonade, which you obviously have to get while visiting. They are dedicated to simple, delicious and farm driven foods. Whether they are preserving produce for seasons to come in their cannery or serving whole foods in the cafe, their mission is to enrich the local food community. Happy Girl Kitchen co. empowers people to get involved and learn about the importance of what's on their plate.

SPEND THE DAY AT THE FAMOUS MONTEREY BAY AQUARIUM

Jane Chapman (Shailene Woodley) gets a job at this famous aquarium in season 2. It's regularly named one of the world's best aquariums for its Open Sea exhibit, kelp forest and resident "jellies." Bonus: The aquarium is also featured heavily in the animated film Finding Dory. From sea otters to seaweeds, The Monterey Bay Aquarium’s unique oceanfront location and timeless galleries bring the wonders of the ocean to life for visitors. But beyond their exhibits, they are transforming what it means to be an aquarium. The mission of the Monterey Bay Aquarium is to inspire conservation of the ocean

ENJOY A MEAL AT PALUCA TRATTORIA

The show's Blue Blues cafe set from season 1 was modeled after Paluca Trattoria on Fisherman's Wharf. This is the main cafe where our favorite leading ladies spend their time chatting and getting to know one another. The showrunners recreated the outdoor seating area on a soundstage in Hollywood, then layered in the real view from this scenic spot using a green screen.

WHERE TO STAY

START IN SAN FRANCISCO

Hotel 32One

Nestled between Union Square and the Financial District, Hotel 32One is the perfect place to stay while exploring the city. The impeccable location allows guests accessibility to the Moscone Convention Center, Pier 39 at Fisherman’s Wharf, Lombard Street, Chase Center, Union Square, Chinatown, and other San Francisco’s attractions.

END IN THE FAMOUS MONTEREY

Mariposa Inn & Suites

Mariposa Inn & Suites is Monterey’s best-kept secret! The rooms are designed for comfort and relaxation and the hotel is just minutes to Pebble Beach, Cannery Row, Monterey Bay Aquarium, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Del Monte Shopping center. From beautiful rooms to shopping, and Big Little Lies filming locations nearby, there’s a ton of activities to keep you busy!

Have you been to Monterey, California? It’s a great place for any Big Little Lies fans, mother-daughter trips, girls trips, or even romantic getaways!

XOXO

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