Rocky Point Restaurant
36700 Highway 1, Carmel
624-2933, www.rockypointrestaurant.com
With a yearlong closure in 2012 for an extensive renovation, new owners, staff and menus, business operations have been a little rocky this last decade but their drinks—and, more importantly, their views—are always on point. Along with a stronger foundation came new multi-level viewing decks and a grand outdoor seating area. A full bar and above-par wine list celebrating many local wineries mean there are as many beverage options as there are whales migrating by. Love souvenirs? Take home a limited edition 2006 Rutherford AVA Cabernet Sauvignon, a Rocky Point Private Label Wine. It’s technically a Carmel address, but this baby’s worlds apart.