re: Spin-off from Yosemite thread : best area to stay around Monterey / Carmel ?

We just got back from trip in area. Stayed in Big Sur and it was amazing. Played Pebble and had dinner at Roy’s. However the drive to and back got old. It’s okay in daylight but nighttime for this flat lander was stressful. Monterey and just north might be better option.
If your visiting Big Sur, do Big Sur River gorge hike!