In honor of the 5th Anniversary of Inspirations & Celebrations (which is on October 3rd, 2016), this month we’re partnering with several premiere businesses on the Monterey Peninsula to create a very special giveaway – “The Deluxe Central Coast Vacation Giveaway”.

About The Central Coast

Just 2-hours south of the Bay Area and 5-hours north of Los Angeles, the beautiful Monterey Peninsula is based on the picturesque Central Coast in Northern California. From majestic, sweeping vistas of the Pacific Ocean to rolling hillsides scattered with lush vineyards, the Central Coast is comprised of several charming cities and towns (including Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea, and Carmel Valley), that each have their own unique culture and story.

The Deluxe Central Coast Vacation Giveaway offers Inspirations & Celebrations’ readers the exciting opportunity to win a luxurious getaway to this world-renowned destination, and the chance to explore each of these three cities and the wonderful experiences (including fine dining, wine tasting, outdoor activities, and more) that these each of these Central Coast communities have to offer.

About The Central Coast Vacation Giveaway

The lucky winner of this $1800 prize package will enjoy: 2-nights deluxe, fireplace suite accommodations at The InterContinental The Clement Monterey, luxury resort & spa in Monterey, California; Free overnight parking & internet access; Complimentary in-room breakfast for 2 (each day during the visit); Dining at the award-winning C restaurant + bar overlooking the Monterey Bay ($150 Value); 2 Tickets to the Monterey Bay Aquarium in Monterey ($100 Value); Kayaking for 2 from Adventures By The Sea in Monterey ($60 Value); Dining at Restaurant 1833 in Monterey ($100 Value); an in-store Shopping Spree at L’Occitane en Provence at Carmel Plaza in Carmel-by-the-Sea ($100 Gift Certificate); a Massage Treatment at The Cocoa Spa by That Chocolate in Carmel-by-the-Sea ($140 Value); Wine Tasting for 2 at De Tierra Vineyards Tasting Room in Carmel-by-the-Sea ($50 Value); Wine Tasting for 2 at Caraccioli Cellars Tasting Room in Carmel-by-the-Sea ($50 Value); Dining at Pèpe’s Vesuvio ($100 Value) in Carmel-by-the-Sea; Dining at Billy Quon’s Sur at The Barnyard in Carmel ($50 Value); VIP Wine Tasting & Tour at Folktale Vineyards & Winery in Carmel Valley ($150 Value).

How To Win The Central Coast Vacation Giveaway

The Central Coast Vacation Giveaway runs from October 1st – October 31st, 2016. To enter, follow the easy instructions listed in the Gleam-powered giveaway widget shown below. Plus, make sure to leave a comment below sharing why you’d love to visit the Central Coast. A random winner will be chosen on October 31st, and contacted via email. To be eligible to win, entrants must be age 18+ and USA/Canada residents.

Don’t miss the opportunity to earn 5 bonus entries by sharing this fabulous giveaway with your friends (by email and social media). The viral share link option can be found in the list of entry options below.

About Monterey

Not only was Monterey once the capital of California, it also has a rich history in fishing and canning. From action-packed Cannery Row and the world famous Monterey Bay Aquarium to the clam chowder mecca of Fisherman’s Wharf (overlooking the Monterey Bay), Monterey is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Central Coast. In Monterey, you’ll find unique boutiques along Cannery Row, sight-seeing and outdoor adventures (including kayaking, sailing, and surfing), a scenic recreational trail along the coast, and a number of award-winning restaurants.

2-Night Accommodations (in a Deluxe Fireplace Suite) at InterContinental The Clement Monterey: A 4.5-Star upscale, ocean-front hotel, resort, and spa located on the historic, world-famous Cannery Row in Monterey, California. Part of the IHG chain of luxury hotels, The Clement Monterey is a unique, inspiring Northern California hotel bustling with urban energy, modern decor and amenities, and coastal charm. The hotel is frequently regarded as the preferred choice for lodging amongst tastemakers, trendsetters, and those “in the know”.

As part of this exclusive Giveaway package, accommodations also include: Complimentary In-Room Breakfast for 2 People, and Free Overnight Parking & WIFI.

About InterContinental The Clement Monterey

Renowned for its spectacular setting, stylish upscale ambiance, superior customer service, and desirable Cannery Row location, the InterContinental The Clement Monterey is one of the premiere resort destinations in Monterey County. Ranked by Sunset Magazine as one of the “Top 10 California Coast Hotels” (May 2014), the hotel has also received the prestigious AAA Four Diamond Award (2013), and got a 4.5 star rating from US News & World Report.

This ocean-front, award-winning luxury hotel features 208 guest rooms, 12 of those are full ocean front suites, and 8 all accessible rooms. Each guest room offers complimentary coffee & teas, in addition to Signature items in each guest room such as a sea otter stuffed animal, real orchids, and sand Zen gardens. The elegantly-furnished rooms boast spacious bathrooms, each including a relaxing, soaking tub & walk-in shower.

There is also high-speed wired & wireless internet along with 37” LCD HD TVs and media centers, Valet Parking, 24-hours room service, a business center, gift shop, laundry/ dry cleaning services, and multilingual Front Desk & Concierge Staff. The hotel Spa offers in 5 different treatment rooms, relaxing massages, soothing facials, invigorating body scrubs, and a gift shop to purchase the Pure Fiji organic skin care products used for spa services.

In addition, the hotel offers on-site bicycle rentals, in-room babysitting services (provided by trained and credentialed staff), a courtyard with 2 large fire pits, an award-winning restaurant and bar with sweeping ocean vistas, and a 24-hour Fitness Center, outdoor heated lap pool, and jacuzzi.

Dining for 2 at the C restaurant + bar ($150 Value): Located within The Clement Monterey, the C restaurant + bar, features distinctive modern decor, floor-to-ceiling windows offering unobstructed ocean views, a cozy outdoor heated patio (adjacent to the lively, atmospheric boardwalk), and award-winning California coastal cuisine (including fresh sustainable seafood, Angus beef, and locally-grown organic produce).

Plus, the restaurant recently launched a new gourmet breakfast menu, including an exciting Bloody Mary Bar (which enables guests to create their own custom cocktail).

2 Tickets to The Monterey Bay Aquarium ($100 Value): The world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium (located at ocean’s edge on Cannery Row in Monterey, CA.) is a remarkable showcase for the habitats and sea life of one of the planet’s richest marine regions. More than 35,000 creatures representing over 550 species fill 34 spectacular galleries. With nearly 200 exhibits in all, the Aquarium is a window to the wonders of the ocean, and one of the most amazing adventures on the Monterey Peninsula.

Kayaking for 2 from Adventures By The Sea ($60 Value): From up-close whale-watching to sea otter and dolphin sightings, there’s no better way to get your daily dose of exercise than by kayaking on the Monterey Bay. Renowned for its family-friendly outdoor activities, Adventures By The Sea has been entertaining and delighting tourists and residents on the Monterey Peninsula since 1991, by providing fun and exciting activities such as paddle boarding, kayaking, and bicycling.

Dining for 2 at Restaurant 1833 ($100 Value): Located in the former Stokes Adobe in Monterey, Restaurant 1833 resides in a national heritage site that is rich with historical elements from Monterey’s historical background. The two-story restaurant is a design-forward space with regal, turn-of-the-century elements that play homage to the buildings rich history in each of the six interior spaces. The restaurant’s outdoor space provides an intimate setting for outdoor dining, and a patio area with four fire pits which provide the perfect space for gusts to sit back and relax while enjoying various small bites and custom cocktails.

About Carmel-by-the-Sea

Just a brief 10-minute drive away is the prestigious artists community known as Carmel-by-the-Sea. Named by Travel + Leisure as one of the “World’s Best Cities for Romance”, boasting cozy streets lined with inspiring art galleries, gourmet eateries, and wine tasting rooms, Carmel-by-the-Sea is a true haven for visitors and residents. After a day of wine tasting, eating, shopping, and gallery-browsing, stroll down Ocean Avenue to reach the most scenic, dog-friendly beach in America – Carmel Beach.

In-Store Shopping Spree at L’Occitane en Provence ($100 Value): Featuring a wide array of luxurious French beauty essentials (from divine fragrances and bath & body products to skincare treatments), L’Occitane en Provence is the world-renowned creator of a sumptuous, award-winning skincare line that has been seen in Elle, InStyle, Allure, and other leading publications. Containing the finest ingredients and botanical elements that smell incredible, your in-store shopping experience at the Carmel Plaza store will make you feel like you’ve been transported to the South of France. From hand lotions and soaps to fragrances and skincare treatments, you’ll be completely pampered when you use L’Occitane en Provence products. [Fine print: This gift certificate must be used in-store in Carmel, CA., and is not redeemable at other locations or online.]

Massage Treatment at The Cocoa Spa by That Chocolate ($140 Value): Two words that would make any woman melt – massage and chocolate. That’s what you’ll discover by entering the cozy, tucked-away cottage at The Cocoa Spa by That Chocolate in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Not only will you enjoy taking a bite into gourmet hand-made chocolates, you’ll also get to relax and rejuvenate in the tranquil garden setting, where your massage therapist will escort you into a private treatment room, for a soothing massage treatment. After your massage, browse the collection of cocoa-infused skincare products (developed by The Cocoa Spa), that were created specifically to beautify and restore your skin to its healthiest state.

Dining for 2 at Pèpe’s Vesuvio Trattoria-Bar-Pizzeria ($100 Value): After a day of shopping and relaxing spa treatments, stroll through Devendorf Park in Carmel-by-the-Sea to the popular Italian eatery and rooftop bar known as Vesuvio. From mouth-watering Mediterranean dishes (like authentic Italian pizza baked in a wood-burning oven, Burrata Mozzarella Caprese Salad, and Meatball Lollipops) to an upscale, elegant atmosphere featuring classic photos of old Hollywood stars (like Sophia Loren) and a bustling rooftop patio with twinkling lights and flowers, Vesuvio is one of the ultimate hotspots in Carmel for both residents and visitors.

Wine Tasting for 2 at Caraccioli Cellars ($50): One of the most popular things to do when visiting Carmel-by-the-Sea is to hop around to the wine tasting rooms. If you love sparkling wine, then you’ll be bubbling over with joy when you head into Caraccioli Cellars‘ posh tasting room in Carmel-by-the-Sea. From refreshing Brut Rosé to Pinot Noir, Caraccioli Cellars’ wines are “always a méthode champenoise vintage product”. The sophisticated and trendy tasting room is a great place to lounge and socialize while wine tasting with that special someone.

Wine Tasting for 2 at De Tierra Vineyards ($50 Value): Heralded for producing sustainably-made wines, De Tierra Vineyards has earned several awards from wine industry competitions including the San Francisco International Wine Competition, San Diego International Wine Competition, and the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition. De Tierra Vineyards has grown into an “artisanal brand complete with vineyards, a winery, and a tasting room. De Tierra is SIP Certified featuring organic varietals, estate offerings, and several wine club options.” Their warm, inviting tasting room is always busy with wine club members and out-of-towners, making it a perfect place to cheers to the good life. Plus, their friendly staff enthusiastically teach you about the wine-making process.

After a couple hours wine tasting in Carmel-by-the-Sea, you’ll probably work up a good appetite. Head over to The Barnyard shopping center in Carmel (just a few minutes away by car) to discover quaint shops, boutiques and restaurants, including the newly-opened Billy Quon’s Sur at The Barnyard.

Dining for 2 at Billy Quon’s Sur at The Barnyard ($50 Value): Recently opened by legendary Monterey Peninsula restaurateurs, Bill Lee and his wife, Theresa, their new restaurant is quickly becoming a popular place to grab a bite and kick back with friends. Overlooking the gorgeous gardens at The Barnyard, Sur offers both inside and outside dining. The cozy interior space and peaceful patio invite you to relax and unwind, while you nosh away on tasty comfort food, including all-natural Angus Beef burgers, prime rib sliders, oven-roasted veggie ravioli, seafood linguine, and more.

About Carmel Valley

When you want to get a little sunshine, head just 20-minutes into Carmel Valley to explore the evergreen hillsides and enjoy the growing number of award-winning vineyards and wineries. What was once known to be a rustic, laid-back community of ranchers has since turned into a relaxing resort destination filled with exclusive golf courses, wineries, and fine dining. Plus, there are miles of great hiking trails carved out of the hillsides and a tranquil public park (in Carmel Valley Village), which make for a fun day outdoors.

VIP Wine Tasting & Tour for 2 at Folktale Vineyards & Winery ($150 Value): “Inspired by the thrill of discovery, the joy of gathering, and the idea that every great bottle of wine holds a story”, Folktale Vineyards & Winery is one of the most beautiful wineries on the Central Coast. Boasting a French-style chateau (housing a wine tasting room and lounge area), an expansive barrel room, and a gorgeous 5-acre property surrounded by lush vineyards and rolling, green hills, Folktale will capture your heart the moment you drive into the gates. During your tour and tasting, you’ll get to sip on Sparkling Brut, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and other tasty varietals. Plus, you’ll get a chance to relax in their courtyard patio (surrounded by blooming rose bushes) and get a VIP tour of their estate.

About Inspirations & Celebrations:

Since launching in October 2011, Inspirations & Celebrations has become a source of inspiration and information for over 100,000 subscribers and followers (including celebrities, top brands, and popular bloggers).

The easy-to-navigate desktop & mobile-friendly site features hundreds of articles on a range of topics geared toward women (ages 20-45), including: fashion trends & style advice, health & beauty tips, home decorating & entertaining tutorials, travel guides, and special event coverage.

To date, the site has collaborated with more than 130 leading lifestyle brands & retailers, including: Google, Tommy Bahama, Amazon, ESQ Movado, L.A.M.B., L’Oréal Paris, Bacardi, Intel, VW, Olay, Dove, etc. In addition, the website and its Creator (Christina-Lauren Pollack) have been seen, quoted, and featured in several top publications and websites, such as InStyle.com, Shape.com, Vogue, Babble, and The Huffington Post (to name a few).

GIVEAWAY RULES: To be eligible to win, entrants must be at least 18 years or older, and be a legal resident of the USA or Canada, at time of entry. Invalid entries will be excluded. Click here to read the Official Rules for this Giveaway; Terms & Conditions apply. [Note: blackout dates apply; travel expenses, taxes, and gratuities not included.]

[Sponsored by: InterContinental Hotel The Clement Monterey, the C restaurant + bar, Monterey Bay Aquarium, Adventures By The Sea, Restaurant 1833, L’Occitane en Provence, The Cocoa Spa by That Chocolate, SUR Restaurant at The Barnyard, Pepe’s Vesuvio Ristorante & Bar, De Tierra Vineyards, Caraccioli Cellars, Folktale Vineyards & Winery. Media Sponsor: Monterey County Convention & Visitors Bureau – SeeMonterey.com]