InterContinental The Clement Monterey 750 Cannery Row • Monterey • California 93940

Throughout the years, Monterey's timeless natural beauty has been the inspiration for artists, poets and novelists alike. Recently, a downtown renaissance has put a glamorous polish on historic districts like Cannery Row, and author John Steinbeck would be amazed to see these formerly rough-and-tumble dockside streets dramatically transformed into a thoroughly modern boulevard. Today's Cannery Row is alive with fashionable boutiques, delectable eateries, upscale galleries and a vibrant street scene that attracts visitors from all over the world. And right next door, at the heart of the action, sits the celebrated Monterey Bay Aquarium.

Can this quaint yet oh-so-now slice of paradise get any better? Yes, it can. InterContinental The Clement Monterey was designed as a serene coastal retreat for personal rejuvenation and spectacular private celebrations.

Wedding ceremonies are staged on an expansive courtyard facing the sapphire-blue waters of the bay. Two fire pits provide an ambient glow, particularly romantic at sunset. Couples say their vows with the bay in the background, while seabirds trace graceful curves on the horizon, and otters and sea lions frolic in the waves.

With such a picturesque setting, have your social hour out in the fresh ocean air as well. While the bridal party poses for pictures, guests enjoy the hotel's boardwalk and pier, which extends out over the bay. Cut-outs along the wooden pier reveal tantalizing peeks directly down at the teeming underwater world of the Monterey Bay Sanctuary.

As twilight descends, retire indoors to admire the vista from another perspective. The Pacific Ballroom is a refined setting for a bayside gala, replete with picture windows that capture a panorama of the moonlit ocean. Bring the sparkle indoors by decorating with lights—the banquet staff can customize your event according to your wishes. The view will be even more impressive from the Ocean Terrace Ballroom, located upstairs. It's an intimate space that boasts a bayview terrace.

The resort's equally impressive public spaces are tranquil and welcoming, thanks to the stylish use of wood and other natural materials, along with décor in soothing shades of green and blue, evocative of the sea and sky. One of the most notable spaces is the Reading Room, warmed by a contemporary stone-faced fireplace. Adjacent to the Reading Room, the Library serves as a private dining salon that's perfect for formal rehearsal dinners.

One of the benefits of a destination event at InterContinental The Clement Monterey is that friends and family can have a minivacation, because there's simply no end to the area's fun-filled activities. Hotel accommodations feature up-to-the-minute amenities, and many have fireplaces, ocean views and balconies. Their on-site spa pampers with the latest in beautification and wellness treatments. VIP Babysitting is also available for children, enabling parents to enjoy the wedding celebration.

This magnificent hotel, which opened in May 2008, has become extremely popular for special events. Reserve your space now to take advantage of Monterey's legendary allure.