Press Kit
Media Contact: Catherine Boire
Tel#: 707-255-5997
Email: CBoirePR@aol.com
ASILOMAR CONFERENCE GROUNDS
FACT SHEET
ASILOMAR: Spanish meaning, “Refuge by the Sea”
LOCATION: Situated adjacent to the Asilomar State Beach, along the shoreline of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Centrally located within the Monterey Peninsula in Pacific Grove, California.
FOUNDED: 1913
HISTORY: Originated as the YWCA’s Western Regional Conference Facility and Summer Camp, Asilomar was sold to the State of California, and became a California State Park in 1956.
ARCHITECTURE: Asilomar’s first structures were designed between 1913 and 1928 by California’s first female licensed architect Julia Morgan (most recognized for creating the legendary Hearst Castle).These buildings were designated historical landmarks in 1987.
MEETING FACILITIES: In a cozy, comfortable environment set among the Monterey pines and cypresses, Asilomar is a meandering complex of 31,000 square feet of meeting space with 38 meeting halls in five main buildings. Accommodates up to 1,000 attendees; 650 theater-style in Merrill Hall. Some meeting rooms have pianos and fireplaces. Full audio/visual capabilities.
SOCIAL HALL: Asilomar’s gathering spot, the Phoebe A. Hearst Social Hall features a large, rubblestone fireplace and open beam ceiling, ping pong, billiards, grand piano, retail store, public telephones and administrative offices.
DINING: All conference room rates include three meals. All meals are served in the Crocker Dining Complex, accommodating 850 guests. Breakfast, 7:30 a.m.-9 a.m.; Lunch, Noon-1 p.m.; Dinner, 6 p.m.-7 p.m. A camp bell is rung at the start of each meal hour.
ACCOMMODATIONS: 314 secluded guest rooms, among 28 quaint lodge buildings, many with a fireplace and balcony, or private deck.
PARKING: Free self-parking is available for guests.
TRANSPORTATION: The Monterey Peninsula Airport is served by Amtrak, Greyhound Bus, several rental car companies and airlines such as Alaska Airlines, America West, British Airways and United. A local bus departs from Asilomar for Monterey and the Aquarium, with connections in Carmel and other points of interest. Taxis are available for service to Pacific Grove, Carmel and Monterey.
SPECIAL EVENTS: Asilomar staff can arrange barbecues, premium meals, cocktail parties, dances, ranger-led walks, campfire talks, sporting tournaments and other social events.
RECREATION:Guests can take a morning walk along a coastal trail or a sunset stroll in the neighboring dunes boardwalk. Conference Ground facilities feature a heated pool, volleyball, and a social hall with ping pong, grand piano and billiards. Just minutes from such scenic destinations as Carmel and Monterey, with the famous “17-Mile Drive” leading travelers to unique sight-seeing, shopping, golf, sport fishing, boating, horseback riding and entertainment.
FLORA/FAUNA: At nature’s doorstep, Asilomar retains many of the native flora and fauna of the peninsula. Sea otters and seals swim in nearby waters, while deer and raccoon make their home on the grounds. Free self-guided audio tours or a nature walk with a park ranger will give insight to the fragile beauty and ecosystems that surround. November through March, guests are encouraged to visit the nearby Butterfly Sanctuary to see thousands on Monarch butterflies that migrate annually to Pacific Grove.
PARK STORE: Open daily from 6:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., offering an array of souvenirs, books, gifts, park information and Asilomar apparel.
GENERAL MANAGER: Patrick Sheridan
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