As sure as the wind blows, this is the place to fly a kite, hang glide or paraglide, get out on the water and wind surf, or even strap on a parachute, jump out at 30,000 feet and drift back to earth. No matter which way you look, the wind is at your back ushering you along to the next adventure, whether you’re a student at California State University, Monterey Bay, a local or a visitor.

Head out to Marina State Beach for a walk through the Marina Dunes Natural Preserves. Be on the lookout for orcas, dolphins, seals and sea lions that thrive in the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. The newly designated Ft Ord National Monument, one of the last undeveloped natural wildlands, is nearby with plenty of trails for walking, biking and horseback riding.

Ethnically and culturally diverse, the restaurant scene is globally delicious – Vietnamese, Italian, German, Korean, Japanese, Chinese, Mexican, Filipino, English and, even, Hawaiian create a United Nations of dining choices. Spend a little time and taste them all.