Portola Book Club! March Pick: Typewriter Beach by Meg Waite Clayton

Another month, another Portola Book Club blog! We’re excited to continue our series where each month we share novels share some significance to our beautiful destination. Since Monterey County rich in literary history, it’s a dream for literary tourism, and welcoming visitors to explore the places that have shaped iconic stories while discovering new favorites along the way. As always, we’ll have copies of this month’s book available to borrow in our lobby library.

March Pick

This month’s novel features local author, Meg Waite Clayton, from Carmel-by-the-Sea who uses the picturesque location as the backdrop for her recent novel and our pick of the month, Typewriter Beach.

About the Book

Typewriter Beach is a dual-timeline novel set between 1950s Hollywood and present-day Carmel-by-the-Sea. It tells the story of Isabella Giori, who is a young actress trying to navigate the challenges of the film industry, Leon Chazan, a talented screenwriter who has been blacklisted, and Gemma Chazan, Leon’s 26-year-old granddaughter who is trying sell her grandfather’s cottage in Carmel, but uncovers her Leon’s hidden past. The novel explores legacy, artistic integrity, and the price of telling and hiding the truth.

Where to Visit

The setting of Typewriter Beach is set in the picturesque town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, known for its storybook architecture, scenic beaches, dog-friendly community and charming walkable village atmosphere. The town will make you feel like you have been transported into a fairytale. Check out these places to visit that are featured in this novel.

Tor House and Hawk Tower

Tor House and Hawk Tower is featured in Typewriter Beach, when Isabella writes a screenplay called “The Ghost of Hawk Tower” about the legend of poet Robinson Jeffers wife, Una, who is said to still haunt their beloved home. This historical house is the perfect place to visit to experience the history of Tor House while stepping into the novel.

Local Spots Featured

Throughout the book there are many mentions of local landmarks including the Lone Cypress, McWay Falls, Pfeiffer Beach, Lovers Point, China Cove along with several others. No matter where you visit, whether you want to relax on the beach or go for a challenging hike, enjoying Monterey’s natural beauty is a great way to have a deeper connection to the book.

Things to do While in Carmel

Art Galleries in Downtown Carmel

Carmel is known for its many art galleries scattered throughout streets of the downtown area. There are many galleries with original art created by local Monterey County artists featuring different subject matter. Visit a gallery to pick out a new piece for your home.

Wineries

A wine tasting is the perfect way to unwind while experiencing the culture of Carmel before you continue your literary adventure. The quaint town has many wineries and tasting rooms in the downtown area so be sure to stop by one before you continue your literary adventure.

Shopping

Carmel-by-the-Sea is filled with shopping everywhere you turn, with a perfect blend of independent local shops and big-name brands. Make sure to head to Carmel Plaza, which is centrally located in the downtown area, and includes 40 luxury brands shops and unique boutiques, as well as cafes and eateries if you need a break in between your shopping.

Where to Read Typewriter Beach

At the Portola Hotel & Spa, read the book at Carmel Bakery, which has access through our lobby. With a warm cup of coffee and a pastry, settle in with the novel. If you are out exploring Carmel-by-the-Sea then take the book to Carmel Beach. The relaxing sounds of the ocean waves creates the perfect ambiance for the book.

Cocktail Pairing

While you’re enjoying the book at our hotel, head to Jacks Monterey and pair this book with the Ketel One Vodka Botanical Cocktail with cucumber & mint. The novel’s dual timeline calls for a drink that’s bright, fresh, and layered, and the cucumber and mint will bring a crisp note that mirrors breezy setting of Carmel.

Book Your Literary Itinerary

Explore Carmel-by-the-Sea and experience for yourself the beauty and nature of this picturesque place that Meg Waite Clayton wrote about. Portola Hotel & Spa is a great home base for your literary adventure as it’s only a short drive from Carmel-by-the-Sea and just minutes away from Monterey’s most popular attractions. To reserve your stay, visit our website or call us at (888)-222-5851.