Portola Book Club! January’s Pick: Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty

Welcome to our new Book Club series where we share novels set in Monterey County, inspired by Monterey, are written by an author from the area, or are somehow related to this destination. Monterey has long been a source of inspiration with its rich literary history, so we’re excited to feature a book each month to help spark your imagination and deepen your connection to the coast. Don’t forget to visit our lobby library where we’ll have copies of the book available to borrow.

January's Pick

In honor of Highway 1 reopening this month, we felt it was only fitting to start with Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty. Although the novel is not set in Monterey, the popular HBO TV series adaption is, and features Monterey County locations including many along Highway 1.

About the Novel

The novel follows the lives of three mothers, Madeline, Celeste and Jane, who became friends after their children attend the same school for kindergarten. While their lives might appear perfect, each experience their own personal troubles. The novel opens with the knowledge that a murder occurs at a school fundraiser, and the story gradually unravels the relationships and secrets that lead up to that night. The book explores the pressures of motherhood, bullying, domestic violence, and the power of female friendship. After you read the novel, we definitely recommend giving the show a watch.

Visit the Filming Locations

Old Fisherman’s Wharf

Only a 5-minute walk from the Portola Hotel & Spa is Old Fisherman’s Wharf, an iconic symbol of Monterey and a location featured on the show. Set designed as a café, Paluca Trattoria, a family-owned Italian restaurant, served as a regular meeting spot for the characters.

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Only 1.5 miles away from the Portola Hotel & Spa is the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium which is featured in Season 2 when Jane gets a job there. With 550 different kinds of species, this incredible aquarium boasts over 35,000 animals including jellyfish, penguins, sea otters, sting rays and more making it a must visit.

Del Monte Beach

Del Monte Beach is a long sandy beach starting just past Wharf II and stretches up the coast. You might recognize it in the opening credits of Big Little Lies where the beach is featured as well as during some beach running scenes.

Highway 1/ Big Sur

A lot of the scenes of steep cliffs, crashing waves and misty shores were filmed in Big Sur including the opening credits which also features Bixby Bridge. With the iconic drive of Highway 1 now reopened it's the perfect chance to experience this breathtaking landscape for yourself!

Where to Read the Book

Any mystery almost always pairs perfectly with a cozy setting. Make your way to one of our fire pits on Jacks Terrace in the evening. The flickering flames and warmth of the fire will make it easy to get drawn int the secrets and drama of the book. If you’re out and about, take the book to Big Sur, the dramatic views of the coast provide the perfect backdrop as the story unfolds.

Perfect Pairing

While you enjoy the book on property, grab a cocktail from Jacks Monterey as you read on Jacks Terrace. We recommend pairing this novel with our Mezcal Mule as it’s slightly smoky, layered, and unexpected, mirroring the mystery and twists of the story.

Book Your Literary Itinerary

Explore Monterey and experience the drama of Big Little Lies while staying at the Portola Hotel & Spa. Just steps from the coast and many iconic locations featured in the series, our hotel is the perfect home base for your literary getaway. Cozy up by our fire pits, enjoy a cocktail on Jacks Terrace, and explore the filming locations as you immerse yourself in the book. To reserve your stay, visit our website or call us at (888)-222-5851.