20 Fun-Filled Family Activities in Monterey

20 Fun-Filled Family Activities in Monterey

Are you daydreaming about the perfect family getaway? Monterey has caught my eye with its stunning beauty nestled along California’s Central Coast. As a parent always on the lookout for exciting experiences for my family, I can’t help but be drawn to Monterey’s vibrant marine life, breathtaking seascapes, and abundance of kid-friendly attractions. Even though I haven’t had the chance to visit yet, I can already imagine endless sunny days spent with my loved ones, playing with sea otters, exploring the beaches for treasures, and biking along oceanfront trails.

Monterey seems like the ideal outdoor playground, where unforgettable memories are just waiting to be made amidst the beautiful scenery. Whether you’re up for thrilling adventures or prefer a more relaxed pace, it looks like Monterey has something for everyone. While I haven’t had the opportunity to explore Monterey firsthand, it feels like the perfect destination to enjoy quality time with my family, surrounded by nature’s wonders and excitement at every turn. Join me as we dive into 20 fun-filled family activities in Monterey and uncover the magic of this coastal paradise.

1. Go whale watching and wildlife cruises to see sea otters, sea lions, dolphins, and migrating whales

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Whale-watching adventures allow families to get up-close views of magnificent ocean creatures right off the Monterey coastline. Several kid-friendly cruises offer opportunities to spot migrating humpback and blue whales between April and November, along with playful dolphins, sea lions, and otters year-round. Most tours last 2–3 hours, with early morning and afternoon departure times to see optimal wildlife activity.

Vessels feature indoor seating as well as outside viewing decks with experienced guides narrating the sights. Depending on the cruise line and group size, costs range from $50 to $100 per seat, even for kids, with age minimums starting around 4 years old. Special kid discounts are sometimes offered. With awesome animal encounters and dramatic seascapes along the way, whale watching creates lasting memories for the entire family.

2. Visit the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium and explore their interactive exhibits

The world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium offers families interactive encounters with marine life from around the Pacific Ocean. Exhibits like the million-gallon Open Sea tank with tuna and sharks fascinate kids of all ages. Touch pools allow for hands-on exploration of bat rays, sea stars, and other tide pool creatures. Aquarium admission starts at $50 per adult and $40 per child 3–12 years old, with kids under 3 entering free.

Membership plans offer discounts for repeat visits. Timed tickets can sell out during peak periods. Open daily from 10 am–to 5 to 5 p.m. with extended hours in the summer, the aquarium also features daily shows and programmes catered towards kids and families, like story times, creature feedings, and behind-the-scenes lab tours. With innovative exhibits bringing visitors eye to eye with extraordinary ocean animals, a trip to the Monterey Bay Aquarium promises awe-inspiring discoveries that provide life-long memories.

3. Take a stroll down historic Cannery Row with its lively shops and restaurants

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Taking a stroll down iconic Cannery Row allows families to soak up Monterey’s vibrant seaside ambience. This lively mile-long street lined with shops, restaurants, and cafés in historic factory buildings exudes festive energy. Kids can peek at playful sea otters frolicking just offshore in the protected marine sanctuary as parents browse unique boutiques together.

Many eateries boast kid-friendly menus and outdoor patio seating with waterfront views. Historic walking tours tailored for children are also available to learn about Cannery Row’s fascinating origins. As an easy afternoon activity with street performers and gelato shops bringing endless smiles, little expense beyond meals, and scenic bay vistas around every corner, Cannery Row promises quality time together surrounded by the fun seaside spirit that defines Monterey.

4. Kayak or stand-up paddle board on Monterey Bay for scenic ocean views

Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding on Monterey Bay make for an ocean adventure that the whole family can enjoy. Gliding in the calm waters allows for first-hand views of picturesque Monterey as colourful aquatic wildlife dances below. Many companies offer beginner kayak and board classes perfect for kids ages 5 and up right on the beach.

Prices range from $30 to $65 per hour, depending on how fancy the gear is. Some places teach basic kid paddling safety too. Most tours last 1 to 2 hours, paddling along the coastline with resting stops to take photos. With awesome scenery, light exercise to enjoy together, and sandy launching points nearby, kayak and paddleboard fun suits all ages. Parents can relax while kids splash in the shallow bay, gaining new skills.

5. Camp overnight at one of several family-friendly campgrounds around the bay

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Camping overnight allows budget-friendly adventures for families to enjoy Monterey’s scenic outdoors together. Several campgrounds around the bay feature amenities catering to kids, like junior ranger programmes, playgrounds, and easy access to beach strolls.  Camping fees run approximately $45–90 per night, depending on location and season.

Popular family-friendly grounds include Veterans Memorial Park with sports areas near the wharf and Laguna Seca Camp beside the lake. Kids will love s’mores under the stars while parents admire sweeping bay views from tents or RVs. With nature right at your doorstep, camping brings quality time for telling stories, gazing at the water and bonding over simple fun.

6. Enjoy miles of recreational trails for walking, jogging or biking along the coast

Miles of paved coastal trails enable Monterey families to enjoy easy scenic exercises like walking, jogging, and biking together. These level paths meander along sandy beaches and a rocky oceanfront, offering picture-worthy lookouts over rippling waves and frolicking otters.

Certain parts permit bikes and strollers, while other more rugged stretches cater best to older adventurers. With mostly flat terrain doable for tiny legs alongside striking sea vistas, parents and kids refresh themselves by moving in harmony with the Pacific’s easy rhythm. Exploring the trails serves up affordable fitness suitable for all ages to strengthen their bodies and deepen bonds as Monterey’s beauty dazzles their senses.

7. Take a day trip south to charming seaside town Carmel-by-the-Sea for beaches, boutiques and ice cream

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Driving an hour south of Monterey brings families to the charming village of Carmel-by-the-Sea, brimming with kid-friendly adventures. Known for gorgeous white sand beaches, the boutique shops and cafes lining Ocean Avenue sell everything from toys to homemade fudge, perfect for little tastes.

The main downtown area stays lively from 10 am to 6 pm daily with many restaurants offering kids’ menus plus outdoor seating for people-watching. Several frozen yoghurt parlours like Lula’s Chocolates serve smiles in delicious flavours. Admission to the shoreline itself remains free, with ample parking for around $10 per day. Extend the excursion exploring hidden fairy-tale cottages along winding side streets. With friendly small-town ambience and indulgences kids adore framed by picturesque coastlines, little expense beyond meals makes a day in charming Carmel magical.

8. Hike breathtaking coastal trails at Garrapata and Point Lobos State Parks

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Nearby Garrapata and Point Lobos State Parks offer families gorgeous coastal hikes with wildlife encounters practically guaranteed. These woods protect precious native plants and creatures alongside dazzling Pacific overlooks. Both parks open 8 am to 30 minutes before sunset with entry fees around $10 per vehicle.

Stop first at Point Lobos visitor centre to get activity ideas catered to kids like Geo Adventure Quests seeking natural “treasures”. Garrapata’s 2-mile Soberanes Point Trail delights with the chance to spot sea otters offshore; while Point Lobos lets all ages discover the “world’s greatest meeting of land and sea” along its Sea Lion Point loop. With benches for resting little legs, these state parks make hiking together through California’s untamed coastal glory possible and unforgettable.

9. Ride the rollercoasters, carousel and Ferris Wheel at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk amusement park

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Operating from 11 am or noon until 10 pm in peak season, the historic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk amusement park overlooks gorgeous Monterey Bay while delivering old-fashioned family fun. Its charming rides, like the 1911 Looff Carousel and Giant Dipper wooden rollercoaster make memories across generations. Families appreciate affordable park entry with unlimited rides wristbands costing each person about $40-55.

Individual tickets are also available per attraction. Young children adore trains and mini-rides in the kiddie section. Teens seek adventure climbing the 90-foot Adrenaline Drop. With charming, nostalgic charm mixed seamlessly with modern thrills against a backdrop of cotton candy skies over waves, the Boardwalk offers 12 acres of oceanside fun for all ages to fill an entire day.

10. Feed lettuce leaves to adorable sea slugs at the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Centre

At the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Centre, families can access free educational entertainment through the awesome sea slugs and marine creatures on exhibit. Open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm in winter or 6 pm during summer, this Santa Cruz facility’s crown jewel Tank Lab houses live sea otters, anemones, urchins, and other tide pool oddities viewable with microscopes.

Most engaging for kids remains the Pacific Rocky Intertidal Touch Tank, housing adorable sea slugs or nudibranchs that eat lettuce, offered by staff biologists daily at 11 am and 3 pm. With telescopes scoping sea lions offshore and 3D sanctuary theatre shows playing regularly about preserving local waters, this free coastal activity creatively engages future ocean guardians.

11. Visit Surrey bikes around Cannery Row and 17-mile scenic drive through Pebble Beach

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Pedalling colourful four-seat Surrey bikes lets families sightsee Cannery Row and Pebble Beach in a leisurely style. Rentals operate daily year-round along Recreation Trail from 11 am until 30 minutes before sunset, costing around $35 per hour. Tots ride safely buckled inside while parents and older kids help pedal.

The flat paved trail allows strain-free riding for 5 miles along the coast, over small bridges and through Pebble Beach’s 17-mile scenic loop surrounded by stunning mansions, forests and ocean vantage points for stopping photos. With helmets and baskets included so parents relax while children giggle enjoying the breeze, Surrey rides create quality time and lasting vacation memories amid postcard-worthy panoramas riding right alongside.

12. Play mini-golf at world-famous Pebble Beach Golf Links or Peter Hay 9-hole course

Families find affordable fun hitting the greens with mini golf courses at world-class Pebble Beach Resorts. Both the 18-hole Peter Hay designed putting course and 18 or 36-hole Links courses stay open daily from sunrise to sunset, charging around $20 per adult and $10 per child 12 and under.

Creative holes like the Butterfly Garden, North Shore Lighthouse and Treasure Island enthral families with artistry and surprise, carefully integrated into Pebble’s magnificent seaside terrain. Kids thrill sinking tricky putts across wooden bridges and past waterfalls on these championship-level dream courses. Yet the family atmosphere keeps play pressure-free, allowing parents and children to bond enjoying the spectacular scenery with clubs they can master.

13. Go horseback riding on beaches and through redwood forests in the valley

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Few experiences compare to horseback riding on beaches and redwood forests for families craving a taste of the Wild West. Campgrounds around Monterey Bay like Andrew Molera State Park rent horses and lead rides for all skill levels from 45-minute to full morning adventures.

The cost begins at about $65 for a one-hour group ride along the beach or through the valley. Children as young as 7 years old can usually join in. Nice guides pair calm horses that are best for each child, leading small groups while talking about history and nature. Getting to know these gentle animals and exploring the untouched natural areas can be very emotional for both kids and adults. These rides allow families to explore beautiful landscapes and form new friendships between people and horses.

14. Pick juicy strawberries and sample fresh goat cheese at family farms around Carmel Valley

Winding roads away from Monterey take families to fertile Carmel Valley where they can taste fresh fruits straight from the farm. Kid-friendly farms like Earthbound Farm and Sheep Dairy welcome visitors to pick juicy strawberries from May to June. They offer tours of the gardens and a chance to meet farm animals. Tours are affordable and available on weekdays and weekends in the morning.

You can pick fruits for a reasonable price by the basket. Local farm stands and some restaurants offer fresh greens grown sustainably, along with goat cheeses to try. Seeing where food comes from and how it grows helps kids connect with nature in special ways.

15. Explore tide pools during low tides to discover colourful marine creatures

Exploring Monterey’s tide pools is an exciting outdoor adventure for curious kids of all ages. The region has several state beaches and parks where families can explore tide pools when the low tide falls below +1.5 feet. The best time for tide pooling is from November to April, but summer also offers stunning underwater sights.

With reef shoes, small nets, and Audubon guides, families can explore underwater plants and animals by gently lifting rocks and putting them back. Children will be amazed by starfish, anemones, sea urchins, and tiny octopi, which helps them understand the importance of delicate ecosystems. Early mornings are usually quiet with calm waters, making it a perfect time to explore. With surprises around every corner, exploring tide pools helps families bond as they discover the secrets of the sea together.

16. Fly kites at windswept beaches like Marina State Beach and Asilomar Beach

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Flying kites at windswept spots like Marina and Asilomar State Beaches give carefree family fun on Monterey Bay. These wide sandy expanses catch strong breezes perfect for kite strings of all sizes. Local shops sell ready-to-fly kites shaped like whales, sharks or butterflies starting around $15 that kids can quickly master.

Families also build DIY kites from materials like streamers and sticks then cheer them lifting towards the clouds together. After kites soar high, kids splash and parents relax while admiring panoramas of kites dancing overhead backed by glistening seas. With loads of space, steady winds and dreaming beside ocean waves, Monterey beaches promise uplifting afternoons filled with joy.

17. Drive along the Pacific Coast Highway south to Bixby Bridge- one of the world’s most photographed bridges

Cruising along the Pacific Coast Highway south of Monterey unveils awe-inspiring coastal views for families, especially at the landmark Bixby Bridge. Completed in 1932, this reinforced concrete arch bridge stretches 120 feet high over a steep canyon, offering thrilling vistas along Highway 1 where it meets the Pacific Ocean.

Just 10 miles south of Carmel, the Bixby Bridge area offers several roadside parking lots allowing drivers to stop and photograph this engineering marvel framing rocky cliffs and waves crashing below. Kids will delight in analyzing design details visible from dramatic lookouts at both ends of the towering bridge. Driving the stretch near Bixby Bridge along the Big Sur coastal route for about one hour opens a world of stunning landscapes to appreciate nature’s wonder.

18. Learn to surf or boogie board beginner waves at Lovers Point Beach

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Easy rolling waves at Lovers Point Beach give beginner surf and boogie board lessons perfect for older kids and teens wanting to catch their first ride. Local surf schools provide wet suits and boards to keep warm while instructors teach ocean safety basics on the sand before heading into gentle swells offshore.

Most two-hour lessons start at $90 per person including all gear and happen mornings or afternoons daily during summer when waves remain smallest. Shallow waters and soft sloping sands make wipeouts painless. Youth fall in love with the surf lifestyle while gaining courage trying an iconic California sport alongside parents cheerleading from the beach.

19. Visit Dennis the Menace Playground Park, designed especially for kids with a super-tall rocket slide

Based on the classic comic, Dennis the Menace Playground gives families a huge park specifically designed just for kids to play freely. This Monterey gem stays open daily from 10 am to dusk, charging no entry fees. Colourful structures like a concrete rocket ship with curly slides, suspension bridges, and tunnels galore occupy kids for hours while parents relax on benches.

Various play sections cater to different ages with tot lots and spinning mushrooms up to towering climbing walls fitting ages 10 through teens. Located right across from the Monterey Bay coastline, this park’s beautiful gardens offer idyllic picnic spots when families need breaks from the excitement. With play sculptures bringing comic strips to life, Dennis the Menace playground entertains children’s imaginations for the ultimate day enjoying sunshine and laughter.

20. Unwind in the beautiful gardens of the luxurious Post Ranch Inn cliffside resort

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The beautiful gardens at the luxurious Post Ranch Inn offer Monterey families a chance to experience top-notch relaxation on cliffs overlooking the ocean. This world-class resort, located along Highway 1, allows free access for visitors to stroll through well-kept grounds filled with colorful native plants like orchids and wild roses along various trails.

Children will find magical spots everywhere they go – from stone labyrinths ideal for thinking to fancy dining areas and infinity pools that blend with the Pacific Ocean. Pausing to admire the beauty of the gardens helps both parents and kids relax and feel refreshed, leaving stress behind and making precious memories of watching waves crash against the breathtaking views below.

In Monterey, families can enjoy countless adventures and memorable moments together against the backdrop of its stunning seaside setting. From popular attractions such as the renowned aquarium to a wide array of outdoor activities like biking along coastal trails or camping under the stars, something is exciting for parents and kids alike. Delicious dining options and age-appropriate recreational activities ensure that everyone has experiences you will always remember.