Living less than an hour’s drive from Monterey means that it’s easy for me to pop down and visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium or Point Lobos State Natural Reserve for the day. But my favorite way to experience the area with my kids is to spend a few days exploring the beaches, hiking trails, and fun activities the city has to offer.
If you find yourself in Monterey with the kids, throw some of these activities onto the itinerary!
Things to Do with Kids in Monterey
Visit Point Lobos
Monterey’s craggy coastline is a huge draw, and one of the best places to experience it is at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. There are hiking trails where you can check out sea lions and seals sunning themselves on rocks just offshore. Make a stop at Whaler’s Cove, where you’ll find a fishing cabin that explains the area’s history and shows off some pretty impressive whale bones. Parking here can be tricky, but if you can find a spot along the road, it’s an easy walk into the reserve, and you’ll save $10.
Contributor Kate Loweth and her kids at Point Lobos
Go Under the Sea at the Monterey Bay Aquarium
This award-winning aquarium is a must-visit when coming to Monterey with kids. I could spend hours watching the mesmerizing jellyfish, but there are touch pools, animal talks, and so much more to explore. Don’t miss the Giant Pacific Octopus and the outdoor exhibit where you’ll often find sea otters diving for their next meal.
Tee Up at Tipsy Putt
Just down the street from the aquarium is this fun spot for friendly competition, perfect for a rainy day. They serve up traditional pub fare and a full bar, and downstairs you’ll find a mini golf course that the whole family will enjoy. Tipsy Putt is 21+ after 7 p.m., so plan to visit earlier in the day when traveling with kids.
Kate and family on a Fast Raft whale-watching excursion in Monterey, California
Check Out Some Whales with Fast Raft
Even though we have done many whale-watching excursions before, our day on the water with Fast Raft was a trip highlight. Forget those crowded, slow-moving boats you are used to; with Fast Raft, you’ll head out on a rigid inflatable to check out humpback whales, dolphins, sea otters, and more. With a maximum of six guests, you’ll have a tailored experience that’s unlike anything you’ve done before.
Leaving from Moss Landing means you can visit some of the farm stands nearby, like Pezzini Farms. Here, you can pick up baked goods (try the artichoke cupcakes!), fresh-picked fruits and veggies, and picnic supplies. The Choke Coach serves up artichoke everything just outside.
Travel Back in Time at High Scores Arcade
Retro arcades are my jam, and luckily, I’ve raised my kids to feel the same. As soon as we walked into High Scores Arcade and saw its “Oregon Trail” setup, I knew we were in for a fun night. You can pay by the hour or go for an all-day pass to enjoy the rotating selection of games from “Pac-Man” to “Frogger.” Best of all, the jukebox blasts ’80s hits on repeat, there’s a small seating area for tired parents, and they even sell beer and snacks. When you’ve worked up an appetite, Alvarado Street Brewery is just across the street, or grab some Neapolitan pizza at MidiCi.
High Scores Arcade in Monterey, California
Even More Things to Do:
- Cruise the coast on an ebike with Big Sur Adventures.
- Explore Cannery Row and check out Treasure Hunt: The Ride.
- Put your puzzle-solving skills to the test at Escape Room 831.
- Grab some handcrafted ice cream at Revival.
- Reserve a retro convertible from Monterey Touring Vehicles and cruise scenic 17-Mile Drive.
- Check out the monarchs at the Pacific Grove Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary.
- Let the kids get some energy out at the Dennis the Menace Playground.
Where to Stay in Monterey
Families looking to spend a few days in Monterey have plenty of options when it comes to lodging. The Inn at 1252 has family rooms where you can all spread out, plus a swimming pool that’s perfect for relaxing after a busy day. If you want to be right on the sand, the Monterey Beach Hotel is an excellent option. Family suites (some with a kitchen) are available at Hofsas House.
Coastal Relaxation in Monterey
Families looking for the perfect combination of relaxation, family time, and activities for all ages will enjoy a visit to Monterey, California.
Photos and video by of Kate Loweth
—
About the Author: Kate Loweth is a writer and editor living in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband and three teenagers. Her writing focuses on family travel, parenting, solo travel, and travel for ages 50+. Her work has appeared in National Geographic, AAA, AARP, Business Insider, FamilyVacationist, Success Magazine, and Viator. Read more of her work on kateloweth.com or find her on Instagram @k8loweth.
