Need help planning a trip to Monterey with kids? I recently visited Monterey with my kids and I have all the details you need about what to do and where to stay.
Monterey is one of the most well-known cities in California. It’s beautiful, vibrant, has world-class attractions, an adorable downtown, and fun beaches.
And it’s perfect for families! It’s lively and has something for everyone. You can make it a day trip or stay the whole week.
Since we live in Northern California, we have the flexibility to be able to get in the car and drive over whenever we want. Because the weather is a little moody in the Bay, I put it on my Weather app and monitor every week. When I see that it’s sunny and hits 70, I start looking for hotels.
That’s exactly what happened with our trip to Monterey, and bonus—it was Mother’s Day weekend! I was so excited to spend the weekend there, and it turned out to be amazing.
If you’re planning on visiting Monterey with kids, keep reading for everything you need to know—plus a weekend itinerary!
Key Takeaways
- Monterey has something for everyone, including beaches, outdoor activities, and a world famous aquarium.
- Downtown Monterey is near Old Fisherman’s Wharf and has many kid-friendly activities, like Dennis the Menace Park and MyMuseum.
- Cannery Row is another area of Monterey that’s full of shops and restaurants.
⚠️ Looking for a place to stay in Monterey?
Do not look anywhere else, just book The Portola Hotel and Spa at Monterey Bay!
This is where we stayed and it was amazing in every sense. Perfect location in the heart of downtown, heated pool, big rooms with balconies, food on-site, plus it’s gorgeous. Seriously, just book it.
👉 Check prices and book The Portola Hotel and Spa at Monterey Bay by clicking here!
Table of Contents
The Best Things to Do in Monterey with Kids
1. The Beach: Del Monte or Monterey State Beach
The beaches in Monterey are family-friendly with plenty to do. Del Monte or Monterey Beach are both great options. We first drove to Del Monte since it was closer to our hotel, but we couldn’t find any parking, so I went over to Monterey Beach. Lovers Point Beach and Asilomar Beach in Pacific Grove are also excellent choices.
Del Monte Beach
Overview
Del Monte Beach is a more popular beach in Monterey because it’s right next to Old Fisherman’s Wharf and within walking distance to several hotels. (There’s also a McDonald’s right across the street, which was handy for the kids.)
It’s a long, sandy beach with calm waters and stunning views of Monterey Bay. There’s also plenty to do there from lounging to various water sports.
Amenities and Activities
Del Monte Beach is the perfect destination for a wide range of activities, including swimming, boating, fishing, snorkeling, kayaking, kite-flying, and volleyball. It has restrooms, outdoor showers, and picnic tables.
Monterey State Beach
Overview
Monterey State Beach is a little out of the way, but the beach for Monterey Tides Hotel. It’s also a long, sandy beach with calm waters and stunning views. The water is calm enough for swimming and wading (but it IS cold, so watch out! The kids, of course, have no temperature gauge so they didn’t mind it at all)
We had a really relaxing time at Monterey State Beach. there was plenty of room to spread out, and everyone that was near us was very nice!
NOTE: It takes about 10 minutes to walk from the parking lot to the ocean. There’s a small lagoon that you need to walk around using a beach path, but the path is lined with flowers and plants.
Amenities and Activities
At Monterey State Beach, you can enjoy the same wide range of activities as at Del Monte. It has a small parking lot, a few picnic tables, and a couple of port-a-potties.
Lovers Point Beach
Overview
In neighboring Pacific Grove is Lovers Point Beach, the most popular beach in the area. The sand is white and the water is crystal clear and vibrant blue colors.
The beach is a somewhat protected cove, so the waters are calm and shallow, making it perfect for children. There are also plenty of water activities available!
Amenities and Activities
At Lovers Point you can scuba dive, surf, windsurf, swim, or play beach volleyball. There’s parking, a picnic area, restrooms, food nearby, and a rental shop.
Asilomar State Beach
Overview
Also in Pacific Grove is Asilomar State Beach, a sandy one-mile stretch of sand that is perfect for nature lovers. Tidepooling is popular here and
Amenities and Activities
Tidepooling, surfing, kayaking are popular at Asilomar State Beach. There are
Want a step-by-step plan for your beach trip?
My Baby Beach Guide breaks it all down – from packing lists to nap tips, beach hacks, and how to prep without losing your mind.
2. Monterey Bay Aquarium
Overview
The Monterey Bay Aquarium is one of the best aquariums in the world. The WORLD. This has to be on your itinerary when you go to Monterey with kids- it was the main reason I’ve had Monterey on my list for so long! It’s home to over 10,000 marine animals!
Tip: I would recommend going later in the day if you can. We went 15 minutes before it opened, and there was already a long line of people waiting. Luckily it went fast once they opened, but I bet it’s easier an hour or so after opening.
You can easily spend hours here. It’s huge, with indoor AND outdoor exhibits, and as I said before, there are over 10,000 marine animals here—including sharks, sea otters, octopus, sea lions, and jellyfish.
There are also exhibits on everything from the kelp forest to the deep sea. You’ll learn about the different types of marine life and their role in the ocean ecosystem.
You can watch feedings and visit the hands-on area where you can touch different types of sea creatures. You can also take a behind-the-scenes tour to learn more about how the aquarium works.
There were two play areas as well, one for bigger kids with water play area with boats and tunnels and another for the smaller ones with a soft play area. There’s also a huge café if anyone gets hungry.
I was floored by the museum. It was fun, educational, and inspiring!
Tickets
Monterey Bay Aquarium tickets are $65 for adults but $50 for anyone 17 and under or 70 and over.
Parking
There are several parking garages, lots, and metered spaces within a few blocks of the aquarium (prices vary, but some are free).
3. Dennis the Menace Playground
Overview
If you’re looking to get some energy out at an AWESOME play area, this is it.
There are plenty of activities to keep kids entertained—multiple play structures, a slide, a life-size train (!), and a maze.
The playgrounds have slides, swings, climbing structures, a rock climbing wall, and a sand pit. There are different areas for different age groups.
There are also bathrooms, cute water fountains made to look like animals, and plenty of bench seating in the shade.
Parking
There’s a free parking lot for visitors.
4. El Estero Park
Overview
Dennis the Menace Playground is actually a part of El Estero Park. In addition to the playground, there’s a skate park, hiking and biking trails, a pond, a baseball diamond, and plenty of grass to run around in. It’s perfect for outdoor family fun.
One of the coolest things you can do at El Estero Park is go paddleboating! You can rent a paddleboat for 4 or 5 people. You can choose from a standard boat, or get one shaped like a dragon, duck, or swan!
If you’re not into any of that, you can take it easy and enjoy the scenery, go for a walk, or have a picnic.
Parking
There’s the big free parking lot by the playground, and there are several other free and paid lots around the park. Paddleboats start at $35/hour.
5. MYMuseum
Overview
A children’s museum that you MUST visit when in Monterey with kids. I loved it because it was just the right size for young kids, and the exhibits were so fun. Plus, it’s so cute, there’s a huge treehouse right as you enter!
There are around 20 interactive exhibits for kids to learn about science, art, and culture. The exhibits are designed to be hands-on and engaging, so kids can really learn by doing.
There’s a fire engine (and firehouse), a grocery store and cooking kitchen, an art studio, a bubble machine, and an ambulance. There’s even mini-golf!
If you check their schedule, you can attend a storytime or educational program or take part in an art class or science workshop.
The best part is that MY Museum is located in downtown Monterey, walking distance from Old Fisherman’s Wharf, so it’s easy to get to and there are plenty of other things to do in the area.
Tickets
MY Museum tickets are $10 for both children and adults. Children under 2 years old are free.
Parking
There’s 90-minute street parking or a parking garage that’s $7 per day.
6. Cannery Row
Overview
Cannery Row is a historic district in Monterey that is a popular tourist destination with a mix of restaurants, shops, and attractions right on the water! You’ll look out at beautiful McAbee beach.
It is a one-mile-long stretch of road that was once a part of a thriving sardine canning industry. (Get it, CANnery Row.)
There are waterfront hotels, a variety of shops from high-end to souvenir shops, restaurants, and dessert shops.
There are also all kinds of activities like the Monterey Bay Aquarium, kayak rentals, e-bike rentals, the Mirror Maze, an arcade, laser tag, and an interactive playground. Cannery Row is a must-see when visiting Monterey with kids.
Parking
There’s street parking and various parking lots and garages around Cannery Row. Some are paid (varying prices), while a few spots are free.
See Cannery Row by water – and spot a sea lion too!
✅ Check out prices and book this highly rated full day kayak rental by clicking here!
7. Old Fisherman’s Wharf
Overview
Fisherman’s Wharf is a popular tourist destination in Monterey. There are several restaurants, shops, and attractions located on the wharf. It’s also home to a colony of sea lions! They can be seen sunbathing on the rocks or swimming in the ocean.
No visit to the wharf would be complete without trying some of the fresh seafood—and there are many different restaurants to choose from. If you have any room in your stomach afterward, there are a number of candy, dessert, and ice cream shops for your sweet tooth.
There are a number of boat tours that depart from Old Fisherman’s Wharf, too (like this amazing whale-watching tour!). These tours offer a unique opportunity to see marine life up close and personal! Or you can relax on a sailing or fishing boat tour.
Parking
There’s a prepay lot that’s $1.75 per hour (maximum of $12 per day).
8. Whale Watching Tours
Overview
If you’re looking for a fun, educational, and unforgettable experience, I highly recommend going on a whale-watching tour.
Monterey Bay is home to a variety of whales, including gray whales, humpback whales, and blue whales. You may also see dolphins, sea lions, and other marine animals. It’s such a delight to see the kids’ reactions when seeing the animals jump out of the water!
If you have any interest in marine life, whale-watching tours are a great way to learn about it. The tour guides are knowledgeable about the different species of whales and other marine animals that live in the area.
Tickets
Pricing ranges from $45 to $95 per person, depending on the tour you choose and the age of participants.
Parking
Parking varies based on the tour company you use, but there’s usually street parking near the water (some are free, but pricing varies).
Looking for a whale watching tour with a 99% success rate of seeing whales?
✅ Check prices and and book this highly rated half-day Monterey Whale Watching tour by clicking here!
… and what about a Great White Shark tour? Yup, you read that right! Monterey Bay’s population of sharks has exploded so this is your opportunity to see them up close!
✅ Check prices and and book this 3-4 hour Great White Shark Tour by clicking here!
9. Bay Boat Tours
Overview
Monterey Bay is a beautiful place with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, the Santa Cruz Mountains, and the city of Monterey. A boat tour is a great way to relax, check out the scenery, and take in the fresh air.
The Bay is home to a variety of marine wildlife, including whales, dolphins, sea lions, and otters and cruising around on a boat tour is a great way to see the animals in their natural habitat!
You’ll also learn about the history of the area from the guides and see some of the most famous landmarks.
Tickets
There’s a wide range of boat tour options, which usually range from $40 to $75 per person.
Parking
Parking varies based on the tour you choose, but there’s plenty of free and paid parking near the water.
There are so many amazing boat tours to choose from, but this one stands out (and fills up fast!)
This Elkhorn Slough Wildlife Tour earned a Badge of Excellence! It takes guests on a slow ride on a catamaran to see animals up close and personal in the Elkhorn Slough.
If you want to see a variety of sea animals- ✅ check prices and book the tour by clicking here!
10. Monterey Zoo
Overview
Recently dubbed “the biggest little zoo in California,” Monterey Zoo offers a more intimate animal experience, so it’s very family-friendly. They have a variety of animals including crocodiles, bears, lions, and marine animals with plenty of exhibits to feed and interact with them. Full contact interactions range from 2-hours to all-day experiences!
The zoo also offers educational opportunities and fun events. The coolest part is that you can even stay overnight in your private bungalow through Vision Quest Ranch. Learn more about the zoo here!
Tickets
$37.75 ages 15 and up
$27.50 ages 2-14
Free for under 2 ($8 stroller fee)
11. Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary
Overview
Do you have a butterfly lover? Next to Monterey, the town of Pacific Grove is nicknamed “Butterfly Town, USA” and is home to the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary.
From October to May, the sanctuary is full of monarch butterflies waiting out the winter in the forest groves. There are pine, cypress, and eucalyptus trees.
Tickets
12. 17-Mile Drive
Overview
The 17-Mile Drive is a scenic route that winds along the Monterey Peninsula. It is a VERY popular tourist destination, with amazing views of the ocean, Pebble Beach golf courses, and the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.
Some say it’s too touristy, but I absolutely loved it. The whole drive really is beautiful and you can stop at various points along the way to take in the scenery and take photos.
You’ll pass several gorgeous beaches, including Pebble Beach, Cypress Point Beach, and Spanish Bay Beach. And for the golf lovers, the drive passes by world-class golf courses, like Pebble Beach Golf Links, Cypress Point Club, and Spyglass Hill Golf Course.
Tip
To really enjoy it, don’t rush! It’s a scenic route so take your time and enjoy the scenery. And definitely stop at the viewpoints!
You can’t miss the 17-Mile Drive while in Monterey! It was one of our favorite memories of the trip.
If you don’t want to drive it yourself,
👉 check prices and book this 17-mile Drive Tour
And if you’re rather bike it,
👉check prices and times on this 17-mile Drive E-bike Tour
13. Rent a Sea Car
Overview
If you are looking for a unique, fun, and eco-friendly way to explore Monterey, then you should rent a sea car. (Added bonus, they are SO cute!)
A sea car is a small, open-air vehicle, and you can rent them all over town. They’re easy to maneuver and are so fun to drive. And since they’re powered by electricity, they don’t produce emissions.
Places you can drive to in a Sea Car include along the coastline to take in the stunning views, around Fisherman’s Wharf and Cannery Row, or to the beach!
Tickets
Sea car rentals are usually about $99, which includes a 1 to 3-hour ride for one to two guests.
Feeling like having some fun in a Sea Car?
👉 Check prices and book this 1-hour Sea Car tour around Monterey and Carmel here!
14. Point Lobos
Overview
If you’re looking for some calmness and pure beauty, go to Point Lobos Natural Reserve. It’s been called the “crown jewel” of California state parks. It’s not actually in Monterey, but it’s close enough and worth the short drive south.
The reserve is over 7,000 acres of jaw-dropping coastline, including beaches, jagged cliffs, coves, and crystal-clear waters.
If you want to hike the area, the coastal trail is well-maintained and is about six miles long. It takes roughly 3 hours to walk the full loop, but you don’t need to do the full hike to see the beauty—do as much as you can!
As you’re exploring, you’ll be able to spot a variety of wildlife like sea otters, seals, dolphins, and whales.
Parking
There’s limited parking in the reserve, which costs $10 per vehicle. It’s a good idea to get there early to ensure you get a spot.
Best Places to Stay in Monterey with Kids
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay – Downtown Monterey
If you’re looking for a luxurious hotel within walking distance to Old Fisherman’s Wharf and Del Monte Beach, plus in the Portola Plaza, this is your spot! This is where we stayed and I HIGHLY recommend it.
You’ll have a choice from standard guest rooms, premium rooms, and for extra room, a variety of suites. Plus, most rooms have balconies with city or water views.
Besides being in a perfect location, the hotel has a lot of cool amenities, like an outdoor heated pool and two on-site restaurants. And for kids between 3-8, there’s a children’s loyalty program called Portola Pirate Program that offers pirate themed activities! Depending on the season, kids get a custom activity book, treasure maps, or a tasty treat at one of the restaurants.
✅ Check prices and book your stay at the Portola Hotel and Spa by clicking here!
Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel And Spa - on Del Monte Golf Course
The upscale, gorgeous Hyatt Regency is a family favorite in Monterey. Set next to the Del Monte Golf Course, the hotel has mountain views and is surrounded by trees making it feel like a coastal escape.
A big hit with families is the game deck with games like bocce ball, oversized chess, and Connect 4. There’s corn hole, a gazebo with a large fire pit where you can make s’mores, and two swimming pools and a hot tub too.
Rooms range from standard to multi-room suites, and all of them are roomy enough for everyone.
✅ Check prices and book your stay at the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa by clicking here!
Monterey Tides – on Monterey State Beach
If you’re looking for a comfortable and convenient place to stay in Monterey, CA on a budget, Monterey Tides is a great choice.
The hotel is located directly on Monterey State Beach, with their own private beach area just for their guests.
There’s an on-site restaurant that looks out on the water, an on-site coffee shop, and a heated outdoor pool. It also offers bike rentals and a beach bonfire pit.
They offer standard rooms with one king or two queen beds, with inland or ocean views.
✅ Check prices and book your stay at the Monterey Tides Hotel by clicking here!
Monterey Plaza Hotel – Cannery Row
If you’re looking for a luxurious hotel located right on Cannery Row, you should choose the Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa. The Plaza is the top-rated hotel in Monterey!
Standard guest rooms with one king or two queens are offered, with patios overlooking inland, ocean, or harbor views. If you’re feeling fancy, you can stay in one of the luxury suites that have separate living rooms, large balconies with ocean views, and even a fireplace.
The Plaza offers a sundeck with two large hot tubs, on-site dining, complimentary bikes, shuttle service, room service, and many other luxurious amenities.
✅ Check prices and book your stay at the Monterey Plaza Hotel by clicking here!
Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Monterey
Rosine’s Restaurant
Rosine’s Restaurant offers a wide variety of breakfast, lunch, and dinner so the entire family can find something to enjoy. It includes simple dishes like sausage with eggs, turkey sandwiches, and cheeseburgers.
Hula’s Island Grill
Hula’s Island Grill brings Hawaiian vibes to Monterey County. It has burgers, mac & cheese, and delicious bowls with chicken, fish, or tofu.
LouLou’s Griddle in the Middle Restaurant & Cafe
LouLou’s Griddle in the Middle has a fun atmosphere with plenty of classic breakfast dishes and seafood options that the whole family will love.
Monterey Weekend Itinerary
Friday: Arrival and Exploration
- Morning – Arrive in Monterey and check into your hotel.
- Afternoon – Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Then, take a walk or bike ride along Cannery Row. This historic street is lined with shops, restaurants, and attractions.
- Evening – Have dinner at a family-friendly restaurant, then head back to the hotel to relax or hang out at the pool.
Saturday: Waterfront Adventures
- Morning – Have breakfast (check out Crepes of Brittany!). Afterward, hit Del Monte Beach for some fun in the sun and check out one of the nearby restaurants.
- Afternoon/Evening – Visit Old Fisherman’s Wharf and take a whale-watching tour or bay boat ride. Then, have dinner at one of the many restaurants at Fisherman’s Wharf.
Sunday: More Attractions and Departure
- Morning – After checking out a good breakfast spot, go to Dennis the Menace Park in El Estero Park.
- Afternoon – Visit MY Museum and have lunch at one of the neighboring restaurants.
- Late Afternoon – If you have time, spend a few calm moments at Point Lobos before heading out.
FAQs: Monterey with Kids
Is Monterey California worth visiting?
Yes, Monterey, California is definitely worth visiting! It is a beautiful city with so much to offer. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
There are beautiful beaches in the area, a variety of boat rides, the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, Cannery Row, an adorable downtown area, fun parks, an amazing children’s museum, Fisherman’s Wharf, and the 17-Mile Drive.
No matter what you are looking for in a vacation, Monterey has it!
How long do you need in Monterey?
It depends on how much you want to see and do. If you are just interested in visiting a couple of the most popular landmarks, then you can get by with a day trip.
However, if you really want to explore the area, have some fun at the park, relax on the beach, or check out Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, then you will need to stay at least two nights.
How do I spend a day in Monterey?
- Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, then take a walk or bike ride along Cannery Row.
- Late afternoon: Head to Del Monte Beach to relax in the sun or El Estero Park for the kids to enjoy Dennis the Menace playground and a boat ride on the pond in an oversized duck.
- Evening: Have dinner and dessert at Old Fisherman’s Wharf.
What to do in Monterrey with kids?
The best things to do in Monterey with kids include visiting the beach, Monterey Bay Aquarium, Dennis the Menace playground, MyMusuem, and one of the many boat tours.
Wrapping Up: Monterey with Kids
Monterey is a great place to take the kids. There are so many things to see and do, and the city is very family friendly. Here are some of the highlights of our trip:
- The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a must-see for any family visiting Monterey.
- MYMuseum was such a treat for the kids. The variety of exhibits were a perfect combination of fun and educational. Plus, it was adorable!
- Monterey Beach was beautiful and relaxing. The mountain views were amazing too!
- Cannery Row is a great place to experience the local culture and see some of the city’s most famous landmarks.
We had a great time in Monterey, and we would definitely recommend it to other families!
