Monterey
In May, 1770, when Spanish explorers reached Monterey, "thousands of sea lions were about, so close to one another that they looked like a pavement." Today Monterey Bay is a marine sanctuary, traveling with kids you'll see tons of barking sea lions (it's fun to bark along with the sea lions), harbor seals lolling on the rocks, adorable sea otters swimming through the kelp beds though deep blue waters of the bay.
Read our blog post about a lovely Christmas tradition and living history event in December: Monterey Christmas in the Adobes.
Monterey Bay Coastal Trail – The Coastal Trail goes for miles along Monterey Bay, all the way to Pacific Grove and miles east of Old Fisherman's Wharf. Rent bikes or surreys, or just take a stroll down the path – the section from Cannery Row to Lover's Point is especially scenic.
Fun food
Wander down Fisherman's Wharf, past steaming pots of crabs and salmon sizzling on the grill. Try the clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl. The fried calamari is also delicious and makes great finger food!
Here's our own Travel for Kids hand-picked list of family hotels and house rentals, all styles and price ranges, convenient to fun things to do with kids in Monterey:
Family vacation rentals in Pacific Grove, all styles and price range, walking distance to the beach, close to cafes, bakeries, markets.
