If you’re visiting Monterey with kids, these are the stops I would absolutely do again. I’ve visited countless times with my family, and Monterey Bay never disappoints. Most people think the trip is just about the aquarium—but there’s so much more to experience.
Here are place to visit for an unforgettable Monterey adventure
1. Monterey Bay Aquarium (Plan It Strategically)
Of course, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is the star attraction. But the key is visiting strategically.
Address:
886 Cannery Row
Monterey, CA 93940
Parking is available in nearby garages along Cannery Row, but they fill up quickly during weekends and holidays, so arriving early in the morning can make a big difference.
After visiting many times with my family, these are the exhibits you should not miss:
The Kelp Forest Exhibit — one of the tallest aquarium tanks in the world and one of the most iconic displays. Watching the giant kelp sway with schools of fish is mesmerizing.
Sea Otters — always a favorite with kids. They are playful, curious, and incredibly entertaining to watch.
The Jellyfish Gallery — one of the most beautiful areas in the aquarium. The lighting and movement make it feel almost like an art installation.
The Open Sea (Outer Bay) Exhibit — a massive tank where you’ll see tuna, sharks, sea turtles, and huge schools of fish moving together.
Diver Feeding (A Must-See)
One of the most memorable moments at the aquarium happens in the famous Kelp Forest exhibit, where a scuba diver enters the tank and feeds the fish while a naturalist explains what’s happening. It’s interactive and fascinating for both kids and adults.
Typical diver feeding time: Around 12:30 PM. The presentation usually lasts about 15 minutes.
Schedules occasionally change, so it’s always a good idea to check when you arrive.
If You Only Have a Few Hours
If you’re short on time, start with these exhibits in this order:
- Kelp Forest
- Sea Otters
- Open Sea exhibit
- Jellyfish Gallery
This route lets you see the aquarium’s most impressive exhibits in about 1.5–2 hours.
Food Options Inside the Aquarium
If you’re visiting with kids, eating inside the aquarium can save time. Popular options include: The Café – casual dining with sandwiches, salads, pizza, and kid-friendly meals.
Seafood Watch Restaurant – a great spot with ocean views and seafood options based on sustainable recommendations.
Yes! it is price if you want to save money you can pack a picnic and eat the deck or outside the many areas around Monterey Bay Aquarium
There are also snack stands throughout the aquarium for quick bites.
Don’t Miss the Outdoor Deck
Before leaving, step outside onto the aquarium’s ocean-view decks. On clear days you can often spot:
- sea otters floating in kelp
- harbor seals
- sea lions
- pelicans diving into the water
There are also public binocular viewing stations, which make it easy for kids to scan the bay for wildlife.
Pro tip:
Check the feeding schedules and diver presentations as soon as you arrive, then plan your visit around those times so you don’t miss the most memorable moments.
2. Go Whale Watching
A whale watching tour in Monterey Bay is one of the most unforgettable experiences you can have with kids.
Seeing a whale surface just a few feet from the boat is something kids (and adults) never forget. It’s one of those experiences that truly makes a Monterey trip special.
The incredible thing about Monterey is that whales can be seen year-round, but the species change depending on the season.
Monterey: Whale Watching Tour with A Marine Guide
Winter (December–April)
Best time for gray whale migration as they travel between Alaska and Mexico.
Spring (April–May)
You might spot orcas, and gray whales are still migrating.
Summer (June–September) ⭐ Best overall season
Prime time for humpback whales and blue whales.
Fall (September–November)
Still excellent for humpbacks and blue whales.
Where Whale Watching Tours Depart
Most tours leave from Old Fisherman’s Wharf, which is only a short distance from Cannery Row and the aquarium.
Popular tour companies include:
- Monterey Bay Whale Watch
- Princess Monterey Whale Watching
Trips usually last 3–4 hours and are led by marine biologists who explain the wildlife you’re seeing.
Tips for an Amazing Whale Watching Experience
A few small things can make a big difference:
- Take motion sickness medicine if you are prone to seasickness.
- Dress much warmer than you expect—it gets cold on the water, even in summer.
- Bring binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens.
- Sit on the lower outside deck for the most stable and best viewing.
Whale Watching Tips Most People Don’t Know
A few small things can make the trip much more enjoyable:
- Take motion sickness medicine if you’re prone to seasickness.
- Dress much warmer than you think — the water is cold even in summer.
- Bring binoculars or a zoom lens.
- Sit on the lower outside deck for the best viewing.
3. Visit the Monterey Zoo
The Monterey Zoo is a fantastic stop for kids and often overlooked by visitors.
If you’re traveling with kids and want to add something a little different to your Monterey itinerary, consider visiting the Monterey Zoo. It’s a smaller, family-friendly zoo that many visitors don’t realize exists, which makes it a great less crowded alternative to some of the more popular attractions in the area.
Address: 400 River Rd Salinas, CA 93908
The zoo is located about 20–25 minutes from Monterey, making it an easy stop if you’re exploring the region for a few days.
Unlike large metropolitan zoos, the Monterey Zoo focuses on up-close animal encounters and educational experiences. Kids often enjoy seeing animals like lions, tigers, primates, reptiles, and birds while learning about wildlife conservation.
One of the unique things about this zoo is that they sometimes offer special experiences where visitors can get closer to certain animals than they would at most traditional zoos. These programs vary by day and season, so it’s worth checking the schedule before you visit.
Tips for Visiting
- Plan to spend about 1–2 hours exploring the zoo.
- Bring water and sunscreen, especially in the warmer months.
- Morning visits are usually less crowded and cooler.
Because it’s smaller and easy to navigate, the Monterey Zoo can be a fun, relaxed stop for families, especially if you’re looking for something different after visiting the aquarium or spending time along the coast.
Unlike larger zoos, this one allows closer animal encounters, which makes it incredibly memorable for children.
4. Ride Bikes on the Monterey Coastal Trail
The Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail is one of the most scenic bike rides in California. We done this when kids were little renting a 4 person bike so adults pedal and kids relax and later when kids older you can rent a bike for each one.
If you don’t have your own bike, renting one near the trail is very easy. Most rental shops are located around Cannery Row, right next to the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail, so you can start riding immediately.
One of the most beautiful and relaxing ways to explore the Monterey coastline is by riding along the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail. This scenic path stretches for about 18 miles along the bay, connecting Monterey, Pacific Grove, and Marina while offering incredible ocean views the entire way.
The trail follows the old Southern Pacific railway line that once ran along the coast and is now one of the most popular biking and walking paths on California’s Central Coast.
Blazing Saddles Bike Rentals & Tours
Where to Start
A great place to start your ride is near Cannery Row, which is close to the aquarium and has several bike rental shops nearby. From there, you can ride toward Pacific Grove for some of the most scenic sections of the trail.
What You’ll See Along the Way
The ride is relatively flat and perfect for families. Along the way you’ll pass:
- Beautiful ocean views and rocky coastline
- Sea lions and harbor seals resting on the shore
- Seabirds and pelicans diving into the water
- Historic Cannery Row buildings
- Small beaches and tide pools
It’s also common to see sea otters floating in the kelp beds, which is always exciting for kids.
Best Bike Rental Shops
These are some of the most popular and convenient rental companies:
Adventures by the Sea
299 Cannery Row, Monterey
One of the largest rental companies with multiple locations right along the trail. They offer standard bikes, e-bikes, and family bikes.
Big Sur Adventures
125 Ocean View Blvd, Pacific Grove
Great option for e-bikes with strong motors and long range—perfect if you want to ride farther along the coast.
Mad Dogs & Englishmen Bike Shop
A fun local shop known for stylish electric bikes and guided tours around Monterey and Carmel.
Typical Rental Prices
Prices vary depending on the type of bike you choose:
Standard bikes
- About $15–$25 per hour
- Around $40–$60 for a half-day
Electric bikes (very popular in Monterey)
- About $35 for the first 2 hours
- Around $10 for each additional hour
- Roughly $75 for a full day rental
Some companies also offer half-day e-bike rentals for about $60 and full-day rentals around $80, which often include helmets, locks, and maps.
Electric bikes are especially nice if you’re traveling with kids or want to explore farther without getting tired.
Tips for Families
- Ride early in the morning for fewer crowds and calmer weather.
- Bring a light jacket, since the coastal breeze can feel cool even on sunny days.
- Stop often — there are plenty of viewpoints perfect for photos and wildlife watching.
Even if you only ride a short section, biking the coastal trail is one of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of Monterey Bay.
You’ll pass:
- Cannery Row
- Pacific Grove
- Beautiful ocean views
- Sea lions and seals along the shore
Bike rentals are easy to find near Cannery Row.
5. Marina Dunes Preserve (A Hidden Gem)
If you’re looking for a quieter place to experience the natural beauty of Monterey Bay, the Marina Dunes Preserve is a hidden gem that many visitors completely miss. Just a short drive north of Monterey, this protected coastal area features rolling sand dunes, walking trails, and a beautiful stretch of beach with far fewer crowds than the more popular spots.
Address:
Reservation Rd & Dunes Dr
Marina, CA 93933
The preserve is about 15 minutes north of Monterey and easy to reach by car.
The Marina Dunes Preserve is one of the hidden gems of Monterey Bay.
The massive sand dunes feel almost like a desert by the ocean. Kids love exploring the trails and running down the dunes.
What Makes It Special
The dunes here are some of the largest coastal sand dunes on the Central Coast, creating a unique landscape where you can walk through sandy hills before reaching the ocean. Wooden boardwalk trails help protect the fragile dune ecosystem while giving visitors great viewpoints of the coastline.
It’s a peaceful place to slow down and enjoy nature.
Things to Do
Visitors often come here to:
- Walk through the scenic dune trails
- Enjoy a quiet beach walk
- Watch the sunset over Monterey Bay
- Take photos of the unique dune landscape
Kids especially love running down the sandy hills and exploring the wide beach.
Tips for Visiting
- Bring layers, since coastal winds can make it feel cooler than expected.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes because the sand can be soft in some areas.
- If you want fewer crowds, visit early in the morning or near sunset.
Because it’s less well known than other beaches nearby, Marina Dunes Preserve feels like a peaceful escape along the Monterey Bay coastline and a perfect stop if you want to experience a different side of the area.
It’s peaceful, beautiful, and far less crowded than many other beaches.
6. Kayak at Elkhorn Slough
One of the most unforgettable wildlife experiences near Monterey is kayaking through the calm waters of the Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve. This protected estuary is one of the best places in California to see sea otters in the wild, along with harbor seals, sea lions, and an incredible variety of birds.
Address:
1700 Elkhorn Rd
Watsonville, CA 95076
The reserve is located about 25 minutes north of Monterey near the small harbor town of Moss Landing.
Why It’s Special
Elkhorn Slough is a rich coastal wetland ecosystem where freshwater meets the ocean. The calm tidal channels create the perfect environment for wildlife, and paddling quietly through the slough often brings you surprisingly close to animals in their natural habitat.
It’s common to see:
- Sea otters floating in the water or wrapped in kelp
- Harbor seals resting on mudflats
- Sea lions near the harbor
- Pelicans, egrets, herons, and other coastal birds
For many families, spotting a sea otter drifting nearby while you’re kayaking becomes one of the most memorable moments of the trip.
Kayak Rentals and Tours
Several outfitters near Moss Landing offer rentals and guided tours. A popular option is:
Monterey Bay Kayaks
2370 CA-1
Moss Landing, CA 95039
They offer:
- Single and tandem kayak rentals
- Guided wildlife tours with naturalists
- Stand-up paddleboards
Typical rental times range from 1–3 hours, which is usually enough time to explore the slough and see plenty of wildlife.
Tips for the Best Experience
- Go early in the morning when the water is calm and wildlife is most active.
- Dress in layers, since it can be cool on the water.
- Paddle slowly and quietly so animals are not disturbed.
- Bring sunscreen, water, and a waterproof phone case.
Kayaking at Elkhorn Slough offers a completely different perspective of Monterey Bay and is one of the best nature experiences for families who love wildlife and the outdoors.
Kayaking through Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve is one of the best wildlife experiences in the area.
You’ll often see:
- Sea otters floating nearby
- Harbor seals
- Sea birds and pelicans
- Occasionally dolphins
Because the water is calm, it’s perfect for families.
7. Dennis the Menace Park
If you’re traveling with kids, a stop at Dennis the Menace Playground is almost guaranteed to be a highlight. This iconic playground has been a favorite for families visiting Monterey for generations and is widely considered one of the best playgrounds on California’s Central Coast.
Address:
777 Pearl St
Monterey, CA 93940
The park is conveniently located next to Lake El Estero, just a few minutes from Cannery Row and the Monterey Bay Aquarium.
kids love Dennis the Menace Playground because is much bigger and more adventurous than most playgrounds. It was inspired by the classic comic character Dennis the Menace and designed to encourage exploration and imaginative play.
Highlights include:
- A giant climbing rock wall
- A long suspension bridge
- Large slides and climbing structures
- A vintage locomotive and train car
- Swings and spinning play equipment
Kids can easily spend an hour or more running around and exploring all the different areas.
What Makes It Special
The playground sits inside a beautiful park setting next to the lake, where you can often see ducks and other birds. There are plenty of open grassy areas nearby for picnics or just relaxing while kids burn off energy.
Tips for Visiting
- The playground is free to enter, which makes it a great budget-friendly activity.
- Parking is available along Pearl Street and around the park.
- Early mornings or weekday afternoons tend to be less crowded.
For families visiting Monterey, Dennis the Menace Park is the perfect place for kids to play after a morning at the aquarium or before heading to dinner along Cannery Row.
Kids absolutely love Dennis the Menace Playground.
It’s one of the most unique playgrounds in California, with:
- A climbing rock wall
- A giant suspension bridge
- Old train cars
- Huge slides and play structures
Perfect for letting kids burn off energy after sightseeing.
8. Estero Park
Right next to the famous Dennis the Menace Playground is the peaceful and scenic El Estero Park, a beautiful waterfront park that’s perfect for families who want to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
Address:
777 Pearl St
Monterey, CA 93940
The park surrounds Lake El Estero, a calm lagoon located just a few minutes from Cannery Row and the Monterey Bay Aquarium.
What Makes It Special
El Estero Park offers a mix of nature, recreation, and family-friendly activities all in one place. The walking paths around the lake provide beautiful views of the water and are an easy stroll for visitors of all ages.
You’ll often see:
- Ducks and other water birds around the lake
- Paddle boats and kayaks on the water
- Families picnicking on the grassy areas
- Kids playing at nearby playgrounds
Things to Do
Visitors often enjoy:
- Walking or jogging along the scenic lake path
- Renting paddle boats on the lagoon
- Having a picnic by the water
- Letting kids run around the open grassy spaces
- Visiting Dennis the Menace Playground, located right next to the park
Tips for Visiting
- Bring bread or bird seed alternatives if kids enjoy watching the ducks.
- Early mornings and late afternoons are the most peaceful times to visit.
- Parking is available along Pearl Street and nearby park lots.
Because of its central location and relaxed atmosphere, El Estero Park is a great place to take a break between visiting Monterey’s major attractions. Families often combine a visit here with the nearby playground, making it an easy and fun stop during a day exploring the area.
Estero Park is a quieter local park that families often miss.
It’s a great place to:
- Have a picnic
- Let kids run around
- Take a break from the busier tourist spots
You can rent pedal boats right at Lake El Estero, inside the park next to Dennis the Menace Playground.
9. Rent a Paddle Boat Rentals at Lake El Estero
The rental stand is called El Estero Boating, located on the lake across from the playground.
Address:
798 Del Monte Ave
Monterey, CA 93940
This spot sits inside El Estero Park, only a few minutes from the Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row.
Rental Prices (Typical)
- Regular paddle boat:
- ~$27 for 30 minutes
- ~$35 for 1 hour
- Swan or duck boats:
- About $40–$45 for 30 minutes
Most boats hold 4–5 people, making them great for families. Life jackets are provided at no extra charge.
Hours
- Usually opens around 10:00 AM
- Last rentals typically around 4:15–5:15 PM depending on the day and weather.
They may close during heavy fog, wind, or rain, since the lake can get choppy.
Why Families Love It
The water in Lake El Estero is calm and protected, so it’s perfect for beginners and kids. While paddling around the lake you’ll usually see:
- ducks and geese
- herons and other birds
- beautiful views of the park
And when you’re finished, you can walk straight over to Dennis the Menace Playground, which is just across the lake.
This is a great activity to do after visiting the aquarium, especially if kids need time to run around and burn energy.
10. Best Place to See Sea Otters in Monterey (Most Visitors Miss This)
One of the most magical wildlife experiences in Monterey is seeing sea otters floating in the wild, and the good news is that you don’t need a boat or a tour to see them. One of the easiest places to spot them is along the shoreline near Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail, especially in the waters just off Cannery Row and around the Monterey Bay Aquarium.
Sea otters love to float in the kelp beds close to shore, where they wrap themselves in the kelp to keep from drifting away while they rest. If you look carefully out into the water, you can often spot them lying on their backs, cracking open shellfish on their stomachs, or grooming their fur.
Best Viewing Spots
Some of the best places to watch sea otters include:
- The ocean-view decks outside the Monterey Bay Aquarium
- The shoreline along Cannery Row
- Scenic pullouts along the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail
Bring binoculars if you have them, but even without them you can often see the otters clearly from shore.
Best Time to See Them
Sea otters can be seen throughout the day, but they are often most active in the morning and late afternoon when they are feeding.
Tips for Watching Wildlife
- Look for floating kelp patches, which is where otters often rest.
- Move slowly and quietly if you are near the shoreline.
- Always keep a respectful distance and avoid disturbing wildlife.
Watching sea otters drift peacefully in the kelp beds is one of those simple Monterey moments that kids and adults both remember long after the trip is over.
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