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If you’re looking for the perfect coastal escape, Pacific Grove should be at the top of your California road trip list. Tucked between Monterey and Pebble Beach, this charming seaside town is known for wildflowers, coastal trails, wildlife sightings, and a laid-back pace that’s ideal for families.
Here’s exactly what to do in Pacific Grove if you only have one spring day — slow, scenic, and full of small moments that make this place so special.
Start Your Day in Nature
Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary (Seasonal)
If you’re visiting late fall through early spring, begin your morning at the Pacific Grove Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary. Thousands of monarch butterflies cluster in the eucalyptus trees, creating a quiet, awe-inspiring experience for kids and adults alike.
Visiting outside monarch season? No problem.
Washington Park
Head to Washington Park instead for a peaceful walk among blooming wildflowers. In spring, the area comes alive with color — and if you’re lucky, you might spot deer wandering through the neighborhood, something Pacific Grove is famous for.
Walk the Pacific Grove Coastal Trail 🌊
One of the best things to do in Pacific Grove is simply walk the coastal trail. The Pacific Grove Coastal Trail is flat, stroller-friendly, and incredibly scenic — making it perfect for families with kids of all ages.
As you walk, keep your eyes open for:
- Sea otters floating near the shore
- Harbor seals lounging on rocks
- Shorebirds along the coastline
Renting Bikes for a Family Ride in Pacific Grove
If you’re visiting Pacific Grove with your family, renting bikes is one of the absolute best ways to experience the coastline. In fact, I’d go so far as to say it’s not just an activity—it’s part of the Pacific Grove experience.
Pacific Grove sits right along the famous Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail, a paved, mostly flat path that stretches for miles along the ocean. It’s incredibly family-friendly. There’s no worrying about traffic, no stressful navigation, and no pressure to rush. You just ride at your own pace, with the ocean beside you the entire way.
One of the easiest places to rent bikes is Pacific Grove Adventures, located at 624 Ocean View Blvd, Pacific Grove, CA 93950, just steps from the coastline and Lovers Point. They offer comfortable cruiser bikes, electric bikes, and family-friendly options like child trailers and tag-along bikes, making it easy for everyone to ride together.
This is one of those rare places where the journey itself becomes the highlight.
You’ll pass dramatic rocky shorelines, quiet coves, and wide open ocean views. Harbor seals rest on the rocks. Sea otters float in the kelp beds just offshore. If you’re lucky, you might even spot dolphins. And because you’re on bikes, you can stop anytime something catches your attention—which, with kids, happens often.
What makes it especially memorable isn’t the distance—it’s the feeling. The sound of the waves. The salty air. The freedom of moving together as a family, without distractions.
It’s simple. It’s active. And it’s one of those experiences your kids will talk about long after the trip is over.
If you’re planning a family visit to Pacific Grove, renting bikes along the coastal trail is one of the easiest and most rewarding ways to turn an ordinary day into something unforgettable.
Lunch in Pacific Grove
After a morning outdoors, it’s time to refuel. These are some of the best family-friendly lunch spots in Pacific Grove:
- Wild Fish – Casual, delicious fish tacos and crab melts
- Passionfish – A sit-down option known for sustainable seafood and a welcoming atmosphere for families
Both spots highlight the fresh, local flavors the Central Coast is known for.
Afternoon Fun at Lovers Point 🏖️🍦
No Pacific Grove day trip is complete without a stop at Lovers Point.
Grab an ice cream and let the kids:
- Play by the water
- Explore the grassy park area
- Watch kayakers and paddleboarders
For older kids (or energetic parents), you can also rent bikes and cruise along the coastline — one of the most fun ways to experience Pacific Grove.
Point Pinos Lighthouse
Along the way, stop at Point Pinos Lighthouse, the oldest continuously operating lighthouse on the West Coast. It’s a great educational stop and an easy way to add a little California history into your day.
Don’t Miss the Purple Sand Beach 📸
Just nearby, you’ll find a rare purple sand beach. The unique coloring comes from garnet deposits mixed into the sand, and it makes for a beautiful (and unexpected) photo stop.
End the Day at Asilomar State Beach 🌅
If you can stay through sunset, head to Asilomar State Beach. This stretch of coast feels wild and peaceful, with dramatic rock formations and crashing waves.
Sunset here is pure magic — a calm, grounding way to end a perfect day in Pacific Grove.
Why Pacific Grove Is Perfect for Families
What makes Pacific Grove so special is how easy it feels. You don’t need a packed itinerary or expensive attractions. Nature, wildlife, history, and simple coastal joy are all right there.
If you’re planning a California road trip, a Monterey Peninsula getaway, or just searching for what to do in Pacific Grove with kids, this town delivers in the most effortless way.
Save this itinerary for your next visit — and if you love family-friendly travel ideas like this, follow along at Real World Mami for more California gems, hidden spots, and real-world learning adventures.
Looking for more Central Coast trips? Pacific Grove pairs perfectly with Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea, and Big Sur for an unforgettable coastal escape.
