Haven’t had time to fit in that summer vacation? Here are some quick and relatively affordable getaways to help you make some family memories.
Yosemite National Park
The Yosemite Valley is on the western slope of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, about 150 miles from the Monterey Bay. It is easily accessible by car, especially in the summer months.
Where to Stay: The Ahwahnee Hotel is a world-renowned, four-diamond hotel, complete with fine dining, exciting entertainment, and excellent lodging. Not in the budget? Why not take a stroll through the public spots, browse the gift shop or grab some food at one of the restaurants. Yosemite Lodge at the Fall offers amenities like family rooms complete with private patios, refrigerators and bike rentals.
Things to do: Hiking: There are miles of the valley to explore, but the most kid-friendly paths are near the bottom. Try the Sentinel Meadow Loop for amazing views of Half Dome reflected in the Merced River. A 2.25-mile walk, suitable for strollers and offering lots of bathrooms, looking for a more of a challenge with a gorgeous view? The Bridal Veil Falls hike may only be a half mile out and back and stroller accessible, but it is a little steep. The payoff is that the waterfall runs year round, unlike many others which dry out in mid to late summer months.
Kids ages 3-13 can sign up to earn a Little Cub or Junior Ranger badge at any time during the year. Grab a booklet from various designated locations, complete the tasks and attend cool events just for being part of the program, like naturalist-led walks and campfires sessions. The whole family can join in for the Great Yosemite Family Adventure and explore the park with GPS to solve puzzles and riddles.
Cambria
About 90 miles away from the Monterey Bay area, Cambria is a relaxing place to enjoy with your family.
Where to stay: The Fogcatcher Inn, which is right across from the street from Moonstone Beach and the boardwalk. The hotel has complimentary breakfast and a pool.
Things to do: Moonstone Beach. Bring binoculars to the beach to look for seals and other sea animals. Another popular activity on Moonstone Beach is looking for sea glass and moonstones.
Hearst Castle. Tour Number One is recommended if you have small children as it moves along at a nice pace and includes inside and outside venues. The ride up to the castle is an adventure in itself. Eat lunch across the street at the General Store–it’s popular and casual.
Elephant Seals at Piedras Blancas: The best times to visit the rookery are at the end of January, April, and October, but visitors are welcome all year long, and docents are available to provide information.
San Francisco
Only a two-hour drive from the Monterey Bay area and you are in San Francisco. It can be done as a day trip but a little more relaxing if you stay the night.
Where to stay: Hyatt Centric Fisherman’s Wharf. The family appeal of this stylish 313-room Hyatt is simple: It’s just two blocks from the kid-friendly fun of Fisherman’s Wharf, it has a heated pool (and Jacuzzi), and families can sleep comfortably in rooms with two double beds.
What to do: Alcatraz The boat ride over is half the fun. Once onto the Rock, if you’re lucky, one of the wardens, or even a former prisoner, might be there to greet your boat. Watch a quick movie about the place, and then get your audio tour. Step into a real cell and grab the bars for a photo op. Check out solitary confinement. Look at the dummy masks that three escapees left in their beds to fool the guards. When you feel like leaving, take the ferry back to Pier 33.
Powell–Hyde Cable Car to Nob Hill Take a cling-clang over the hills; kids of all ages really can’t get enough of it. Stay on long enough, and the spot they’ve been dying to sit or stand in is sure to open up.
Koret Children’s Square, 320 Bowling Green Drive, Golden Gate Park. With a concrete slide (you ride down on cardboard), carousel, play structures and large grassy areas, you don’t want to miss this place.
Santa Rosa
Santa Rosa is located in the heart of the Sonoma County wine country and is the perfect getaway for nature and art lovers.
Where to Stay: Flamingo Conference Resort and Spa: Relax at the Flamingo Conference Resort and Spa, located a short drive away from the towns of Healdsburg, Sonoma, Calistoga, and St. Helena. It’s the perfect location for day trips to the Pacific Ocean, the Russian River, and Armstrong Redwood Grove. Access to the Montecito Health and Racket Club and spa is available for a daily fee. Amenities there include five tennis courts, a lap pool, cycling and warm yoga classes, and spa treatments.
What to do: Safari West: Who knew the plains of Africa existed in California nestled amongst the vineyards? Experience an African Safari ride at Safari West, where animals roam free on a Wildlife Preserve. Safari West is not a zoo or a theme park. It’s a chance encounter with cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, and numerous other animals of the savannah. Reserve a day tour or stay overnight in one of their luxury tents or cottages.
Charles M. Schultz Museum and Snoopy Ice Arena: When the heat escalates, cool your heels at the Snoopy Ice Arena. During certain skate times, chairs are available for the novice skaters to assist with balance and help boost confidence on the ice. When it’s time to rest, walk over to the Charles M. Schulz Museum and learn about the creator of Snoopy and the beloved Peanuts characters.
Jennifer Hickerson was born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA. She moved to the Monterey Peninsula in 1994. As a mother of 4 children ranging in age from 18 – 7, she has enjoyed most of the activities that Monterey County has to offer and loves to share her knowledge with others. In her off time she loves to cook and is an award-winning baker.