- Great for the entire family
- Separate playgrounds for younger and older children
- Paved walkway good for scooters and bikes
- Small walking trails that offer an alternative activity
- Not wheelchair accessible due to wood chips
- Pickleball and tennis court
This week we visited Via Paraiso Park in Monterey. A light forested area, baseball diamond, grassy field, tennis courts/pickle ball, and a playground surround the park. There is a paved walkway around the baseball field–great for scooters and bikes–and small walking trails throughout the wooded area.
The playground at Via Paraiso is separated into two distinct areas: one for bigger kids and another for the smaller ones. The larger playground has monkey bars, two swings, a fireman’s pole, multiple slides, and other equipment perfect for climbing and balancing. The signage suggests this area is suitable for ages 5-12. The smaller playground for younger kids ages 2-5 has two baby swings and a smaller structure with one slide. There is also a tire swing that can be used by multiple kids simultaneously.
Overall, the playground is inviting and has lots to interact with, but it is not accessible for people with disabilities. The ground cover is woodchips, and there is no adaptive equipment. The park is not enclosed.
Aside from the playgrounds, Via Paraiso is a beautiful outdoor space. Within the trees and nature are winding trails that are easy enough to traverse with young kids, as well as picnic benches throughout. Around the trails and park, there are plenty of shady trees and native plants and flowers to enjoy. Visiting the park is made easy with two different parking lots. There is one large and one medium BBQ pit available for group reservation.
The park can get busy since there is a popular tennis and pickleball court and a baseball field. Bathrooms are open and available during park hours and a free little library. You can take or leave a book during your visit. I would recommend this park for families with kids of all ages. Bring a picnic or your bikes and scooters for some extra fun.
- Via Paraiso, Monterey, 93940
- For reservations and more info
Alia Hochgesang grew up on the Monterey Peninsula and is raising her family in Pacific Grove. She loves being outdoors, trying new restaurants, and going to the beach.