Creepy Critters of Monterey County: Animals to Spot This Fall
As the air turns crisp and the days grow shorter, Monterey County’s wild places take on a mysterious charm. Autumn is the season when some...
Read ArticleFeatured Articles
Best Bets for October Family Events in Monterey & Santa Cruz Counties (Non-Halloween)
Looking for fun things to do this October that aren’t Halloween or pumpkin-related? Families in Monterey County and Santa Cruz County have plenty of choices! From hands-on...
Read ArticleFree & Family-Friendly Fall Concerts in Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties
Whether your family is into dancing on the beach, marching bands, or orchestra performances, there’s something happening nearly every weekend from September through October. We’ve gathered...
Read ArticleMonterey Bay Aquarium: Admission & Visit Essentials
Planning a trip to the Monterey Bay Aquarium? Here's everything you need to know about admission to ensure a smooth, memorable experience: Admission Prices (as...
Read ArticleFall Family Hikes in Monterey and Santa Cruz
Fall on the Central Coast is something special. While we may not get the dramatic foliage of the East Coast, our local trails glow with seasonal...
Read ArticleFamily Events at The Farm in Salinas
UPDATED FOR JULY AND AUGUST, 2025 Located just off Highway 68 at the Spreckels Boulevard exit, The Farm in Salinas continues its hands-on, family-friendly lineup...
Read ArticleThe Ultimate Monterey Bay Bucket List
As a longtime resident of Monterey and a mom with a deep love for the outdoors, I’ve spent the past decade+ seeking out the best...
Read ArticleWhere to Watch Otters, Seals and Whales on the Monterey Bay
There’s something magical about spotting a sea otter floating on its back, a seal lounging on a rock, or a whale surfacing just off the...
Read ArticleFamily-Friendly Dining Near the Monterey Bay Aquarium
Exploring the Monterey Bay Aquarium is a memorable experience for families, but keeping little ones happy often means finding the perfect spot for family-friendly dining nearby. Fortunately, Monterey’s Cannery Row...
Read ArticleSTEM at the Beach: Kid-Friendly Science Activities on the Monterey Peninsula
Looking for screen-free, educational fun by the ocean? The beaches of Monterey County are more than just places to relax—they're perfect outdoor classrooms for hands-on...
Read ArticleBest Stargazing Spots in Monterey County for Families
Looking for a magical way to connect with your children this summer? Stargazing in Monterey County offers an unforgettable family experience. Warm(ish!) coastal nights, sandy toes,...
Read ArticleCelebrate the Fourth of July in Monterey with a Full Day of Family Fun
Monterey will come alive with patriotic spirit on Friday, July 4, 2025, as the City of Monterey, Old Monterey Business Association, and Monterey Firefighters Community...
Read ArticleSix Educational Day Trips from Monterey
1. San Juan Bautista State Historic Park Drive time: 45 minutes Step into California’s past in this well-preserved mission town. Walk through restored buildings, visit the...
Read ArticleBest Family-Friendly Hotels and Resorts in Monterey County
Planning a family getaway or staycation in Monterey County? Whether you're hosting out-of-town relatives or just craving a change of scenery, the right hotel can...
Read ArticleMonterey’s First-Ever Abalone Festival Celebrates Culture, History, and Conservation
July 26–27 at Monterey JACL Hall Monterey’s deep connection to abalone—rooted in Indigenous tradition, enriched by immigrant contributions, and central to local culinary lore—will be...
Read ArticleWhat To Do This Weekend in Monterey County and Santa Cruz County
Updated for June 27–29, 2025 Looking for family-friendly events this weekend? From music and parades to potlucks and playgroups, there’s something happening for everyone in...
Read ArticleBest Family Campgrounds in Monterey County
Camping with kids is a chance to unplug, explore, and create lasting family memories. Monterey County is home to five family-friendly campgrounds, offering the perfect...
Read ArticleBest Places for a Kid-Friendly Brunch on the Monterey Peninsula
Looking for a brunch spot where your kids are welcome and you can sip your coffee in peace? We’ve got you covered. As parents, finding...
Read ArticleTips For a Fun and Safe Fourth of July
Ready for the 4th of July holiday? There are plenty of kid-friendly activities in Monterey County the entire family can enjoy. In Monterey County, there...
Read ArticleMonterey County’s Kid-Friendly Hikes
An excellent way to get outdoors is hiking along the Monterey Peninsula, which has incredible scenic trails and wildlife. Here are some of the most accessible kid-friendly hikes Monterey has to offer.
Read ArticleJune Events for Your Monterey County Family
If you're looking for fun events for your family, here are our recommendations for June, 2025. You'll find events in Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties....
Read ArticleBest June Library Events for Monterey and Santa Cruz County Families
June is packed with fun and educational library programs across the Monterey Bay area. From outdoor art sessions to science shows and magical performances, these...
Read ArticleTrail to Tide: Exploring Monterey County by Bike and Kayak
Growing up in the Monterey Bay, especially during my teen years, I never really appreciated how lucky we are to live in an area that...
Read ArticleMonterey County Summer Library Reading Programs
Summer offers kids a much-needed break from the school routine, but it’s also the perfect opportunity to spark a love of reading. With no homework...
Read ArticleExplore National Parks for Free with the America the Beautiful Access Pass
If you have a child or family member with a permanent disability, there’s an excellent opportunity to explore nature’s beauty—for free. The America the Beautiful Access...
Read ArticleFree Summer Concerts in Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties
Looking for a fun and budget-friendly way to enjoy summer evenings with the family? Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties offer a variety of free outdoor...
Read ArticleFavorite Fridays Return to Del Monte Center with Free Tribute Concerts
Get ready for a summer of live music as Del Monte Shopping Center in Monterey brings back its popular Favorite Fridays concert series for 2025. From May...
Read ArticleMonterey Skates Brings Roller Skating Back to the Peninsula
Roller skating enthusiasts in Monterey have reason to celebrate as Monterey Skates opens its doors at the Monterey County Fairgrounds. Founded by Max Troyer and Morgan...
Read ArticleBest Family Events for Monterey County Families for May 2025
Discover free festivals, family activities, storytelling, music, and more across Monterey County this month. Whether you're looking to enjoy spring festivals, get creative in the...
Read ArticleTop 10 Monterey Attractions for Families
If you're planning a trip or staycation and searching for the best Monterey attractions for families, you're in the right place. Whether you're visiting for the...
Read ArticleA Guide to Animal Adventures Around the Monterey Bay
Monterey Bay isn’t just known for its sweeping ocean views and scenic beauty—it’s also a haven for animal lovers of all ages. From sea otters...
Read ArticleMonterey County Summer Camps
Start your family's summer of fun here! Check out these great summer camps that are now taking reservations for your child's best summer yet. To...
Read ArticleFun & Free Family-Friendly Events in Monterey County This March
Looking for budget-friendly activities to enjoy with your family this March? Monterey County and the surrounding areas have free events that offer fun, creativity, and...
Read ArticleNorthern and Central California’s Children’s Museums
Children’s museums are magical spaces where kids can explore, learn, and play through hands-on exhibits and interactive activities. Families in Monterey have access to quite a few exceptional museums offering unique...
Read ArticleDiscover the Best Hot Chocolate in Monterey County
Discover the Best Hot Chocolate Spots in Monterey County and Beyond An interesting discussion recently took place in the Monterey Bay Parent Facebook group about...
Read ArticleMonterey Bay Parent’s October Postcard
In our October issue you'll find a print postcard sponsored by The Patch at 10 River Road. In addition to The Patch at 10 River...
Read ArticleOur Monterey Family’s Autumn To-Do List
The changing of the seasons is upon us, and it’s time to get cozy. With the cooling temperatures, shorter days, and beautiful colors comes an...
Read ArticleThree Places to See Fall Color in Monterey County
Ahhhh, October! The Monterey Peninsula experiences cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. And, while we generally think of the east coast when we think about fall...
Read ArticleA Complete Guide to a Fun Family Day at the Monterey Bay Aquarium
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/iiryxzWx_KM The Monterey Bay Aquarium is one of the most famous attractions in Monterey County. Known for its commitment to ocean conservation, the Aquarium features...
Read ArticleThis Month’s Best Monterey County Library Events
We are lucky to have amazing libraries in Monterey County. They offer a variety of free events that are perfect for family fun. Here are...
Read Article20 Inexpensive or Free Family Activities in September in Monterey & Santa Cruz Counties
September has arrived, and even with the kids back in school, there's still a wide variety of fun family activities and events to enjoy throughout...
Read ArticleApple Picking Season is Here!
It’s apple picking season on California’s Central Coast, and we have tips to make the most of it. Plus, we’ll tell you where to pick them!
Read ArticleWatsonville Apple Picking
Apple picking is a perfect activity for fall fun but hurry, the season ends in later October/early November. Be sure to call ahead to make...
Read ArticleWhere To View Wildlife in Monterey County
With fall arriving in Monterey County, nice weather is ahead. A fun outdoor activity for your kids to enjoy this autumn is to look for...
Read ArticleLast-Minute Summer Fun for Monterey County Families
Here are five ideas for fun, family activities in Monterey County. They’re perfect for late summer and fall.
Read ArticleFive Day Trips Perfect for Monterey Families
With spring in full swing and summer just around the corner, it is a great time to plan a day trip with your family. The...
Read ArticleWhere To Shop in Monterey County
Monterey County offers a variety of shopping centers and malls that cater to both locals and tourists. In addition to the centers, Monterey County has...
Read ArticleSix Reasons to Visit Santa Cruz
Whether your family enjoys outdoor adventures, educational experiences, or simply relaxing by the beach, Santa Cruz has something to offer everyone. Here are some suggestions...
Read ArticleSand & Surf: Monterey County’s Must-Visit Beaches
ASILOMAR STATE BEACH Asilomar State Beach in Pacific Grove is known for its natural beauty and serene environment. This beach is ideal for families who...
Read ArticleSummer Fun When It’s Super Hot
ummer’s here and it’s time to soak up the sun! There are endless activities to keep your kids busy this time of year, but when...
Read ArticleHow to Start a Book Club
If you love to read and discuss books, starting a book club might be for you. “You don’t have to be friends to begin,” says...
Read ArticleArchie Visits Yosemite
Archie adventured in Yosemite this week! This was our 4th family trip to Yosemite, and Archie’s sister Esme’s first time. The sheer awesomeness doesn’t ever get any less breathtaking.
Read ArticleArchie Visits the Monarch Grove Sanctuary in Pacific Grove
It’s a beautiful time of year to visit the Monarch Grove Sanctuary. The morning light and the soft scent of the eucalyptus and pine trees is so peaceful. It never gets old.
Read ArticleArchie Goes Tidepooling in the Monterey Bay
Did you know the Monterey Public Library has Social Emotional Learning Kits? Each kit contains a collection of books based around a theme as well as recommendations for more books and online resources.
Read ArticleArchie Visits the Monterey Public Library
Did you know the Monterey Public Library has Social Emotional Learning Kits? Each kit contains a collection of books based around a theme as well as recommendations for more books and online resources.
Read ArticleArchie Enjoys the Snow at Leland
Archie has been asking to play in snow since last summer. We took a 4 hour roadtrip up to Strawberry this week and stayed for a couple nights to make his snow wishes come true.
Read ArticleTide Pool Time!
Tidepooling in the Monterey Bay is easy, and with just a few essential tips to ensure safety for your kiddos, yourself, and our marine friends, you’ll embark on a journey of discovery that will leave lasting memories for the whole family.
Read ArticleIs Your Child Ready for Overnight Camp?
Is your camper ready for summer camp? How will it benefit them, how do you help make it the best experience possible, and how will you choose a camp?
Read ArticleQ & A With Local Monterey-Area Camp Directors
Gain some inside info from our question and answer session with three experienced camp directors from Monterey.
Read ArticleArchie Visits Glorya Jean Tate Skatepark in Marina
A friend recently invited us to the Glorya Jean Tate Park in Marina. Archie had a fun time and asked to go again, so I took him after school to burn off some energy on the pump track.
Read ArticleArchie Goes Horseback Riding at Hacienda in Carmel Valley
Archie attended the Giddy-Up Gathering at Hacienda Hay & Feed in Carmel Valley this weekend for horse riding with Christy.
Read ArticleA Few of Our Favorite Monterey County Parks
For a kid, there is nothing quite like the exhilaration of exploring a new park! From pump tracks to hiking trails to birthday party venues, Monterey County has a wide variety of parks to get outside and play.
Read ArticleSay Cheese: Where to take family photos in Monterey County
We live in one of the most beautiful places in the country with a variety of gorgeous settings for our precious keepsakes. Here are some locations and tips to get results that do your adorable kids and your beautiful community justice.
Read ArticleLocal, Random, and Rad Things to Do With Your Kids in 2024
Looking for an out of the box idea for family fun? Here are twelve suggestions in Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties to consider for your next outing.
Read ArticleTake a Hike, Monterey Families
Hiking is a great family activity and the California Central Coast is the perfect place for exploring. Here are some tips to get your family started on hiking.
Read ArticleRain Rain Go Away (or stay and we will play!)
A rainy day can sometimes feel daunting with little ones but it also can be an opportunity for a new kind of adventure. The Monterey Bay area has so many places to spend a stormy day and plenty are free.
Read ArticleCalifornia King Tides in Monterey
The upcoming official King Tide dates for Monterey and Santa Cruz are January 11 and 12, 2024, and February 9, 2024, however, there are even more dates with these extreme tides.
Read ArticleMonterey County Libraries for Littles
Make 2024 the year that you and your preschooler try out the abundant free events and resources curated by dedicated librarians from our local libraries!
Read ArticleArchie Meets Santa at Fisherman’s Wharf
Archie enjoyed a spine-tingling and enchanting Halloween breakfast experience at Brew-N-Krew in downtown Salinas this morning! He was excited for a chance to wear his bat costume out of the house before Halloween. 🦇
Read ArticlePARK PATROL: Laurel Park in Salinas
Laurel Park is a charming park next to Henry F. Kammann Elementary School in Salinas. It is an excellent location for those picking up their kids; they could burn more energy right after class.
Read ArticlePARK PATROL: Mission Park in Salinas
Mission Park is a convenient park in south Salinas, perfect for picnics and soccer practice.
Read ArticlePARK PATROL: Laguna Grande in Seaside
Laguna Grande Park in Seaside includes walking paths, sports fields, a lake, wildlife habitat and natural plants and flowers. A fun fact about this park is that 80% of it is in the city of Seaside and about 20% is located in the city of Monterey.
Read ArticlePARK PATROL: Civic Center Playground, Marina
Civic Center Playground in Marina offers some challenging unique structures. It is connected to the Marina Youth Center which offers recreational activities, cultural events, field trips and after school care.
Read ArticlePARK PATROL: Central Park in Salinas
Central Park in Salinas has BBQ areas, picnic tables, bathrooms, lots of green spaces, a community garden, and play structures separated into two sites, one for kids 5- 12-year-olds and one other for the younger crowd.
Read ArticlePARK PATROL: Via Paraiso Park in Monterey
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.
Read ArticlePARK PATROL: Archer Park in Monterey
Archer Park offers a beautiful view of Monterey Bay and has a nice mix of big oak trees and native flowers and plants. The play structure at this park has a combination of slides, monkey bars, and even a small rock-climbing wall.
Read ArticleLights, Cameras, Action: Five Reasons for Kids to Participate in Theater
Participating in theater can expose kids to music, arts, culture, teamwork and more. Most of the benefits of participating in theater help them in school now. Here are 5 reasons that kids should give theater a try.
Read ArticleDance Books for Kids
Kids are natural dancers and it’s a great means of creative expression! For inspiration, try one of these recommended books.
Read ArticleThe Soundtrack to Success
Does your child love to sing? Love plunking on the piano or pounding on the drum? Do you think you might have a future musician in your home? Let’s look at some short and long term benefits of music lessons.
Read ArticleCalifornia State Library Park Pass Program
Families can now borrow a day-use pass for a variety of state parks through local libraries. The Parks Pass can be used at over 200 California state parks.
Read ArticlePARK PATROL: Pacific Grove Community Center Playground (Caterpillar Park)
One of my favorite parks in the city of Pacific Grove is the Pacific Grove Community Center Playground, otherwise known as Caterpillar Park.
Read ArticleCreativity & Kids: Why the arts are so important
At the same time, some school districts are investing more in STEM instruction while diverting funds from arts education; research is proving the value and benefits of the latter to its students.
Read ArticleIs Your Child Ready for Sleep Away Camp?
Like so many parenting decisions, there is no “one size fits all” method of determining if a child is ready for the adventure of sleepaway camp. Asking yourself these eight questions can help make the choice easier.
Read ArticleHappy Campers: Checklist for Day Camp
You’re looking for the perfect day camp for your little artist, swimmer or scientist, but you’re worried because camp is unfamiliar territory. Help prepare your child for what’s ahead with these tips to make their camp experience a positive one.
Read ArticleBooks for Kids about Spring
March 20 is the first day of Spring! Celebrate the new season and the color it brings with one of these spring-themed books.
Read ArticleBooks For and About Christmas, Hanukkah, & Kwanzaa
Here are some excellent choices for read-aloud time or gift-giving during the December holidays.
Read ArticleBooks For and About the Arts
Looking for some creative inspiration to share with your children? Here are some book suggestions for artsy fun!
Read ArticleParticipation in the Arts Offers a Well-Rounded Education
The effects of an immersive arts education experience linger long afterward, whether or not we realize it. Our children stand a bit taller, more confident.
Read ArticleFive Reasons to Take the Kids to a U-Pick This Fall
Autumn is the perfect time to head to a local farm to pick your own produce of the season, whether it be apples, pears, pumpkins, squash or others.
Read ArticleBook List: Back to School Reads
Heading back to school can be nerve-wracking, especially if you’re moving to a new school or hitting a milestone grade. Don’t worry—we have plenty of books to prepare your student for a new chapter!
Read ArticleMonterey and Santa Cruz County Parks
Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties have lots of great parks and playgrounds. Here are our favorites!
Read ArticleMonterey County Recreation Departments Offer Inexpensive Family Fun
City recreation departments in Monterey, Pacific Grove, Seaside, Salinas, and Marina offer inexpensive activities for families.
Read ArticleTen Monterey County Not-To-Be-Missed Family Hikes
Here are ten local destinations in Monterey and Santa Cruz where your family can enjoy some outdoor time and a great walk!
Read ArticleMonterey/Santa Cruz/San Jose Museums You’ll Want to Visit
The next time your family is looking for a cultural fix, pick one of these museums for an afternoon of fun.
Read ArticleBooks For and About Dad
Father’s day is around the corner, which means we’ve got a list of books highlighting all the things we love about our dads—both the dads related to us and the ones that aren’t.
Read ArticleSummer Camp Books for Your Young Reader
School is letting out and summer is rolling in, which means summer camp is right around the corner! These are our favorite summer camp adventures for young readers to get them in the adventuring mood.
Read ArticleCalifornians Can Now Use Their Library Cards to Visit State Parks for Free
California State Parks and the California State Library are offering an additional opportunity to advance safe and equitable outdoor access to all Californians.
Read ArticleYoung Reader Series for Adventurous Readers
If you’re looking for some new material to keep your elementary reader turning pages, look no further. Fantasy, sci-fi, mystery, dystopian—we’ve got
plenty of adventures of all shapes and sizes.
Our Favorite Books for Preschoolers
Whether you’re looking for a book to give as a gift or a new bedtime story, here are our favorite books for preschoolers.
Read ArticleCreative Outings With Your Preschooler
Each week our Instagram blogger, Beau Jackson takes his 3-year-old son Archie on adventures. Ranging from creative pursuits like art journaling to airport outings, Archie and Beau give parents across the Monterey Bay ideas for their own family.
Read ArticleFive Monterey/Santa Cruz County Trails for Family Hikes
What better way to celebrate family togetherness than spending time in nature? Celebrate National Hike Day with one of our recommendations. Here are five Monterey/Santa Cruz County trails that your family will enjoy.
Read ArticleThe Benefits of Being a Musical Family
Learning to play a musical instrument can improve mathematical, science, and English scores in children. Read on for some tips on how to integrate music into your family’s world.
Read Article