Twenty Inexpensive or Free Things to Do in October
October is packed with a variety of family-friendly activities and events across Monterey and Santa Cruz counties. You don't have to break the bank to...
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Your Neighborhood Library
While libraries remain a crucial resource for accessing literary opinions, truths, and ideologies, many libraries also serve as our community hubs for social, emotional, and recreational purposes. There is something for everyone at the library.
Read ArticleSand, Seagulls, & Seashells: Monterey Bay’s Best Beaches
Summer vacation is coming, and with it comes the best part of living along one of the most gorgeous coasts our nation has to offer: the beach. Here are our recommendations for the best Monterey Bay beaches.
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 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 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 ArticleTips For a Fun and Safe Fourth of July
Ready for the big holiday this Thursday? There are plenty of kid-friendly activities the entire family can enjoy. In Monterey County, there are numerous fireworks...
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 ArticleMonterey County Summer 2024 Library Reading Programs
Summer is a great time for kids to kick back and relax, but don’t let the days go by without a little reading. It’s the...
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 ArticleHands-On Science Fun in San Francisco
My family and I had the opportunity to visit the Exploratorium at Pier 15 in San Francisco with the goal of exploring and then reporting back to the readers of Monterey Bay Parent.
Read ArticleCreativity: Art, Dance, Music & Theatre for Your Family
We celebrate the arts in our September issue each year. Here are a variety of resources to develop your family’s “creativity muscles.”
Read ArticleAdventures With Archie: Meet our new Instagram Bloggers, Beau and Archie Jackson
Each week, our Instagram blogger Beau will be sharing a new adventure with his 3-year-old son. Get inspiration from this hands-on dad as he finds new places and activities to explore.
Read ArticleSummer Trips Your Kids Are Going To Love
With California just reopening and summer in full swing, it’s time to venture out a bit from our Monterey Bay enclave. As a parent of three under five, I am in search of stimulating weekend activities to expend their staggering amounts of energy.
Read ArticleWhere to play miniature golf in Northern California
Nothing says summer like a round of putt-putt golf! Both Monterey and Santa Cruz each have one indoor course. San Jose offers several options including one with water slides.
Read ArticleHang Ten: Kids Learning to Surf
For kids living around the Monterey Bay, seeing surfers ride the waves is a pretty regular occurrence. At some point, many kids will ask about surfing and may want to give it a try.
Read ArticleSpring is Orca Season in the Monterey Bay
There is absolutely nothing like seeing Orcas in the wild – much better than seeing them in a small tank in captivity. Orcas, or killer whales, are the largest of dolphins and one of the world’s most powerful predators.
Read ArticleEarth Day Crafts Your Kids Will Love
Today, Earth Day is widely recognized as the largest secular observance in the world, marked by more than a billion people every year. It’s a great time to focus discussion on how important conservation is and what we can do as a family.
Read ArticleWhale Watching on the Monterey Bay
Whale watching is an educational and family-friendly activity you can safely enjoy outside. The National Marine Sanctuary in our own backyard is just waiting to be explored.
Read ArticleOur Favorite Monterey and Santa Cruz County Walks
With the first day of spring just around the corner (March 20) and families spending lots of time outdoors, walking is the perfect activity.
Read ArticleSnow Much Fun
Skiing, sledding, tubing, snow play–’tis the season–at least the start of the season! If you’re thinking about planning a trip to the snow soon, we gathered info on Tahoe-area resorts, their pandemic updates, and expected opening date when available.
Read ArticleSay “Yes” to the Mess” with Six Outdoor Activities
To help your kids create some messy memories, consider one of these outdoor activities that only require hosing off and changing clothes when it’s time to clean up.
Read ArticleCamping 101 for Families
Camping is the ultimate in outdoor family fun and is loaded with benefits for parents and kids alike. It provides adventure and unlimited opportunities to experience the great outdoors. Here are the basics to get you started.
Read ArticleGet Creative With Virtual Art Lessons
There is nothing better for your mood than a little creativity. If sheltering in place has you feeling a little blue, making art can give you an outlet for those feelings. It’s also a great time for more art time for the kids.
Read ArticleVirtual Creativity: Storytime and Drawing Lessons Online
Have you reached your limit after reading “Dragons Love Tacos” a few dozen times and it’s only 10 am? Here are six of our favorite virtual storytimes and art activities.
Read ArticleHidden Treasure: Geocaching with Kids in Monterey County
With the temperate weather of the Monterey Bay area, geocaching is a great family activity. You can find caches hidden in parking lots, parks, beaches, and quite likely in your neighborhood or one within walking distance.
Read ArticleCamp Memories: Adults share how camp shaped their lives
To understand why kids love going to camp, I spoke to 5 adults about their camp experience when they were kids. They shared with me how going to camp helped shape them into the people they are today.
Read ArticleSummer Camp Safety 101
As you’re getting the kids ready for one of the year’s absolute highlights – summer camp – teach them how to stay safe while they’re having fun.
Read ArticleHow to Choose a Sleep-Away Camp Your Kids Will Love
Whether you’re looking for enrichment for your child, a way to keep your kids occupied and supervised while you work, or need a short reprieve from parenting, there’s sure to be a summer camp that’s the right fit for your child and family.
Read ArticleIt’s Raining and my preschooler is SO bored!
If you’re running out of rainy day fun, we have six super fun ideas for the next Monterey rainy day!
Read ArticleHow to be a (Good) Dance Mom
If your child is involved in the world of dance, there are things you can do to support them and the staff at the studio where they are studying.
Read ArticleTiny Dancer: Your Child’s First Dance Experience
If your son or daughter is showing an interest or you have already decided that you’d like to expose them to dance you aren’t alone. Most parents consider dance lessons for their children at some point. And, why not, dance is a lot of fun!
Read ArticleEducational & Fun! Monterey County Museums
We have a wealth of artistic beauty and historical information to share with our children in Monterey County. Summer is the perfect time to take advantage and enjoy an educational and fun afternoon exploring.
Read ArticleEight Fun Activities That Won’t Break the Summer Piggybank
When you’re looking for educational activities to keep your kids excited about learning through the summer months, stay within budget by looking for the best deals around town!
Read ArticleCreate a Summer Bucket List
There’s just something about summer that makes people smile. Combat the age-old phrase “I’m booored”, by coming up with a summer bucket list as a family.
Read ArticleThe Monterey Bay Parent Ultimate Burger Guide
Most people love a good hamburger, and almost everyone has a recommendation for where to find the best one. After asking for recommendations in our Facebook group, we set out to try over a dozen of the recommended burgers.
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