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 perfect day trip with children has a balanced combination of drive time, food options, and physical or mental stimulation. We’ve put together a list of some of our favorites that are less than two hours away from the peninsula.
There’s something for everyone, so let’s get on the road to fun with any of these one tank trips.
ELKHORN SLOUGH
If your family wants to spend time outdoors Elkhorn Slough can’t be beat. You will have the opportunity to see hundreds of bird species, otters, seals, dragonflies, butterflies, rabbits, deer, frogs, and bobcats. If you pay close attention you can find wildlife tracks. My family likes to play “Whose tracks are those?” A field guide can be helpful and an excellent educational opportunity. An exciting way to see these creatures is in a kayak. You can bring your own or rent one at the nearby Moss Landing North Harbor. If you prefer hiking, all trails begin at the visitor’s center. Head inside to check out the exhibits featuring habitats and wildlife. They offer walking tours if your kiddos are interested in the history of the slough. Bring a picnic to enjoy in the designated areas or enjoy a meal at one of the kid-friendly restaurants in Moss Landing.
NEW BRIGHTON STATE BEACH
The Monterey Peninsula is home to many kid-friendly beaches, but if you are looking to travel outside of our immediate area, New Brighton State Beach is truly a hidden gem. Bring a picnic to enjoy at the picnic tables or on the beach. Due to the special shape of this beach, it is usually protected from the wind and large waves. This makes it a wonderful spot to enjoy with your kids. There are also ample opportunities for bird watching and exploring. This beach has a plethora of amazing natural beach toys, including driftwood, shells, interesting rocks, and even fossils! After a long day of fun in the sun, travel five minutes down the road and treat yourself to a delicious bagel at the Bagelry in Soquel.
SKY ZONE TRAMPOLINE PARK
When our kiddos need to get their wiggles out, Sky Zone Trampoline Park in Gilroy is an excellent destination. When you open the doors to this facility, you will see that the sheer size of the room is impressive. First stop at the the front desk to sign a waiver and pick up your special socks. These socks have a grip on the bottom to help keep your child from slipping. There is a designated area for younger children so they can safely run wild. Sky Zone offers freestyle jump, skyslam, dodgeball, sky joust, free climb, and a warped wall. No outside food is permitted, but you can stop at their Fuel Station for food and drinks. The surrounding area also offers many food options. No matter your child’s age, the Sky Zone Trampoline Park almost always guarantees a good car nap on your ride home.
HENRY COWELL STATE PARK
This beautiful state park is nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains and is most famous for its 40-acre grove of impressive redwood trees. You will find several different habitats on this property, including grasslands, rivers, sandhills, and redwood forests. Together you can enjoy hiking, horseback riding, picnicking, and swimming. I recommend creating a treasure hunt for one of your hikes. Include things like flowers, ferns, people using binoculars, and maybe even a banana slug! Check with the visitors center for Ranger Talks and other educational activities. Be sure to pick up a map and have your kids help you navigate during your trip. Learning to read a map is a skill that will serve them throughout their lives.
HOLLISTER HILLS VEHICULAR RECREATION
If anyone in your family thrives on adrenaline, Hollister Hills is the place to be. This unique park offers you the opportunity to ride your dirt bike, ATV, and even drive off-road in your four-wheel drive vehicle. Be sure to bring your personal protective equipment if you are riding. If you prefer a quieter experience, there are also areas to hike, ride your bicycle, and horseback ride. These trails are through rolling hills and oak grasslands with panoramic views. Make sure to pack a picnic and enough water because there are limited options once you are in the hills.
Day trips can give you that relaxing vacation feeling while also keeping you close to home. Spending quality time and exploring new places with your family is a fantastic way to cultivate deeper connections. Make sure your snacks are plentiful, your driving playlist is ready, and the car games are prepared. Double-check that your directions are downloaded because some of the most beautiful locations don’t have cell service. Just remember sometimes it’s all about the journey, not the destination.
KAYLA MYERS is a veterinary technician, freelance writer, nature enthusiast and mother of two adventurous toddlers. Kayla was born and raised on the peninsula and currently resides in beautiful Carmel Valley with her husband, children and menagerie of four legged friends.