Always Say YES! Plan the trip, take the chance, try new things
A mom's guide to saying yes — to adventure, to yourself, and to life. Because the best moments don't wait for the "right time." Last...
Read Article
Articles by Dawn Alva
Choosing the Right E-Bike for Your Monterey Bay Family
After my first e-bike ride, I did what many people do when they discover something new and joyful: I started daydreaming. I imagined cruising with...
Read ArticleE-Bike Riding in Monterey
WHAT IS ALL THE FUSS ABOUT? I’ll admit it: I was nervous—and that surprised me. Nervous isn’t a feeling I usually associate with outdoor activities....
Read ArticleThe Girl Scouts Trek Wild Program Empowers Girls Through Adventure
Middle & high school girls discover independence, resilience, and leadership on the trail There’s something truly magical about watching girls grow stronger with every step...
Read ArticleLetting GO to Let Them GROW
From being hesitant in sending her kids to “Nana Camp” to watching young climbers find their own way in Joshua Tree, our writer learns that...
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 ArticleA Family Road Trip to Shelter Cove
SOMETIMES, YOU JUST NEED TO PACK UP THE CAR, HIT THE ROAD, AND ESCAPE THE EVERYDAY. For our family, there’s no better place to do...
Read ArticlePickleball for Monterey Families
If you’ve been to a local park recently and thought, “Why are the tennis courts so loud?” and, “Those are weird balls?” you’re not alone....
Read ArticleSTEM in the Park: The Surprising Benefits of Disc Golf
As a child, I visited my grandparents in San Diego multiple times a year. They loved to golf, and I spent my childhood getting up...
Read ArticleBocce By the Bay
The Perfect Outdoor Game for the Whole Family! If your family is anything like mine, finding an outdoor activity that works for everyone can be...
Read ArticleSnow Play Within Four Hours of Monterey
I still laugh the first time I took my kids to the snow. We still joke about that day. My ten-year-old son, all energy and...
Read ArticleSTEAM for Success
One of my fondest childhood memories is baking cookies with my mom. I will forever connect the sweet smell of Nestlé Toll House cookies with...
Read ArticleWho is Haunting Monterey?
My daughter and I have been reading Shadow School, a thrilling book about an 11-year-old navigating a haunted school and helping the restless spirits. This...
Read ArticleA Weekend in Yosemite
I love Yosemite any time of the year! My husband introduced me to Yosemite decades ago when we used to rock climb. Our climbing days...
Read ArticleVisiting Point Reyes
Living in our area, we have endless options for incredible coastal adventures. If your family is like mine, we rarely venture outside our gorgeous Monterey...
Read ArticleVisiting Pinnacles National Park
In part one of a three-part series on national parks, we explore Pinnacles National Park. It’s the closest national park and a great hiking destination for your family.
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 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 Article