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20 Screen-Free Road Trip Ideas

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Whether you’re committed to the “raise your kid like it’s the 90s” trend or just minimizing screen time, distractions are still an essential part of every car trip with kids. A combination of art activities, pointing out cool billboards, and other retro games as a family “keeps them pretty much busy the entire trip between naps! And snacks, of course!” shares mother of three, Deidre Roach. John Lente, father of five, has some other essential road trip suggestions: “Plan on stopping for 30 or more minutes every couple of hours so everyone can stretch legs, run around, and enjoy the trip.” Another of his staples is having a “go-bag” that each family member keeps with them, which is “a crossbody bag or small backpack with a full change of clothes (because spills and accidents happen), plus whatever books, toys, and non-electronic entertainment they want . . . It puts them in charge of their own trip.”

For longer road trips, the Lente family followed a “no screens while the sun’s up” rule, which worked well, although personal devices can certainly pose a challenge. After dark, their kids sometimes watched a shared movie that everyone agreed on. 

Try out these tips and some new road trip activity ideas from motivated and creative local parents on your upcoming road trips.

SCREEN-FREE KIDS ENTERTAINMENT: SUPPLIES REQUIRED

• Stickers:These were frequently noted by parents as an essential travel item, especially reusable stickers like the DINO MINI Stick4Ever Jelly Sticker Book.

• Melissa & Doug On The Go Water Wow! Reusable Water-Reveal Activity Pads: These are my two-year-old’s current favorite thing! It’s so nice that she can use hers over and over and I’m not worried about art supplies getting everywhere.

• Wax craft sticks: This is one of those toys that kids of varying ages can enjoy for hours and hours.  

• Etch A Sketch: A good ol’ throwback!

• Sticker by numbers are a favorite mentioned by Deidre Roach, mother of a two-, four-, and five-year-old who have done many road trips. 

• Car bingo: Both free printables or hardback versions with tiny windows to mark your finds are available.

• Kaleidoscope: A beautiful distraction that has stood the test of time.

• Scratch art: Bring some colorful fun on your road trip. Roach suggests “rainbow scratch notes.”

• Yoto Player: “We are die-hard Yoto Mini fans. We’ve survived big moves and being stranded in airports with them!” shares Melissa, mother of two.

• Mini MAGNA-TILES: Several parents noted these as a favorite travel item.

• Travel table: “I got a little table that straps to my five-year-old’s car seat and he was able to do search and find, mazes, and sticker books for hours. It also helped with snack containment,” shares Sarah Kim. “We went on three cross-country road trips last year.”

SCREEN-FREE KIDS ENTERTAINMENT: NO NEW GEAR REQUIRED

• Make lists:“Either pre-make a list and talk about it, or let your child ‘make’ a list about stuff that they want to do wherever our destination is or ideas they have about where we’re going,” suggests Hannah Sánchez-Medley, whose kids are tablet/phone-free.  

• I spy: Play this beloved and non-reader-friendly game to enjoy the new sights outside your windows.

• The license plate game:This is a particularly great activity for trips to parks or other touristy or military areas where you’re more likely to find the elusive Alaska and Hawaii plates.

• Dance party for everyone not driving: Father of five John Lente’s method is to “Let them each pick albums for music, and then take turns with who picks what to listen to.”

• The alphabet game: This is another classic scavenger hunt car game for kids old enough for reading. 

• Kids audiobooks or podcasts: Storytime with K podcast is a great option for preschoolers, along with many others. Try the Libby app.

• Conversation games:Ice-breaker type questions, Would You Rather scenarios, or mysteries to solve are suggestions from the Lente family.

• Call a relative, godparent, or close friend: If your phone charge can handle it, a fun chat can really help pass the time.

• A toy basket:“The basket next to his seat holds all of his toys and books where he can mostly reach them by himself,” adds cross-country roadtripper Sarah Kim regarding her son’s set-up.

• Guessing game: “Our kids get to describe something—literally anything they can think of—and we guess it. My kids (two and four years old) love it so much that we had to keep it to only road trips,” says Sánchez-Medley. “We get to see the little brains at work.” 

May Events for Your Monterey Bay Family

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Spring is in full swing across Monterey County, and May is packed with festivals, hands-on workshops, and family-friendly fun from Salinas to Pacific Grove. Here are our picks from our May print issue to help you make the most of the month.

May 3 — Salinas Food and Fly-In Salinas Municipal Airport Historic airplanes, electric aircraft, exotic autos, live music, local food vendors, and a free kids zone — plus local non-profits and vendors. A great all-ages day out at the airport.

May 4–5 — Good Old Days Street Festival Lighthouse Avenue, downtown Pacific Grove The 65th annual Good Old Days is Pacific Grove’s premier community event — and it’s free! The largest gathering of arts and crafts vendors in Monterey County lines historic Lighthouse Avenue, alongside food booths, locals, and visitors alike. Rain or shine.

May 9 — MEarth Day 2026 Hilton Bialek Habitat, Carmel Valley An annual celebration of sustainability, community, and environmental education at the Habitat. Expect hands-on activities, local food, live music, and a meaningful day for the whole family.

May 14 — Science Workshop Cesar Chavez Library, Salinas Kids and families use imagination and tools to explore the world of science through hands-on activities. Recommended for ages 7 and up — younger children are welcome with an adult to help them along.

May 19 — Teen Fantasy Mapmaking Pacific Grove Library Writing a fantasy novel or building a D&D character? Come draw ideas for new worlds and characters. For grades 6–12. Snacks and all supplies provided.

May 23 — Backyard Science Marina Branch Library Hands-on play and science activities for children ages 6–12. A fun drop-in program at the library to spark curiosity and creativity.

May 30–31 — What’s Grubbin Taco Festival Salinas Sports Complex Close out May with tacos, live music, and a whole lot of fun. Saturday brings lucha libre; Sunday features a classic and lowrider car showcase. Food vendors, desserts, retail vendors, and family-friendly activities all weekend long.

These are just our print picks! Visit our events calendar for the full list of what’s happening for families across Monterey County.

Two-Hour Monterey Bay Family Adventures

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Don’t let the weekday hustle-and-bustle get in the way of some family fun. After the workday ends, head out for a special outing (or create a sweet new Tuesday tradition). There are many free options, along with some meals out or worthwhile splurges. Some outings even get you out of making dinner!

PLANNING AHEAD?

Enjoy Cinemark Discount Tuesdays (or use student or military discounts) for a family movie night. At Northridge Mall in Salinas, try their delicious kettle corn! At Del Monte Center, you could grab some nearby shaved ice from Kona Steak and Seafood. Or at Cinemark Century Marina, you could catch an XD option for an “intense sensory experience.” Movie tickets are $7 on discount Tuesdays.

Sign up for evening swim lessons at Monterey Sports Center, then enjoy nearby tacos and the salsa bar at Papa Chano’s. Swim lessons are $67.50 for residents for a two-week session of six lessons.

Splurge to book a visit with Monterey Mini Cows for 30 minutes of mini-cow brushing, a guided tour, and cow cuddles. $40 per adult, $10 for 3–10-year-olds, and free for kids under 2 years old.

Visit Pacific Grove First Fridays from 6–9 pm for live music, lots of artistic inspiration at the Pacific Grove Art Center and other galleries, occasional free after-hours access to the Pacific Grove Natural History Museum (check their calendar), and maybe even a few snacks.

For a day when you are out of work before 5 pm, take the kids to El Estero Boating to paddleboat—last rentals are at 4:15 pm—then choose some grab ‘n go dinner options from Trader Joe’s. Regular paddleboats (up to four people/three adults/500 pounds) are $27 for 1/2 hour per boat or $35 for 1 hour per boat, while swan, duck, or dragon boats (up to five people/four adults/1,200 pounds) are $45 for 1/2 hour per boat.

Check out Locke-Paddon Park, then grab authentic, made-to-order tacos ($2 on Tuesdays!) from Marina’s El Palmar.

FEELING SPONTANEOUS?

Visit Asilomar Conference Center’s Phoebe A. Hearst Social Hall to play a free game of pool on their antique tables, then wander outside to check out the paths.

Nick Kite, father of a seven-year-old, says, “One of my favorite after-school or after-work outings with my daughter is heading over to Los Arboles Disc Golf Course in Marina. We bring a couple of discs and walk the course together, enjoying the fresh air, oak trees, and open space while getting some easy exercise. It’s a fun way to unplug and spend time outside together.” The Marina Library’s Library of Things offers discs to borrow, making it easier to try out.

Visit Carmel’s Tatum’s Treehouse accessible/inclusive playground, then stop at one of the very nearby restaurants or establishments offering refreshments.

Grab some Nico’s fruity, New Zealand-style ice cream on the way to sunset at Asilomar Beach. Mom of four Sam Moore considers Asilomar Beach her favorite spot to enjoy the sunset.

Play in the sand at Lover’s Point Park and enjoy a picnic from Andronico’s.

Go bowling at Monterey Lanes or Salinas’ Valley Center Bowl. At Valley Center Bowl, one hour of play for up to six people costs $34.95 per lane on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays, or $39.95 per lane on Fridays, plus regular shoe rental costs $4.95 per person. At Monterey Lanes, one hour of play for up to six people costs $35.50 per lane on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays, or $41.95 per lane on Fridays, plus regular shoe rental costs $5.10 per person.

Visit QQ Noodle in Marina for pho and Vietnamese crispy crepes before watching sunset at Fort Ord Dunes State Park.

Another of the Moore family’s favorite activities is visiting Point Lobos. In the evening, take the kids for an easy hike at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. Be sure to arrive before the last entry at 6:30 pm and leave by 7 pm (closes earlier in the winter). $10 per car entry fee.

Visit Carmel’s Folktale Winery for a kid-friendly dinner and live music al fresco.

Meander through the downtown Monterey historic gardens and finish by sharing some ice cream, perhaps at the newer Scoops Ice Cream Parlor.

Rent a surrey from Adventures by the Sea to bike along the water on the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail. Book a reservation for 5, 5:30, or 6 pm and plan to be back before the sunset close time (which gets closer to 8 pm as the days lengthen). Small surreys for two or three people are $77.04 for two hours, and large surreys for four to six people are $98.44 for two hours—a great splurge for when you have company visiting.

Tips for Visiting Museums With Kids

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As a former public school teacher and art educator, I learned that students remain engaged when they discover something that resonates with them personally, or when they have the opportunity to actively participate in an experience.

I began taking my kids to art museums when they were in preschool. We usually started our visits with outdoor exhibits where they could play and interact with the art, such as sculpture gardens. We’d take breaks for snacks and then make our way inside to see the rest of the exhibits. Over the years, our family has visited many incredible art museums and explored the cities around them. The exhibits my kids remember most are the ones that invited visitors to actively participate.

Last year, our family visited the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) to see the exhibits of Amy Sherald (which I really wanted to see) and Get in the Game (which my kids were interested in). That was probably the most fun our family had within a museum setting—even for teens! If you are willing to drive, I highly suggest a visit, but check what exhibits are available first. Many art museums are also located in historic towns, so a family day can be spent exploring both outdoor and indoor settings.

HERE ARE MY TIPS FOR KEEPING KIDS ENGAGED AT ART MUSEUMS AND HISTORIC PLACES:

DO YOUR RESEARCH: Before you head out to a new museum or town, look it up online. Research the dates you will be visiting and learn about the exhibits, the location, and whether it is a place your child may enjoy. Reviews sometimes share helpful information about hit-or-miss activities. If your place of interest does not seem developmentally appropriate for younger children, find another place that will be more enjoyable for the whole family. It’s not fun leaving a place early because a child is acting out, though it may be worth visiting that museum at a time when your child is most calm.

PREP YOUR KIDS:  Anytime our family plans a trip to a new place, I like to prepare the kids for what the atmosphere may be like. For example, I let them know there will be many floors in the museum with tall ceilings and remind them not to touch displays unless allowed. We talk about staying together, taking breaks for the bathroom or a café snack, and remembering to bring a few items (I’ll share more later). I share the name of the town and answer any questions they may have. I also try to get them excited about something they may like based on the research I do online.

EAT A SNACK: I don’t think this one needs much explanation, but make sure your kids—and you—eat a snack before starting your adventure. Everyone will need fuel for the next hour or two. I like to choose something protein-based because studies show that protein helps sustain energy longer.

HANDS-ON ITEMS:  Depending on the age of your children, the items you bring may vary. Hands-on items refer to things that enhance the experience. Here are some examples: a magnifying glass, which can be used to look more closely at art or items around town; a camera or phone camera, which is always a must! A camera in the hands of a child allows them to choose what interests them and record the adventure; a sketchbook with a pencil, which gives your child a chance to reflect in writing or artistically on what they are experiencing; and lastly, a map or brochure. Usually there are many available, and a map of the historical place or art museum becomes a valuable tool for planning your time and exploring your interests.

ROLE MODELING:  Remember that your children are watching you all the time, but especially in new environments. We are the role models. How we respond in social settings provides cues they pick up from us. In museum settings, there are areas where we can be quiet and others where freedom of movement and sound is more allowed. There are times when we can be still and admire something from afar, and times when we want to get up close. I think of our beautiful Monterey Bay Aquarium and how it allows space for all ages and these kinds of experiences.

KIDS PLAY A PART:  Depending on their age, your child can choose a role as part of the adventure. Some examples include a guide (using the map to help the family navigate the new setting), the recorder (taking notes about places visited and fun facts), the photographer (taking photos of art they like, interesting details, the family, etc.), and the timekeeper (using a stopwatch or watch to keep track of when it’s time for a break or snack). As parents, we are always being creative and thinking outside the box to help our kids stay engaged. 

PAUSE AND PLAY:  When visiting a new setting, there is value in pausing in the moment to notice something new. Maybe it’s a new fact, a piece of brick from decades ago, a mural, or simply how two colors next to each other create a feeling that causes you to pause. Look for those moments for yourself and your children. They are moments you can reflect on later. Being playful can also help families connect. Maybe it’s a quick game of tag on an open lawn area, like we have in historic downtown Monterey. There are many hands-on experiences within museums, and with a little research, you can find them.

REFLECT:  When you’re back home or driving back after your visit, take time to reflect on your family’s experience at the historic town or museum. This can be a valuable learning opportunity. As a parent, it helps you understand what your children enjoyed and what they didn’t. Looking through photos, notes, or drawings from the trip can make this reflection even more meaningful.

I hope you and your family find these tips helpful. Have fun and stay creative!

Make the Summer Unforgettable at Stevenson Summer Camps

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Each summer Stevenson School opens its campuses in Carmel and Pebble Beach to all students, offering programs that blend adventure, creativity, academics and athletics for rising Kindergarteners through Grade 8.

THE CAMP AT CARMEL FOR RISING GRADES K–4

The Camp at Carmel is a themed day camp where campers choose one immersive track and spend the week engaged in hands-on learning and exploration. Creator Track brings imagination to life through painting, ceramics and maker projects. Explorer Track dives into STEM challenges, slime labs and nature journaling. Adventure Track keeps energy high with obstacle courses, water play and team games. Performer Track builds confidence through theater, dance and a weekly mini performance. The Sports Track (June 15–19 and August 3–7) rotates campers through a variety of sports in a fun, no-pressure setting.

Campers are grouped by age for a personalized experience, and aftercare is available until 5:30 p.m.

DATES: Sports Track Weeks: June 15–19 and August 3–7 | Themed Track Weeks: June 22-26, June 29-July 3, July 6-10, July 13-17, July 20-24, July 27-31

RATES: Themed Tracks from $490/week, Sports Track $500/week

THE CAMP AT PEBBLE BEACH FOR RISING GRADES 5–8

For older campers, The Camp at Pebble Beach (day and overnight options) offers something genuinely different: a structured, intellectually stimulating program where kids choose what they want to learn and go deep.

Each morning, campers immerse themselves in a chosen Major – specialty workshops in Entrepreneurship, Marine Biology, Computer Science, Innovation or Language, with curriculum that evolves week to week so returning campers keep growing. Limited-run Spotlight Majors offer one-week-only experiences including Podcast Production, AI Pioneers, Poetry Lab and Underwater Robotics Lab. Afternoons shift to Elective Tracks in Outdoor Adventure, Creative Space, STEAM/Tech or the Chill Zone – or campers can upgrade to premium electives in Golf, Surfing or Tennis.

For families looking for the full experience, overnight camp transforms the program into something truly special. After day campers head home, overnight campers have the Pebble Beach campus to themselves: campfires, s’mores, karaoke, evening activities and the kind of friendships that form when kids share a week together in one of the most beautiful places in California.

DATES: June 28-July 4, July 5-11, July 12-18, July 19-25

RATES: Day Camp: From $540/week, Overnight Camp: From $1,050/week

STEVENSON SPORTS CAMPS WITH NIKE

Aspiring athletes can take their game to the next level with Stevenson’s Nike sports camps! The extensive lineup: basketball, football, lacrosse, softball, soccer, field hockey, volleyball, swimming, and water polo–with world-class coaching and programming designed to improve skills and inspire confidence. In addition to the many Nike camps, Stevenson is also offering a five-day dance intensive camp and week-long tennis camps at our tennis facility on the Pebble Beach campus.

These are just a few of the types of camps Stevenson is offering this summer.  

To view the rest, visit summer.stevensonschool.org

More Monterey-Area Camp Info

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Get the kids ready for a summer filled with fun by choosing camps that are the right fit for your family. Whether your child dreams of diving into the arts, exploring the outdoors, sharpening athletic skills, or discovering a passion for science and technology, the Monterey Bay area has a camp for every interest and age group. Browse our hand-picked recommendations below, and access the entire camp directory at montereybayparent.com/camp-directory/.

ADVENTURES IN WRITING

Authors, teachers, and musicians ​help students discover the joy of writing. This two-week day camp allows elementary students to write, edit, and publish their own eBooks, while middle school campers create blogs. Lessons are delivered through music, with writing skills reinforced through theater-inspired creative activities. Camp runs July 20–31 at All Saints Day School, from 9 am–3 pm, with extended care available. Open to students entering grades 1–8, with sibling and early registration discounts available.

ALL SAINTS DAY SCHOOL

Summer at All Saints offers a wide range of camps for children ages 3 through Grade 8 on its beautiful campus. Programs include Performing Arts & Theater, STEM and Robotics, Art & Ceramics, Cooking, and Academic Enrichment, along with themed Early Childhood camps for ages 3–5. Campers can extend their day with optional Clover Camp from 12–3 pm (ages 5+), offering additional activities and outdoor play.

BIG SURF ADVENTURES SUMMER SURF CAMP

Kids ages 4–17 can ride the waves at Big Surf Adventures’ 3-day or 5-day summer surf camps. Lifeguard-certified instructors provide a patient, supportive environment with a 4:1 student-to-staff ratio, and all surf equipment is included. Two-hour sessions daily.

CAMP SEA LAB

Camp SEA Lab offers marine science summer camps for youth ages 8–16. Programs include three Day Camp themes, three Overnight Camp themes, and the Voyage Seaward sailing and marine science program. Campers explore Monterey Bay through hands-on activities such as snorkeling, tidepooling, kayaking, surfing, dissections, and field experiments led by experienced educators. Scholarships are available for Monterey County residents.

CHARTWELL SCHOOL

Chartwell School’s Summer Program combines academic support with engaging hands-on learning. Students strengthen literacy, math, and STEAM skills while participating in activities that encourage curiosity and creativity. Afternoon options include reading clinic, robotics, sewing, trail biking, cooking, drama and musical theater, inventor’s bootcamp, and outdoor adventure camp.

CITY OF MONTEREY RECREATION

Monterey Recreation offers a variety of summer camps, sports programs, and playground activities for youth of all ages. Popular options include Whispering Pines Day Camp (ages 5–9), Camp Quien Sabe Overnight Camp (ages 7–15), the Summer Fun Playground Program (ages 5–10), and Tiny Tots Summer Camp (ages 3–5). Specialty camps include soccer, flag football, volleyball, gymnastics, dance, art, LEGO® with Play-Well Teknologies, and more. Register online through the Amilia/SmartRec system.

CONNECTIONS RIDING SCHOOL

Connections Riding School & Boarding Stable offers Horse and Pony Summer Camps from June 8–July 31, along with afternoon Pony Camp and new Sun to Soil camps. Horse campers ride trails and obstacle courses, while Pony campers learn grooming, tacking, and riding. Sun to Soil campers explore STEM, art, and outdoor challenges through play-based learning. Camps run Monday–Friday with half-day and full-day options for ages 4 and up.

THE DANCE CENTER

The Dance Center in Carmel offers summer dance camps for both recreational and experienced dancers. Weekly themed camps run June 1–July 31 for ages 2.5–8, with half-day and full-day options. Intensive programs in Ballet/Pointe and Jazz/Contemporary are available for experienced dancers, along with camps in Acrobatics, Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Lyrical, K-pop, Hip-Hop, and Musical Theater for up to GR. 12.

EMMA BARTLETT MUSIC STUDIO SUMMER CAMPS

Emma Bartlett Music Studio offers creative summer music camps including Flip the Lid Piano Camp (June 8–12), Book Blast Camps (June 15–19 and July 20–24), and Composition Camp (July 13–17). Campers build musical skills through games, group activities, and ensemble playing. Each session ends with a performance or recital for families.

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF MONTEREY

Vacation Bible School at First Presbyterian Church of Monterey is a welcoming summer program where kids explore faith, friendship, and creativity. Each day includes music, storytelling, art, games, and hands-on activities that highlight kindness, compassion, and community.

HIDDEN HILLS

Hidden Hills Ranch offers summer camps focused on outdoor adventure and hands-on learning. Options include Horse and Pony Camps along with themed camps centered on animal discovery, veterinary skills, creative arts, STEM, and outdoor exploration. Camps are available for ages 5 and up. 

JUSTIN RUSSO GOLF ACADEMY

Justin Russo Golf Academy offers summer golf camps for boys and girls ages 7–14. Each day includes instruction, practice, games, and time on the course. Campers build skills while learning proper technique, course management, and golf etiquette.

K LITTLE GLASS SUMMER CAMP

Learn the fundamentals of glassmaking in this week-long camp for ages 9 and up. Campers create their own glass artwork while developing technical skills and creativity in a fun studio environment.

LOS EXPLORADORES SUMMER CAMP

California State Parks presents Los Exploradores de Monterey Summer Day Camp at Monterey State Historic Park for students in grades 3–5. Campers explore Monterey’s cultural and natural history through hands-on activities including crafts, period games, songs, dances, nature observation, and guided tours of historic buildings and gardens.

MEARTH SUMMER DAY CAMP

MEarth Summer Camps blend nature, food, and creativity for ages 6–12. Campers spend their days outdoors exploring the environment, harvesting produce from the garden, and cooking with fresh ingredients. Programs encourage curiosity, teamwork, and confidence while fostering an appreciation for the natural world.

MONTEREY BAY AQUARIUM

Kids ages 8–13 can experience the ocean up close in the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Underwater Explorers program. During this 90-minute experience, participants take a guided surface SCUBA dive in the Aquarium’s Great Tide Pool just off the back deck. No diving experience or equipment is required—just curiosity and a sense of adventure.

MONTEREY PENINSULA COLLEGE SUMMER CAMPS

Monterey Peninsula College offers summer camps for children, pre-teens, and teens on its college campus. Programs include STEM, sports, cooking, crafting, and visual and performing arts led by expert instructors. Camps run June 8–July 24 and provide hands-on learning, skill building, and opportunities to make new friends.

MONTEREY SPORTS CENTER

The Monterey Sports Center hosts camps for children ages 5–12 featuring more than 20 activities using the gymnasium, pools, and nearby Jacks Park. Activities include swimming, WIBIT water obstacle course, basketball, soccer, capture the flag, and more. Ten one-week sessions run June 1–August 7, with early drop-off and late pick-up available.

MONTEREY ZOO

Monterey Zoo summer camp introduces children to wildlife through close animal encounters and hands-on activities. Campers enjoy games, crafts, demonstrations, and educational experiences designed to inspire an appreciation for animals and conservation. Camps run one week for ages 7–12.

PACIFIC GROVE RECREATION

Pacific Grove Recreation offers a wide range of youth camps and activities throughout the summer. Options include Summer Adventure Camps for ages 3–12, golf and soccer camps, STEAM and engineering programs, dance classes, kids yoga, and swim instruction for children ages 6 months–9 years.

PACREP’S PEPPY GARNER & DARNELL WHITT SCHOOL OF DRAMATIC ARTS SUMMER CAMPS

  • Outdoor Forest Theater, Carmel
  • SoDApacrep@gmail.com

The School of Dramatic Arts summer camps provide theater training in a supportive environment where students explore acting, performance, and stage skills. Participants build confidence and creativity while learning to express themselves on stage.

PEAK POTENTIAL ISR

Peak Potential ISR offers one-on-one survival swim lessons using the nationally recognized Infant Swimming Resource method. Lessons focus on self-rescue skills such as rolling to float, maintaining a safe position, and swimming to safety, building water confidence for infants and young children.

POINT LOBOS SUMMER ADVENTURE PROGRAM

The Point Lobos Summer Adventures program is an outdoor day camp for youth ages 8–15 based at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. Campers hike scenic trails, create nature-inspired art, and take field trips such as rock climbing, whale watching, and kayaking. Sessions run 8–10 days.

RISE LITERACY

RISE Literacy summer camps combine engaging weekly themes with a structured literacy approach. Students receive daily instruction in phonics, spelling, vocabulary, and fluency along with games, crafts, and social activities. Themes include Phonics & Foodies, Space, Oceans, and Kindergarten Readiness.

RISING STAR GYMNASTICS

Rising Star Gymnastics summer camps include gymnastics training, ninja circuits, trampoline, games, relays, crafts, and outdoor play. Junior half-day camps for ages 3–5 run Monday–Thursday, while full-day camps for ages 5–12 Monday–Friday from 9 am–3 pm.

SALINAS SCHOOL OF DANCE

Summer Dance Camp for ages 3–6 features ballet, tap, jazz, folklórico, crafts, and creative play. Campers wrap up the week with a special performance for family and friends.

SALINAS VALLEY HEALTH ASTHMA CAMP

  • 831-257-4760

Open to children ages 6-12 with physician referral. Asthma camp empowers kids to thrive. Activities may include soccer, hiking, swimming and arts and crafts.

SANTA CATALINA SCHOOL

Santa Catalina School offers three exciting summer camps. Summer at Santa Catalina is an all-girls camp for grades 2-9 focused on building confidence and lifelong friendships. Catalina C.U.B. Camp is an all-boys camp for grades 4-8 that fosters courage, unity, and brotherhood. Cougar Camp is a co-ed camp for grades K-6 offered in August. Join us for an unforgettable summer! 

SHORELINE CHURCH DAY CAMP

Shoreline Church presents Illumination Station, a week-long day camp held July 13–17 from 9 am–noon for children in preschool through grade 5. Kids must be at least age 3 and potty trained. Families can receive a 30% early bird discount through April 30 using code earlybird when registering online.

SUMMER AT STEVENSON

Stevenson’s summer programs offer day and overnight camps across its Carmel and Pebble Beach campuses. Programs include arts, STEM, outdoor adventure, performing arts, and sports for grades K–8. Stevenson also hosts Nike Sports Camps in basketball, soccer, lacrosse, volleyball, swimming, water polo, and more.

VENTANA WILDLIFE SOCIETY

Ventana Wildlife Society offers Natural Science Discovery Camp for ages 8–12, where campers explore Monterey Bay and Big Sur through activities like whale watching, kayaking, and tidepooling. The week ends with a Thursday night campout in Big Sur. Younger children ages 4–7 can join Wee Ones in the Woods, a half-day nature exploration program. 

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