Check out our list of favorite beaches! Among the choices is a favorite for wading (Lovers Point), a great choice for dog walking and sunsets (Carmel Beach), and an awesome place for beachcombing (Asilomar).
One of the many perks of raising your children on the peninsula is the natural beauty that surrounds us. Pair that with our year-round comfortable weather, and you have a recipe for endless fun in the great outdoors. One of our favorite places to spend the day is the beach. With so many to choose from, there is something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a stroller-friendly walk, tidepools, swimming, or finding treasures, Monterey Bay has a beach to suit your needs. Before heading to the beach it is important to discuss ocean safety with your children. The ocean is powerful and sometimes unpredictable, so make sure as a family you create a set of guidelines for everyone to follow. Even in our cooler months it’s important to stay hydrated, and don’t forget your sunscreen!
GARRAPATA BEACH We start our list of beaches with an adventure down the coast. Garrapata Beach is a half-mile long with gorgeous views. Our favorite way to enjoy this beach is to hike the kid-friendly trail to the Calla Lily Valley. From January to April you can see the lilies bloom. Doud Creek runs alongside the trail where the kiddos can splash and find special rocks. There are porta-potties available and free parking on Highway 1. There is no wind barrier so make sure to check the weather and bring layers.
CARMEL RIVER STATE BEACH Following the coast north you will find Carmel River State Beach. This location has become a staple in our family. This is a great beach for small children with free parking, bathrooms, and a short walk. As the river enters the beach it creates the perfect shoreline for wading in the calm water and bird-watching. Our children love creating sculptures with driftwood and trying to identify feathers.
CARMEL BEACH A short drive up the coast will bring you to the stunning Carmel Beach. Famous for its soft sand and breathtaking sunsets, dogs and kids alike can enjoy fun in the sun. There is free street parking available but it can fill up quickly, so a short walk might be required. There are bathrooms on either end of the beach. Carmel Beach is perfect for sunbathing, picnicking, building sand castles, and enjoying a nice walk. Even on crowded summer days, there is plenty of room to spread out and enjoy. If you are up for it after a day at the beach, walk up Ocean Avenue to window-shop or find a cozy restaurant.
ASILOMAR STATE BEACH Following the coast north you will arrive at Asilomar Beach. While surfers enjoy the ocean here, I find it usually too rough to swim, but the tidepooling can’t be beat. This beach is perfect for picnicking, exploring, and treasure hunting. The Asilomar Dunes Boardwalk offers access to incredible views and an easy stroller walk. Free street parking is available.
LOVER’S POINT PARK BEACH A couple minutes up the road you will find Lover’s Point Park Beach. This little gem has the perfect combination of safety, amenities, fun, and adventure. Even on cloudy days, Lover’s Point seems to bring out the sunshine. This beach is small but protected from the wind and has tranquil, shallow water, perfect for little toes. There is also a large grass area equipped with picnic tables, trash cans, and bathrooms. My kiddos also like to watch the squirrels scurrying along the rocks. There are also plenty of places to purchase food, and you can even rent kayaks or paddle boards!
MONTEREY MUNICIPAL BEACH Driving further north you will arrive at the wharf and Monterey Municipal Beach. This beach is usually protected from rough seas so it can be a great place for kids to splash around. The bike path is perfect for a stroller, wagon, or bike ride. There are several food options available as well. My kids like to walk around the wharf listening to the sea lions and checking out all the different boats. Free parking is limited, but there are plenty of available spots for a fee. Bathrooms are also available.
DEL MONTE BEACH Following the beach north you will find Del Monte Beach. This peaceful stretch is usually less crowded and a great place to let your kids run free. With ample space, you can always find your own little oasis. Free street parking, bathrooms, a boardwalk, picnic tables, and barbecue pits nearby make this a wonderful choice for a beach day.
FORT ORD DUNES STATE PARK Last but certainly not least on our list, Fort Ord Dunes State Park. Four miles of raw beauty. The sheer size of this beach makes it feel like you have it all to yourself. You can usually see paragliders enjoying their ride. Depending on the conditions, this is a great beach to bring your own kite to fly. There are no food options for miles so make sure to pack plenty of snacks. Free parking, bathrooms, and picnic tables are available.
A day spent at the beach is a day well spent. We are so fortunate to have so many incredible choices in our own backyard. There’s something about listening to the sound of the waves while your kids giggle and explore in nature that soothes the soul. A clean house also soothes the soul, so remind your kids to try to leave the sand at the beach. Let the waves hit your feet, and the sand be your seat.