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Free California State Parks Pass Available Now Through July 6 — Here’s How to Get It

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JULY 6 IS THE LAST DAY!

Monterey County families have a great opportunity this summer: a free pass to more than 30 state historic parks, available to download right now through the Fourth of July weekend.

Governor Newsom announced the special limited-time offer of the California State Parks Historian Passport — normally $50 — as a free download through Monday, July 6, in celebration of Juneteenth and America’s 250th anniversary. Each pass covers admission for up to four people and is valid for unlimited visits to participating historic parks through the end of 2026. 

How to get your free pass

Download the free special edition Historian Passport at ReserveCalifornia.com. You’ll need a free account with ReserveCalifornia.com, the state’s official reservation service, to complete the download. 

What parks are included?

The pass opens the door to more than 30 state historic parks across California. Monterey State Historic Park is located in Downtown Monterey and is accessible with pass.

Some other standout parks included in the program:

Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park — Explore a California town founded, financed, and governed by African Americans. Established in 1908 by Colonel Allen Allensworth and a group of Black pioneers, it stands as a powerful symbol of self-determination and freedom. 

Indian Grinding Rock State Historic Park — View what is believed to be the largest collection of bedrock mortars in North America, along with one of the largest ceremonial roundhouses still used by Native Americans in California. The on-site Chaw’se Regional Indian Museum features artifacts from tribes throughout the region. 

Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park — Visit the site where gold was discovered in 1848, sparking the California Gold Rush that transformed the state and nation.

Weaverville Joss House State Historic Park — Step inside the oldest continuously used Chinese temple in California, built at the heart of a Gold Rush-era Chinese American community.

To see a full list of the included parks: https://www.parks.ca.gov/pages/1012/files/DPR335HP.pdf

Other free park passes available year-round

If you miss the July 6 deadline, there are other free state parks options available to California families all year long:

Library card holders can borrow a California State Library Parks Pass from any public library for free vehicle day-use at more than 200 state parks — just like checking out a book, with more than 33,000 passes available at over 1,100 libraries statewide. 

Fourth graders and their families can access the California State Parks Adventure Pass for free entry at 54 state parks. 

Income-qualifying families, including those receiving CalWORKs benefits, can get the Golden Bear Pass for free vehicle day-use at more than 200 parks. 

Veterans who were honorably discharged can receive the Distinguished Veterans Pass, covering free day-use, family camping, and boat access at more than 100 state parks.

Don’t wait on the Historian Passport — the free download window closes July 6, but once you have it, you’re set for the rest of the year. Head to ReserveCalifornia.com/passes/advancepasses to claim yours.

Family Summer Bucket List for Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties

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Summer in Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties doesn’t have to mean packed parking lots and pricey admission tickets. Some of the best family memories happen at a sun-warmed tide pool, on a shady trail, or with a picnic blanket spread out at a local park — and this region has no shortage of those hidden-gem moments. Whether you’re beating the beach crowds or discovering a farmers market your kids will actually love, our Family Summer Bucket List for Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties is packed with affordable, off-the-beaten-path adventures the whole family can enjoy all season long.

MONTEREY COUNTY

  1. Head to Monterey’s Dennis the Menace playground for some photogenic fun and don’t forget to bring a book to add or trade at the Little Free Library.
  2. Hit Monterey’s MY Museum for the typical fun plus special included-with-admission offerings like Toddler Gymnastics for ages 2 to 5 on Wednesdays and make and take crafts for ages 2 and up on Thursdays, both from 10:15 to 10:45 am. Tickets cost $10 per adult and $10 per child, with children under age 2 entering for free.
  3. Visit Dads Read the second Saturday morning of each month from 10 am – 12 pm at the Marina Library: bonus — give away kids clothes that no longer fit at the free exchange hosted by Buy Nothing Marina.
  4. Bike part of Pebble Beach’s 17 Mile Drive. Bike admission is free, but be extra careful around cars.
  5. Test some new-to-you snacks from Marina’s excellent Asian store options, such as Hayato Japanese Goods & More, or Monterey’s Malinka European Mini Market.
  6. Visit Moss Landing’s MBARI Research Center’s annual July open house on Saturday, July 11 from noon to 5 pm!
  7. Pack your own putter (or rent one) and take on the free 18-hole putting course at Pebble Beach’s The Hay. Front gate entrance costs $12.50 per vehicle.
  8. Try the zip lines at Prunedale’s Manzanita Park.
  9. Visit Marina’s Last Chance Mercantile to hunt for treasure. Bonus: set a timer and see who can find the coolest thing in ten minutes.
  10. Play pickleball, basketball or baseball at Monterey’s Via Paraiso Park.
  11. Borrow a telescope from the Monterey Public Library for some family stargazing.
  12. Local father Ezekiel Benavidez’ favorite quick adventure is visiting the Marina State Beach dunes around sunset: “The views are incredible and there is room to run…one of those simple Monterey Bay moments kids remember.”
  13. Wander Monterey’s Coast Guard Pier to look for starfish, otters, sea lions and more.
  14. Order one of the beloved sandwiches from Pacific Grove’s Compagno’s.
  15. Attend the 4th of July parade down Alvarado Street. Add breakfast on the way: Monterey County Firefighters host a joint fundraiser with MY Museum from 7:30 to 10:30 am — pancakes, music and activities for $15 at Fire Station #11, 610 Pacific Street.
  16. Attend Sand City’s Night Market 831 every first Friday from 5 to 9 pm.
  17. Drive to the Big Sur River Inn’s beautiful back lawn for live music every Sunday from noon to 4 pm.
  18. Visit Carmel Valley’s Earthbound Farm Stand’s storytime Mondays at 10:30 or 11 am — lots of room to roam and great smoothie and meal options nearby — or visit The Farm in Salinas’ storytime every Wednesday at 10 or 10:30 am plus enjoy the petting zoo and snack options.
  19. Drive down the coast to see the classic Bixby Bridge view and grab a family photo, then continue toward Nepenthe for the shop and patio view.
  20. Race to find a box of donuts from PG Donut Co. Instagram clues will help you search for a fresh box hidden somewhere around Pacific Grove!
  21. Carmel Valley’s Garland Ranch Regional Park is wonderful for stroller walks. 
  22. Attend a Monterey Bay Football Club home game at Seaside’s Cardinale Stadium: typically Saturdays at 7 pm.
  23. Search for the fairytale cottages around Carmel-by-the-Sea using the online map or by asking at the library.
  24. Visit Marina’s Civic Center Community Playground for ADA-accessible options including the Explorer Dome, Double Tower and Super Nova, designed for ages 2 to 12.
  25. “We love Monterey State Beach for sea glass hunting during low tides. We show up an hour before the low tide and the kids love it because they can play on the beach, too!” shares Emily Woodyatt Michael, mom of two.
  26. Check out July 17, 24, and 31 Friday night concerts at Carmel Plaza.
  27. Visit the Monterey Farmer’s Market at the Del Monte Center on Fridays from 8 am to noon.
  28. Join Monterey Car Week August 7–16. Family-friendly events include Woodies in the Woods (August 14 near Asilomar), the Tiny Car Show (August 13 in Pacific Grove), Concours d’Lemons (August 16 in Seaside) and more.
  29. Try the cheese and butter at Carmel Valley Creamery.

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY

Special thanks to Brooke Powell, local preschool teacher and mom, for her Santa Cruz County suggestions. She hosts playdates and Mini & Me music classes for ages 5 and under. Follow along at Miss Brooke’s Class on Facebook.

  1. Santa Cruz Children’s Museum of Discovery has fun for younger kids and parents, located in the Capitola Mall with shopping and food nearby. Adults and children over age 1 cost $10, with $5 senior specials and Active Duty military free all summer.
  2. Plan a stop at Seymour Marine Lab. Brooke Powell says, “Great spot for littles! They have a cozy reading area and occasionally have storytimes or arts/crafts days, too.” Children under 3 are free; adults $12, students $9.
  3. Hike the Redwood Grove Loop Trail (.9 miles) at Felton’s Henry Cowell State Park. Vehicle day use costs $10.
  4. Check out the inclusive Leo’s Haven Park in Chanticleer Avenue County Park.
  5. Choose an easy Nisene Marks hike in Aptos with the option to grab a meal nearby. Vehicle day use is $8.
  6. Check out the 30th anniversary of Woodies on the Wharf on June 27 in Santa Cruz.
  7. Visit Santa Cruz’s Wilder Ranch State Park with 34 miles of trail options. Vehicle day use is $10.
  8. Marvel at Watsonville Brillante’s outdoor mosaics made by over 100 artists (260 Rodriguez Street).
  9. Visit the Santa Cruz Mystery Spot and experience the gravitational anomaly. Tickets $10; children under 3 free. Book ahead on weekends and holidays.
  10. Explore plants from around the world and California at the UC Santa Cruz Arboretum & Botanic Garden. Adults $10, youth ages 4–17 $5, seniors $8.
  11. Eat at Powell’s favorite, Taqueria Vallarta, for authentic Mexican food (locations in Capitola, Santa Cruz and Felton).
  12. Catch evening concerts every other Tuesday from 6 to 8 pm, May 26 through September 8, at the Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf’s Wharf Commons Stage. Parking free for two hours.
  13. Visit the Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History to watch the FIFA World Cup (select June/July dates) for free, with popcorn and an art activity.
  14. Try Zoccoli’s Deli, a Santa Cruz favorite for over 70 years, for an excellent Italian sandwich with outdoor seating.
  15. Watsonville’s Gizdich Ranch offers olallie berry picking mid-June and boysenberries in July, plus pies, sandwiches, a gift shop and sandbox play area.
  16. Scotts Valley’s Skypark is newly renovated — enjoy chess, soccer fields, a pump track and skate park, plus food truck Fridays every last Friday of the month in summer.
  17. Visit Boulder Creek’s Big Basin Redwoods State Park for the Father of the Forest and Mother of the Forest on the Redwood Loop Trail. Parking is free for 2 hours, vehicle day use is $10.
  18. Taste Marianne’s Ice Cream’s Santa cruz
  19. Marianne’s Ice Cream’s beloved flavors — over 250 recipes with 100 in rotation.
  20. Picnic near the Felton Covered Bridge, built in 1892, or visit Aptos’ Seascape County Park for views and a playground.
  21. Pick out something delicious from Capitola’s Gayle’s Bakery & Rosticceria, voted best in Santa Cruz.
  22. Hike to the Santa Cruz Sandhills — home to three animal species found nowhere else in the world.
  23. Eat at Betty Burgers in Aptos or Santa Cruz. Andrea Houston-Garcia loves it for “fresh ingredients, big portions, and options for toppings. The old school diner vibe is fun, too.”
  24. Join the summer reading program read-in at Bookshop Santa Cruz on June 28 from 3 to 5 pm — read with others and enjoy cookies and prizes!


Keep Them Reading This Summer

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Summer is the perfect time to curl up with a good book — and there’s no shortage of ways to make it fun and rewarding. Local libraries across the area are kicking off their summer reading programs, and national programs sweeten the deal with free books, pizza, T-shirts, and more. Whether your child is a reluctant reader or a total bookworm, there’s something here for every age and reading level.

BARNES & NOBLE: Barnes & Noble’s annual Summer Reading Program invites children in grades 1 through 6 to earn a free book by reading eight books of their choice. Participants record their reading in a downloadable journal, noting their favorite part of each book. Once completed, the journal can be brought to any Barnes & Noble store between July 1 and August 31, 2026, to select a free book from a curated list. The closest store to our area is in Gilroy.

FOR MORE INFO: barnesandnoble.com/b/summer-reading-free-book-giveaway

BOOKSHOP SANTA CRUZ: Children in K–12th grade are challenged to read six books — at least three from the store’s recommended reading list. Complete the challenge and kids can earn excellent rewards, including a $5 Bookshop gift card, a $10 MyBoardwalk Card from The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a free scoop from the Penny Ice Creamery, a free slice from Pizza My Heart, and a special prize from the Santa Cruz Warriors. 

FOR MORE INFO: bookshopsantacruz.com/summer-reading-program

MENSA FOUNDATION EXCELLENCE IN READING: The Mensa Foundation’s Excellence in Reading Program is open to all readers under 18 — no Mensa membership or testing required. Kids choose a reading list matched to their grade level, curated by librarians and drawn from classic and quality literature, then read every book on the list and track their progress by hand on a printed form. Once complete, both the child and an adult sign and mail the form to the Mensa Foundation. Readers who finish earn a commemorative certificate and a free Excellence in Reading T-shirt. The program is year-round with no deadline, so kids can start and finish at their own pace.

FOR MORE INFO: mensaforkids.org/achieve/excellence-in-reading

PIZZA HUT’S BOOK IT! SUMMER OF STORIES: Pizza Hut’s BOOK IT! Summer of Stories program for children in pre-K through sixth grade runs June 1 through August 31. Parents set monthly reading goals for their children through the free BOOK IT! mobile app. When children meet their goals each month, they earn a digital certificate for a free one-topping Personal Pan Pizza from participating locations — up to one pizza per child per month.  

FOR MORE INFO: bookitprogram.com

SCHOLASTIC SUMMER READING: Scholastic’s Summer Reading challenge runs April 26 through September 3, and offers a free, digital “Read-a-Palooza” program on Scholastic Home Base where kids can track reading streaks, earn rewards, and help unlock 100,000 book donations for peers. Home Base is safe and fully moderated 24/7. No subscriptions, downloads, or purchases required.

FOR MORE INFO: scholastic.com/summer

Monterey County Free Libraries Summer Programs

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Monterey County Free Libraries is once again presenting their popular Summer Reading Club. The fun runs from June 1 through July 31, complete with prizes and performances.

People of all ages — children, teens, and adults — are encouraged to sign up, read throughout the summer, and participate in activities. Sign up at your local MCFL branch to receive a reading log or challenge card, or visit emcfl.beanstack.com/reader365 to participate online.

Everyone who signs up will receive a free book, with titles available for all ages, in Spanish, and in large print. Once you have completed your reading log or challenge card, return to your local MCFL branch to collect your finisher prize. 

MCFL will be hosting a variety of free performances for youth and families this summer. Visit www.eMCFL.org to find program dates at your local branch. This year’s performers include Sterling Bubblesmith, Jungle James, Rhythm Builders, Magician Mike Della Penna, and Puppet Art Theater.

Workshops for teens and adults will also be offered at select branches. These workshops are open to ages 13 and up, require registration, and all supplies will be provided. Workshop topics include paint parties, collaging, watercolor selfies, architectural model design, tie-dye, and lawn games.

MCFL also offers Lunch at the Library at the majority of its branches. Youth 18 and under are invited to stop by for a free grab-and-go meal. For lunch service dates and times at your local branch, check the website.

The Summer Reading Program is sponsored by the Foundation for Monterey County Free Libraries and Chevron, whose support makes this program and many others throughout the year possible.

Sign up today, pick up your free book, and enjoy the summer!

For all things Summer Reading, visit www.eMCFL.org and click the Summer Reading button, where you can check program dates and download a reading log or bingo card.

Monterey County Summer Library Reading Programs

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Summer offers kids a much-needed break from the school routine, but it’s also the perfect opportunity to spark a love of reading. With no homework or tests, children can read purely for fun. A little reading each day helps keep their minds active and learning all summer long.

CARMEL PUBLIC LIBRARY

The annual Summer Reading Program will run from June 10 – August 2. Visit the Park Branch to sign up for challenges and pick up an event schedule.

MONTEREY COUNTY FREE LIBRARIES 

The MCFL program runs June 12 through July 27. Patrons of all ages can register in-person at their local MCFL branch or online at eMCFL.org. Participant receive free books and prizes. Exciting, family-friendly programs will be hosted in June and July and include free live performances, free books, and fun for all ages. Programs require registration. 

MONTEREY PUBLIC LIBRARY SUMMER READING PROGRAM 

The Summer Reading Program runs from June 1-July 31. Complete the all-ages reading challenge to receive a free book and an entry into a prize drawing. Special events are planned throughout the summer and details can be found on the library’s calendar.

PACIFIC GROVE PUBLIC LIBRARY

The Summer Reading Program begins June 4 with programs for all ages. The program includes weekly entertainment on Wednesdays at 3:00 pm at Jewell Park in Pacific Grove.  The teen program runs June 3-July 28. Participants can log their reading and attend events to receive tickets for a raffle. The adult program runs  from June 10-August 6. 

SALINAS PUBLIC LIBRARY

A variety of drop-in and registration-based programs for all ages will be offered throughout the summer to promote learning and exploration. The program will offer an array of engaging activities and reading prizes for children, teens, and adults and include a Summer Reading Challenge, prizes, in-person programs, live performances and take-home kits.

SANTA CRUZ PUBLIC LIBRARY

The Summer Reading Program at the Santa Cruz Public Libraries is for all ages. Read to earn virtual badges, books, and raffle tickets for a chance to win prizes. You can sign up online for a Beanstack account any time.     

WATSONVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY

The annual Summer Reading Program will run from June 2 – July 25. All ages are invited to participate and everyone who registers gets a free book. You can register and track books online or in a paper log available at the library. A variety of themed events are planned including crafts, a movie night, and more. 

BONUS: MORE SUMMER READING PROGRAMS FOR KIDS!

BARNES & NOBLE

Barnes & Noble’s annual Summer Reading Program invites children in grades 1 through 6 to earn a free book by reading eight books of their choice. Participants record their reading in a downloadable journal, noting their favorite part of each book. Once completed, the journal can be brought to any Barnes & Noble store (closest to our area is in Gilroy) between July 1 and August 31, to select a free book from a curated list appropriate for their grade level. 

BOOKSHOP SANTA CRUZ 

Children in K-12th grade are challenged kids to read six books—at least three from the store’s recommended reading list. Complete the challenge and kids can earn excellent rewards including a $5 Bookshop gift card, a $10 MyBoardwalk Card from The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a free scoop from the Penny Ice Creamery, a free slice from Pizza My Heart, and a special prize from the Santa Cruz Warriors.

FOR MORE INFO: bookshopsantacruz.com/summer-reading-program

PIZZA HUT’S CAMP BOOK IT!

Pizza Hut’s Camp BOOK IT! program for children in pre-K through sixth grade runs from June through Augus. Parents can set monthly reading goals for their children using a digital dashboard. When children meet their goals, they receive digital coupons for a free one-topping Personal Pan Pizza.  

FOR MORE INFO: bookitprogram.com

SCHOLASTIC BOOKS

Kids can visit the summer zone in Scholastic Home Base through September 12. Home Base is a free digital destination which offers stories, characters, games, and a community of readers. It is moderated for safety 24/7. 

FOR MORE INFO: scholastic.com/site/summer-reading.html#summer-reading

The Monterey Bay Peninsula’s Best Ice Cream

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With the warm sunny days we’ve been having lately, sweet treats are a definite must for the entire family. One of the most popular desserts of the summer is ice cream. Cool and sweet, it is a delicious idea for a day on the Monterey Peninsula. You can enjoy a bite in a local shop or take it on your beach outing. 

Here are our top three choices for ice cream on the Monterey Peninsula:

Revival Ice Cream 

Located in Monterey, Revival offers customers completely handmade ice cream. Revival also provides delivery services to anywhere in town. All ingredients are organically harvested and sustainably sourced locally. Try flavors in dark chocolate, passion fruit, mango, and eucalyptus! Visit their website to learn more: https://revivalicecream.com/ 

Monterey Bay Creamery 

Monterey Bay Creamery is located on the wharf and offers stunning views of the bay while serving sweet summer treats for the whole family. With an extensive menu of options, try unique flavors such as Tropical Delight or Cookies by the Bay. This shop even provides gluten-free and dairy-free options. You can find more information here:  https://www.montereybaycreamery.com/menu. 

MoonScoops Ice Cream

Located in Marina, Moonscoops is a family-run business serving the local community. The store offers organic soft-serve ice cream for you and your family to enjoy on a hot sunny day. Feel free to add any toppings of your choice from the wide selection. You can find out more information here: https://moonscoops.com/   

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