It’s a perfect destination if you’re looking to show your family some iconic coastal California scenery and it is bursting with activities for and sights for the entire family.
There is so much to do in Monterey, that you may need a lifetime to do it all, but here are some of our favorites:
This mission was the headquarters of the Alta California missions founded by Saint Junípero Serra and founded in 1771. Stop in and learn about their importance in the colonization and founding of the state of California. Father Serra, who was recently canonized in 2015 as a Saint in the Catholic church, is buried here. Kids will love the fountain, open courtyard, and antique children’s artifacts.
This is a fun place to hang out, people watch and grab a bite to eat. Kids will also love watching the seals.
Monterey has some of the best beaches in California. Hitting the beach makes the perfect family day out. Even if it’s a little chilly, don’t skip going for a dip in the Pacific.
The closest international airports are San Jose, Oakland and San Francisco. Getting around Monterey is best done in a car. There is so much to see in such a large area, and many of the attractions are actually “drives.”
If you’re coming to California, don’t skip Monterey. It’s a lovely place with fun and excitement if you want it and relaxation and nature if you want it. It’s the best of both worlds!
Vanessa Hunt is a full-time traveling mama who is passionate about world-schooling and food. You can find her sharing all about her travels with her family of six (her four children are 4, 7, 9 and 11), as well as her favorite recipes at WanderlustCrew.
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