Ten Fun Family Things to Do in Monterey

Pacific Coast Highway Travel picks ten fun family things to do in Monterey from Monterey Aquarium and Zoo to whale watching & Dennis the Menace Playground.

Kids Having Fun in the Monterey State Historic Park

Monterey is the perfect place to break your Pacific Coast Highway drive and spend a night, or preferably two. There’s plenty of family-friendly things to see and do, including the world-class Monterey Bay Aquarium, visiting Fisherman’s Wharf, taking a whale-watching cruise, going to the zoo, or enjoying the city’s parks, including the Dennis the Menace Playground. Here’s our pick of ten of the best.

Ten Fun Family Things to Do in Monterey

1. Monterey Bay Aquarium

A Leopard Shark in the Monterey Bay Aquarium

The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a world-renowned attraction that offers an unforgettable experience for families. With over 200 exhibits, kids can marvel at sea otters, penguins, sharks, and colorful jellyfish.

The interactive touch pools allow children to feel starfish and anemones, while the massive Open Sea exhibit showcases mesmerizing schools of fish and giant tunas.

The Monterey Bay Aquarium Overlooking Monterey Bay

Daily feedings and educational talks make learning fun. The aquarium also focuses on ocean conservation, teaching visitors about protecting marine life.

Phone: (831) 648-4800
Address: 886 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940
Website: montereybayaquarium.org

2. Dennis the Menace Playground

This beloved playground within the 45-acre El Estero Park, designed with input from cartoonist Hank Ketcham (creator of Dennis the Menace), is a paradise for kids. The park features a giant suspension bridge, rocket ship climber, hedge maze, and a real Southern Pacific steam engine to explore.

There are also picnic areas, a lake with paddle boats (seasonal), and plenty of space to run around. The playground encourages imaginative play, making it perfect for children of all ages.

Phone: (831) 646-3866
Address: 777 Pearl St, Monterey, CA 93940
Website: monterey.org

3. Monterey State Historic Park

Monterey State Historic Park

Step back in time with a visit to Monterey State Historic Park, where families can explore historic adobe buildings from California’s Mexican and Spanish colonial periods. The park offers guided tours where kids can learn about pirates, early settlers, and the Gold Rush.

The Custom House is particularly fascinating, as it was where taxes were collected on imported goods. Many buildings feature hands-on exhibits, and the scenic gardens are perfect for a family stroll.

Phone: (831) 649-7118
Address: 20 Custom House Plaza, Monterey, CA 93940
Website: parks.ca.gov

4. Whale Watching Tour

A Blue Whale

Monterey Bay is one of the best places in the world to spot whales, and a family-friendly whale-watching tour is a must-do. Depending on the season, you might see humpback whales, blue whales, orcas, or gray whales.

Knowledgeable guides provide fascinating facts about marine life, and kids will love spotting dolphins and sea lions along the way. Dress warmly, as it can be chilly on the water!

Phone: (831) 375-4658 (Monterey Bay Whale Watch)
Address: 84 Fisherman’s Wharf, Monterey, CA 93940
Website: montereybaywhalewatch.com

5. Monterey County Youth Museum (MY Museum)

Family Fun at the Monterey County Youth Museum

This interactive children’s museum is designed for kids ages 1-10, with hands-on exhibits that encourage learning through play. Highlights include a mini grocery store, construction zone, water play area, and an art studio.

Family Fun at the Monterey County Youth Museum

The museum also hosts special events like storytime and STEM workshops. It’s a great place for young children to burn off energy while engaging in creative activities.

Phone: (831) 649-6444
Address: 425 Washington St, Monterey, CA 93940
Website: mymuseum.org

6. 17-Mile Drive

View of Monterey Bay from the 17-Mile Drive

This scenic coastal drive is perfect for families who love breathtaking views. Stop at iconic spots like the Lone Cypress, Bird Rock (covered in sea lions and pelicans), and Pebble Beach. Pack a picnic and enjoy the ocean breeze while the kids explore tide pools.

The route also passes through the luxurious Pebble Beach Golf Links, where you might spot deer and other wildlife. See also our own account of driving the 17-Mile Drive.

7. Monterey Zoo

Tigers in the Monterey Zoo

This small but exciting zoo offers up-close encounters with rescued exotic animals, including tigers, bears, and lemurs. The guided tours allow kids to learn about animal conservation while observing these magnificent creatures. Special experiences, like feeding a camel or meeting a wolf, make this a memorable outing.

Phone: (831) 455-1901
Address: 400 River Rd, Salinas, CA 93908 (a 30-minute drive from Monterey)
Website: montereyzoological.com

8. Cannery Row

Street Sign for Cannery Row in Monterey

This bustling waterfront street is packed with family-friendly attractions, including candy shops, souvenir stores, and street performers. Kids will love the giant octopus statue and the historic cannery exhibits. Stop by Ghirardelli Ice Cream for a sweet treat or grab lunch at a seafood restaurant with ocean views. See our full page on Cannery Row.

Website: canneryrow.com

9. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Sign Showing Harbor Seal Birthing Area in the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve near Monterey

Known as the "crown jewel of the California State Park system," Point Lobos offers stunning coastal hikes suitable for families. Kids can spot sea lions, harbor seals, and even migrating whales from the cliffs. The Cypress Grove Trail is an easy, scenic walk with breathtaking ocean views. Read about our visit to the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve.

Phone: (831) 624-4909
Address: 62 CA-1, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93923
Website: parks.ca.gov

10. Fisherman’s Wharf

Fishermans Wharf in Monterey

Fisherman’s Wharf is a bustling waterfront hub packed with family-friendly fun. Kids will love watching sea lions bark from the docks, sampling free clam chowder samples, and browsing quirky souvenir shops. Take a bay cruise or rent a paddleboat for a scenic adventure. Don’t miss the old-fashioned candy stores or the chance to spot dolphins and otters from the pier.

Fishermans Wharf in Monterey

Many restaurants offer outdoor seating with ocean views, and street performers add to the festive vibe. For dessert, grab a famous saltwater taffy or an ice cream cone while soaking in the coastal charm.

Phone: (831) 238-0777 (Monterey Fisherman’s Wharf Association)
Website: montereywharf.com

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