Family Friendly Monterey Activities: The Perfect Kid-Friendly Getaway

Family Friendly Monterey Activities

Monterey is known for its coastal beauty and relaxing atmosphere, and has many activities that will excite visitors of all ages. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a week-long vacation, you'll find plenty of kid friendly activities that you and your kids will enjoy. From interactive museums to fun activities, here are five family friendly Monterey activities for your next vacation. 

Dennis the Menace Park

For families traveling with energetic kids, Dennis the Menace Park is the perfect place to bring them. This whimsical playground features unique climbing structures, a suspension bridge, a maze, and even a retired steam engine. Located within El Estero Park, it's a great spot to relax and let the kids burn off some energy.

El Estero Paddle Boats

Enjoy paddle boating on scenic Lake El Estero, located within walking distance of the Portola Hotel & Spa. El Estero Boating offers paddleboat rentals for a fun day with the kids. They have fun boats in different varieties from white swan boats, yellow baby duck boats, purple dragon boats, and other colorful boats to enjoy the lake on. This lovely lake and park is right across the way from Del Monte Beach, so continue the family adventure after boating and head to the beach for a picnic.

Museums and Educational Experiences

Monterey is rich in history and marine life which means this vacation is the perfect opportunity to teach your kids in an engaging way. The Monterey Bay Aquarium will inspire your kids to wonder about what lives in the Monterey Bay. Visit the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History for the kids to learn more about our cultural and natural world. Bring them to the Monterey Museum of Art to bring out their creative side. Take them to the Monterey Zoo to get up close and personal with exotic animals from around the world. Engaging with the world in this way makes learning fun for all ages!

Monterey Mirror Maze

Step into a fun challenge at the Monterey Mirror Maze, where excitement awaits around every corner! This one-of-a-kind attraction offers an adventure for kids and adults alike, as you navigate through a maze of mirrors, twists, and turns. The Monterey Mirror Maze will be an unforgettable experience that will leave your family laughing and bonding over this fun experience. 

Whale Watching

Monterey Bay is one of the best places for whale watching as humpbacks, orcas, dolphins, gray whales, and even blue whales make their way to the bay. Book a family-friendly boat tour and get ready for an unforgettable experience. Many tours are equipped with onboard naturalists who share fascinating facts about the marine creatures you encounter. Princess Monterey Whale Watching and Discovery Whale Watching are located on Old Fisherman's Wharf - just a short walk from the Portola Hotel & Spa!

Plan Your Family Friendly Vacation in Monterey

The Portola Hotel & Spa is in the heart of downtown, making it conveniently located to many family friendly Monterey activities. You also won't want to miss our children's loyalty program! Our Portola Pirate Program is free and offers seasonal pirate themed activities for kids ages 3 to 12. Registration for this program begins at check-in with the help of our Portola Pirate Crew (our Front Desk team) - they'll help you find a secret pirate password and collect some loot! We look forward to welcoming you and the family soon! To book your stay in Monterey, visit our website, or call us at (888)-222-5851.