Rainy Day Adventures In Monterey: Top 3 Activities You'll Love From our Concierge!

Don't let a little rain dampen your Monterey adventure! There's plenty to explore, no matter the weather. We asked our concierge, Chris Boyle, for her top family-friendly rainy day activities in Monterey-here's what she recommends:

Monterey is a delightful sanctuary, even under an overcast sky. When the weather turns gray, the town reveals a wealth of treasures just waiting for you and your family to discover. 

Dive into the enchanting realm of marine life at the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

You'll discover a display of extraordinary and uncommon creatures. Nestled along the picturesque Cannery Row, overlooking the stunning waters of Monterey Bay, this exceptional aquarium serves as a portal to the diverse wonders of the ocean, ideal for families and a delightful half-day adventure!

Inside, you'll experience an underwater wonderland where giant kelp forests sway like skyscrapers made of seaweed. Enchanting sea otters gracefully float on their backs while others romp, tumble, and wrestle like they do in the wild. You'll also find playful penguins waddling about and be taken in by the mesmerizing dance of colorful jellyfish gliding through their aquatic world. 

From the elusive sharks prowling the depths to the vibrant ecosystems teeming with thousands of plants and diverse marine life, every corner of the Aquarium invites exploration. So come, indulge your senses, and immerse yourself in the wonders of the sea waiting to be explored!

To learn more, please visit their website. 

Plan on at least 4 hours, but you could easily spend the whole day.

Cost: $$$$ (a family of four would spend about $230)

Explore MY Museum-A Place where curiosity and creativity flourish.

MY Museum, the "Monterey County Youth Museum," is a great place to visit on a rainy day. It's a sanctuary for children that invites them to embark on a journey of exploration and discovery. Unlike any typical attraction, this museum is brimming with interactive exhibits and captivating programs geared to children 8 years old and under to spark curiosity and unleash creativity. 

One of the highlights is the Zumbini class, a vibrant fusion of lively music and playful dance, where children aged 0-4 can learn and move in a joyous atmosphere. The Make-N-Take workshop offers young creators and their parents a chance to craft something through hands-on activities. In the Weird Science class, budding scientists don lab coats and goggles to experiment with whimsical concoctions, igniting their inner innovators.

MY Museum is conveniently located near the Portola Hotel and promises an enriching experience for families and explorers. 

To learn more, please visit their website. 

Plan to spend the whole day.

Cost: $$ (a family of four would spend about $40)

Embark on an unforgettable journey along the breathtaking 17-Mile Drive!

Touring 17-Mile Drive might seem like an unconventional way to conclude our list of things to do on a rainy day, but this journey offers a chance to absorb the area's stunning beauty without stepping outside your vehicle. It's the perfect choice for those chilly days when the allure of nature calls.

Visitors are welcomed from several entry points, with many beginning at the idyllic Shepard's Knoll. Here, you're greeted with a sweeping panoramic view of Monterey Bay, which sets the tone for an unforgettable excursion. As you leisurely navigate the winding road, you'll encounter a series of stops that reveal many eye-catching natural wonders.

One essential stop is Spanish Bay Beach, a picturesque stretch of golden sand, where the crashing waves invite you to pause and take in the ocean's majestic power. Just a short drive away, you can marvel at Seal Rock, where playful sea lions bask on the rocky shore. 

Another highlight is the iconic Lone Cypress, a solitary tree defiantly clinging to a rugged cliff, celebrated for its resilience and offering a humbling backdrop to the dramatic coastal landscape. Stop at The Bench restaurant. Its indoor and outdoor seating provides a striking view of the 18th hole at Pebble Beach. 

To learn more, please visit https://www.seemonterey.com/directory/17-mile-drive/.

Plan to spend about 2-3 hours on this drive. 

Cost: $12 per vehicle (The gate fee is reimbursed with a purchase at Pebble Beach Resorts restaurants.)

Book Your Stay

So grab your umbrella! From California's most insanely gorgeous stretches of shoreline to the charming and walkable towns blanketed in fragrant Monterey pines and cypress trees, reminiscent of something difficult to describe but unforgettable - almost nostalgic. Here are some of the prettiest places to venture out in the rain and make lasting memories together! To book your stay and enjoy rainy day activities in Monterey, visit our website, or call us at (888)-222-5851.