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Mother and son at the Monterey Bay Harbor.

Kids Activities

IN MONTEREY, CA

Plan a family getaway to Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay. From boating on Lake Estero to the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, explore the best family attractions in Monterey.

Discover the wonders of the Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary. Bike or ride a surrey along the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreational Trail. Get lost in the mirror maze at Cannery Row and get wild at the Monterey Zoo. 



Peddle boats that look like birds.

EL ESTERO BOATING

Enjoy paddleboating on scenic Lake El Estero, located within walking distance of downtown Monterey and Fisherman's Wharf. El Estero Boating offers paddleboat rentals for a fun day with the kids.

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Aquarium fish.

MONTEREY BAY AQUARIUM

Experience a window to the marine life of Monterey Bay. Encounter amazing animals, from sea otters and penguins to sharks at the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, situated at ocean's edge on historic Cannery Row.

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High score arcade machines.

HIGH SCORE ARCADE

Chase the ghosts. Use the force. Rescue the princess. Get the High Score!
 
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Mirror maze

MONTEREY MIRROR MAZE & LAZER CHALLENGE

Walk through this creatively designed mirror maze with a psychedelic vibe on Cannery Row. Get lost in the maze with high-tech lighting and pumping music.

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PACIFIC GROVE MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY

Visit one of the oldest natural history museums with exhibits featuring wildlife, plants, geology, and the cultural richness of Monterey County. This museum is your living guide to the California Central Coast and a great place to explore with kids.

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Monarch butterflies.

MONARCH BUTTERFLY SANCTUARY

Experience the beauty of this natural butterfly habitat in Pacific Grove, CA. In October, see the butterflies cluster on cypress, pine, and eucalyptus trees. Witness the majestic monarchs in the grove from October through February as they continue their migration south.

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Lions at the zoo.

MONTEREY ZOO

Meet wild, exotic animals from around the world in a beautiful natural setting. Have an unforgettable family adventure at the Monterey Zoo. Hear the roar of tigers and lions on a safari.

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Roller coster.

SANTA CRUZ BEACH BOARDWALK

Have a blast with the kids at this classic oceanfront amusement park. The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk offers fun family rides, attractions, and games. Play at this historic park along Santa Cruz's mile-long main beach.

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Fish sanctuary.

SANCTUARY EXPLORATION CENTER

Discover multimedia exhibits showcasing the amazing habitats and wildlife in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Tour this museum near the Santa Cruz Wharf where kids can feed jellyfish and drive a sub in an underwater environment.

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