A Family Adventure in Monterey: Exploring the Aquarium, Cannery Row, and More
- Sherrie A
- Dec 22, 2024
- 4 min read
If you’re planning a family trip to Monterey, you’re in for a treat! From the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium to the bustling charm of Cannery Row, this coastal gem offers endless opportunities for families to learn, explore, and make memories. During our recent visit, my family and I discovered incredible sea life, indulged in delicious food, and found the perfect souvenirs to take home. Here’s our guide to an unforgettable family day in Monterey!
Morning: Dive into the Wonders of the Monterey Bay Aquarium
We started our day at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, and it was nothing short of magical. Perched right on the edge of the ocean, this aquarium is a favorite for kids and adults alike.
Must-See Exhibits:
The Open Sea: Watch mesmerizing schools of fish, playful hammerhead sharks, and even sea turtles swim by.
The Kelp Forest: This towering underwater forest is one of the tallest aquarium exhibits in the world, and my kids couldn’t stop marveling at the swaying kelp and darting fish.
The Giant Pacific Octopus: My boys, aged 10, 9, and 7, were absolutely captivated by the octopus. Watching it stretch its tentacles and change colors was a highlight of the day!
Sharks: The shark exhibit was another favorite. They were thrilled to see species like sandbar sharks and leopard sharks up close.
Touch Pools: Let your kids get hands-on with sea stars, urchins, and other tide pool creatures.
Interactive Activities:
Don’t miss the daily feedings! We watched the penguins chow down, and it was a huge hit with my little ones.
The aquarium also offers family scavenger hunts that kept our boys engaged while we explored.
Mom Tip: Buy tickets online in advance to skip the lines, and plan to arrive early to beat the crowds. The aquarium opens at 10 AM, but arriving by 9:45 AM ensures you’re first in line. You can re-enter if you forgot that favorite waterbottle, snack or toy in the car. Personally, we opted to get the yearly membership for $30 more than what our family of 5 would cost for 1 day visit. Now we can go as many times as we want, get discounts and just enjoy ocean life up close.
Lunch: Family-Friendly Dining on Cannery Row
After a morning of underwater exploration, we were ready to refuel. Cannery Row, just steps from the aquarium, offers plenty of dining options for families.
Our Pick: We ate at The Fish Hopper, a waterfront restaurant with stunning ocean views. My kids loved the mac and cheese (from the kids’ menu), while my husband and I enjoyed the clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl. It’s a must-try!
Our absolute favorite was Troya Turkish Delight & Baklava. Their White Chocolate with Strawberry Almond Hazelnut was amazing! The coffee was amazing, strong and we were sad when we looked down to an empty cup.
Other Great Options:
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.: A fun, themed dining experience with plenty of kid-friendly options.
Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop: Not a full meal, but a perfect dessert stop! Their sundaes are worth every calorie.
Mom Tip: Many restaurants along Cannery Row offer kids’ menus, highchairs, and quick service. Be sure to ask for outdoor seating if the weather is nice – the ocean breeze makes dining extra special.
Afternoon: Strolling Cannery Row and Souvenir Shopping
Cannery Row is more than just a place to eat – it’s a vibrant area filled with shops, attractions, and history. My family loved wandering along the historic street and picking out souvenirs to remember our trip.
Souvenir Stops:
Monterey Canning Co. Store: This shop has everything from T-shirts to nautical-themed trinkets, perfect for kids and adults.
Candy Shops: We couldn’t resist stopping by Carousel Candies for saltwater taffy and other sweet treats.
Fun for Kids:
Many shops have kid-friendly displays, like stuffed sea otters or colorful postcards. My youngest picked out a plush octopus that hasn’t left his side since!
Look for street performers along Cannery Row – it’s an unexpected treat that adds to the lively atmosphere.
Be sure to stop by shops featuring marine-themed puzzles and books, which kept our boys entertained on the ride home.
Late Afternoon: Relaxing by the Bay
As the day wound down, we found ourselves at San Carlos Beach, just a short walk from Cannery Row. It’s a small, family-friendly beach that’s perfect for relaxing after a busy day.
What to Do:
My kids loved watching scuba divers suit up and head into the water – they were fascinated by the gear!
We sat on the grassy area nearby, enjoying snacks from our earlier shopping trip and soaking up the stunning views of Monterey Bay.
The boys had fun spotting crabs and small fish in the tide pools along the beach.
Mom Tip: Bring a light blanket and some snacks if you plan to relax by the beach. It’s a great spot to unwind before heading home.
Why Monterey is Perfect for Families
Monterey truly has something for everyone. The mix of educational fun at the aquarium, delicious dining on Cannery Row, and opportunities to explore and relax by the bay makes it a fantastic family destination. My kids left with their arms full of souvenirs and their heads full of memories (and a newfound obsession with sea otters and octopuses!).
Whether you’re planning a day trip or a weekend getaway, Monterey is a place where family bonds grow stronger with every shared experience. So, pack your bags, grab your crew, and get ready for an adventure you’ll never forget!
Have you visited Monterey with your family? Share your favorite spots and tips in the comments below!
Packing Essentials for a Family Day in Monterey
Comfortable walking shoes, layers for changing weather, reusable water bottles, snacks for the kids, & a camera for capturing memories
Bonus Tip: Extend Your Stay
If you have more time, consider visiting nearby attractions like Pacific Grove or taking a whale-watching tour. These add-ons make your Monterey trip even more magical!
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