ML Interest Tag: monterey-bay

Where to See Sea Lions, Elephant Seals & Whales

by Kate Loweth

The winter is a perfect time to visit some of the marine mammals that make the Bay Area coast their vacation home. Scroll through for all our recs on where to see sea lions, elephant seals, sea otters and even whales in the Bay Area!

San Francisco

PIER 39

Kate Loweth

Coined the Pier's "Sea Lebrites", these boisterous barking pinnipeds came sparingly at first after the Loma Prieta earthquake hit San Francisco in October 1989. With a protected environment and plentiful supply of food from the Bay, the sea lions quickly decided to make PIER 39’s K-Dock their new home, with each winter bringing in up to 900 sea lions. Check out our guide to PIER 39 here. 

Online: pier39.com

San Francisco Zoo

Head to the San Francisco Zoo across from Penguin Island to see the playful Northern American river otters. These excellent swimmers are super playful, often seen practicing their underwater skills, wrestling with friends and sliding down slippery banks. 

Online: sfzoo.org

Peninsula/South Bay

Año Nuevo State Park, Davenport

Año Nuevo State Park is one of the largest mainland breeding colonies in the world for the Northern Elephant Seal, giving families an up-close view of these awesome creatures. Up to 10,000 of them pack the beaches of Año Nuevo for breeding season, which begins in December when the first males arrive. From Dec. 15-Mar. 31 you'll need to book a guided tour to see the elephant seals in their native habitat. The park is partially open due to COVID and face masks are required. 

Online: parks.ca.gov

Whale Watching with the Oceanic Society, Half Moon Bay/San Francisco

From January-March, you can head out on a three-hour whale watching tour in search of migrating gray whales. Tours leave from Half Moon Bay and you have the chance to see whales, seals and sea lions, dolphins and porpoises and seabirds. From April-November you can take a day trip from San Francisco to the Farallon Islands for an unforgettable experience. 

Online: oceanicsociety.org

Santa Cruz Wharf

Kate Loweth

The Santa Cruz Wharf juts out into the Pacific right between the Boardwalk and The Dream Inn. Along with a number of great restaurants (we like Woodies Cafe for its good food and laid-back vibe), there are spots to go fishing and souvenir shops aplenty. Kids will love checking out the sea lions that make their home there. You can check out the viewing holes at the end of the wharf or head to the lower deck area across from Bonnie's for some up-close viewing. Nearby is the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, a free marine education center. 

Online: cityofsantacruz.com

Elkhorn Slough, Moss Landing

If you are looking to see some sea otters up close, this is the activity for you. This spot is perfect for kayaking even for beginners as the waters are calm and you’ll get the opportunity to view tons of wildlife. Kayak Connection will take you out on a family adventure tour where paddlers as young as 3 can get some water time. Or, book your rental to explore on your own. You can read our kayaking with kids guide here. 

Online: kayakconnection.com

North Bay/Marin

Point Reyes

Northern Elephant Seals Point Reyes

Point Reyes and Chimney Rock are great spots to view elephant seals and migrating whales. Bring your binoculars and head to the Elephant Seal Overlook to check out the animals that haul out there. Check out this page for additional info on the animals there and closures that are taking place to protect the animals. 

Farther South

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Monterey Bay Aquarium

The Monterey Bay has been a center of activity throughout the central coast’s history. Now home to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, at the site of historical Hovden Cannery, the Aquarium welcomes close to two million visitors per year. You and your mini aquarists will be captivated by the natural exhibits, marine life and daily educational programs. Dip into our insider’s guide and be submerged in everything this ocean conservation facility has to offer.

Online: montereybayaquarium.org

Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery, San Simeon

Kate Loweth

The Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery is a must-visit spot in San Simeon (just north of Cambria). Pretty much any time of year you can walk along the pier and see these massive animals up close. The pier is open every day and there are no fees or reservations required. Volunteer docents are often available to answer questions. Read our guide to the central coast here. 

Online: elephantseal.org

Sub Sea Tours Whale Watching, Morro Bay

Kate Loweth

Reserve a spot on a three-hour whale-watching tour and go past the calm harbor waters to see if you can spot gray or humpback whales that come to feed on the abundant sea life offshore. The 45-minute sub tours are especially fun for little ones wanting to see schools of fish and jellyfish, as well as the local sea otters and harbor seals. You can also rent kayaks and stand-up paddleboards from this location. Check out our Morro Bay guide for more info. 

Online: subseatours.com

 

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Get Your Animal Fix with a Virtual Zoo Visit

by Amy Bizzarri

Though all of us are working overtime keeping our distance from one another, it doesn’t mean we’re completely confined to our own 4 walls. Why not go bananas with the monkeys at Brookfield Zoo? Swim along with the Shedd’s incredible jellyfish? Or set off on a safari led by the keepers of the Lincoln Park Zoo? Zoos across the country are setting up their cams and bringing their beloved critters right into our very homes! Start close to home with Chicago-area zoos, and then move on to offerings from zoos around the country with our round-up of virtual zoo visits! 

Brookfield Zoo brings over 2,000 animals direct to your home! And don’t worry, they won’t bite! Join in on the zoo’s fascinating Facebook broadcasts to make time home with kids entertaining and educational. See African painted dog puppies get their first physical exam, gorillas using tools to get food, and many more animal antics from the comfort of your sofa. Consider supporting the zoo by pre-purchasing tickets for the summertime! 

The Lincoln Park Zoo is helping supporters to ‘keep in touch’ with their favorite animals and spaces at the zoo during the Covid-19 crisis. Tune in to Facebook and Instagram for keeper chats, virtual habitat tours, Q&As, relaxing videos, and Facebook Lives with Zoo Director Megan Ross, Ph.D. Check out the zoo’s blog for an inside look at how Lincoln Park Zoo provides world-class care to nearly 200 species, as well as ways to connect young ones with nature and much more. Now is also a great time to adopt an animal, as you’ll be supporting the zoo, too!

Swim along with the fishes at Shedd Aquarium, home to 32,600 species of sea life. With the Shedd Aquarium’s Underwater Beauty live cam, you can dive right into the deep blue ocean, where jellies pulse, eels ribbon and a rainbow comes alive with reef fishes in the aquarium’s most diverse special exhibit ever. Underwater Beauty shows how every aquatic animal is beautifully adapted to thrive in its environment — and how this beauty is worth saving. Inspired? When you symbolically adopt a beluga, sea turtle, sea otter or penguin at Shedd, you support the aquarium’s mission and top-quality animal care. 

Set off on a home safari and meet the elephants, porcupines, sloths and other fascinating creatures that call the The Cincinnati Zoo home. The zoo hosts a live video every weekday of one of their animals and an activity on Home Safari at 3pm EDT. You can also watch previous day videos on their website.  

Expect to find yourself mesmerized by the penguins, sea otters, jellyfish and other creatures that live at the Monterey Bay Aquarium in California. Ten live cams bring free live streaming direct into your home. We can’t get enough of the moon jelly cam!

The San Diego Zoo has live and archived videos of animals of all kinds, from apes to tigers! (We love checking in on the polar bears!). The zoo’s family-friendly website is jam-packed with videos and information about animals, fun stories, hands-on activities, and games, perfect for at-home fun. 

— Amy Bizzarri

Featured photo: courtesy of Brookfield Zoo

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Visit Chicago’s Brightest & Best Cultural Gems. . . Virtually!

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Insider’s Guide to the Exploratorium

by Kate Loweth

When it comes to exploration and interactive exhibits, there’s really no other place in the Bay Area quite like the Exploratorium. The 330,000 square-foot spot at Pier 15 includes some of the most mind-bending exhibits that we’ve ever seen. Spend some time checking it out with these tips in mind!

What to See

The Exploratorium is broken up into six galleries. Gallery 1: Human Phenomena lets you experiment with social behavior by working together with others and predicting how people will behave. Kids love building the Catenary Arch, which if done properly stands on its own due to forces pressing on the curve. Another kid fave is the Tornado—a misty vapor that swirls into a tornado shape where you will be forced to run in circles to see if you can get it to grow even bigger. This gallery is also where you can explore total darkness in the Tactile Dome (for an additional $15 fee).

To the left when you enter is Gallery 2: Tinkering. If you visit in the winter months this is where you’ll find the seasonal Curious Contraptions exhibit. Try and visit this gallery on the hour so that you can see the 22-foot tall Tinkerer’s Clock in motion. If you are lucky, you might get to ask questions of Scott Weaver, the creator of the 100,000 toothpick sculpture that is along the windows. Spend some time making your own art project in the Tinkering Studio or watch artists design new exhibits in the Exhibit Development Shop.

Seeing and Listening is the theme of Gallery 3 where you can make colored shadows and then see what it’s like when all color is taken away in the monochromatic room. Don’t miss the LEGO Batman with Diving Penguins (next to the water droplet exhibit). See if you can figure out how these inanimate objects come to life when they are spun at the right speed.

The Living Systems in Gallery 4 include microscopic creatures and plants that retract their leaves when you touch them. Plug your nose and see how bugs work to decompose rats in the exhibit along the windows. This gallery hosts live demonstrations like cow eye dissections so find out what’s on deck when you visit to learn more about living things.

Gallery 5 brings you outdoors to explore wind, tides and natural phenomena. Cool off on a hot day under the Remote Rains exhibit where you can select from different types of rainstorms. Check out models of the Bay Bridge and Golden Gate Bridge to see how they were built.

Head upstairs above Gallery 5 to the Fisher Bay Observatory Gallery 6: Observing Landscapes. Here you can learn all about the Bay Area while you view Alcatraz, Treasure Island and both bridges. The observation deck is a good place to grab some sun and enjoy a snack break.

photo: Exploratorium

Where to Eat

Pick up milk cartons and other to-go sandwiches and plates at Seismic Joint, located at the front of the museum. Located directly underneath the Observatory, the Seaglass Restaurant seats up to 200 visitors and serves specialty fare (pickled rainbow vegetables, Monterey Bay black cod, local king salmon, sashimi platters). Pick a table right by the water and wow the kids with the stunning view of the Bay Bridge. If you are at the Exploratorium in the evening when these two spots aren’t open, the Ferry Building is just a short walk or pedicab ride away.

photo: Exploratorium

Where to Shop

The 2,800-square-foot main Exploratorium store faces on the Embarcadero and is open to pedestrian traffic from the street or from inside. Another smaller store is located in the heart of the museum, right at the crossroads. Pick up Zoob bots, a Rubik’s cube, world bugs laser pegs or a green calcite souvenir (just a dollar!).

photo: Exploratorium

For Grown-Ups Only

Every Thursday night, the Exploratorium goes 18+ with a special theme each week during their After Dark series. Book a sitter and leave the kids at home and see the exhibits like you’ve never seen them before. Many of the events include special food and drink tastings to go along with the night’s theme. Tickets are $19.95 each or you can become an After Dark member for only $45/person or $85/couple to attend as many Thursday night events as you wish.

The Details

Restrooms are located at the east gallery by the Sea Glass Restaurant and at the cross roads (look for the toilet drinking fountain!). There are also bathrooms right by the Seismic Joint Cafe before you enter the Exploratorium.

Summer hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily through Sept. 3
Extended Friday hours: until 9 p.m. through Aug. 31
After Dark Thursdays: 6-10 p.m. (18+ only)

Tickets: $29.95/adults; $24.95/seniors, teachers and youth 13-17; $19.95/youth 4-12; 3 and under are free

Community Pay-What-You-Wish Days: Details can be found here.

Pier 15
San Francisco, CA
Online: exploratorium.edu

—Kate Loweth

Photos by the author except where noted. 

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Insider’s Guide to the Monterey Bay Aquarium

by Nella DuBon-Koch

The Monterey Bay has been a center of activity throughout the central coast’s history. Now home to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, at the site of historical Hovden Cannery, the Aquarium welcomes close to two million visitors per year. You and your mini aquarists will be captivated by the natural exhibits, marine life and daily educational programs. Dip into our insider’s guide and be submerged in everything this ocean conservation facility has to offer.

Getting Started
If it’s been a while since your last visit to the Aquarium or if it’s your first, be sure to grab a map from one of the friendly staff members at the entrance. There is a lot to see and do, get familiar with the feedings and program times and plan accordingly. Check out the map in advance or download their free app and get the most out of your visit.

(Tip: stop by the information desk at the front and get a security/lost child wrist band for your little ones. They will enjoy picking a cool design and you will rest assured that if you were to separate, security will reach you at the number you provide. Also, don’t forget to mention if you’re celebrating a special event: birthday, anniversary, etc.) Restrooms and Bookstore are nearby, if you want to stop by before getting started.

Ooh, Baby!
For the first time ever, anywhere, the animal care staff at the Monterey Bay Aquarium has successfully cultured the beautiful and fragile spotted comb jelly. These fascinating, bioluminescent creatures are a rare treat to see in an aquarium, due to their extreme fragility that makes their keeping a challenge. The newly hatched jellies are now on exhibit in the Drifter’s Gallery in the Open Sea.

Do Not Miss
The 28 foot Kelp Forest, with up to 2,000 gallons of sea water pumped through it per minute, is one of the tallest aquarium exhibits in the world.  Watching the swaying kelp will be relaxing to you and your little ones will enjoy playing I spy the leopard shark, California sheephead and various other species that live in this exhibit. Be sure to stop by the touch pools to pet a Bat Ray and catch a Wave Crash.

Up the stairs is the breathtaking Open Sea, the aquarium’s largest exhibit. The 90-foot window gives you a fish eye view of Green sea turtle, Pelagic stingray, schools of shiny Pacific sardine and other amazing marine life. The Ocean sunfish will be a big hit with it’s interesting half-fish body and vertical fins. Don’t pass up the Puffins! These seabirds are not only cute, they’re social and lots of fun to watch. Your little bird watchers will love seeing them come up to the window for some interaction. (Tip: While there explore the Soaring with Seabirds play area. The whole family will learn about the life of a seabird through educational play, including a flight simulator video and a life-size nesting area.)

Nearby you’ll find the many jellies on exhibit: Sea nettle, Moon jelly, Crystal jelly, to name a few. These graceful, translucent invertebrates are quite a sight. Stay together as this is a highly-visited area, with interactive displays and lots to see.

(Tip: If your little beachgoers are fans of collecting Sand dollars, head to the Monterey Bay Habitats and see some live ones. You’ll notice how fuzzy with cilia (tiny hairs) they are and your junior scientists can try to guess how old they are by counting the growth rings on the plates of the exoskeleton.)

Learn Something New
There are various feedings and programs throughout the day, check out the schedule for times and descriptions. The Penguin and Otter feeding are very popular, so arrive early to get a good viewing spot. Our favorite is the Kelp Forest feeding. You will enjoy the live presentation by the diver hand-feeding the shark, fish and other animals in this exhibit. You can also catch a 15-minute Auditorium Program, where you’ll take an in-depth look at the work and research the aquarium is doing. Or consider scheduling a tour, where you’ll go behind the scenes, explore special exhibits and even help feed some fish! There’s even a special Family Tour with hands-on activities, geared toward families with children under 8 years old.

Good to Know: All tours are for ages 6 years and up, except for the Family Tour.

What’s New?
Be sure to visit the Aquarium’s special exhibits, ¡Viva Baja! and Tentacles. ¡Viva Baja! features animals from the coastal and desert habitats of Baja California. Some of our favorites were the Bluespotted jawfish keeping busy digging and spitting out sand from its den with its mouth. The desert tortoise with its dense scales suitable for desert living and the swaying, grass-like Garden eels were also fun to spot. As you head out, be sure to create your own fish to add to the digital coral reef.

Tentacles is a hub of all things cephalopod. From art, sculptures to creating your own cephalopod selfie, you’ll be engaged with these fascinating creatures. Some of the highlights include Giant Pacific octopus, Flamboyant cuttlefish and Chambered nautilus.

(Tip: While there, stop by the Vanishing Wildlife exhibit, to get a better understanding of the impact our food consumption has on wildlife. The interactive, educational visuals will keep the kiddos engaged and you can grab yourself a Seafood Watch guide.)

photo: Nella DuBon-Koch

Keep an Eye Out
Ever wonder what it’s like to explore the deep sea? You can get an idea when you visit Mission to the Deep. A 360-degree video projection takes you deep into the oceans’ midnight zone. Learn about the incredible animals that inhabit those depths, the Aquariums’ Research Institute and get an interactive, close-up view of a robotic Remotely Operated Vehicle, key in gathering data from the seafloor.

Splash Zone
Here families can explore over 45 interactive exhibits in English and Spanish. Have fun in the Coral Play area, dive into the kelp forest touch pools, explore a rocky shore and meet the Penguins! Babies 0-3 months can safely learn and discover in the Coral Reef Kingdom, an area specifically for infants and toddlers up to 34 inches tall. (Tip: Make use of the stroller parking here and enjoy everything hands-on)

photo: Nella DuBon-Koch

Take a Break
Exploring can be tiring, thankfully the aquarium caters to families with children of all ages. You can find restrooms on every floor, with changing stations, nursing chairs and electrical outlets for your needs. Next to the Soaring with Seabirds play area, you’ll find a private nursing nook with comfortable club chairs, soothing video visuals, nursery books and spacious changing area, ideal for nursing moms with babies. You can also find various remote bench areas throughout the aquarium, perfect for a break from the crowds.

Family Activities
Visit the Family Activities page for downloadable activities to do before or after or to bring with you on your visit. Critter Go Fish, ABC Search and Make a Shark Headdress were lots of fun.

When to Visit
The Fall and Winter months are the Aquariums’ less-visited times. You’ll also find fewer visitors on weekdays and after 2 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays are the best days to visit during the peak summer months.

photo: Nella DuBon-Koch

What to Bring
The close proximity to the coast can make weather conditions variable—layers are your best bet, even in the summer. There are lockers for personal use on Hovden Way, just beyond the members’ entrance. There’s a lot of area to cover so wear comfortable shoes and bring a water bottle to fill at the various refill stations. Strollers are welcomed except in the aviary and mezzanine of the Otter exhibit. No food or drink may be consumed inside the Aquarium, however, there is plenty of outside seating where you can enjoy a packed picnic and take in the views.

The Cafe is the Aquariums’ self-serve eatery, offering casual foods including brick-oven pizza, made-to-order burgers and fresh salads. There’s plenty of seating with views of the Bay. The Restaurant is a full-service spot offering seasonal dishes such as Whole Roasted Trout, Sautéed Mussels, a full wine list, children’s menu and beautiful ocean views. The Coffee Bar is centrally located with an assortment of drinks, organic coffees and pastries.

Getting There
The Monterey Bay Aquarium is located in Monterey at the west end of historic Cannery Row. Hop aboard the MST (Monterey-Salinas Transit) trolley for a fun and free ride to the Aquarium. The trolley stops in downtown Monterey, Fisherman’s Wharf, Cannery Row and the Aquarium. Parking is available in the Downtown East Garage at 340 Tyler Street in Monterey, for a flat rate of $7 a day. There’s a trolley pick-up point located across from the garage. Click here for more trolley and parking info.

Admission/Hours
General admission: $49.95/Adult; $39.95/Students 13-17 or college ID; $39.95/Seniors; $29.95/Child 3-12; children 3 and under are free.

Members are always free and get to skip the lines! Membership is a great option for families as it typically pays for itself in two visits. 

Hours: Daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Summer hours: 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m. with extended Saturday hours for members

Monterey Bay Aquarium
886 Cannery Row
Monterey, CA 93940
831-648-4800
Online: montereybayaquarium.org

What is your favorite exhibit at the Monterey Bay Aquarium? Please share with us below!

–Nella DuBon-Koch

Photos: Monterey Bay Aquarium, except where noted.

 

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Road Trip! Monterey, Pacific Grove and Carmel

by Kate Loweth

Head south for the winter! Just over an hour’s drive from San Jose are the ocean-side towns of Monterey, Pacific Grove and Carmel. Perfect for a day trip or—better yet—a long weekend, these quaint towns offer tons for families to explore. Read on for our tips of where to eat, what to do and where to stay.

photo: © Monterey Bay Aquarium

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Monterey Bay Aquarium
If your kids want an up-close-and-personal look at tons of sea creatures, then the Monterey Bay Aquarium should be on your must-do list. Watch a diver hand-feed the sharks, fishes and other animals in the Kelp Forest exhibit. Then head over to the Tentacles exhibit to see if you can spot a Flamboyant Cuttlefish. The sea otters and penguins can keep the little ones entertained for hours. The aquarium is located on Cannery Row, a great spot to search for souvenirs or grab a snack.

Hours: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
866 Cannery Row
Monterey, CA
831-648-4800
Online: montereybayaquarium.org

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
This gorgeous area just south of downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea on Highway 1 is a great destination if you are looking to go hiking and exploring with the kids. It is $10 to park in one of their lots or you can park on Highway 1 and walk in. The hiking trails meaner over rocky cliffs and give scenic views of the California coastline. If you are lucky, you may spot a sea lion or otter in the water. Make sure you make a stop at the Whaler’s Cabin where you can learn about the area’s turn-of-the-century whaling and abalone industry. Don’t forget to dress in layers as it can get chilly on the coast.

Hours: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
62 California Highway 1
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA
Online: parks.ca.gov

photo: Joanna Gilkeson/USFWS via Flickr

The Monarch Grove Sanctuary
Every year thousands of monarch butterflies overwinter in Pacific Grove, which is why the town is referred to as “Butterfly Town, U.S.A.” Head to the sanctuary for a chance to glimpse these beautiful creature in the branches of the eucalyptus trees. There is no admission fee at the sanctuary. After your visit, swing by the Butterfly House at 309 9th Street. This private home was decorated in bright colors with a butterfly motif by its owner for his wife who could only see bright colors due to a degenerative eye condition.

250 Ridge Road
Pacific Grove, CA
Online: cityofpacificgrove.org

Downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea
Spend an afternoon walking the streets of downtown Carmel that is full of quirky shops and art around every corner. A perfect spot to picnic is Devendorf Park where the kids can run on the grass and check out the koi pond. See if you can spot the Hansel and Gretel houses and then make a stop at the Cottage of Sweets for a piece of fudge. The ground floor of the Carmel Plaza shopping area is a great spot to sit by the outdoor fires and enjoy a cup of cocoa.

Dennis the Menace Park
If you ever came to Monterey as a child, you likely played at the massive Dennis the Menace Park that has been open since 1956. While the iconic lion drinking fountain still stands, the park has undergone many different renovations over the years. Kids can run across the suspension bridge or climb one of the many playground structures. The steam engine is currently fenced off until the city can find a way to bring it up to current safety standards.

Hours: 10 a.m. to dusk
777 Pearl Street
Monterey, CA
Online: monterey.org

Beaches
One of the major draws of this area is the miles and miles of sandy beaches. At the end of Ocean Avenue in Carmel you can find Carmel Beach where both families and their furry friends are welcome. The quarter-mile boardwalk trail near Asilomar State Beach is perfect for strollers and walkers alike. This beach is also a tide pooler’s paradise when the tide is low. If your little one loves bird watching, bring them to Carmel River State Beach. Here they have the chance to spot the Great Blue Heron, the Virginia Rail, the Brown Pelican, the Greater Yellowlegs and many types of gulls, egrets and terns.

Eat

Monterey
The wharf in Monterey offers lots of options for dining out. Walk along the pier and sample all of the clam chowder that’s available as you decide where to go. The Sandbar and Grill offers views of the boats docked in the wharf with a menu consisting mostly of seafood (ribs and burgers are some non-seafood options). Cannery Row also offers many different dining options like Bubba Gump’s. Just off the main drag is Cannery Row Brewing Company that has a kid’s menu with all the typical fare as well as a giant pretzel that’s perfect for sharing.

Carmel
If your visit includes breakfast, head to Katy’s Place where the menu is loaded with kid faves like banana pancakes, Belgian waffles and French toast. Don’t let the white tablecloths of Il Fornaio turn you away. This restaurant is perfectly kid-friendly with options like pizza and pasta. They will even bring some pizza dough for the kids to play with while you are waiting!

Stay

Monterey Tides
The Monterey Tides is perfect for families as it is literally right on the beach. Not only can you choose an oceanfront room and hear the crashing waves all night, but the kids can run down the steps in front of the hotel to the sand below. Located just three miles north of the wharf in Monterey, the hotel’s beach draws surfers and sea birds alike. The hotel has a hot tub and pool and also welcomes your family dog.

Make sure you take advantage of the hotel’s s’mores on the beach option where $30 will get you firewood to start your own bonfire on the sand and enough s’mores fixin’s for your crew. The Monterey Tides also offers a 2-for-1 deal with the Monterey Bay Aquarium where you pay for one day and get a second day free. Many of their packages include dining credits to use at Vizcaino Waterfront Food + Drink, located on the hotel’s fourth floor. Breakfast there should definitely include Mickey Mouse pancakes and a whipped cream-topped hot chocolate.

2600 Sand Dunes Drive
Monterey, CA
Online: jdvhotels.com
A special thanks to the Monterey Tides, a Joie de Vivre hotel, for hosting this stay. 

Have you road tripped to this area before? Let us know your must-do activities!

—Kate Loweth

All photos by the author except where noted.

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Zoos Participate in Savage #CuteAnimalTweetOff and It’s Exactly What We Need

by Red Tricycle

It’s only the start of 2017, but a wicked battle is brewing in Twitter world . . . possibly the biggest we’ll see this year. Luckily this duel isn’t about politics, mommy wars, or anything else that’ll make you want to climb under a rock. This battle is full of adorable seals, monkeys, and tiger cubs. Who’s winning? You tell us.

It all started when Smithsonian’s National Zoo announced the birth of this adorable grey seal.

Then a Virginian, proud of her local zoo, challenged the Virginia Aquarium to deal the second card.

And the Virginia Aquarium played along.

But the National Zoo said nay. There was no way they’d lose to the Virginia Aquarium.

The two Twitter accounts would not stop! There was no controlling them!

Whoa! Look who showed up! The Bronx Zoo!

Oh snap! More zoos are throwing their hats in the ring.

When will this end? We hope never!

This has gotta’ be the greatest thing the Internet has brought us.

Who do you think won? Tell us in the comments below!

 

 

 

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The Best Boardwalks to Stroll This Summer

by Gabby Cullen

From the thrilling rides and the laughter at the midway to the soft serve ice cream, corn dogs, and saltwater taffy, there’s a reason why families flock to beaches boasting wooden planks and non-stop excitement, year after year. Take a stroll through the gallery below to discover our picks for best boardwalks to visit with kids of any age.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk – Santa Cruz, Ca

The west coast’s last original beach boardwalk opened in 1907, and boasts not one, but two National Historic Landmarks: the Giant Dipper wooden roller coaster and the Looff Carousel. The mile-long, classic California attraction manages to mix modern and vintage for the perfect boardwalk experience, from the old-school sky gliders offering riders a panoramic view of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary to classic midway games, and wild rides such as the Cliffhanger, and the Hurricane. Families can also relax on the sandy beach, or stroll down to Steamer Lane, a world-class surfing spot.

Where to eat: A must-do for visitors is grabbing sweet treats from Santa Cruz institution Marini’s Candies.

Good to know: The boardwalk has several eco-friendly practices in place: no styrofoam, solar-powered trash compactors, oil recycling, and more.

Online: beachboardwalk.com

photo: courtesy Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Which boardwalk is your favorite? Share with us in a Comment below. 

—Gabby Cullen

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The Most Magical Road Trip: Monterey

by Amber Guetebier

There’s no reason for this to be the winter of your discontent, just pack ’em in like sardines and drive south. A little over two hours from San Francisco, Monterey makes the perfect family getaway for a day (or two) of play. Read on to find out where to take your smallest Steinbecks in and around this laid back seaside town.

photo: Dave via flickr 

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The Monterey Bay Aquarium
No trip to the area is complete without exploring the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium. Don’t miss Tentacles: the whimsical, Jules-Verne influenced excursion through the world of cephalopods, packed with hands-on exhibits and kiddo-eye level tanks. Because the Aquarium is so awesome, you should allot at least 4 hours to explore. There are otter and shark feedings and other daily programs, an entire play area geared toward the younger crowd (upstairs) that includes water play and other handsy fun and even a baby tumble zone for the littlest sharks. For a truly unforgettable experience, kids ages 8-13 can enroll in the Underwater Explorers program. Read all about it here. Not far from the main entrance of the Aquarium you’ll find Cannery Row, made famous by John Steinbeck in his novel by the same name. Now a shopping area, you can take a little stretch and grab a bite or snag a sea-themed trinket to remember your trip by. 

Tip: look on nearby side streets for metered parking. There are some streets that offer 12 hour parking. While you’ll need to feed the meter, it still is cheaper than the parking lot at the Aquarium.

Hours: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
866 Cannery Row
Monterey, Ca
831-648-4800
Online: montereybayaquarium.org

photo: Greg Clemenson via flickr

The Monarch Grove Sanctuary
If you want to wow the kids take them on a short journey to one of the most magnificent and truly unique sites in California: the nesting Monarch butterflies. From October to February the butterflies overwinter here. Clusters of butterflies hang from the branches of eucalyptus and pine trees in the grove. It’s a short walk from the free parking area, and truly a sight to behold. Arrive between noon-3 p.m. when most days, from Nov. to Feb., docents from the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History are there to answer questions and enhance your viewing experience. The park is open from sunrise to sunset.

250 Ridge Rd. (between Lighthouse Ave. & Short St.)
Pacific Grove, Ca
831-648-5716
Online: cityofpacificgrove.org


photo: MYMuseum Yelp biz page

Monterey County Youth Museum
If the weather is looking gloomy or you just want to savor that coffee drink from Caffe Trieste while the tots have a blast, don’t miss the oft-overlooked MY Museum. This hands-on museum teaches kids about the area’s culture and history through exploration and activities. Climb a tree-house, put on a play, get crafty, ride a tractor and more. This little museum packs a big punch with all the kids and is well worth the stop. Bonus! It’s right downtown. 

Hours: Tues.–Sat., 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun., noon-5 p.m.
425 Washington St.
Monterey, Ca
831-649-6444
Online: mymuseum.org

Fisherman’s Wharf
It’s hard to miss this iconic wharf which, in spite of its somewhat “tourist trap” vibe is still well worth a sunset stroll with the kiddos. If chowder is your game, there’s more than one spot to hit along the wharf, but we loved taking an after-dinner walk where the the littles can gaze at the array of salt water taffy from not one but two different sweet shops. You can see the machines at work from the windows, which will enchant your little engineers almost as much as the ocean-sunset-salt air combo will enchant you.

photo: Kei Noguchi via flickr 

Go Wild

Beaches
Naturally, there’s no shortage of beaches in this coastal town. You’ve probably heard of the fine white sands of near-by Carmel but Monterey’s own sandy stretches are just as sweet for all-ages fun. Monterey State Beach is great for tidepooling (and sand castle building). Nearby Del Monte Beach is essentially an extension of Monterey State Beach, has dunes and a boardwalk, and the advantage of being across the street from the popular playground at Dennis the Menace Park. If you’re staying in downtown and want a spot to catch the serene views, take an easy walk to San Carlos Beach Park, a popular spot for divers. 

Kayaking & Seafaring Adventure
Princess Monterey Whale Watching departs near Fisherman’s Wharf and you can book tickets right there. Keep in mind that most whale watching excursions are 2 ½ to 3 hrs. long and most (including Princess) do not allow children under the age of 5 or expecting mothers. For families with littles, take to the sea in a kayak with Monterey Bay Kayaks offers guided kayaking tours in the bay as well as nearby Elkhorn Slough for families including kids as young as 3-years-old!

Monterey Bay Kayaks
Winter Hours: 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m.
693 Del Monte Ave.
Monterey, Ca

Moss Landing (Elkhorn Slough location)
2390 Highway One
Moss Landing, Ca

800-649-5357 or 831-373-5357
Online: montereybaykayaks.com 

photo courtesy Portola Hotel & Spa

Stay

Portola Hotel & Spa
There’s a wide variety of overnight accommodations in the Monterey area but for a hotel that will take your road trip to mini-vacation, stay at the Portola Hotel & Spa. Located right in downtown Monterey, it’s an easy walk to restaurants, Fisherman’s Wharf, beaches and other historic sites and museums. You’ll get a luxe vacation experience without stressing that the kids are too noisy, there’s a sweet outdoor pool (we went in even in November and the water was fine!) and jacuzzi, and mom can book a spa treatment without having to trek too far. Every guest gets a warm cookie upon check in, and kids can join the Portola Pirate Club which includes a scavenger hunt, cool pirate bag and a membership that allows them to collect prizes with every stay. The first hunt includes lobby exploration and a trek through the adjacent Candyland (you’ve been warned). Both on-site restaurants, Jack’s and Peter B.’s Brewpub welcome little diners with the Portola Pirates Menu. Room service (which delivers until 11 p.m.) also has a great selection of kid’s food. As an added bonus, the hotel offers a VIP Pet Program, with amenities like outdoor pet dining areas at Jacks & Peter B’s, pet beds, water and food bowls, so the whole family really can join. Winter specials from $199.

2 Portola Plaza
Monterey, Ca
888-222-5851
Online: portolahotel.com 

photo: Amber Guetebier

Eat

Monterey Bay Aquarium’s cafe and the Portola Hotel both sport great in-house options for kids meals. Within a short walk of Portola Plaza along Alvarado St., you’ll find pubs, sandwiches, Starbucks, bagels and even a Pinkberry. Go beyond and get your brew from boho-favorite Caffe Trieste (409 Alvarado St.) and grab a donut from Red’s Donuts, pumping out deliciousness since 1950 (433 Alvarado St.). They’re open Tues.–Sat., 6:30 a.m.–1;30 p.m. and Sun.–Mon., 6:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

About halfway between downtown and the Aquarium along Lighthouse Ave. you’ll find a variety of food in just a couple of blocks (between McClellan and Hoffman Avenues).Sushi, pizza and tacos are all great options for kids. We love Taqueria del Mar (530 Lighthouse Ave.) for its friendly, fast service, generous portions and relaxed vibe.

Looking for More? Check out our guide to nearby Carmel to extend your family vacay by the sea.

Have you visited Monterey with the kids? What’s your favorite family fun in the area? 

—Amber Guetebier

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Down By the Bay: Kayaking & Fishing Fun for Kids

by laure latham

If it weren’t for pruney fingers, we’re pretty sure our kids would never get out of the water. Between their obsession with the aquarium and anything related to Finding Nemo or Spongebob Squarepants, quenching their thirst for all things ocean is no easy feat. And while we can’t spend our days underwater like Jacques Cousteau, Bay Area kids can enjoy some ocean-centric activities that are both easy on the wallet and will give your little ones a different appreciation of the ocean – and maybe widen their food horizon. Check out our picks for everything from fishing, kayaking, and general ocean fun for your little water babies.

Kayak with the Kids
Paddling along the San Francisco Bay or the Monterey, your kids will see up-close what they can only see on Discovery Channel: sea harbors scratching their itches, pelicans diving for fish from the sky, or sea otters grooming their fur while resting on their backs. Seeing marine wildlife actually living in front of your eyes is a story to remember for years to come and kids will love it. All you need to do is rent an open-top kayak (no experience necessary) and paddle out for a couple hours with the kids sitting at the front, their hands free to “oooh” and “aaah” while you steer.

Based out of Sausalito, Sea Trek has no minimum age, provide instructions on safe kayaking with kids and gear you up with snug life jackets for the whole family. Trips offered at their Sausalito waterfront base as well as around Angel Island or Tomales Bay.

Sea Trek Ocean Kayaking Center
Schoonmaker Point Marina
85 Libertyship Way
Sausalito, Ca
415-332-8494
Online: seatrek.com

Based out of Monterey, Monterey Bay Kayaks requires children be at least 5 years of age. Once you’re there, they charge a flat fee for unlimited kayaking on the same day, provide safe kayak instruction, wetsuits and life jackets. From there on you can join a tour or paddle at your own pace around the Monterey waterfront and kelp forests or inside the Elkhorn Slough.

Monterey Bay Kayaking
693 Del Monte Avenue
Monterey, Ca
800-649-5357
Online: montereybaykayaks.com

Go Crab!
How many sea creatures do you think live around these rocks or piers? To inspire young SpongeBob Square Pants lovers to observe sea life from the safety and dryness of land, go fishing! It’s the perfect way to find out what’s out there – and potentially make a meal out of it.

Generally speaking, kids under 16 don’t need a fishing license. You do, but the exception is fishing from a pier and that’s actually the best place to catch crabs. From any pier inside the San Francisco Bay, you can only keep red rock crabs. You will likely pull up some Dungeness but you have to throw them back — it’s their breeding ground. Outside the San Francisco Bay (Pacifica Pier, for instance), you can keep Dungies (in season only).

Can’t tell one crab from the other? Kids will love learning the difference between the types of crabs and how to measure them. If dinner is on your mind, here’s what you need to know: you can keep either males or female Dungies that measure at least 5 3/4 inches across at the widest part of the shell rock crabs, and rock crabs whose shell measures at least 4 inches. The bag limit is 10 legal-size crabs for Dungeness and 35 for rock crabs – if you’re feeling good karma, invite your friends over for dinner! You can find out all the details in the regulations.

The entire crabbing setup costs maybe $25 and that’s for equipment you can use over and over again. You need a hoop net, a bait cage, some rope, some zip ties and some bait. Bait can range from leftover chicken bought at Safeway to frozen squid from a bait store. Everybody’s got their favorite!

It’s as easy as putting the bait in the bait cage, zip-tying it closed and chucking the whole contraption off the side of the pier. After 15 minutes, the kids can haul it up. It’s quite a thrill to see what you’ve caught! Sometimes you get other things, too (starfish are pretty common).

Go Fish!
Well, the same could be said about fish as for crabs: no fishing license required under age 16 and no license required at all if you fish from a pier. Of course you’ll need a fishing pole, hooks and weights to catch anything that swims with fins. Your local tackle shop can set you up with a beginner set that will work just fine in small hands. To find out what you can catch from any pier in California (coast or bay), check out the website Pier Fishing before your trip!

Sea Foraging
The ultimate foraging experience consists in sea foraging with master forager Kirk Lombard publisher of the hilarious Monkey Face News. Check his website for information on the next sea foraging tours for kids – and don’t be surprised if the kids ask you to go clamming or mussel-ing instead of tide pooling next time you’re on the coast!

Feeling inspired? Want to share your favorite sea experiences? We want to know how your get your kids to love the ocean beyond the plastic beach toys.

— Laure Latham

photos courtesy of Sea Trek Kayaking, Don DeBold, & Laure Latham

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Kid-Friendly Monterey and Carmel

by writerredtri
Exploring the touch pool at the Monterey Bay Aquarium

Kid-Friendly Monterey – Exploring Monterey Bay and Carmel Peninsula with Kids

Spring is the perfect time to introduce young ones to the wonders of the Monterey Bay and the surrounding coast. Along with the usual sea lions, pelicans, and otters, the gray whales’ migration is in full swing, so with the help of some binoculars, littlies can get a glimpse of some blowholes and flipping tails out amongst the waves.

Of course, weather can be a bit unpredictable in the spring, so if you find your beach plans socked in by fog or your hike plans bumped by rain, there are far worse places to find yourself than the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium. In fact, we think a perfect day would be spent waiting out the fog and getting acquainted with the creatures at the aquarium, then spending the afternoon outside in the sun and sea air.

WHERE TO STAY:

As one of northern California’s biggest tourist destinations, the Fisherman’s Wharf and Cannery Row areas of Monterey boast plenty of family-friendly accommodations. However, while some have gotten a bit shabby over the years, a pair of centrally-located ones have been renovated and are worthy of your attention. First, there’s the Monterey Bay Inn, which boasts private balconies in all of its guest rooms, as well as a rooftop hot tub with view of the bay. Complimentary breakfast delivered to your room is another plus (rates start at around $180/night) .

Our other downtown pick is the Clement.

Kids on the climbing wall at the Clement

With its modern decor and oceanfront patio (as well as many rooms with balconies and fireplaces), it’s quickly becoming the go-to spot for those in the know (rates start at around $170/night). TIP: the onsite VIP Kids Club provides childcare options and babysitting, so that you can steal some private time with your spouse. Kids can scramble on a climbing wall, play video games, or learn more about Monterey while you enjoy grown-up time.

If you’d rather stay away from Cannery Row, the Julia Morgan-designed Asilomar Conference Center, in nearby Pacific Grove, offers more of a resort feel. From its perch among the dunes, you can wander the surrounding boardwalks on foot or bicycle, and they offer aquarium packages—an awesome way to save money for some stuffed sea otter souvenirs (rates start at around $120/night, aquarium package for $191/night)

GET OUT AND PLAY:

First stop: the Monterey Bay Aquarium. If you haven’t been in awhile, you’ll want to check out the blackfoot penguins, which are always a major hit with kids. And the Secret Life of Seahorses, a special exhibit featuring several different species of these ethereal, captivating creatures, is another surefire crowd-pleaser. The Rocky Shore touch pool (is your tot brave enough to stroke a sea cucumber?) and the outer bay exhibit (complete with glowing, drifting jellyfish) are also must-sees for the little ones.

Located near Fisherman’s Wharf, MY Museum is another rainy day attraction for families. The 100% hand-on exhibit is ideal for the under 5 set, with miniature sandy beaches, vegetable fields and golf courses that replicate the world just outside the museum doors.   It has reciprocal family memberships with children’s museums all over the country, including the San Jose Children’s Discovery Museum, the Bay Area Discovery Museum in Sausalito and Habitot in Berkeley.

Teeming with kids on the weekends, Dennis the Menace playground is located just steps from the Monterey Pier and  Del Monte beach in Monterey’s Estero Park. Built with a donation from cartoonist and Monterey local Hank Ketcham, the park’s been around since 1956, and several renovations over the decades have improved it. Standout features include a life-sized train engine that kids can climb all over, a suspension bridge, a hedge maze, several massive climbing structures and, of course, a bronze statue of Dennis that your little menaces will love posing next to.

If it’s sun, sand, and sea you’re after, head a few miles south. Carmel Beach always finds a special place in the hearts of visitors. Maybe it’s the supersoft sand, the frolicking fams and pooches, the tidepools ripe for exploring or the great views of Pebble Beach (earth to dad…earth to dad…). Either way, it’s one of our favorite beaches in all of California. TIP: the parking lot is usually full, so look for parking first on a nearby side street.

For some full-on coastal drama, the views of the water and of Carmel from Point Lobos make for some of the best photos around. Organize the group for a family snapshot, then take a short hike, checking out sea otters, sea lions and harbor seals along the way. TIP: Beware of poison oak, it’s rampant around here, and the brambly bushes sprout only tiny (but still potent and itch-inducing) leaves as warning. Wear long sleeves and pants, stay on the path, and you’ll be rewarded with a quintessential Cali experience, minus the itchies.

GET THEM TO EAT:

It’s easy to overspend on oversized plates of mediocre seafood, but if you keep things simple, everyone will stay happy. Grabbing a bowl of chowder from Old Fisherman’s Grotto on the Monterey Pier or some fish tacos from The Fishwife’s Turtle Bay Taqueria are great options for lunch, and for dinner, Taste Café or Red House Café, both in Pacific Grove, offer elegant fare for adults along with kid-friendly fare in tasteful settings.

Do you have a favorite kid-friendly restaurant or activity in Monterey? Let us know!

—Sarah Bossenbroek

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