Monterey Trip
If you're looking for a relaxing weekend getaway with your family, Monterey, California is a perfect destination. With its stunning coastal views, delicious seafood, and numerous outdoor activities, Monterey has something for everyone.
Liam enjoying his hard-boiled egg while watching the sea lions swim by, birds fly by.
This was a truly memorable weekend for us. Every morning we got up to watch the beautiful sunrise while we enjoyed our breakfast from our little balcony. I am so happy I got to share this experience with my baby and husband.
Here is our itinerary for a weekend trip to Monterey in March with our 15-month-old toddler:
Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the Town
10:00 am: Arrive in Monterey and check into your hotel. For families with toddlers, it's recommended to stay in a hotel close to the town center, so that you can easily explore the town on foot. For this trip we stayed at the Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa.
Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa
It was a long and early drive and not an easy one either, but we made it! We took a quite selfie once we checked in and headed out to explore.
11:00 am: Take a stroll around the town center and explore the shops, restaurants, and galleries. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is also located in the town center, so if you're interested in visiting, you can purchase tickets and spend a few hours there.
Easily my favorite photographed moment from our trip to Monterey.
Family time and hundreds of mesmerizing jellyfishes.
12:30 pm: Have lunch at one of the many seafood restaurants in the area. A few recommendations include the Fish Hopper, Old Fisherman's Grotto, or the Wharf Marketplace.
2:00 pm: After lunch, take a walk along the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail, a beautiful path that runs along the coastline. The trail is stroller-friendly and offers stunning views of the ocean.
4:00 pm: Head back to your hotel for a rest and to recharge before dinner.
6:00 pm: Have dinner at one of the many family-friendly restaurants in the area, such as Gianni's Pizza, Crepes of Brittany, or Rosine's. If you have time, take a stroll around the town center to see it illuminated at night.
Pan-seared scallops risotto in tomato sauce. One of my favorite dinner entrees when I eat out is pan-seared scallops risotto of some kind.
We ended up get room service both nights because with a toddler it’s much more convenient and less exhausting to eat out.
I got to share this plate with Liam in bed while watching TV. Everything about this evening was so satisfying. I was one happy mama. :)
Day 2: Outdoor Activities and More Exploring
9:00 am: Start your day with a visit to the Monterey State Historic Park, where you can learn about the history of the town and its importance during the California Gold Rush.
11:00 am: Take a short drive to the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, which is a great place for families with toddlers. There are easy walking trails that are stroller-friendly and offer amazing views of the ocean and wildlife. Don't forget to bring a picnic lunch to enjoy on one of the many picnic tables in the reserve.
2:00 pm: After lunch, head to the Monterey Bay Aquarium for a few hours of exploration. The aquarium is a great place for families with toddlers, as there are interactive exhibits and programs designed specifically for young children.
5:00 pm: Return to your hotel for some rest and relaxation before dinner.
7:00 pm: Have dinner at a family-friendly restaurant, such as the Cannery Row Brewing Company or the Beach House at Lovers Point.
Day 3: Departure
9:00 am: Start your day with breakfast at a local cafe, such as Cafe Lumiere or Happy Girl Kitchen.
10:00 am: Take a stroll around the town center for some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
12:00 pm: Check out of your hotel and head back home, or if you have some extra time, visit one of the nearby attractions such as the Carmel Mission or the Point Sur Lighthouse.
In conclusion, Monterey, California is a wonderful destination for a weekend getaway with a 15-month-old toddler. With its beautiful scenery, family-friendly activities, and delicious food, Monterey is sure to provide an unforgettable experience for the whole family.
