Monterey County bucket list, short edition: 26 things you must do in Monterey, Pacific Grove and Carmel, California

Welcome active people, culture lovers and foodies! I present to you a cultivated assortment of the things that I recommend the most after three years living in this magical area with awesome weather and lovely flowers. I've included many simple pleasures, some great deals and a few worthy splurges. Of course, there are plenty more excellent culinary options and outings to be enjoyed across Monterey County, but here are my suggestions to get you started. 

Must-do activities:

1. Have a latte in the garden behind Alta Bakery and Cafe. We often park on Pacific Street near the library and walk over.
2. Visit the Monterey Aquarium to say hello to the indoor otters or rent a kayak through Adventures by the Sea to say hello to the outdoor ones off of Monterey's beaches.
3. Hike Inspiration Point in Carmel. Warning: it is steep but worth it. There is a port-a-potty at the bottom of the big hill. 
4. Buy bread from Ad Astra Bread Co. Beyond the storefront, it's also sold at various farmers markets.
5. Attend First Friday in Pacific Grove and be sure to visit Vintage Finds and the Pacific Grove Art Center (keep an eye out for their Tiny Treasures fundraiser and raffle--typically in July and August!)
6. See a movie (or a few) at the Lighthouse Cinema.
7. Enjoy all of the chips and salsa at Peppers Mexicali Cafe after wandering the Pacific Grove Farmers Market Mondays from 3 - 6 pm in the winter, 3 - 7 pm other seasons.
8. Wave hello to the cows in the field outside the entrance to Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. You can also park off of the road there and walk in to skip the park entrance fee. 
9. Eat weekday breakfast outside at Mission Ranch Hotel and Restaurant to savor an amazing view.
10. Eat bees knees ice cream from Revival Ice Cream.

Best annual events:

1. See "calla lily valley" in Garrapata State Park in late January through March.
2. Attend Carmel-by-the-Sea Culinary Week.
3. Check out the events schedule at Earthbound Farm Stand. Try for the flower picking.
4. Consider a relay team for the Big Sur Marathon Relay in April (Warning: you will have to wake up really early) and/or work the expo volunteering with Monterey Public Library or volunteer at the race itself with another worthy charity.
5. Trick or treat (or just people-watch) around "Candy Cane Lane" aka Morse Drive in Pacific Grove. Park across the street near Pacific Grove High School or similar.
6. Christmas: buy a ticket for Christmas at the Inns and explore the beautiful, historic bed and breakfasts of Pacific Grove and more.
7. Christmas: buy a ticket for Christmas in the Adobes to tour the architectural gems of Monterey.

Bonus activities:

1. Bike part of 17 Mile Drive. Bikers enter the gate for free. Be sure to watch for cars and tourists. 
2. Watch the sunset at Carmel beach then enjoy a meal at Jeju Kitchen or Pangaea Grill (perhaps at the mayor's table in the back).
3. Try out the running/walking group with Fleet Feet Monterey (typically Monday nights at 6 pm, but check the schedule).
4. Splurge on a Refuge spa pass for a silent day of relaxation in Carmel Valley.
5. Visit the Cannery Row Antique Mall.
6. Order at the bar (inside the lobby on the left; the more-expensive restaurant is to the right) at L'Auberge.
7. Try the international coffee options at Seaside's Creperie Cafe.
8. See a show at Carmel's Outdoor Forest Theatre.
9. Join the wine club at Taste of Monterey and have a free weekly happy hour for two staring at the ocean. Note: parking is kind of challenging and they close early, 6 pm Sunday through Thursday and 7 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.

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If you're looking for more right now, some of my other articles feature brunch suggestions in Monterey and Santa Cruz counties and night out/date night ideas for Monterey and Santa Cruz counties (RIP Salinas Valley Food & Wine). For more suggestions, check out two hour after-work Monterey adventures and outdoor activities around Monterey. If you're looking to give back while exploring the community, see these volunteer opportunities for families around Monterey county. And if you make the trip to SF, here are some recommended San Francisco art museums--check with each museum for the latest events.

California's Quirky Fairs & Festivals (originally for Monterey Bay Parent Magazine)

WHALEFEST MONTEREY

April 13-14, 2024 | Whalefest.org

World-renowned marine experts and a variety of local groups share whale facts, maps and opportunities to support our biggest neighbors. Enjoy music from 12 different artists/groups including the very appropriately named “Jonah and the Whalewatchers” and Nicholas Fettis and his “Orca”stra, visit a marine research vessel and more at this outdoor event. Admission is free.

JACKALOPE INDIE ARTS FAIR

Pasadena | April 27-28, 2024

Burbank | June 8-9 and December 7-8, 2024 | JackalopeArtFair.com

Explore items from more than 200 local artisans across a variety of disciplines while enjoying live music at this outdoor fair. Kids may particularly enjoy making customizable slime, getting glitter tattoos and unicorn braids, coloring a free postcard or getting a custom poem written about them. In Burbank, peruse goods from more than 170 local artisans including specially featured young artisans showing off their handmade items. Admission to this event is free at both locations.

SANTA CRUZ MOUNTAIN MUSHROOM FESTIVAL

Felton | May 4-5, 2024 | CaliforniaMushroomFestival.com

“Building community through fungi”: Experience this new festival focused on our local mushroom bounty. Enjoy demos, DIY booths, nature walks, live music and a kids zone.

KINETIC GRAND CHAMPIONSHIP

Humboldt County | May 25-27, 2024 | KineticGrandChampionship.com

For three days, pilots and crews guide kinetic sculptures in a 40-mile race across roads, sand, mud and water. These “all-terrain human-powered art vehicles” include fun details such as faces, fire cannons and other unusual features. This event has been held for more than 50 years: now it’s your turn to experience it.

CALIFORNIA EXTREME

Santa Clara | July 27-28, 2024 | CAExtreme.org

“The classic arcade game show”: Lean into your nostalgia and play hundreds of old-school games, all day with no coins needed. Options include pinball machines, arcade games, video games and many that you just can’t find much any more. Introduce the kids to your hard-to-find favorites!

THE WORLD DOG SURFING CHAMPIONSHIPS

Pacifica | August 3, 2024 | SurfDogChampionships.com

“Hanging ten with man’s best friend”: Human and dog surfers gather to seek the best waves at Linda Mar Beach. You’re guaranteed to catch lots of fun sights. Grab some dog surfing merchandise while you’re there. The event helps raise money for good causes. Admission is free.

THE LITTLE CAR SHOW

Pacific Grove | August 14, 2024

Featuring over 100 cars from micro to mini to arcane vehicles, you’ll enjoy browsing and cheering for these cute, fun cars as much as your kids will. Browse on Lighthouse Avenue or watch them cruise down Ocean View Boulevard to Asilomar State Beach. Free admission.

NIGHTS OF THE JACK

Calabasas | September 29-October 31, 2024 | NightsoftheJack.com

“The premiere immersive Halloween experience”: Lights everywhere, pumpkins made into huge animals such as gorillas and elephants, Jack-o-Lantern trees and more. Walk their spooky trail with some hot cider.

DEATH VALLEY ‘49ERS ENCAMPMENT

Death Valley National Park | DeathValley49ers.org

Join the Death Valley ‘49ers for gold rush-style activities, from gold panning and gem mining, doll-making, and blacksmithing demonstrations. 2024 marks the 75th anniversary of this event.

INDIO INTERNATIONAL TAMALE FESTIVAL

December 7-8, 2024 | IndioTamaleFestival.com

Celebrated since the 1990s, venture to Indio in early December to enjoy thousands of tamales, carnival rides, mariachi, and plenty of music appealing to all ages. Which flavor will be your favorite? Free admission.

Flying With A Baby: Tips to Make it Better Than You Expect

I dreaded the first flights with my baby (five in total over the course of three weeks), but thanks to following these tips, I had a surprisingly great experience! Hope they are helpful.

Crowdsourced from many wise people I've encountered:

-Make sure the baby starts sucking 40 min before landing to protect their ears—set a timer based on when landing is predicted.

-Bring extra clothes for the baby and all adults.

-Wear a baby carrier through the airport and definitely through security.

-Drink extra water whenever you can—flight attendants are happy to help—and pack plenty of snacks for yourself.

-Wear a Boppy as a neck pillow then it will be handy for nursing and for letting baby sleep on.

-Use the MAMAVA App to find nursing spaces. Or review designated nursing spaces on the airport’s map.

-Don't board early; we found it most helpful to board as late as possible after friends had recommended it. Obviously stay close so you don’t cause any trouble making the flight.

-Wear a nursing cover scarf if you like.

-You can get a free pass from the airline ticket counter for someone to accompany you to the boarding gate.

-Flight attendants can heat up bottles for you. No need to ask for a cup of hot water and fumble with it yourself.

-Dressing in layers is very helpful.

-Change diapers as close to when you board as possible: you may be able to skip or at least minimize plane changes.

Quick Revival of Monterey Tea Favorite (originally for Edible Monterey Bay)

Cha-ya Japanese Tea & Things is now Cha-Ya Boutique and Tea House under new proprietor Ariel Wolansky, who also owns The Xocolatl Garden in Carmel. 

Previous owner Mitsuko Gammon closed the shop at the end of 2023 to spend more time with family, after sharing her tea expertise with the area since 2005. Thankfully another tea enthusiast swooped in to keep it alive. 

“Being a tea fan and seeing a place that’s been around for 18 years closing, originally I reached out to help find a way for it to not close,” said Wolansky. The new team soft-reopened in early February.

Wolansky has been studying and appreciating tea for over a decade with many tea teachers from China who have dedicated their whole lives to learning about tea and sharing it. “One of my passions is tea and one is chocolate, and I wanted to do both,” he said. 

Cha-ya devotees will be thrilled to learn that the new owner has maintained all of Gammon’s prior Japanese tea connections and will continue to offer a wide variety of Japanese teas. Other tea options will include Chinese teas such as Puerh and oolong along with Japanese favorites such as matcha, Azuma organic green tea directly from the farm and Den’s Tea specialty green teas. 

Cha-ya’s new owner Ariel Wolansky with former owner Mitsuko Gammon.

Wolansky is also adding a variety of locally produced items, including matcha cookies made by neighbors and beloved Monterey pastry chefs Anne Parker Johnson and Yann Lusseau of Parker-Lusseau. 

Hand-harvested Garden of the Universe herbal teas made by Big Sur biologist, herbalist, forager, medicine maker and beekeeper Katie Rose will be on offer, along with loose-leaf tea blends from ZumZum Tea made by Salinas duo Anthony and Kimberly Chavez—self-described “die-hard tea lovers” who respect Fair Trade practices and sell their teas at local farmers markets.

Besides all the tea options, Cha-Ya Boutique and Tea House now offers 20 types of tea-flavored chocolates, such as award-winning small-batch Genmai Cha (toasted rice and green tea) Jade Chocolate from San Francisco, organic, vegan Goodio Candied Chamomile chocolate stone-ground in Finland, Fossa Chocolate with Oolong tea, Hojicha chocolate, Taiwanese chocolate and other selections from Wolansky’s own brand, Choquiero Chocolate. “They’ll have to come in to see all the options,” he teased.

The shop is adding new teas, tea flavored chocolates and Japanese specialty items.

Other additions include new seating in the shop where people can come in to enjoy tea, as well as the opportunity to have a tea ceremony (please allow 30 minutes for a tea ceremony). The space is also available for private events after-hours. 

There are also plans to host weekly social tea gatherings and monthly chocolate and tea events, similar to the “Chocolate and Tea Gatherings” held at The Xocolatl Garden, so keep an eye on social media for those. 

“Chocolate and Tea Gatherings started as free events for people to enjoy, gather around and share. Really to bring the community together,” he adds.

Wolansky will also be working with tea connoisseurs to offer exclusive specialty items including Soga Shohaku art, tansus (Traditional portable storage chests from Japan), scrolls, ceramic and clay teapots alongside silk fans and Mihoko origami cranes. Other unique offerings include tea pets, Yixing, Gaiwan and Japanese tea pots, Gongfu tea kits with various tray options and lots of tea accessories. Cha-Ya also now carries body care products including tea-based creams and Japanese-style bath bombs.

A recent Instagram post shares the vibe: “Lost in the quiet charm of Cha-Ya, where teas are stories, art whispers, and time takes its time. Embracing the slow sips and simplicity of the moment. From cozy ceremonies to a cup for the road, join us in finding joy in the little things.” Head over to experience it yourself. 

Cha-Ya Boutique and Tea House • 118 Webster Street, Monterey • Open F-Sa 11 am-6 pm and Su-Th 11am-4 pm • @ChaYaMonterey

Q&A With Monterey-Area Camp Directors (originally for Monterey Bay Parent Magazine)

Gain some inside info from our question and answer session with three experienced local camp directors.

Did you attend camp as a child? If so, what was your favorite part?

AA I attended an overnight camp a couple of times. My favorite part was the same that I hear from our campers: the camp community!

KC Yes! Summer camp was always a highlight! I have fond memories of building Rube Goldberg machines and spending most of my summer days playing sports from sunrise to sunset. Camp allowed me to try new things, gain confidence, and build friendships.

MT I attended our Playground Program during the summer and enjoyed all the sports and outdoor games.

What is the role of a camp director in a nutshell?

AA Facilitate everything that goes into creating a memorable and meaningful camper experience and provide opportunities for girls to try new things, grow within themselves, and, of course, have fun.

KC Create a vibrant and inclusive camp culture, uphold safety standards, and provide support to staff members. They’re also involved in communication with parents, community outreach, and budget management. Ultimately, they play a crucial role in shaping the camp’s mission, fostering a supportive environment, and facilitating memorable experiences for all.

What should parents/guardians think about most when choosing a camp?

AA Camp philosophy and values, inclusion and diversity practices, safety measures, programming, communication protocol, facilities, registration flexibility, and lastly, camper independence and personal growth.

KC Camp values, safety, diverse and inclusive programming, as well as a friendly and welcoming environment.

Pros and cons of trying new camps versus sticking with old favorites?

AA New camps offer campers the opportunity to meet new friends and try new activities. Familiar camps let campers build on existing friendships and relive favorite traditions.

KC New camps provide an opportunity for fresh experiences, diverse activities, and the chance to meet new friends. New camps encourage campers to step out of their comfort zones, foster personal growth, and expose them to a broader range of interests. Potential downsides include the uncertainty of the camp experience, adjustment challenges, and the risk of not meeting expectations.

MT New camps mean new experiences that allow a child to discover different interests but could cause some anxiety. Old favorites provide consistency, comfort, and confidence.

What recommendations would you make for a first-time camper? For others?

AA Support your child no matter what they are feeling—nervous, excited, or both—by asking questions and modeling curiosity. Ask: “What sounds like an activity you will enjoy?” “What is something you are wondering about?” “I wonder what you will get to try?”

KC Have an open and positive conversation with the child about what to expect. Discuss the fun activities, new friends, and the supportive staff to alleviate any concerns.

MT Definitely prepare your child beforehand and be supportive. Open communication with the staff is key.

For a shyer child

AA It’s important to understand that every child has different social needs, and these needs can change over time. In the all-girls community of Summer at Santa Catalina, we intentionally design our camp days to encourage connection across interests and age groups.

KC Encourage participation in smaller group activities initially to help build comfort and connections.

MT Prepare your child and be supportive as well as communicative to the staff. Shyer children need to be eased into activities. Finding a friend who they can connect with helps.

For a more active kid

AA Look for a camp with adventurous activities and the ability to try something new. Our campers love picking their own classes—taking a marine biology class, ceramics, sports, and dance, all in one day!

KC Choose camps that offer a variety of high-energy and physically engaging activities to keep the child stimulated and excited throughout the camp day!

MT Make sure that the program fits offering more things outdoors and a variety of activities with smooth transitions.

For an artsy little one

AA Summer at Santa Catalina offers a wide variety of visual and performing arts activities starting at age 7, and our musical theater program is open to campers ages 8–14.

KC Ensure the camp environment is supportive of self-expression, allowing the child to embrace and showcase their creative side.

MT There should be a variety of activities that allow the child to express themselves and be creative while also getting them to come out of their comfort zone and explore something new.

For an older child

AA Look for camps that offer leadership opportunities. Our goal is for campers to identify their own leadership strengths and styles while building inner resources to grow from conflict and failure.

KC Consider camps with specialized programs that align with their specific interests, whether leadership, adventure, or academic pursuits. Encourage your child to actively engage with peers through games, team-building, and shared experiences.

MT Definitely look for ways that your child can gain leadership skills while still having fun.

My Favorite Survival Tips for a New Baby’s Arrival

Notes to my friends and my future early postpartum self!

-Everything on the KellyMom website—my Lactation Consultant told me it was all the same advice she gives.

-Have lots of extra burp cloths, baby towels, regular towels, extra t-shirts nearby because they run out faster than you’d think at the beginning.

-Wear lightweight button-down shirts to help with feedings and your temperature changes.

-Listening to the First Forty Days audiobook (by Heng Ou) was helpful to encourage me to take it slow.

-MamasteFit has a free early postpartum course with some suggested breathing and stretching.

-Massage from the outside in as you’re nursing sometimes: a veteran women’s health nurse said it’s the most common place to have issues.

-Try free doula text support from JustBirthSpace on Facebook messenger.

-Have your partner prep multiple water glasses in the bathroom and near the couch/bed so that it's nearby anytime the urge strikes plus will hopefully remind you to drink.

-Request a referral and set up a future appointment with a pelvic floor PT—at least in my area, it takes a while to get in—and they can assist with an exam, breathing and mobility exercises, scar tissue mobilization and a diastasis recti check if you are uncomfortable or unsure about what to do on your own like I was. They may even offer virtual consultations!

-Use the side-lying feeding position to get some "pseudo-rest".

-Leave the house dirty, it’ll be okay. It's just a season and nothing is normal right now.

-Try for the 5-5-5 rule: 5 days in bed, 5 days on the bed and 5 days around the bed. My doula recommended no more than 15 minute walks in the first month and being horizontal as much as possible the first two weeks.

-Let the light in during baby’s daytime naps for a bit to help with day-night confusion.

-Keep cashews, almonds, your nut of choice or protein bars very nearby to prevent urgent hanger.

-Try infant massage for baby gas.

-Hang up anything wet to air dry—get your partner to do it if you’re too tired.

And know that it will definitely get easier!

Family Photos Around Monterey, CA

(So I decided to write this article within an hour of taking family photos and didn’t even realize until the next day. Is this “mom brain”? Probably.)

If photos bring you joy, take advantage of your kids’ cuteness and the many local photographers to preserve memories in our beautiful home. It’s a truly spectacular area among the loveliest in the country. Please be sure to use a “Leave No Trace” mindset to keep it pristine for everyone.

“I feel beyond grateful to photograph families around the Monterey Peninsula. It is truly one-of-a-kind area—there is so much beauty and variety here. Garrapata Beach, Sobrennes Trail and Fort Ord Dunes are my favorites,” said experienced photographer Alexandra Podobnik of Alexandra Megan Photography.

 

Here are some ideas of worthwhile locations, no matter what backdrop you crave:

Around Town

-Your home or yard: Feel happiest right where you are? Simplify logistics and take advantage of your own space and things. Perhaps include favorite family items. Ideally spruce up a bit first—perhaps schedule for right after spring cleaning.

-Main Street, Salinas*: Cool storefronts and signage.

-Colton Hall Lawn, Monterey: Spacious grassy lawn in the middle of historic downtown.

-Portrait studio: Capture classic personality or heirloom-style portraits and newborns in a home studio with a clean backdrop such as offered locally by Love in Focus (https://loveinfocusphotos.com/).

-The neighborhood around Alta Bakery, Monterey*: Great architecture and flowers.

-Downtown Carmel*: Enjoy the storybook vibes.

-Behind the Custom House, Monterey*: Gorgeous flowers, Adobe character.

-(For military only) Hotel Del Monte, Monterey*: Steeped in history with great steps, fountains, rooftop and a rose garden.

-Cannery Row, Monterey*: It’s classic for a reason. Go early to try to miss crowds.

 

Greenery

-Jack’s Peak Park, Monterey*: Great views high above the peninsula. Prepare for a hike.

-Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, Carmel*: Enjoy this favorite area park’s wide variety of trails but avoid peak time by going on weekdays or near closing. Definitely comfortable shoes.

-Nisene Marks, Aptos*: Amazing for redwoods.

-Garland Ranch Regional Park, Carmel Valley*: There are plenty of trails, trees, and tall grass plus the Carmel hills in the background. Be careful to avoid poison oak.

-Check with local flower and veggie farms* in Salinas, Carmel and more based on your favorites.

 

Coastline

-Lover’s Point and the rec trail, Pacific Grove*: There are so many sweet spots along the trail. Consider avoiding peak commute/exercise times.

-Asilomar Beach, Pacific Grove*: It’s a classic for a reason.

-Ribera Beach, Carmel*: Striking rocks and trails.

-Garrapata State Park, Carmel*: Go especially when the winter/early spring lilies are out but be prepared for mud. We like to wear rain boots.

-Bixby Bridge pull-off, Carmel*: Bring along some extra patience for managing the parking situation here. (Be sure to check if the road is open before you set out as the Big Sur area can be precarious.)

-Fort Ord Dunes Park, Seaside*: Majestic sand dunes and good parking near the ocean.

*Please be mindful that permits are required for these locations.

 

Some tips to make the most of family photos:

-Consider nap times and schedules to aim for the smiliest times.

-Pack water, snacks, bottles and/or common kid requests.

-Consider diapers and/or potty breaks in your plan.

-Pre-apply sunscreen, as needed, taking care not to get on clothing.

-Aim for golden hour (one hour after sunrise or before sunset) in the morning or evening if you can.

-Take some toys along to encourage smiling.

-Pack several extra outfits, especially for littler ones.

-Perhaps pick a photographer who has children so you know that they’ll understand much of what you’re working with. Our favorite photographer helped us make many fart noises to make the baby smile with amazing results.