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Planning some family time in Monterey for the holidays? While Monterey is known for its sophisticated attractions, it's also full of whimsical and educational spots that are perfect for all ages. Check out five kid-friendly holiday activities in Monterey that your whole family will love!
Monterey Bay Aquarium
This Cannery Row gem shows off the amazing ecosystems of Monterey Bay! Visitors can watch moon jellies, sea otters, African penguins, and many more aquarium residents during an educational and exciting visit. The explorable habitats at the aquarium include beaches and dunes, coastal wetlands, coral reefs, kelp forests, deep sea, sand seafloor, and rocky shore.
Ice Skating by the Bay
This seasonal event marks the holidays in Monterey each year! From the middle of November through just after New Year's Day, Custom House Plaza transforms into a frozen wonderland. Enjoy this lovely outdoor rink as you take in magical and heartwarming views of Monterey Bay during a family skating day!
Monarch Grove Butterfly Sanctuary
The holiday season is the ideal time to see butterflies in Monterrey. Monarch butterflies flock to Monterey County in October to settle into the area's deep forest groves for the winter season. During this "wintering" event for these majestic flutterers, visitors catch a glimpse of the wonder at the Pacific Grove's Monarch Grove Butterfly Sanctuary. The sanctuary is free to visitors. Come to watch and photograph the butterflies without touching them at any point from October through February.
Winter Monterey Bay Whale Watching
Whale watching is simply one of the best kid-friendly holiday activities in Monterey to do over a winter break. During winter, whales nestle into the Monterey Bay Canyon. While the waters can be home to blue whales and humpback whales at different times of year, gray whales are abundant in this wintertime habitat. Gray whales migrate from colder arctic waters during winter to breed in California's warmer lagoons. Their presence is commonly observed in Monterey Bay from December to February, before they continue migrating northward. It's also possible to spot orcas in Monterey Bay in the winter.
First Night Monterey
Don't miss First Night Monterey if you're ringing in the upcoming year with a family trip to Monterey. Taking place on New Year's Eve from midnight until the end of the night, this fun and safe event features live music and a variety of activities all night long. There's even free admission for children under the age of 6. If you're looking for something to do early, consider checking out the Kids' Night Out portion of the event, which wraps up by 5:30 p.m. on New Year's Eve. Be sure to obtain your admission button(s) in advance for this event.
Make It a Happy Holiday Season in Monterey This Year
Not sure where to bring the family for winter break? Winter getaways in Monterey epitomize the cheerful feelings and magical memories your family dreams of every year! Mild weather and beautiful views ensure that your trip will check all the boxes for excitement and relaxation.
