Marooned in Monterey with munchkins?
Written: May 30 '00
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Something for everybody
Cons: Bring lots of sunblock
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| bonzobean's Full Review: Big Sur |
Having lived in Monterey while single, I appreciated its diverseness. Walking down the street, I'd eavesdrop on people speaking German, Spanish, Tagalog, or some other foreign language and I loved it. I loved browsing the book stores and art galleries. If you like kayaking, SCUBA diving, and rock climbing, you'll love Monterey, but these are all decidedly adult-type activities. In fact, I never really would have considered Monterey very kid friendly, that is until I had a child of my own.
As parents, my husband and I realized what tough work it is being a toddler and our 22 month old son deserved a much-needed vacation. So, last week, we packed our bags and headed to the coast. Actually, we were celebrating our fourth anniversary, just don't tell our son that. He thinks we did this all for him.
Where should you stay
I'd like to recommend a hotel on the outskirts of Monterey. The Best Western Monterey Beach Hotel is about 40 feet from the incoming tides. The only thing standing between you and the surf is the beach. We enjoy staying on one of the upper floors where all you see when you look out the window are the sailboats and sea lions frolicking in the bay. There is something soothing about lying in bed listening to the pounding surf and the distant bark of the sea lions. The hotel also has a casual restaurant on the fourth floor overlooking the bay. Rates vary by season and day of the week. We've paid as low as $89 a night and as much as $169 a night. I'd recommend making your reservation online as that usually seems to save us about $50 a night or more. We've found the staff of the hotel to be courteous and more than helpful. We had our crib promptly upon check-in and they were always willing to go the extra mile for us.
Zipping along the Peninsula
The Monterey Bay/Peninsula trail runs in front of the Best Western. We enjoy bringing our roller blades and running stroller and making a day of it. The paved trail will take you along the coast of the peninsula, by the infamous Cannery Row and Fishermen's pier, to Lover's Point. The trail is surrounded by beautiful, seaside wildflowers and plenty of Cypress trees. The continuing battle between the fishermen and sea lions also provides a bit of entertainment (for us and the sea lions, not the fishermen). Along the way, you'll find outdoor cafe's and plenty of beaches and well-kept lawns on which to rest. Bring your sunscreen. Even on the most overcast of days, you'll still burn. If you do not have your own blades and would like to rent a pair, I'd recommend Adventures by the Sea. While I lived in Monterey, I did not have my own pair yet and rented from them quite frequently. Prices usually range from $5 to $6 an hour. They also rent bicycles, pedal carts, and other outdoor equipment. Whether you decide to rent a cart, bicycle, or rollerblade along the trail, you're children will have a wonderful time and you'll work off some of the weight you gained indulging in the local seafood fare.
Penguins in Monterey?
The Monterey Bay Aquarium is sure to delight even the youngest of toddlers. The aquarium just added the Splash Zone which certainly made a splash with our toddler. The new penguin display is a treat especially when the penguins are pulling out all the stops to entertain. You'll also find a toddler and infant play area with a shapesorting section and fishing for plastic fish (not to worry mom, they have aprons for your little ones), and other fun-filled activities for them. The puppet shows are a lot of fun and your young one will find tunnels, a colorful mini-playground, and stuffed eels that pull out of the wall an extra delight. Mom and dad will also enjoy the many other attractions. Don't miss the sea otter tank at feeding time. These little pups certainly are playful and love to put on a show.
A park Dennis the Menace would have loved
Hank Ketchum, the creator of Dennis the Menace created the playground at, El Estero Lake in Monterey. The playground is truly a wonderland with tunnels, slides galore, plenty of stuff to climb. You'll even find a maze made of tall shrubs with a mini playground in the center of the maze. Children will delight in climbing around the real-life Southern Pacific locomotive engine. The park is surrounded by El Estero lake with rentable paddle boats. You'll find plenty of picnic and barbeque areas. Plan on spending at least a few hours because you'll not be able to tear the children away.
A Dining Recommendation
We've eaten at many restaurants on the Monterey Peninsula and, by far, our favorite is The Tinnery at Lover's Point. While providing lobster, succulent prime rib, and tasty seafood dishes for the adults, children can choose from an assortment of children's meals. I have never been disappointed with either the food or the service. Last weekend I enjoyed halibut with a crab and artichoke sauce. My husband had a healthy portion of prime rib and crab legs while my son enjoyed his grilled cheese sandwich. One of the waiters even gave him a little rubber shark to play with while we waited. Plan on visiting this restaurant at least once during your stay. The rest of the time, be adventurous, explore Monterey and find the cafes and restaurants on side streets. I don't really recommend eating along the piers or Cannery Row as they places cater to tourists and don't expect you to come back. Catch my drift?
I've only highlighted a few activities in Monterey. Between beaches, parks, trails, and other various outdoor activities, your family will not be bored in Monterey.
Yes, you'll be happy to know, our toddler is very refreshed after his vacation. Hubby and I had a wonderful time as well. So, if you have kids need a well-deserved vacation, I hope you'll remember...Monterey, it's not just for us adults anymore.
Best Western Monterey Beach http://www.montereybeachhotel.com/
Monterey Bay Aquarium http://www.mbayaq.org/
Adventures by the Sea (831) 372-1807
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
bonzobean
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Location: West Coast
Reviews written: 134
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About Me:
I think the mistake many of us make is thinking the-state-appointed shrink is our friend.
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