I still remember watching Big Little Lies and being completely drawn in by the moody coastline, crashing waves, and dramatic oceanfront homes. Monterey always felt cinematic on screen—but standing there in real life, with the salty air and fog rolling in, it somehow felt even more beautiful.

What surprised me most wasn’t just how stunning Monterey is—it was how easy and enjoyable it was to explore with kids. Between the marine life, walkable waterfronts, scenic drives, and relaxed pace, Monterey is one of those rare destinations that feels equally magical for adults and children.

Here’s how to spend a memorable day in Monterey, with plenty of flexibility and family-friendly fun.

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9:30 a.m. — Arrive in Monterey & Head to the Aquarium

Start your day at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, which opens around 10 a.m. and is consistently ranked among the best aquariums in the world.

Built on the site of a former sardine cannery, the aquarium is deeply tied to Monterey’s history. Inside, kids can watch playful sea otters, walk beneath towering kelp forests, and marvel at glowing jellyfish. The exhibits are engaging without being overwhelming, making it ideal for younger children.

Family tip:

• Bring snacks or plan a break outside—there are benches and ocean views nearby
• Restrooms and stroller-friendly paths make this an easy stop with little ones

Plan to spend 1.5–2 hours here.

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11:30 a.m. — Walk Historic Cannery Row & Grab Lunch

Step out of the aquarium and onto Cannery Row, one of the most historic streets on the California coast.

Why Is It Called Cannery Row?

In the early 1900s, this waterfront was the heart of the global sardine industry. Dozens of canneries lined the shore, supplying canned fish around the world. When the sardines disappeared in the 1950s, the industry collapsed—but instead of fading away, Cannery Row transformed.

Today, those same buildings house shops, restaurants, and museums, while also playing a major role in marine biology and conservation. The Monterey Bay Aquarium itself grew out of this shift, helping redefine Monterey as a leader in ocean science.

Lunch Options:

• Fish Hopper – oceanfront views and classic seafood (it can be busy)
• Paluca Trattoria – casual Italian-seafood spot with family-friendly options
• We had lunch at Sea Harvest. It’s also a fish market, so they have fresh fish. We all loved our lunch. There was a long wait for a table, so grabbed our food and ate by the beach.

After lunch, stroll along the waterfront or head a few minutes down the road to Lovers Point Park for grassy lawns, tide pools, and postcard-worthy views.

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1:00 p.m. — Scenic Drive: 17-Mile Drive

Next up: one of the most scenic drives in California—the 17-Mile Drive.

For about $12 per car, you’ll wind through dramatic coastline, forested stretches, and iconic viewpoints like the Lone Cypress. Even with kids, this drive works beautifully because you can stop when you want, hop out for photos, and take your time.

Plan about 1–1.5 hours, depending on how often you stop (and you will want to stop). We didn’t stay this long, but we also skipped some of the stops due to lack of time. We had a leak in one of my tires, so had to leave to get that fixed and when we came back, we had to fight against daylight. But we still got some iconic photos.

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2:30–4:00 p.m. — Explore Carmel-by-the-Sea

End the day in charming Carmel-by-the-Sea, where fairy-tale cottages and art galleries line walkable streets.

Let kids run barefoot on the soft white sand at Carmel Beach, then reward everyone with a sweet treat from Carmel Bakery or Lafayette Bakery.

It’s relaxed, scenic, and the perfect way to wind down before heading home.

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Monterey is special because it brings together so many worlds—Hollywood drama, working-class history, marine science, and natural beauty—all in one place. What once powered the global sardine industry now fuels conservation and education. What looked dramatic on screen feels even more powerful in person.

Whether you’re visiting for the Big Little Lies views, the aquarium, or a coastal escape with your family, Monterey is the kind of place that leaves you wanting to come back—and explore it more slowly next time. If you haven’t watched the show, this is your sign to check it out. (Not paid by HBO for advertising haha:)

Yours,