An incredibly gorgeous slice of California with a ton of activities for the whole family. This is on my short list of favorite family vacation spots.  Its a good idea to dress in layers, as the fog can roll in quickly or the sun can break through and provide some beautiful warm beach weather. Early autumn is the sunniest time of year, and also a great season to see the monarch migration in Pacific Grove. HOTELS: ...

Nice way to wind down. There is an entrance fee. Though there are so many oustanding (and free) views of Monterey, here you can also gawk at incredibly beautiful homes along the drive, and get some very nice vista spots along the way. Share / Save / Send

* Nothing is greater than finding a huge park to wear down the kids. In Monterey, that is Dennis the Menace Park. It is open daily from 10am to dusk. A map is here, which includes directions. More detailed information about this park and pictures are listed here. There is limited parking right in front of the park, but when that fills up you have to drive around a little to find something nearby. * Rent a...

The Monterey Bay Aquarium is the most popular, but by far not the only attraction of Cannery Row.  In this full-day trip I recommend you wait until the afternoon to visit the aquarium, when it is less crowded. Prior to that, why not wear the kids out a bit with some outdoorsy exercise such as by bike or by kayak (or both!) * Take in the views using pedal power  At Bay Bikes  (585 Cannery Row, 3 blocks from...

Old Sacramento centrally located, has a great view of the Sacramento River, and easily accessible. You can even take an Amtrack train; the station is at 401 I Street, which is adjacent to Old Sacramento. The schedule information can be found here. What better way to come in and take a visit to the train museum! * For kids, the Sacramento State Railroad Museum is the first place you’ll want to stop. If...