Santa Cruz KOA vs Marina Dunes RV park

Question

As part of our pacific coast RV trip we plan to spend 4-5 days in the Carmel/Monterey area. We have young kids (ages 7, 3 and 1) and the Santa Cruz KOA looks like it would be a lot of fun for them to unwind after a 3 week trip. I’d like to spend a day or two exploring Carmel, do a 1 day Big Sur drive and then I had thought a day or two hanging out at the campground. My only concern is that the KOA is a 45 min drive to Carmel (assuming traffic is ok) vs a 20 min drive from Marina Dunes. Has anyone stayed at the KOA and made a few trips down to the Carmel area? Are the amenities for the kids worth the extra drive or should we plan to stay closer? Thanks!

Answer

Both Santa Cruz KOA and Marina Dunes RV Park are solid options for a family with young children, but they cater to slightly different experiences. Your choice will depend on whether your priority is kid-friendly amenities or proximity to Carmel and Monterey.

Santa Cruz KOA:

This campground is designed for family fun, especially for kids. It has numerous amenities such as playgrounds, a pool, organized activities, and even a small recreational area that can help your children unwind after a long trip.

The campground is about a 45-minute drive to Carmel/Monterey under good traffic conditions. Plan extra travel time if heading out during peak hours.
The amenities, especially for children, are excellent for spending multiple days on-site without feeling bored.
It’s also well-suited for families who enjoy a community-style camping environment with opportunities for kids to socialize and play.

Marina Dunes RV Park:

This location is closer to Carmel/Monterey, about a 20-minute drive, which is convenient if your plan includes frequent day trips to explore the area.

The RV park has fewer child-specific amenities than Santa Cruz KOA, but it’s right by the beach, so kids can enjoy sand and water play.
Proximity makes it easier to manage day trips to Carmel, Monterey, and Big Sur without spending long periods in the car.
It’s a quieter, more laid-back environment compared to the KOA, so if your priority is exploration rather than on-site activities, this might be preferable.

Recommendation:

If your main goal is to let the kids unwind and enjoy structured fun at the campground for a couple of days, Santa Cruz KOA is worth the extra drive.
If your focus is more on exploring Carmel, Monterey, and Big Sur with minimal driving stress, Marina Dunes RV Park is more convenient.
It’s possible to stay at Santa Cruz KOA and still do day trips to Carmel/Monterey, but be mindful of travel time and potential traffic.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether on-site family activities or proximity to sightseeing is your top priority.