final itinerary questions

Question

Would love any feedback on our itinerary for our trip in a few weeks. Also looking for some restaurant suggestions. Family of 4 with 2 boys (12 and 10) Thanks!

July 4th: Driving down from a hotel by the airport.

Morning stop at Henry Cowell State Park (hoping to be there before 9 to beat any 4th of July crowds and road closures).

Stop at Santa Cruz Boardwalk for lunch and a few rides (if we are there before noon do you think there will be an issue with parking?)

Continue to Monterey to check in at hotel around 4ish.

We will either just hang at the hotel (downtown Monterey), walk to the wharf/beach/dinner OR maybe drive over to Asilomar State Park for the rocky beach and then dinner. Restaurant suggestions welcome.

7/5: Big Sur Day

This is what I'm hoping to accomplish, please let me know if I am too ambitious.

-Point Lobos State Park (only if we are up and at the park by 8am otherwise this will be moved to a different day OR if we should try and be at other locations earlier): Best 1-2 mile hike in this area? Thinking Between sea lion and china cove

-Pick a few viewpoints (what are your favorite overlooks, just for a minute or 2 for some pictures)

-Pfeiffer Beach (what time do crowds make it hard to park here?)

-Nepenthe (ok with eating at Cafe Kevah- or maybe we bring a lunch, could do this before pfeiffer beach)

-Partington cove trail

-mcway falls

-Big River Inn (for afternoon snack and the kids to play in the river)

Any other good short hikes or viewpoints that would be good that we would have time for?

Dinner will probably be back around the hotel.

7/6: Aquarium Day

Looking for a good brunch spot so we can not have to leave the aquarium for lunch. Anywhere between downtown and the aquarium.

Assuming this would be a good night to do Carmel by the Sea for dinner or even would consider a family friendly winery.

7/7: Will probably give kids a choice of the following:

Point Lobos (if not already done)

Asilomar State Beach (or another suggestions for rocky beach with possible tide pools is welcome!)

kayaking at Lovers Point or Monterey Bay

Head out around lunch time to finish our last few nights in SF!

For restaurants: We prefer casual non chain (with the exception of In and Out Burger for this trip!) restaurants with local flavors. Looking for good, Mexican, Cali, Mexicali, Asian, Seafood (and anything else unique to the area). We try to mix it up with mostly lower to mid price points but will do 1 or 2 higher per trip.

Thanks all!

Answer

Your itinerary looks ambitious but very doable with good planning. Here’s some detailed feedback and suggestions to help you make the most of your Monterey County trip with your family.

7/4: Drive from the airport area

Henry Cowell State Park: Arriving early is smart to avoid crowds and heat. The redwood grove loop is an easy and scenic walk for kids.
Santa Cruz Boardwalk: Arriving before noon is ideal for parking and shorter lines, especially on July 4th. Expect some crowds as it’s a holiday, so early arrival is key.
Monterey check-in: Downtown Monterey is walkable to the Wharf, Cannery Row, and local restaurants. If you drive to Asilomar, give yourself at least an hour round trip; it’s lovely but might feel rushed if done after the drive.
Restaurant suggestions:
- Monterey’s Fish House – casual seafood
- Old Fisherman’s Grotto – iconic clam chowder and seafood
- Loulou’s Griddle in the Middle – breakfast/lunch if you want something casual

7/5: Big Sur Day

Point Lobos State Park: Arrive by 8am if possible. For a short hike, the Sea Lion Point and China Cove Loop is perfect for families (~1.5 miles) and wildlife viewing.
Viewpoints: Must-stops include Bixby Bridge, Rocky Creek Bridge, and the cliffs near Garrapata State Park. These are quick photo stops.
Pfeiffer Beach: Crowds peak mid-morning to afternoon. Aim to arrive by 10am or earlier for parking. The purple sand and Keyhole Rock are worth it.
Nepenthe/Cafe Kevah: Good lunch spot; kids can enjoy the view. Alternatively, bring a picnic to enjoy along the coast.
Partington Cove Trail: Short (~0.5 miles), scenic, and kids enjoy the cove and rock formations.
McWay Falls: Very short walk from the parking area; photo stop only, no beach access.
Big River Inn: Great for letting kids play in the river. Depending on timing, this can be an afternoon rest stop before heading back to Monterey.
Additional short hikes/viewpoints:
- Garrapata State Park: Soberanes Point Trail for coastal views
- Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park: Overlook trail if time allows

7/6: Aquarium Day

Brunch spots near downtown/Monterey Bay Aquarium:
- First Awakenings – casual, popular breakfast/brunch
- Old Monterey Café – hearty breakfast
- Crema – coffee and light brunch
Carmel by the Sea: Evening stroll and dinner. For family-friendly dining:
- Carmel Belle – casual, sandwiches and salads
- Grasing’s – slightly higher-end, California cuisine
- La Bicyclette – wood-fired pizza and pasta, fun for kids
Family-friendly winery idea: Holman Ranch or Bernardus Winery – outdoor seating and sometimes live music, but check kid policy.

7/7: Flexible Day

Point Lobos (if not already done) or another coastal walk.
Asilomar State Beach or Natural Bridges State Beach for tide pools.
Kayaking at Lovers Point or Monterey Bay – good early morning option before heading back to SF.

Additional recommendations:

Consider timing and distances: Big Sur can take longer than expected due to scenic stops and narrow roads.
Bring snacks and water for kids, especially on Big Sur day.
Reserve parking ahead when possible at popular spots like Pfeiffer Beach and Point Lobos.

Your itinerary is busy but reasonable. Arriving early at the major destinations and prioritizing the top activities will allow a relaxed and enjoyable trip with your kids.

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