Santa Cruz & Monterey Parks & Open Spaces

A large expanse of lawn surrounded by stone pathways, benches and shade trees, occupying an entire block of downtown Carmel between Ocean Ave and 6th.... More about Devendorf Park

The Harvey West swimming pool also has a wading pool for the kids.

At the Laguna Seca Recreation Area, visitors can camp on the surrounding hillsides for a serene view of the Salinas Valley.  Both RV and tent camping... More about Laguna Seca Recreation Area

Also known as Point Santa Cruz, this area forms the northern boundary of Monterey Bay. It is one of the last open headlands in any California urban area.... More about Lighthouse Point

The coastal dunes along our south Monterey Bay form a narrow edge between former dunes where we live and the bay. This strip of land is steadily changing... More about Marina Dunes Reserve

This park is adjacent to one of California's 21 Franciscan missions. The location was once the largest town in central California and the hub of travel... More about Mission San Juan Bautista State Park

Natividad Creek Park is a community-created sanctuary designed to reintroduce nature into the community. Inspired by the deep admiration and respect... More about Natividad Creek Park

The beach features picnic areas, swimming, fishing and a nearby forest of Monterey pine and Coastal Live Oak. The camping area is on a bluff overlooking... More about New Brighton Beach

Rancho Rico is a 200 acre private ranch (rentable by the week) set in open pastures and redwood groves. It lies high above the Pacific with panoramic... More about Rancho Rico

Safe, Fun Face Painting by Smiley Orca's internationally award winning artists every Sat. & Sun. from 12pm to 5pm. Individual faces starting at only... More about Smiley Orca Facepainting booth onThe Wharf in Monterey

The park has 4,505 acres, with 34 miles of hiking, biking and equestrian rails winding through coastal terraces and valleys. Several restored buildings... More about Wilder Ranch State Park