After a few action-packed days exploring San Francisco, we slowed things down for the most peaceful stretch of our California road trip — three nights in Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea.

This was the midpoint between the big-city buzz up north and the theme-park energy waiting for us down south. It ended up being our favorite part of the trip — the perfect balance of adventure, ocean air, and rest.

Stay: Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa

We used Hyatt points to stay three nights at the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa on Del Monte Golf Course — just a few minutes from Cannery Row and downtown Monterey.

At just 12,000 Hyatt points per night, transferred from Chase Ultimate Rewards®, it was a fantastic value compared to cash prices of $300+ per night.

Why we loved it:

• Spacious rooms with cozy fireplaces
• Heated outdoor pools and evening firepits
• On-site restaurant and bar (great after long days exploring)
• Free parking and no resort fees on award stays

It felt like a resort retreat in the middle of a coastal town — peaceful, family-friendly, and central to everything we wanted to see.

What We Did

Monterey Bay Aquarium

This was the must-do for our kids — and honestly, for us too. The kelp forest, sea otters, and jellyfish displays are incredible, and the interactive touch pools make it fun for all ages.

If you’re visiting with little ones, go early to beat the crowds. We used our AAA membership for discounted tickets and parked nearby at Cannery Row Garage (free for the first 90 minutes).

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

If there’s one place that captures the beauty of California’s coast, this is it.

Point Lobos quickly became one of our favorite stops on the entire trip — a place where time seemed to slow down. The air smelled like cypress trees and salt, and every trail opened up to another postcard view.

We hiked the Cypress Grove Trail, Sea Lion Point Trail, and part of Bird Island Trail — all easy to moderate loops that our kids handled without a problem. Along the way, we spotted sea lions barking on the rocks, pelicans gliding overhead, and even a few scuba divers entering the crystal-clear coves.

The turquoise water and rugged cliffs looked more like Big Sur than a family park just minutes from Carmel.

Tips for visiting Point Lobos:

• Arrive early. Parking fills by mid-morning, especially on weekends.
• Bring layers. Fog rolls in fast and temperatures can drop quickly.
• Pack water and snacks. There are no food vendors inside the reserve.
• Allow 2–3 hours minimum. You’ll want time to stop at multiple viewpoints.

It’s hard to describe, but this stop reminded us why we travel — the mix of quiet, awe, and connection that happens when you find someplace truly special.

Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel feels straight out of a storybook — cobblestone streets, white cottages, and flower boxes spilling over with color.

We spent an afternoon wandering through art galleries, browsing boutiques along Ocean Avenue, and relaxing on Carmel Beach, where our kids played in the sand while surfers dotted the horizon.

If you have time, drive the 17-Mile Drive through Pebble Beach — it’s a scenic coastal loop with incredible overlooks and a small entrance fee per car.

Where We Ate

We like to mix local favorites with casual, family-friendly options — and Monterey-Carmel didn’t disappoint.

• Tuck Box (Carmel): Charming breakfast spot in a storybook cottage.
• Little Napoli (Carmel): Homemade pasta, family-friendly, and walkable from downtown.
• Sea Harvest Fish Market (Monterey): Fresh, casual seafood that locals love.
• The Wharf Marketplace: Easy lunch spot with grab-and-go sandwiches and produce.

If you’re visiting in summer, make dinner reservations — Carmel restaurants can fill up early.

Family Tips & Things to Know

• Parking: Free two-hour parking in Carmel’s downtown — watch the signs.
• Weather: Even in summer, it’s usually 60–65°F with coastal fog. Bring light jackets.
• Kid-friendly stop: Dennis the Menace Playground in Monterey is worth a detour — slides, bridges, and lake views.
• Plan enough time: You’ll want at least two full days to explore the aquarium, Carmel, and Point Lobos without rushing.

The Role of Points & Miles

We covered all three nights using Hyatt points transferred from Chase Ultimate Rewards®, so our lodging cost was $0.

That freedom — having hotels, flights, and car covered — meant we could say yes to everything else: aquarium tickets, lunch by the water, and an extra stop at the ice cream shop after a long hike.

If you want to learn how to do the same, check out:

• Guide to Hyatt Hotel Stays with Points
• Complete Guide to Earning Bogo Flights with Southwest
• How to Book Rental Cars Using Points
• California Family Road Trip: From San Francisco to LA with Points, Beaches, and Disneyland Magic

Final Thoughts

Monterey and Carmel were the calm in the middle of our California adventure — a chance to pause, explore, and reconnect before heading south toward Disneyland and Newport Beach.

From tide pools to sea lions to sunsets over white sand, this was the stretch that reminded us what we love most about travel: the small, in-between moments that stay with you long after the trip ends.

If you’re planning a California coast road trip, make this your midpoint — and plan to stay awhile.