The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Marina

Embark on the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail for an expansive journey along the Pacific, where the path continuously delivers stunning ocean vistas. You'll wander through diverse scenery, from the dramatic tall sand dunes near Sand City to the lively waterfronts of Fisherman's Wharf and Cannery Row, all while keeping an eye out for sea otters and seals playing in the bay. This 21.6-mile (34.7 km) hiking route, though mostly flat, is rated difficult due to its considerable length, requiring about 8 hours and 56 minutes to complete its 552 feet (168 metres) of elevation gain.

Accessing the trail is straightforward, with multiple entry points and parking options available, particularly around the more urban sections like the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Since this is a full-day commitment, plan to start early to make the most of the daylight and avoid rushing. The trail is generally open and enjoyable throughout the year, but spring and autumn provide comfortable temperatures for such a long excursion.

This historic route, built on a former Southern Pacific Railroad corridor, seamlessly blends natural beauty with cultural landmarks. It connects you directly to some of Monterey's most popular attractions, offering interpretive signs that delve into the region's rich history and abundant marine life. The trail's unique combination of coastal wilderness and urban connectivity makes it a vibrant hub for both locals and visitors.

The Marina Dunes Preserve Trail offers a truly unique coastal experience, guiding you through a landscape of wind-sculpted dunes and native vegetation. You'll find yourself on soft, sandy paths, occasionally interspersed with paved sections, all while enjoying expansive ocean views of Monterey Bay. It's a serene journey where the sound of the waves and the sight of the distinctive dunes create a peaceful atmosphere, leading you to a secluded stretch of beach north of Marina State Beach.

This easy 0.6-mile (0.9 km) hike, with just 13 feet (4 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 13 minutes, making it ideal for a quick, refreshing outing. While the overall difficulty is low, walking on sand can add a surprising amount of effort, so keep that in mind. The trail is generally accessible, and it's a great spot for a casual walk with your dog, provided they are on a leash.

Beyond its scenic beauty, the preserve is a critical habitat for indigenous plants and animals, including the rare Smith's blue butterfly, found only in this specific dune environment. The area has undergone significant restoration since its past as a sand mine, making it a testament to conservation efforts. It's a fantastic place for wildlife spotting and nature photography, offering a quiet alternative to more crowded coastal areas.

The Fort Ord Dunes State Park loop offers a refreshing coastal experience, guiding you through vast sandy dunes and along blufftop viewing platforms that provide panoramic vistas of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. You'll encounter unique coastal vegetation and may even spot local wildlife, all while enjoying the sound of the ocean. The trail combines paved sections with natural sandy paths, making for a varied and engaging journey.

Planning your visit is simple, though be aware there's a day use parking fee at Fort Ord Dunes State Park. It's important to stick to designated trails to protect the sensitive habitats within the park. If you're bringing your canine companion, dogs are welcome on paved trails, but they are not allowed on the beach or on the spur trails leading to it. This easy 3.7-mile (5.9 km) route, with only 133 feet (41 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 32 minutes, making it a great option for a quick, accessible outing.

What makes this park particularly interesting is its rich history; it was once part of Fort Ord, a U.S. Army training facility. Educational panels along the route provide insight into its past, including its former use as rifle ranges, and its transformation into a protected habitat for endangered species like the Smith's blue butterfly. The park, which opened to the public in 2009, offers nearly 1,000 acres of public land, blending natural beauty with a compelling historical narrative.