The Best Beaches for Families: Del Monte vs. Lovers Point (A Complete Comparison)

Choosing the perfect beach for a family outing in Monterey isn’t just about the sand and the surf. It’s about convenience, safety, and keeping the kids entertained without a meltdown.

If you are staying at Aura Inn Monterey, you are perfectly positioned between two of the peninsula’s heavy hitters: Del Monte Beach and Lovers Point Park & Beach.

But which one deserves your cooler, your sandcastle gear, and your afternoon? Let’s break down the "Tale of the Tape" so you can plan the perfect coastal day.

Del Monte Beach: The Local’s Hidden Gem

If your family prefers wide-open spaces and a classic "California beach" feel, Del Monte Beach is your winner. Tucked away from the main tourist hubs, this stretch of coastline offers a serene escape.

Why Families Love It:

• Space to Spread Out: Unlike the smaller coves, Del Monte offers plenty of room for a game of frisbee or flying a kite.
• The Boardwalk: A beautiful wooden boardwalk winds through the dunes, making it stroller-friendly for parents with toddlers.
• Beachcombing: It’s a fantastic spot for finding sea glass and unique shells.

The "Parent" Perspective:

Del Monte is quieter. If your kids are older and want to run, or if you want a peaceful morning jog before the day heats up, this is the spot. It’s located just a short drive from our comfortable guestrooms, making it an easy "plan A" for your first day in town.

Lovers Point: The Adventure Hub

Don’t let the romantic name fool you—Lovers Point in Pacific Grove is a family paradise. It’s a landscaped community park and beach that offers a bit more "infrastructure" than Del Monte.

Why Families Love It:

• Concrete Amenities: There are public restrooms, a snack bar, and a concrete pier that’s perfect for watching the waves.
• Safe Swimming: The beach is east-facing, meaning the water is generally calmer and safer for little ones to splash in the shallows.
• Activities Galore: You can rent kayaks, paddleboards, or even surrey bikes right nearby.

The "Parent" Perspective:

Lovers Point is "easy." Everything you need is within 100 yards. If you forget the juice boxes, there’s a café nearby. However, because it’s so convenient, it gets crowded fast. If you’re heading here, leave your room at Aura Inn early to snag a prime patch of sand.

Pro-Tips for Your Monterey Beach Day

• Layer Up: Monterey weather is famous for the "Marine Layer." It might be 75°F at the hotel and 58°F at the beach. Pack sweatshirts!
• Parking Hack: Both spots fill up by noon on weekends. Our on-site parking makes it easy to leave your car and take a quick rideshare if you want to avoid the parking headache.

Which One Should You Choose?

Go to Del Monte Beach if you want to escape the crowds, enjoy a long walk, and let the kids run wild in the dunes.

Go to Lovers Point if you want a "one-stop shop" with easy access to food, rentals, and incredibly calm waters for swimming.

No matter which shore you choose, you’ll want a warm, cozy place to rinse off the salt and sand at the end of the day. At Aura Inn Monterey, we provide the perfect family-friendly home base.

Ready for your Monterey getaway? BOOK YOUR STAY TODAY AND SAVE!