Santa Cruz / Monterey Bay KOA Holiday Blog
Summer Sites Available Now - Check Out Our Events & Plan Your Stay!
Whether you’re exploring the local area or hanging out at the campground, KOA Holidays are an ideal place to relax and play. There’s plenty to do, with amenities and services to make your stay memorable. Plus, you’ll enjoy the outdoor experience with upgraded RV Sites with KOA Patio® and Deluxe Cabins with full baths for camping in comfort. Bring your family, bring your friends, or bring the whole group – there’s plenty of ways to stay and explore.
Whether you’re exploring the local area or hanging out at the campground, KOA Holidays are an ideal place to relax and play. There’s plenty to do, with amenities and services to make your stay memorable. Plus, you’ll enjoy the outdoor experience with upgraded RV Sites with KOA Patio® and Deluxe Cabins with full baths for camping in comfort. Bring your family, bring your friends, or bring the whole group – there’s plenty of ways to stay and explore.
We are located 11 miles South of Santa Cruz.
From Hwy 1 use Exit #432 for San Andreas Rd.
At the end of the exit ramp, go WEST on San Andreas Rd. for 3.2 miles.
We will be on your left. Look for the Yellow KOA Sign!
**If you are traveling on Hwy 1 North: DO NOT TAKE BUENA VISTA EXIT.
And despite what GPS, Google maps or other services may inform you, DO NOT TURN ON PEACEFUL VALLEY DR.**
The Monterey Bay Aquarium is one of California’s most celebrated family attractions, drawing visitors from all over the world. Known for its captivating marine life displays, interactive exhibits and ocean conservation efforts, it is a must-see destination in the Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay Area. If you are planning a day trip from Santa Cruz / Monterey Bay KOA Holiday, here is everything you need to know.
The aquarium offers general admission tickets for adults, children, seniors and students. It is recommended that tickets be purchased online ahead of time, as popular dates can sell out quickly. Members enjoy unlimited access year-round and special discounts.
The best time to visit Monterey Bay Aquarium is on weekdays in the fall or winter, when crowds are smaller and the exhibits feel more relaxed. If you are visiting in the summer, aim to arrive right when the doors open for a quieter start.
The playful sea otters are a guest favorite. Watch them swim, groom and crack shellfish on their chests. It is no wonder they are one of the most charismatic animals at the aquarium.
This towering exhibit replicates a lush underwater forest found along California’s coast. Schools of fish glide past swaying kelp, offering a fascinating view of marine ecosystems.
Step into the darkened gallery of the Open Sea, where tuna, sharks, turtles and ocean sunfish swim past a viewing window. The size of this tank and the variety of species inside make it a true showstopper.
Otherworldly jellyfish float in glowing tanks, creating a mesmerizing display. The colors, shapes and movements are a hit for visitors of all ages.
Under the guidance of knowledgeable staff, kids can gently touch bat rays, sea stars and other tide pool creatures.
If you are planning more adventures, the Monterey Bay Area offers plenty of activities. Stroll along Cannery Row for dining and shopping, visit the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History or explore the beaches and tide pools at Lovers Point Park.
Santa Cruz / Monterey Bay KOA Holiday is about a 45-minute to 1-hour drive from the aquarium, making it an ideal base camp. Choose from RV Sites, Camping Cabins, Deluxe Cabins or tent camping. On-site amenities include a heated pool and hot tub, a giant playground, KampK9® for your dog, themed weekends, the KOA Fun Express train and much more — most at no extra cost.
Whether you are visiting Monterey Bay Aquarium for the first time or returning for another round of marine magic, a stay at Santa Cruz / Monterey Bay KOA Holiday ensures comfort and convenience. Book your stay today.
That doesn't mean this area has to always be empty. When you start reviewing camping options, your history will display here to help compare sites and find the best stay. You will be able to share your stay information with friends or family and save it for a later time if you have a KOA Account.
Make checkout easy by booking all your reservations at once. Add your sites from different campgrounds into your shopping cart* and then choose checkout.
