Bets

Asilomar Conference Center - has anyone stayed here? Is it a place you can bring the kids? I'm looking for anything similar within driving distance of San Jose where we can take two boys (2 and 8) for a few days and explore Santa Cruz, Monterey, and Big Sure areas. I've stayed at the YMCA lodge at Estes Park, CO and I'm looking for a similar experience in California.

John

Boy, haven't been to Asilomar since it was sort of a woo woo center in the 60s/70s (not as woo woo as Esalen but not far behind.) Beautiful setting as I recall but much more adult and meeting-y a place than kid friendly in my memory. I'll be interested to see other answers. Fun things for kids in the area include a bona fide waterfront amusement park in Santa Cruz (last one on the Pacific Coast, I think) and a great aquarium in Monterey. If time permits, try to fit in some hours at Point Lobos State Park; great tide pools, lots of wildlife (seals, otters, etc.) - a great spot for car-weary kids.

fredrika

Have seen references to it on Fodor's, which were positive. Understand you have to book well in advance. It is a good place for kids from what I understand.Have you thought about the Winchester Mystery House in San Jose? Kids would really get a kick out of it.

Roxanne

There's lots to do and see in Santa Cruz and Monterey both. I've never been to Asilomar Conference Center, however. "Within driving distance of San Jose" -- how much driving back and forth from San Jose do you plan to do? It's a very windy, 45-min drive (or much longer during commute times) through the mountains between San Jose and Santa Cruz. Monterey is another 40 minutes south of Santa Cruz. Maybe that will help when planning your trip. I don't know how well your boys enjoy the car. The previous poster is right -- you definately have to take them to the Boardwalk in Santa Cruz, and the aquarium in Monterey. I live in Santa Cruz, so feel free to ask me any questions about the area. When are you coming? Have fun!

gail

The past several times I have been at Asilomar there have been packs of children. Schools, groups, and family reunions, and families enjoying the beach are a common site. If the children like firefighters they are always there too. I believe it is a CDF training center.
It is important to make reservationswell ahead of time as it is getting quite popular. The food plan is great for those unpredictable eaters!Meals are served cafeteria or modified cafeteria style.Eating out can be expensive in this area so it is a good option. There is a Safeway back in town for snacks etc.There are no kitchens, so you might want to bring an ice chest.Have fun.

chuck

Another plug for the aquarium in Monterey. I've been to quite a few aquariums (e.g., DC, Baltimore, New Orleans), and I think Monterey is the best.

bets

We're flying into San Jose, most likely and don't expect to need to go back and forth. Kids are pretty good in the car, as long as its not all day. Last year we took them to Ireland! For Roxanne (above), I hope to come in June. Any specific hotel suggestions in SC or Monterey if the Asilomar doesn't work out. Remember I'm looking for family friendly. Also, do you know anything about the YMCA of the Redwoods? Do they have a guest lodge or is it some kind of summer camp?

gail

As a previous poster mentioned this is an expensive area to stay. It is important to make arrangements soon or the lower priced accomodations will not be available. If Asilomar is not available, the town of Seaside is pretty close and has inexpensive places to stay. My husband recently stayed there and really felt he got his moneys worth.Do a search on line or check CSAA travel guide.P.S This year when Asilomar was full they put us up down the street for a reasonable rate. Just ask if you don't have luck there. You will find many choices there!Hope you find the perfect place.

sarah

I would not choose Asilomar. You are away from everything. More retreat-like and if you drive to Monterey there are bunches of crumby motels and best western hotels just pick one that looks good. Unless you are traveling at high season. Call best western 800 number and book one night in advance ask for AAA rate. There is a Dennis the Menace Park that kids beg to go back to. They will love it. Then do not miss the Aquarium. Touchy feely tanks and tons a kids. There is a boat that takes you out on the bay and a zillion places to walk on the beach. The aquarium is expensive - open up your purse and pay the high dollar... Great area - always pretty cool though. Santa Cruz has a Boardwalk, but nothing else. In Felton there is the Roaring Camp Railroad. I think both are open only weekends off season - but not certain.

Dean

We stayed there last summer. It is a series of wooden lodges and cabins set in the woods with the beach nearby. They have family style dining sort of like a college dormitory. Don't think there was a lot at the actual lodge for kids.