The best things to do in Salinas

“Municipal golf course offering sand traps as well as a driving range for practice.”

“Tropical and tranquil setting featuring a bar, a pool table and accommodating owners.”

“Old Fisherman's Wharf is clutch this week when you want chowder, sea lion watching, and an easy excuse to be near the water. Grab seafood, wander unique shops, then jump on a whale watch, fishing trip, or bay cruise, and call it self care that smells like the ocean.”

From the Monterey newsletter, August 8, 2026

“San Jose Municipal Golf Course is a classic William P. Bell 18 that blends rolling fairways with sneaky-fast greens, plus a driving range for tune-ups. Play a round, take a lesson if your slice needs therapy, then refuel on the patio at Muni Bar & Grill...”

From the Fremont newsletter, August 5, 2026

“Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. , Laguna Seca Golf Ranch pairs a legit practice facility with a course you’ll want to replay, then Fairview Laguna Seca brings a casual lunch menu and 12 beers on tap. Call it your low-stress Monterey reset this week.”

From the Monterey newsletter, August 3, 2026

“Happy Hollow Park & Zoo mixes pint-sized rides, a charming puppet theater and real-deal animal moments, including Twix the red panda, plus hands-on education programs that turn curiosity into giggles. Low-stress, high-smile San Jose staple when you need an easy kid win this week.”

From the San Jose newsletter, August 4, 2026

“Membership-only venue featuring a Nicklaus-designed golf course, restaurant, and race track.”

“Amusement chain featuring mini golf courses & arcades, some branches with water slides & laser tag.”

“Chain of movie theaters, some with multiple screens, stadium seats & self-service ticketing kiosks.”

“Restored 1927 motion picture house turned performing-arts venue, also offers private event options.”

“Indoor trampoline center featuring an open jump arena, a foam cube pit, dodgeball & basketball.”

“If you’ve been craving wide fairways, breezy Monterey Bay views, and the occasional wildlife cameo, Pajaro Valley Golf Club delivers a century-strong layout with fun Par-3s and a relaxed vibe. Sneak in a round this week, then refuel at the on-site Cypress Grill because birdies deserve burgers.”

“Chain of movie theaters, some with multiple screens, stadium seats & self-service ticketing kiosks.”

“High Scores Arcade is pure retro bliss, packed with classic cabinets in a nostalgic vibe where you can chase ghosts, use the force, and maybe rescue a princess. They now pour beer and seltzer yet keep it family friendly, so round up the crew and claim a spot on the scoreboard this week.”

“Sprawling entertainment venue with a high-tech driving range & swanky lounge with drinks & games.”

“Whether your short game needs love or you just want to linger over a meal with a view, Boulder Ridge Golf Club delivers. Pristine 18-hole course, San Jose’s sun-soaked hills, an outdoor dining patio, and a spacious pavilion for reconnecting with the crew make it an easy local escape.”

“Dial in your swing at Santa Teresa Golf Club on the driving range, then sneak in the 9-hole Short Course or book a lesson if the slice is winning. Solid instruction, a friendly vibe, and an on-site bar and grill mean you can make a proper afternoon of it.”

“Chain of movie theaters, some with multiple screens, stadium seats & self-service ticketing kiosks.”

“This retro drive-in movie theater screens the latest releases & pipes sound into cars via FM radio.”

“Par-69, 18-hole course that offers a driving range, chipping green, and putting green.”

“Kid-friendly arcade and escape room venue, plus a lounge area, birthday party spot, and more.”

“Golf academy and course featuring a restaurant with outdoor seating, plus a 27-hole golf club with a restaurant and a pro shop.”

“Chain of movie theaters, some with multiple screens, stadium seats & self-service ticketing kiosks.”

“Rock climbing center offering bouldering and top roping, plus yoga and tai chi classes.”

“Waterside street with seafood eateries and gift shops, as well as views of the bay.”

“Family-friendly amusement center featuring bowling, karaoke, arcade games and a bar.”

“Familiar theatre with roomy seating, craft beer and wine, as well as burgers and sliders.”

“Wedding and party venue on the beach, featuring an outdoor patio and friendly staff.”

“Walk-through mirror maze with a psychedelic vibe & activities for team-building & parties.”

“Golf course featuring an 18-hole course, driving range, well-stocked pro shop & restaurant.”

“5-acre garden with a fountain.”

“Chain of movie theaters, some with multiple screens, stadium seats & self-service ticketing kiosks.”

“Local park offering a museum with exhibits on regional history, plus picnic tables.”

“UFO-themed mini-golf venue, with cocktails and San Jose-inspired pizza.”

“If you're ready to level up your weekly rounds, Almaden Golf & Country Club is a private, member-owned spot in Almaden Valley with an 18-hole championship course framed by the Santa Cruz Mountains. Clubhouse energy, tennis, a swimming pavilion, a fitness center, and a pro shop keep the good rounds rolling.”