What to do in Salinas, CA

Activities, attractions and tours

A vast green field with mountains in the background.
Scenic Vista on California State Route 1
A silhouette of a person holding a heart-shaped light against a sunset over a calm sea with rocky cliffs.
A rocky coastline with a lone tree and the ocean.
A beach with wet sand, a person walking, and a distant ship.

Things to do

Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Big Sur PCH Highway 1

Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Big Sur PCH Highway 1

฿669
per traveller
Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Big Sur PCH Highway 1
Picture 9 for Activity Monterey: Monterey Bay Dolphin and Whale Watching Boat Tour

Monterey: Monterey Bay Dolphin and Whale Watching Boat Tour

฿2,075
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
Monterey: Monterey Bay Dolphin and Whale Watching Boat Tour
Step aboard our stable, USCG inspected, 27ft. pontoon boat, and embark on an unforgettable wildlife adventure!

Wildlife Safari Boat Tour in Scenic Monterey Bay Wetland

฿1,540
per adult
Wildlife Safari Boat Tour in Scenic Monterey Bay Wetland
Elkhorn Slough Wildlife Tour

Elkhorn Slough Wildlife Tour

฿1,506
per adult
98% of travellers recommend
Elkhorn Slough Wildlife Tour
Monterey: Catamaran Sailing Cruise

Monterey: Catamaran Sailing Cruise

฿2,176
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Monterey: Catamaran Sailing Cruise
Monterey: Whale Watching Tour with A Marine Guide

Monterey: Whale Watching Tour with A Marine Guide

฿2,343
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Monterey: Whale Watching Tour with A Marine Guide
Picture 1 for Activity Monterey Bay: Sunset Catamaran Sailing Cruise

Monterey Bay: Sunset Catamaran Sailing Cruise

฿3,180
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
Monterey Bay: Sunset Catamaran Sailing Cruise
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What to do in Salinas

Stay near popular Salinas attractions

An exhibition with historical artifacts, including a vintage telephone, a wooden wagon, and a horse.

National Steinbeck Center

7.6/10 (128 reviews)
This literary shrine celebrates Nobel Prize winner John Steinbeck with exhibits and artefacts. Immerse yourself in the Salinas Valley landscapes that inspired classics like "East of Eden" and "The Grapes of Wrath."
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Where to stay in Salinas

Find the best Salinas areas for the activities you enjoy most.

North Salinas

While visiting North Salinas, you might make a stop by sights like Salinas Sports Complex and California Rodeo Grounds.

Spreckels Junction

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Spreckels Junction and surrounding area, you can visit National Steinbeck Center and Steinbeck House.

Sunset

Though Sunset may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Salinas Sports Complex and National Steinbeck Center.

A modern building with a large sign reading "Stieboch" and a mural of a field.

Oldtown Salinas

You'll enjoy the beaches and restaurants in Oldtown Salinas. You might want to make time for a stop at National Steinbeck Center or Steinbeck House.

Laurel West

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Laurel West and surrounding area, you can visit Salinas Sports Complex and Salinas Valley Model Railroad Museum.

Day trip destinations from Salinas

A two-story building with a gabled roof, a flagpole with an American flag, and a sign that reads "Alain Pinel."

Carmel

A sandy beach with wooden benches and a wooden fence.

Marina

A sandy beach with footprints, a wooden fence, and a clear blue sky.

Monterey

A statue of a man with raised arms in front of a white church with a bell tower.

San Juan Bautista

A coastal landscape with a river delta, green fields, and a distant industrial facility.

Moss Landing

Frequently asked questions

Is Salinas worth visiting?
From shopping to history and outdoor adventures, there are many great things to do in Salinas. Remember to enjoy the area's blend of awesome attractions, culture and local charm.
How do I spend a day in Salinas?
Marina State Beach and Monterey Zoo are two good places to begin your holiday adventures. Remember to check out the retail and dining options in Salinas while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Salinas?
Don't leave without visiting Marina State Beach, ranked the top tourist attraction in Salinas.
Is three days enough to stay in Salinas?
You can easily enjoy leading attractions like Monterey Zoo, Boronda Adobe History Centre and Steinbeck House with a three-day trip to Salinas. On average, most travellers plan two days here. There's plenty to explore nearby too, so stay a while longer and check out Monterey.
Is Salinas a walkable city?
With popular neighbourhoods and leading sights within walking distance of the city centre, Salinas is a great destination to explore on foot. Enjoy wandering between Boronda Adobe History Centre and Steinbeck House. Then take a stroll through Oldtown Salinas, located 0.16 kilometres from downtown, and Chinatown, which is about 2 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Salinas with kids?
Whether you're travelling with young explorers or playful teenagers, an itinerary filled with fun activities takes your trip to the next level. Take a look at our recommendations for what to do in Salinas with kids.

What to do in Salinas for adults?
Steinbeck House and National Steinbeck Centre are just a couple of the things to do in Salinas. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.
Are there free things to do in Salinas?
From visiting parks to strolling around vibrant neighbourhoods, it's a breeze to find free things to do in Salinas. If you're in need of ideas, ask a local tour guide for some tips. Boronda Adobe History Centre is a great spot for anyone looking to save on their travel adventures.