Free & Cheap Things to Do in Salinas, CA

  • The list below includes 173 free or cheap things to do in or near Salinas, California, including 81 different types of inexpensive activities like Movie Theaters, Parks, Hiking Trails and Bowling.
  • From Toro Park to Fort Ord Public Lands, there are a variety of budget-friendly attractions in Salinas and in nearby cities within 25 miles like Carmel, Monterey, Pacific Grove and Hollister.
  • The list below includes 173 free or cheap things to do in or near Salinas, California, including 81 different types of inexpensive activities like Movie Theaters, Parks, Hiking Trails and Bowling.
  • From Toro Park to Fort Ord Public Lands, there are a variety of budget-friendly attractions in Salinas and in nearby cities within 25 miles like Carmel, Monterey, Pacific Grove and Hollister.
Showing 241-250 of 351
31.9 Miles
67% 57 votes
Beaches Santa Cruz, CA MoreLess Info
Cowell's Beach is good for surfers and windsurfers. It may not be the cleanest beach in the area.
32.0 Miles
99% 602 votes
Scenic Drives 48485 Highway One, Big Sur, CA 93920 MoreLess Info
Recognized and recommended by National Geographic, Big Sur Tours & More is a chartered tour company that specializes in small-group excursions. All tours feature custom itineraries and feature knowledgeable, experienced and personable guides. Overnight tours are available.
32.1 Miles
96% 308 votes
National & State Parks Highway One, Santa Cruz, CA MoreLess Info
One of the first self-sustained dairies of its time, Wilder Ranch, now a state park, is a popular venue for many outdoor activities and offers beautiful views of the ocean. It has a spacious picnic area and some of the old buildings with their original furnishings, are still intact.
32.5 Miles
92% 728 votes
Waterfalls Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, Big Sur, CA MoreLess Info
McWay Falls drops 84 feet from the highest point on the cliff onto the beach. While the beach itself is inaccessible, the falls can be visited all year long, since it is fed by underground rivers. Trails lead to an old stone house.
32.7 Miles
60% 5 votes
Farms & Ranches 2330 Diana Avenue, Morgan Hill, CA 95037 MoreLess Info
Big Oak Ranch is a horse care facility located on 57 acres in the foothills of Morgan Hill. On-site services include horse training, several trails, and lessons, either on your own horse of theirs.
32.8 Miles
92% 24 votes
Farms & Ranches 1615 Half Road, Morgan Hill, CA 95037 MoreLess Info
In addition to the locally grown tree-ripened fruit, Andry's Orchard also offers gourmet food items, confections, nuts and custom gift baskets. They also host seasonal events, including pumpkin patches and visits from Santa Claus.
33.7 Miles
89% 654 votes
Scenic Railroads 5401 Graham Hill Road, Santa Cruz, CA 95018 MoreLess Info
Based in Santa Cruz, California, Roaring Camp Railroads offers a variety of railroad tours, exhibits and activities. It is famous for its magnificent Chanukah and Christmas displays. Tours during holiday season sell out quickly, and advance reservations are highly recommended.
33.7 Miles
79% 33 votes
Parks 19245 Malaguerra Ave, Morgan Hill, CA 95037 MoreLess Info
Home to the largest reservoir in Santa Clara County, Anderson Lake County Park spans 3,144 acres and offers boating and fishing on the lake. There is a trail for hiking, biking and skating as well as picnic and barbeque facilities.
33.7 Miles
79% 24 votes
Hiking Trails Malaguerra & Morning Star Drive, Morgan Hill, CA 95037 MoreLess Info
Coyote Creek Trail & Bike Path is a 15 mile paved trail. The trail is relatively flat with a few areas with slight gains in elevation. Those interested in bike riding, hiking, and scenic views may enjoy Coyote Creek Trail.
35.0 Miles
94% 1178 votes
National & State Parks State Route 1, Big Sur, CA 93920 MoreLess Info
A nice place for a quick stop, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park has beautiful beaches that aren't too crowded. Hike in to see a small waterfall.
Showing 241-250 of 351
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