- 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 231-240 of
351
30.2 Miles
93%
361 votes
1156 High St., Santa Cruz, CA 95064
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The University of California at Santa Cruz is a major research institution with ten component colleges. It is most respected for its programs in medicine, biology, biological engineering and chemistry.
30.3 Miles
Sykes Hot Springs is a camping and hiking area that offers scenic and challenging hikes along a network of trails. The trails offer wilderness and ocean views, and hikers can camp at various points along them.
30.5 Miles
With 3 mile-long trails and elevation of 200 feet, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is a heavily wooded area and also rich in wildlife. Along the river there are campsites and lodgings.
30.6 Miles
Located on nearly 4,800 acres, Andrew Molera State Park can be used for hiking, fishing, swimming, camping, boating and horseback riding. The park provides picnic areas, beach access, camping sites, restrooms and wildlife viewing opportunities.
30.9 Miles
Housed inside a beautiful 1911 Craftsman style once belonging to famed organist John Acton, the Morgan Hill Museum is now a popular attraction for visitors to the Morgan Hill area. The museum holds archives, artifacts, maps and clippings from the towns past.
31.1 Miles
93%
1060 votes
236
Pfeiffer Beach
Sycamore Canyon Road, Right off Highway 1, Big Sur, CA 93920
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A popular day-use park in the Big Sur area is Pfeiffer Beach which has pockets of purple sand. Unique rock formations are situated in the water just off the beach, including a prominent arch.
31.2 Miles
38%
13 votes
16545 Murphy Avenue, Morgan Hill, CA 95037
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Part of the larger Morgan Hill Outdoor Sport Center, the Morgan Hill Soccer Complex features over a dozen grass soccer fields, as well as some turf fields. The complex hosts youth soccer leagues and a variety of other events.
31.3 Miles
San Andreas Trail is a two mile trail suitable for hikers of all skill levels. The trail is mostly paved, and follows the I-280 for most of its length (which may be a downside for those looking for some quiet.)
31.3 Miles
Located in the scenic countryside, Hensley Ranch is an equestrian facility that provides a number of services for horses and their owners to enjoy. Training, riding lessons, and horse boarding are among the many services provided at the ranch.
31.3 Miles
Specializing in competitive horse riding lessons, Ligara Farms runs visitors through the basics of equine maintenance and riding. It also hosts monthly tournaments and horse shows where visitors can watch experienced riders display their skills.