Cabins near Pacific Grove, California range from simple wooden structures to fully-equipped accommodations with modern amenities. These coastal cabins sit at elevations between 0-2,000 feet, with temperatures averaging 50-65°F year-round. Morning fog often blankets the area until midday, creating a misty environment around cabin sites that typically clears by afternoon.
What to do
Hiking redwood trails: Mount Madonna County Park offers numerous hiking paths through towering redwoods. "There is a large vacant campsite across the road that's reserved for docents but it was empty when we were there so we had the cul-de-sac all to ourselves. Sites 416 and 417 are also big with hidden spots back off the road for pitching your tent," notes one visitor at Mount Madonna County Park.
River activities: At Big Sur Campground & Cabins, the river running through the property provides natural recreation. "Right near a river which is so much fun! Tubing there is great. Lots of other kids and dogs around," says one camper at Big Sur Campground & Cabins.
Wildlife observation: Many cabin areas feature interesting local fauna. "We did see a few skunks and one wandered right into our campsite at night, so keep an eye out for them," warns a Mount Madonna visitor who enjoyed the biodiversity of the area.
Beach exploration: Cabin accommodations near Marina provide beach access. "About a 5 min trek through sand and dunes and you'll find yourself at a beach not many people frequent. On Friday we were the only ones for as far as I could see. No exaggeration," reports a visitor to Marina Dunes RV Park.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Pinnacles Campground receives praise for maintenance. "Clean. Friendly staff. Wonderful showers. Campground was full the weekend we were there," notes one visitor at Pinnacles Campground.
Peaceful settings: Fernwood Campground offers tranquil environments with natural sound features. "A little slice of babbling brook heaven with delightful showers," mentions a camper from Fernwood Campground & Resort.
Family-friendly amenities: Santa Cruz KOA features numerous activities for children. "Very close to the beach, quiet, excellent friendly staff always happy to help. They have activities daily and things to do which are sent out daily in a text," reports a visitor, highlighting the structured programming available.
Convenient locations: Cabins situated between major attractions allow for diverse day trips. "Short drive to Santa Cruz and Monterey. They have a heated pool, laundry facilities and on site store," notes a camper about the Santa Cruz area.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabin facilities fill quickly, especially in summer. "We made this trip last minute on Saturday and I was able to grab a spot but at $105... a bit pricey for a site. Nonetheless I enjoy the night but there was a lot of people. I guess it's best to visit during week days," advises a Big Sur camper.
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some locations. "It's hard to get bigger RVs into spots also. We have a 35' 5th wheel and there are only some spots that will fit it... It is also very loud here with the freeway right behind you," explains a Marina Dunes visitor.
Wildlife encounters: Multiple campgrounds report active wildlife. "Raccoons...everywhere.... seriously leave your car locked, these little buggers were not afraid of humans," warns a Ventana Campground visitor about their Big Sur experience.
Price variations: Cabin costs fluctuate significantly. "It is $160 to stay there. I have a camper van and I didn't need all the hook up. There is a Best Western right next to this place where we ended up getting a room instead as that was less expensive," shares a Marina Dunes visitor, indicating the price threshold where hotels become competitive with cabin camping.
Tips for camping with families
Kids' activities: Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay KOA Holiday provides extensive child-friendly features. "We have a two and a half year old and it's perfect for us in a 28' fifth wheel. Paved roads for bikes, huge playground, nice store, warm pool. It's perfect for families," notes a reviewer at Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay KOA Holiday.
Cabin size limitations: Some properties have tight quarters for larger families. "Sites are a little small and it was a hike to the water," observes a Marina Dunes camper, pointing out space constraints that might challenge families with multiple children.
Heat considerations: Mountain cabins can experience significant temperature drops. "It is a lot colder here than on the valley floor. Prepare for it to be 40deg colder than Gilroy or San Jose. We weren't prepared & had to drive into town & buy more clothes!" warns a Mount Madonna visitor.
Early bookings: Family-friendly cabin locations require advance planning. "Security guy was awesome, kind, friendly, helpful! We arrived at 11:30 pm - exhausted, with no reservation, asking for a tent site. No problem!" shares a Santa Cruz KOA camper who lucked out with last-minute availability.
Tips from RVers
Site selection importance: At Monterey Pines RV Park, site leveling can be challenging. "Sites need renovation and they claim it is coming. Of course they have said that for the last 3 years. Their answer to uneven sites is to give you pieces of wood to try and level. Good luck, I saw some raised up 2-3 feet," cautions a visitor to Monterey Pines RV Park.
Hookup locations: Some RV sites have awkward utility placements. "Nice RV park by the beach. Bathrooms and showers are great. Downside is the store is closed on Sundays. Also, $190 a night plus $20 to choose your spot is wild. The location of the electrical/water is awkward," shares a Marina Dunes camper.
Narrowness concerns: Multiple campgrounds have tight sites. "This place is okay it's just small and loud. It's hard to get bigger RVs into spots also. We have a 35' 5th wheel and there are only some spots that will fit it," explains an RVer about coastal accommodations.
Military-only options: Some of the best-value RV cabins have usage restrictions. "This RV Park is the best kept secret vacation spot on the Monterey Peninsula. This is the most beautiful and comfortable RV park of all other RV parks in a 50 mile radius, only you'll need a valid military or veteran ID to stay," notes a Monterey Pines visitor.
