4 Days of Fun: Salinas on a Budget

Explore Salinas on a budget and experience the best of Central California.

21 June 2023

A trip to Salinas, on a limited budget, can still offer views of scenic landscapes and a taste of the Californian culture. Visit historic sites such as the National Steinbeck Center and the Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital to experience the city's proud heritage. Make the most of budget-friendly food options such as taco trucks, local diners and farmers markets during your stay.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Diving into Salinas Culture

  • Check into the Econo Lodge Salinas, a cozy hotel with an outdoor pool
  • Visit the National Steinbeck Center, discovering the great novelist's life and works
  • Wander around the charming downtown area, stopping at the farmers market & gift shops
  • Savor a tasty burrito dinner at El Charrito Market, a local favorite for Mexican food
  • Catch an indie film or art exhibit at the Maya Cinemas, a modern theater in the heart of town
Day 2

Nature Escape in Monterey

  • Take a scenic drive down to Monterey Bay, about 30min from Salinas
  • Explore the iconic Monterey Bay Aquarium, home to over 35,000 animals and plants
  • Kayak or paddleboard through the serene Elkhorn Slough, a protected estuary teeming with wildlife
  • Picnic at the scenic Lover's Point Park, admiring the stunning cliff and ocean views
  • Head back to Salinas for a laid-back dinner at Grill House, serving up grilled meats and seafood
Day 3

Wine Tasting in the Valley

  • Venture out to the nearby Salinas Valley, known for its rich agricultural bounty
  • Taste local wines and enjoy the charming vineyard views at Puma Road Winery
  • Stroll around the historic village of San Juan Bautista, home to a well-preserved Spanish mission and vintage shops
  • Explore the buzzing food scene of Oldtown Salinas, trying out artisanal ice cream at The Ice Cream Shoppe
  • End the day with a cozy vegan dinner at The Farm Café, using sustainably-sourced ingredients
Day 4

Adventure in the Outdoors

  • Hike through the stunning Pinnacles National Park, a unique mix of volcanic landscapes and wildlife habitats
  • Marvel at the dramatic rock formations and caves, spotting the majestic California Condors soaring overhead
  • Take a refreshing dip in the park's swimming hole, perfect for a hot afternoon
  • Refuel with a picnic lunch of sandwiches and fruits from Salinas Valley farms
  • Head back to Salinas, soaking in the last serene moments before heading home.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Salinas, United States by plane is to fly into Monterey Regional Airport, which is approximately 18 miles away from Salinas. From there, you can take a taxi or rental car to your destination.

Car

The best way to get to Salinas, United States by car is to take US Route 101 or CA-1 to Salinas. There are also several rental car options available at airports in nearby cities.

Train

Unfortunately, there is no direct train service to Salinas. The closest Amtrak station is in Salinas, but you will have to take a connecting bus or train from a nearby city.

Boat

There are no direct boat services to Salinas, as it is an inland city. The closest major ports are the Port of Oakland and the Port of Los Angeles, both of which are several hundred miles away.

Bus

The best way to get to Salinas, United States by bus is to take a Greyhound bus to the Salinas Transit Center in Salinas, CA. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to your final destination.

Destination

Salinas

Welcome to the land of lettuce, the mecca of mushrooms, the...hold on, is that John Steinbeck over there? Yup, we must be in Salinas!

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Number of days

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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