Best Places for Trick-or-Treating on the Monterey Peninsula

Halloween is more than just costumes and candy—it’s about community, creativity, and making memories with family and friends. Whether you’re new to the area or a longtime resident, there are some fantastic neighborhoods and events here that make trick-or-treating safe, fun, and unforgettable. We’ve put together a list of the best places to take your kids trick-or-treating this Halloween, so get your costumes ready—it’s going to be a spooky good time!

Photo from the Monterey Bay Aquarium

Top Neighborhoods for Trick-or-Treating

Carmel – Mission Fields

Mission Fields is a stand-out when it comes to trick or treating. With lots of homes nestled closely together, sidewalks, streetlights and a competitive decorating spirit between neighbors, it is an ideal spot to take the little ones, enjoy the creativity and cover a lot of ground quickly.

Monterey – Deer Flats

Deer Flats in Monterey has long been revered as one of the most popular (and crowded!) trick or treating venues on the Peninsula. Folks go all out with the decorations and there may even be a haunted house or two.

Pacific Grove – Candy Cane Lane

Candy Cane Lane is a favorite for many local families on Halloween. Known for its charming, walkable streets and beautifully decorated homes, this neighborhood goes all out. Many residents hand out full-sized candy bars, and some even put on light shows or create mini haunted houses.

Photo from the Realty Times

Local Halloween Events to Check Out

If door-to-door isn’t your thing (or your little ones tire out early), check out these family-friendly events:

• Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Halloween Celebration
  Dress up and enjoy a spooky (and educational!) evening with ocean-themed treats. Available to members. Fri., Oct. 24^th and Sun., Oct. 26^th.  Click Here for details.
• Downtown Trick-or-Treat on Lighthouse Avenue (Pacific Grove)
  Local businesses hand out candy, and there are games, music, and costume contests. A safe and fun daytime alternative for younger kids. Sat., Oct. 25^th. Click Here for details.
• Del Monte Shopping Center “Boo Bash”
  A daytime event that includes trick-or-treating at stores, pumpkin decorating, and family photo ops. Sat., Oct. 25^th.  Click Here for details.
• Monterey Sport Center Pumpkin Plunge & Dia de los Muertos
  Combines fun splash pool, Thriller dance class and cultural celebration. Sat., Oct. 25^th. Click Here for details.
• Halloween at Point Sur LightStation
  An evening of ghostly fund with a walking tour of the lighthouse. Sat., Oct. 25^th. Click here for details.
• Halloween on the Wharf: Trick or Trest
• Trick or Treat by the Bay and Costume Contest. Fri., Oct. 31^st. An iconic evening event by the bay. Click Here for details.

Photo from Monterey Bay Parent

Tips for a Fun & Safe Halloween

• Go Early: The best time for trick-or-treating is between 5:30 PM and 8:00 PM.
• Stay Visible: Use glow sticks or clip-on lights so your little ghosts and goblins can be seen.
• Dress Warmly: The evenings typically get cool this time of year, so be sure to bring some layers.
• Be Respectful: Only approach houses with porch lights on and remember to say thank you.
• Check Treats: It’s always a good idea to inspect candy before letting kids dig in.

The Monterey Peninsula offers a wonderful mix of kid-friendly Halloween fun, festive family events, and adult-oriented spooky experiences. Whether you’re traveling with children, with fellow adults or a blended group, there’s something memorable waiting for everyone. Happy haunting!