32 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY ® 2025-2026 BEACHES Dress in layers. Visitors are often surprised to discover how cool and breezy Monterey Peninsula beaches can be, even in the summer. A 65-degree day can mean T-shirts and shorts or a fleece sweatshirt. The warmest months tend to be September and October. Yet area beaches are beautiful no matter the weather. Wherever you go, be aware of rip currents and changeable ocean conditions. Note: Check for current rules on whether bonfires or dogs are allowed, as rules may change. In addition, events like floods and fires may make some of these destinations inaccessible—check conditions before you go. Asilomar State Beach This rustic stretch of soft, white sand and rocky promontories offers a variety of activities, from kite-flying to tidepooling to surfing. Asilomar also has a long boardwalk along coastal dunes laced with delicate vegetation. A popular place for sunset strolls and dog walks. Restrooms available. On-street parking. Dogs allowed on leash. Seasonal lifeguard. Bonfires and alcohol are prohibited. Beach wheelchair or walker reservations at (831) 372-8016. Adjacent to Sunset Drive, Pacific Grove. parks.ca.gov/asilomar Carmel Beach Fine white sands ringed by bluffs set off the aquamarine waters of Carmel Bay, making this famous beach a weekend and sunset destination. It’s one of the few beaches where dogs are allowed to run off-leash, and there are three beach volleyball courts. A good surfing spot, though waves are significantly affected by the tide—note unpredictable rip currents and rogue or sleeper waves. Restrooms available. No lifeguard service. bit.ly/mocobeaches Carmel River State Beach Where the Carmel River meets the Pacific Ocean lies a grainier, less-populated strip of sand frequented by locals, especially birdwatchers. Swimming in the surf is not advisable because of strong currents, but the lagoon on the river side of the sand offers more protected areas. Dogs allowed on leash. Restrooms and limited parking available at the intersection of Scenic and Carmelo, Carmel. parks.ca.gov Del Monte Beach The perfect family spot for a lazy day on the beach—or an active day, as you can walk for miles. Or play in the sand, or picnic, or go for a jog at low tide. There are numerous access points, and the best swimming option is at the western-most point adjacent to Monterey’s municipal wharf, which provides protection from waves and currents. A couple of miles up the beach, at Casa Verde Way, a boardwalk winds through the dunes. The beach follows along Del Monte Avenue. Dogs allowed on leash. Restrooms available. Paid parking at the wharf in Monterey. monterey.org Gibson Beach and China Cove Located within Point Lobos Reserve, these beaches are perfect for viewing otters and sea lions in their wild habitat. Both beaches lie at the bottom of a steep set of wooden stairs but are worth the trek. China Cove has emeraldgreen water and hollowed-out, rocky tunnels. Gibson Beach, located a bit farther back in the park, is less populated. Great for hiking and Although Monterey County is largely rural and agricultural, its landscape dotted with small towns, there is a surprising number and range of activities available—and “activity” is used broadly, for it can apply to everything from a vigorous hike or scuba diving to watching whales or playing video games. And there are local shops that will provide instruction, help you gear up or even give you the keys to a classic convertible for the day. Monterey Bay Aquarium AT PLAY
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