The Monterey Peninsula is best known for its beautiful beaches and stunning sunset views. Fall is known as Monterey’s “secret season” because it is like a second summer. It’s the perfect time to relax alongside the Pacific Ocean and appreciate the amazing scenery and wildlife.
With so many fantastic beaches in the area, it can be difficult to pick where to spend your day. Here is
a list of the best beaches to visit in our area:
Fort Ord Dunes State Beach
Located within walking distance of Cal State Monterey Bay’s campus, Fort Ord offers visitors stunning views of Monterey Bay. Enjoy this long stretch of beach surrounded by giant coastal sand dunes and walking trails. Be on the lookout for seagulls, hawks, rabbits and sea lions as you wander around the beach.
Marina State Beach
Remember where the Plunge took place this year? Marina State Beach is located north of the Monterey Tides Hotel. This sandy beach is the perfect place to swim in the cold Pacific Ocean while enjoying the view of downtown Monterey and Cannery Row to the southwest. This beach is also home to abundant marine life, including pelicans, seagulls, sea lions and the endangered snowy plover. On a clear day, you can even spot whale spouts on the horizon.
Lovers Point
This iconic beach location in Pacific Grove hosts a myriad of activities for beachgoers. This beach is a protected cove, which makes it ideal for avoiding large waves and windy conditions. Look for mussels clinging to the rocks at low tide. Listen to the seagulls and sea lions and look out for sea otters hiding among the kelp. It is a good idea to head down to this spot in the morning due to the possibility of crowds arriving as the day goes on. After your beach day, stop by the Beach House Restaurant at Lovers Point to eat a meal with a view.
Asilomar State Beach
Located in Pacific Grove, Asilomar State Beach offers a unique beach experience for visitors. There are many small coves hidden among the rocks and landscape. Look for otters and harbor seals swimming in the swells and explore the tidepools at low tide. It is best to arrive at the beach in the morning when crowds will be less. This beach is also fantastic for swimming, and it is popular with local surfers looking to catch some waves.
Carmel City Beach
In the heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea, Carmel City Beach is one of the most famous beaches in the Monterey Peninsula. It is best known for being a dog beach, where furry friends and their owners can enjoy the ocean together. You can relax on the sandy beach and enjoy gorgeous views of nearby Pebble Beach. The best time to spend a day at Carmel Beach is early morning or late evening. Crowds will be less during this time. Another great idea is to visit at sunset; on a clear night, the setting sun and sky are beautiful!
Carmel River State Beach
Located in Carmel, this beach is a quieter place to enjoy the stunning views of Carmel Bay. You can swim in the ocean while looking at the famous Point Lobos State Natural Reserve in the distance. Try to spot seals and shorebirds in the surf while you’re out there.