32 The Best of Monterey Bay ® 2024-2025 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—meaning it has 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 A definition of “activity” in Monterey County can be quite broad. Those seeking an outdoor adrenaline rush can take on nature’s challenges by land, sea or both. Hop on a boat and have an up-close encounter with whales or grab a mountain bike and take on a trail. But one can also bang away at a classic arcade game or challenge their wits by navigating an escape room. Indoors or out, there are plenty of activities to enjoy, even if it’s just a day of relaxing on the beach. At Play Whale watching
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