Monterey State Beach

Monterey State Beach

Welcome to Monterey State Beach, the protected beach area located in Southern Monterey Bay. This scenic coastline starts near Fisherman's Wharf and stretches all the way to Seaside, providing miles of beach fun to be had. At Monterey State Beach, nature exploration and intense relaxation are one and the same.

Groups can surf, fish, kayak, swim, scuba dive, or paraglide while here, depending on how much time you have to spend and what kind of adventure you are looking for. You can also spend some time beachcombing for sea glass and other treasures, exploring the many tide pools around the coast, or if the wind is just right, renting and flying a kite! The Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail runs 29 miles adjacent to the beach from downtown Monterey and north to Marina, California, and offers not only scenery but historic landmarks along the way, if you are up for a hike!

The protected beach leads into the protected Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, home to multitudes of wildlife including dolphins, humpback and gray whales, sea otters, and more. Simply lay back on the sandy shore with the surf at your toes and watch as those grand animals crest the waves with a feeling of majestic simplicity in your relaxed heart

There are technically three different beaches within 'Monterey State Beach', including Seaside Beach, Houghton M. Roberts Beach, and Window on the Bay Beach.