✓ Updated December 2025

Weather data and travel information verified current

Best Time to Visit Monterey, USA: Feb or Mar 2025

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Quick Answer:

For a truly captivating Monterey experience, aim for late spring through early fall, specifically May to October. During these months, the coastal fog often lifts by midday, revealing brilliant sunshine that warms the charming streets and the iconic coastline. You'll find the ocean is calmer, perfect for whale watching excursions, and the air carries the invigorating scent of sea salt. Even the winter months have their charm, with fewer crowds and the possibility of dramatic, misty mornings that lend a unique, introspective beauty to the dramatic cliffs and historic Cannery Row.

Best Months to Visit:

FebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNov

Airport Code

MRY

Coordinates

36.60°, -121.90°

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Top Things to Do

Monterey Bay Aquarium After Hours

Escape the daytime crowds and immerse yourself in the mesmerizing underwater world of the Monterey Bay Aquarium during their 'After Hours' events. Sip on a glass of wine as you wander through the exhibits, illuminated by the soft glow of the tanks, and enjoy a more intimate encounter with the marine life.

Kayaking the Elkhorn Slough at Dawn

Paddle through the tranquil waters of Elkhorn Slough as the sun begins to paint the sky. This protected estuary is a haven for sea otters, harbor seals, and a dazzling array of birdlife. Go early to witness the wildlife at its most active and enjoy the peaceful stillness before other boats arrive.

Cannery Row's Literary Echoes

Stroll down Cannery Row, not just for the shops, but to feel the ghosts of John Steinbeck's stories. Imagine the sardine canneries bustling with life and seek out the Steinbeck-era architecture. Look for the small, independent bookstores tucked away for a unique souvenir that captures the spirit of the place.

Pacific Grove's Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary

During the winter months, witness a breathtaking natural spectacle as thousands of Monarch butterflies descend upon the eucalyptus groves of Pacific Grove. The air hums with their gentle fluttering, creating a truly magical and unforgettable experience. Visit on a sunny, cool morning for the best viewing.

See all 7 things to do →

💡 Travel Tip: For the best value on hotels during this season, check current rates on Trip.com.

Essential Travel Tips

food

Skip the tourist traps on Cannery Row for seafood and head to Old Fisherman's Wharf for more authentic, local-loved spots. Try Old Fisherman's Grotto for their cioppino – it's a Monterey classic and often has better value than the more prominent restaurants on Cannery Row.

transport

Consider getting a multi-day pass for the Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) if you plan on exploring beyond the immediate downtown area. It's incredibly affordable and can save you a lot on parking fees, especially if you're visiting popular spots like the Aquarium or Point Lobos.

money

Pack a picnic lunch for your visit to the Monterey Bay Aquarium. While the exhibits are world-class, the on-site food can be pricey. Grab some local goodies from a deli like Parker-Lusseau Pastries and enjoy your meal with a view of the bay just outside the aquarium.

culture

Take time to explore Pacific Grove's charming downtown, just a short drive or bike ride from Monterey. It has a more laid-back, Victorian vibe and is known for its beautiful butterfly groves in the winter months (October-February) – a truly magical, free experience.

packing

Always bring layers, even in summer! Monterey's coastal weather can change dramatically from sunny and warm to foggy and chilly in a matter of hours. A windbreaker or a fleece jacket is essential for exploring the coast, especially along the 17-Mile Drive or at Point Lobos.

safety

Be mindful of the tides when exploring tide pools at places like Asilomar State Beach. Always check the tide charts before you go, and never turn your back on the ocean, as sneaker waves can be powerful and unpredictable.

💡 Travel Tip: If you're planning your trip, it's worth checking flight prices on Trip.com before you decide.

Weather Details

Jan

10 days

Feb

10 days

Mar

8 days

Apr

5 days

May

3 days

Jun

1 day

Jul

0 days

Aug

0 days

Sep

1 day

Oct

4 days

Nov

7 days

Dec

10 days

Monthly Weather Data Table

Month	High (°C)	Low (°C)	High (°F)	Low (°F)	Rainfall (mm)	Rain Days	Daylight (h)
Jan	14°C	7°C	57°F	45°F	75mm	10 days	9.7h
Feb	15°C	7°C	59°F	45°F	75mm	10 days	10.6h
Mar	15°C	8°C	59°F	46°F	50mm	8 days	12h
Apr	16°C	8°C	61°F	46°F	25mm	5 days	13.4h
May	17°C	9°C	63°F	48°F	15mm	3 days	14.2h
Jun	18°C	10°C	64°F	50°F	5mm	1 day	14.7h
Jul	19°C	11°C	66°F	52°F	0mm	0 days	14.5h
Aug	19°C	11°C	66°F	52°F	0mm	0 days	13.7h
Sep	19°C	11°C	66°F	52°F	5mm	1 day	12.6h
Oct	18°C	10°C	64°F	50°F	25mm	4 days	11.5h
Nov	16°C	8°C	61°F	46°F	50mm	7 days	10.4h
Dec	14°C	7°C	57°F	45°F	75mm	10 days	9.5h

Monterey, USA Month by Month: Complete Guide

Planning your trip to Monterey, USA? Here's what to expect each month:

Weather

14°C°C / 57°F°F

10 days rainy days • 75mmmm

What to Expect

Winter season, holiday atmosphere. Festive but can be cold. Mixed crowds.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Dec offers a quieter experience with fewer tourists.

All Things to Do in Monterey, USA

Monterey Bay Aquarium After Hours

attraction

Best time: Year-round, check event schedule

Kayaking the Elkhorn Slough at Dawn

activity

Best time: Spring-Fall

Cannery Row's Literary Echoes

cultural

Best time: Year-round

Pacific Grove's Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary

nature

Best time: October-February

Local Catch at Old Fisherman's Wharf

food

While touristy, Old Fisherman's Wharf is still the place to savor incredibly fresh seafood. Skip the chain restaurants and seek out the smaller, family-run spots for cioppino or grilled calamari. Ask about the 'catch of the day' for the freshest flavors Monterey has to offer.

Best time: Year-round

17-Mile Drive's Hidden Coves

nature

Beyond the famous Lone Cypress, take time to explore the lesser-known coves and viewpoints along the 17-Mile Drive. Pull over at Bird Rock to observe sea lions and seabirds, or find a secluded spot for a picnic with dramatic ocean vistas. The early morning or late afternoon light offers the most dramatic scenery.

Best time: Year-round, but fog can obscure views in summer

Artisan Finds in Carmel-by-the-Sea

shopping

Just a short drive from Monterey, the charming village of Carmel-by-the-Sea offers a delightful escape for shoppers seeking unique treasures. Wander through its fairytale cottages and discover independent art galleries, boutique clothing stores, and artisanal craft shops brimming with one-of-a-kind finds.

Best time: Year-round

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Getting Around Monterey, USA

Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) Bus System

The MST bus system is your most budget-friendly way to get around Monterey and connect to nearby towns like Pacific Grove and Carmel. It's great for reaching attractions like the Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row without the hassle of parking.

Cost:$2.00 per ride, with daily and monthly passes available for frequent riders.

Tip:Download the 'Transit' app for real-time bus tracking and route planning – it's a lifesaver! Avoid waiting at the very front of the bus stop; most locals wait a few feet back. Buses can be crowded during peak tourist season, so factor in extra travel time, especially on weekends.

Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail (Biking)

This paved 18-mile trail stretches from Pacific Grove to Castroville, offering stunning ocean views and a fantastic way to explore the coastline. Renting a bike is ideal for leisurely exploration of Cannery Row, Fisherman's Wharf, and Asilomar State Beach.

Cost:Bike rentals typically range from $25-$50 per day, depending on the type of bike and rental duration. Some hotels offer complimentary bikes.

Tip:Book your bike rental in advance, especially during summer. Look for rental shops near Fisherman's Wharf or Cannery Row. Be mindful of pedestrians and other cyclists; the trail can get busy. Don't forget to bring a lock and secure your bike if you stop for an extended period.

Ride-Sharing Services (Uber/Lyft)

Uber and Lyft are readily available in Monterey and offer convenient door-to-door service. They are a good option for getting to restaurants off the main tourist paths or for late-night travel when public transport is limited.

Cost:Varies by distance and demand, but expect around $10-$25 for most intra-city trips.

Tip:Check surge pricing during peak hours or major events. Sometimes, walking a block or two away from a major attraction can result in a slightly lower fare. Be patient during busy times, as wait times can increase.

Trolley Tours (Seasonal)

During the summer months and holidays, Monterey often operates a hop-on hop-off trolley service that connects major attractions. This is a fun and convenient way to see the sights without constantly looking for parking.

Cost:Typically around $30-$40 for a day pass.

Tip:Check the official Monterey tourism website or local visitor centers for exact operating dates and routes, as this service is seasonal. It's a great way to get an overview of the city, but for deeper exploration, consider other options. Don't be afraid to ask the driver for recommendations!

Walking

Many of Monterey's most popular areas, like Cannery Row, Fisherman's Wharf, and the historic downtown, are highly walkable. This is the best way to soak in the atmosphere and discover hidden gems.

Cost:Free!

Tip:Wear comfortable shoes! Monterey can be hilly in places. Utilize the free parking lots on the outskirts of the main tourist zones and walk in. This is the best way to avoid parking tickets and the frustration of circling for a spot.

💡 Travel Tip: This season usually means better deals — check what's available on Trip.com.

Similar Destinations

Frequently Asked Questions

When's the absolute best time to visit Monterey, and what should I pack?

While Monterey is lovely year-round, I find late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October) to be ideal. The summer fog, known locally as 'June Gloom' or 'Fogust,' can be quite persistent and chilly, obscuring those iconic coastal views. Pack layers! Even on a sunny day, the ocean breeze can be surprisingly cool, so a windbreaker or fleece is a must, along with comfortable walking shoes for exploring Cannery Row and Point Lobos.

Beyond the Aquarium, what's a must-do that most tourists miss?

You absolutely have to drive the 17-Mile Drive, but don't just stop at the famous Lone Cypress. My personal favorite is the stretch through Pebble Beach, where you can often spot deer grazing right by the roadside. Also, consider a detour to the lesser-known Garland Ranch Regional Park in Carmel Valley for some beautiful inland hiking, a nice contrast to the coast.

How should I get around Monterey, and is parking a nightmare?

Monterey is quite walkable, especially around Cannery Row and Fisherman's Wharf. However, to truly explore the coastline and nearby towns like Carmel and Pacific Grove, a car is highly recommended. Parking can indeed be challenging and expensive in the most popular areas, particularly during peak season. My tip? Look for public parking lots a few blocks away from the main attractions – you'll save money and get a bit of extra exercise.

Are there any local food specialties I should seek out?

You can't leave Monterey without trying some fresh seafood, of course! While clam chowder in a sourdough bowl is a classic on the wharf, I always look for cioppino, a hearty Italian-American fish stew that's a local staple. Also, keep an eye out for artichoke dishes – the nearby Castroville is the 'Artichoke Capital of the World,' and you'll find them prepared in all sorts of delicious ways, from fried to grilled.

What's the deal with the sea otters? Are they really everywhere?

Yes, the sea otters are a real highlight! You'll often see them bobbing in the kelp forests just offshore, especially around Lovers Point in Pacific Grove and along the coast near the Aquarium. Bring binoculars if you have them; watching them crack open shells on their chests is incredibly entertaining. Just remember to give them plenty of space and never feed them – they're wild animals, and respecting their habitat is crucial.

How many days do you need in Monterey, USA?

We recommend spending 3-5 days in Monterey, USA to see the main attractions without feeling rushed. This gives you time to explore the top sights, experience local culture, and take a day trip if desired. Budget travelers might do 2-3 days, while those wanting a deeper experience should plan for a week.

Is Monterey, USA expensive to visit?

Monterey, USA can be enjoyed on various budgets. Daily costs typically range from $50-80 for budget travelers, $100-200 for mid-range visitors, and $250+ for luxury experiences. Prices are highest during Feb and lowest during off-season months. Book accommodations early to secure better rates.

What is Monterey, USA famous for?

Monterey, USA is famous for its unique attractions, rich culture, and memorable experiences. The destination is best known for its architectural landmarks, local cuisine, and vibrant atmosphere. Visit during Feb or Mar for the best experience.

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