Del Monte Beach Monterey
A serene stretch of soft sand with gentle waves, boardwalks, and picnic spots, perfect for peaceful coastal escapes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful and less crowded
Del Monte Beach Monterey
Best Time
Peaceful and less crowded
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene stretch of soft sand with gentle waves, boardwalks, and picnic spots, perfect for peaceful coastal escapes.
"It's a must-visit if you're in the Monterey area — relaxing, scenic, and perfect for making beach day memories."
🚗 Easy Parking Access
Paid parking is available and convenient, often just a minute's walk to the water's edge.
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Fun
Safer than some other local beaches, with gentle waves perfect for little ones.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Soft Sand and Gentle Waves
Enjoy miles of soft sand perfect for long walks, beachcombing, and relaxing by the water. The gentle waves make it ideal for families.
Sunrise and Moonlit Evenings
Witness breathtaking sunrises casting a golden glow, or enjoy the serene beauty of the moonlit ocean. A truly magical experience.
Picnic and Fire Pit Fun
Designated fire pits are available for a cozy evening picnic. Remember to clean up after yourself to preserve the beach's beauty.
Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for local wildlife, adding an extra layer of natural wonder to your beach visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for a Peaceful Stroll
Parking and Access Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Easy Parking Access
Paid parking is available and convenient, often just a minute's walk to the water's edge.
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Fun
Safer than some other local beaches, with gentle waves perfect for little ones.
🔥 Fire Pit Etiquette
Use designated fire pits or dig your own, but always clean up thoroughly afterward.
🚶♀️ Scenic Boardwalk Walks
Enjoy leisurely strolls along the boardwalk pathways through the sand dunes.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Easy Parking Access
Paid parking is available and convenient, often just a minute's walk to the water's edge.
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Fun
Safer than some other local beaches, with gentle waves perfect for little ones.
🔥 Fire Pit Etiquette
Use designated fire pits or dig your own, but always clean up thoroughly afterward.
🚶♀️ Scenic Boardwalk Walks
Enjoy leisurely strolls along the boardwalk pathways through the sand dunes.
📸 Perfect Photo Ops
Capture stunning coastal moments, from sunrise to moonlit evenings.
🧘♀️ Laughter Yoga Sessions
Join Saturday morning laughter yoga for a unique beach experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Del Monte Beach for its soft sand, gentle waves, and peaceful atmosphere, making it a great spot for families and relaxation. The convenience of nearby parking and restrooms is appreciated, though some note that swimming can be inadvisable due to undertow. It's considered a scenic and relaxing escape, though not always the most exciting for children.
"Nice beach, soft sand. There are a couple fire pits that are first come. Or you can dig a hole and make your own fire pit. Don't forget to clean up after yourself!"
Pink Hat Gypsy
"I visited recently and loved the long stretch of soft sand, clean surroundings, and gentle waves. It's a great beach for families, couples, or anyone looking to relax and enjoy nature. The water was clear, and the view of the ocean was just stunning. Many people were enjoying the waves, flying kites, or just laying under beach tents. The nearby boardwalk and marina filled with boats added charm to the scenery and made it feel vibrant. It’s less crowded than some other Monterey beaches, which makes it perfect for a quiet picnic, beach walk, or even photography. There are restrooms and parking nearby, which adds to the convenience. Overall, it’s a must-visit if you're in the Monterey area — relaxing, scenic, and perfect for making beach day memories."
Uday Ramesh
"Any day at the beach is a good day. This particular spot was right off the street. It has paid for parking, its easy to use, just swipe and you're set. The walk to the waters edge is less than minute. Cant complain at all about quick in and out spots especially with kids. Everything is somewhat close by, have fun!"
Scotty Hillis
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Del Monte Beach is located on the Monterey Peninsula. It's accessible by car, with paid parking available directly on-site. Many visitors find it convenient for quick access to the water.
Parking can be challenging, especially during peak season or local events like Car Week. Arriving early or on weekdays is recommended to secure a spot.
Yes, the beach is accessible via boardwalk pathways, making it a pleasant walk or bike ride from nearby areas.
While specific bus routes might vary, checking local Monterey transit schedules can provide options for reaching the beach area.
The boardwalk pathways offer good accessibility, making it easier for those with mobility challenges to enjoy the beach.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Del Monte Beach is a public beach and does not have an entrance fee. Parking, however, is paid.
As a public beach, Del Monte Beach is generally accessible from sunrise to sunset. Specific park hours may apply to adjacent areas.
While you can't reserve specific spots, you can use the fire pits on a first-come, first-served basis. Planning for larger gatherings during busy times is advised.
While generally open, always check local advisories for any temporary restrictions. Swimming might be discouraged due to undertow on some days.
No tickets are required for entry to Del Monte Beach itself. Parking fees are the only cost associated with visiting.
🎫 🏖️ Onsite Experience
Enjoy walking, relaxing, picnicking, flying kites, photography, and even laughter yoga on Saturdays. Some visitors note it's good for quiet reading. +1
While the water can look inviting, some reviews suggest caution due to potential undertow and large waves, with 'no swimming' advisories sometimes posted.
Restrooms are available nearby, adding to the convenience for visitors.
Yes, there are fire pits available on a first-come, first-served basis, or you can dig your own. Remember to clean up afterward.
It's generally less crowded than other Monterey beaches, making it ideal for a peaceful experience. However, it can get busy on weekends and during special events.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the beach itself is more about relaxation, the nearby Old Fisherman's Wharf and downtown Monterey offer numerous dining options, including Paluca Trattoria.
Absolutely! Del Monte Beach is perfect for picnics, especially with the availability of fire pits for a more elaborate setup.
Food trucks are not a common feature directly at Del Monte Beach, but you can find various eateries in the surrounding Monterey area.
Monterey offers a range of cuisine, from fresh seafood on the wharf to casual cafes and international flavors in the downtown area.
Delivery services might be available, but it's often more convenient to bring your own picnic or dine at nearby restaurants.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings for sunrise and late afternoons for golden hour offer stunning light. Moonlit evenings also provide unique photographic opportunities.
Capturing the soft sand, gentle waves, coastal dunes, sunrise/moonrise, and the distant Monterey skyline are popular.
The boardwalk pathways offer elevated views, and the expanse of the beach itself provides ample space for framing your shots.
The scenic beauty and tranquil atmosphere make it a lovely spot for engagement photos, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or park management regarding drone operation policies before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing beach toys, a kite, and a picnic to make the most of your day. The availability of fire pits can also be a fun evening activity for roasting marshmallows. Remember to pack essentials like sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water for a comfortable family outing.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Relaxation Seekers
The scenic beauty, especially during sunrise or sunset, provides a perfect backdrop for mindfulness. The accessible boardwalks allow for leisurely strolls without strenuous effort, making it easy to clear your mind and recharge.
📸 Photographers and Content Creators
Creators can find inspiration in the natural beauty, the serene atmosphere, and even the occasional wildlife. The beach's accessibility and relatively uncrowded nature (especially on weekdays) allow for uninterrupted shooting sessions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Del Monte Beach's Appeal
The beach's appeal is amplified by its natural beauty, particularly during the transitional hours of the day. Sunrise paints the sky with vibrant colors, reflecting beautifully on the calm waters, while the lingering moon can create a magical, balanced scene as day meets night. This makes it a prime spot for photographers and anyone seeking a moment of tranquility.
Beyond its aesthetic charm, Del Monte Beach is also noted for its family-friendly nature. The calmer waters are generally considered safer for children than some other local beaches known for stronger currents. The presence of fire pits adds another dimension, allowing for cozy evening gatherings and marshmallow roasting, provided visitors adhere to responsible cleanup practices.
Navigating Del Monte Beach: Parking and Accessibility
For those concerned about accessibility, Del Monte Beach is quite accommodating. The boardwalk pathways that run through the sand dunes make it relatively easy to navigate the beach, even for individuals with mobility challenges or families with strollers. This thoughtful infrastructure ensures that more people can enjoy the coastal scenery without significant difficulty.
While the beach itself is the main attraction, its proximity to other amenities enhances the visitor experience. Nearby areas offer dining options and recreational activities, such as El Estero Boating, which is located across the street and is pet and kid-friendly. This makes Del Monte Beach a convenient starting point or a relaxing stop within a broader Monterey exploration.
Beyond the Beach: Local Charm and Activities
For those seeking active pursuits, El Estero Boating is located just across the street from the beach. This offers opportunities for water-based fun and is noted as being both pet and kid-friendly, making it a great addition to a family beach day.
Furthermore, the Monterey Peninsula itself is rich with natural beauty and attractions. Visitors can explore nearby parks like Point Lobos or enjoy the scenic coastal drives that are synonymous with this part of California. The combination of the tranquil beach and the vibrant local scene ensures a well-rounded experience for all types of travelers.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit