San Carlos Beach
A serene coastal escape in Monterey, perfect for wildlife viewing, family picnics, and peaceful strolls along the Pacific.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Sea lions are abundant!
San Carlos Beach
Best Time
Sea lions are abundant!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene coastal escape in Monterey, perfect for wildlife viewing, family picnics, and peaceful strolls along the Pacific.
"Literally one of my favorite beaches to go to. Especially when this mom is alone with the kids. It's easy beach access from where you park so to unload all my stuff it's easy"
🚗 Ample Parking Available
Plenty of parking with coin & credit card options. Easy access for unloading gear.
🚻 Clean Restrooms Onsite
Convenient and clean restrooms are available, a big plus for families.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sea Lion Spectacle
Shoreline
Witness sea lions basking on the sand, a truly memorable sight, especially in winter.
Peaceful Waves
Waterfront
Enjoy the usually low waves, perfect for a relaxing stroll or a dip in the cool Pacific waters.
Family-Friendly Park
Adjacent to beach
A nearby park and grassy area make it ideal for picnics and family fun.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Sea Lion Season
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Ample Parking Available
Plenty of parking with coin & credit card options. Easy access for unloading gear.
🚻 Clean Restrooms Onsite
Convenient and clean restrooms are available, a big plus for families.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Vibes
Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for pet owners.
🧺 Picnic Perfect Spot
Ideal for picnics with grassy areas and beautiful ocean views.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Ample Parking Available
Plenty of parking with coin & credit card options. Easy access for unloading gear.
🚻 Clean Restrooms Onsite
Convenient and clean restrooms are available, a big plus for families.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Vibes
Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for pet owners.
🧺 Picnic Perfect Spot
Ideal for picnics with grassy areas and beautiful ocean views.
🚶♀️ Walk from the Aquarium
Enjoy a scenic walk from the Monterey Bay Aquarium to the beach.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors love San Carlos Beach for its peaceful atmosphere, low waves, and abundant sea lion sightings, especially in winter. The convenient parking, clean restrooms, and nearby park make it a family-friendly spot. Some note occasional trash on the sand, but overall, it's praised as a relaxing and beautiful coastal escape.
"I love that the waves are usually low in this beach. When it’s sunny it does get a little warm, making it the the perfect weather. There are bathrooms located within walking distance not too far away but you do have to walk. There is usually lots of parking in the front and on the sides where you can paid with coins or credit cards."
Sandra Diaz
"This small beach is a lovely spot with a grassy area, plenty of parking, and a clean restroom. There’s also a small park nearby, making it family friendly. While it seems more suited for enjoying the view and watching sea lions, we did see a few people swimming when we went. In the winter, sea lions often gather and lounge along the shore, which is really fun to see. It’s a nice walk from the aquarium to the beach, and it’s a great place for a picnic. Plus, there are restaurants close by if you want to grab a bite after. Overall it was a nice outing coming here!"
R MarKC
"This beach is clean, peaceful, and perfect for a relaxing walk or just watching the waves. I saw a happy puppy running around the beach and enjoying the view!"
Lily LI
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
San Carlos Beach is easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. It's also a pleasant walk from the Monterey Bay Aquarium, making it a convenient stop on your itinerary.
Yes, there is plenty of parking available at San Carlos Beach, both in the front and on the sides. You can pay with coins or credit cards.
Absolutely! Many visitors enjoy a scenic walk from the Monterey Bay Aquarium to San Carlos Beach, making it a great addition to a day of sightseeing.
Yes, San Carlos Beach is dog-friendly! Leashed dogs are welcome, so you can bring your furry friends along for the beach day.
Many visitors enjoy a relaxing walk along the shore, picnicking on the grassy areas, or simply watching the waves and wildlife. It's also a great starting point for exploring the Monterey coast.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
San Carlos Beach is a public beach and does not have an entrance fee. You only need to pay for parking if you drive.
As a public beach, San Carlos Beach is generally accessible from sunrise to sunset. There are no specific operating hours for entry.
No, you do not need to book anything in advance to visit San Carlos Beach. It's a public space, so you can visit anytime.
Yes, there are clean restrooms located within walking distance of the beach. There's also a grassy area and a small park nearby.
While the water can be cold, some people do swim at San Carlos Beach. The waves are usually low, making it more inviting for a dip.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the sea lions, the picturesque coastline, and the serene ocean views. Sunsets here can be particularly beautiful.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light for photography. Golden hour during sunset provides a magical glow.
The sea lions themselves are a major photographic draw, especially during winter. The coastline and the nearby park also offer scenic backdrops.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient for most visitors. If you're keen on wildlife photography, a telephoto lens can be beneficial for capturing sea lions.
Drone regulations can vary. It's always best to check local ordinances and FAA guidelines before flying a drone in this area.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are restaurants located close by if you want to grab a bite after your beach visit.
San Carlos Beach is an excellent spot for a picnic, with grassy areas perfect for spreading out a blanket.
You'll find various dining options in Monterey, ranging from casual eateries to seafood restaurants, many within walking distance or a short drive.
While San Carlos Beach itself is more natural, nearby areas in San Carlos, Sonora, have beach clubs like Coralito Beach Club. For Monterey, dining is typically a short walk or drive away.
Many local cafes and diners in Monterey offer breakfast. Consider checking out spots near the coast for a scenic start to your day.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🐶 Pet Owners
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Wildlife Encounters at San Carlos Beach
While sea lions are the main attraction, the marine life in the surrounding waters is also noteworthy. The cove is known to be good for diving and snorkeling, with various creatures visible.
Even if you're not swimming, the presence of marine life adds to the vibrant ecosystem of the beach. The low waves generally make the water accessible for those who wish to explore the underwater world, though wetsuits are recommended due to the cold Pacific temperatures. For the best wildlife viewing, especially for sea lions, winter is the prime season.
Family Fun and Relaxation
Adjacent to the beach, you'll find a grassy area and a small park, which are perfect for picnics and provide a comfortable space for kids to run around.
Many visitors find the beach to be a peaceful and relaxing spot, ideal for a leisurely stroll or simply enjoying the sounds of the ocean and birds.
Exploring San Carlos: Beyond the Beach
For adventure seekers, shore diving and snorkeling are popular activities in the cove, with good visibility and diverse marine life.
Equipment rental is available, and wetsuits are recommended due to the cool water temperatures. Kayaking is also an option for exploring the coastline from a different perspective. If you're looking for a more active experience, consider a hike to Cerro Tetakawi, a prominent landmark offering panoramic views of the bay.
This provides a different kind of natural beauty, showcasing the rugged coastal landscape. For those seeking a more curated beach experience, beach clubs like Coralito Beach Club in San Carlos, Sonora, offer amenities and dining options. 
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