San Carlos Beach: Monterey's Scuba Diving Haven
Explore Monterey's underwater world at San Carlos Beach, a prime scuba diving spot steeped in Cannery Row history.
San Carlos Beach, also known as Reeside Beach, is nestled at the end of Cannery Row in Monterey, California. This popular spot, next to the Coast Guard Pier, is renowned for its excellent conditions for scuba diving, attracting enthusiasts to explore the underwater world. With a rich history tied to the area's canning industry, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance.
A brief summary to San Carlos Beach
- Monterey, California, US
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially during peak dive season in the summer, as parking lots fill up quickly.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy on the grassy park above the beach, offering scenic views of Monterey Bay.
- Consider combining your beach visit with a trip to the nearby Monterey Bay Aquarium or a stroll along Cannery Row.
- Be aware that this beach is more suited for diving than sunbathing due to its smaller size.
- Take advantage of the showers and restrooms available for a comfortable post-dive experience.
Getting There
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Walking
From anywhere on Cannery Row, San Carlos Beach is easily accessible by foot. Head west towards the Coast Guard Pier; the beach is located at the end of Cannery Row, next to the pier. The walk is generally flat and takes about 5-10 minutes from the Monterey Bay Aquarium. No costs are involved.
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Public Transport
Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) buses serve the Cannery Row area. From downtown Monterey, take any MST bus that stops along Cannery Row. Get off at a stop near the Monterey Bay Aquarium and walk west towards the Coast Guard Pier. San Carlos Beach is right next to the pier. A single ride costs $2, and a day pass is capped at $6. Discounted fares are available for those who are eligible.
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Taxi/Ride-share
Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Monterey. Request a ride to San Carlos Beach or the Coast Guard Pier on Cannery Row. From downtown Monterey, a taxi ride will cost approximately $10-16, depending on the distance and traffic.
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Parking
There are several parking lots near San Carlos Beach. The San Carlos Beach Lot and the Breakwater Lot (Coast Guard Pier) are the closest. Parking costs $1.75 per hour, with a daily maximum of $12. Parking can be limited, especially during peak season, so arrive early.
Discover more about San Carlos Beach
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Monterey Harbor
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Discover the charm and beauty of Monterey Harbor, where stunning coastal views, vibrant marine life, and unforgettable experiences await in California.
Sloat Monument
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Hippolyte Bouchard Plaque
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Monterey Bay Whale Watch
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Old Fishermen's Grotto
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Doud House
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California State Historical Landmark No. 1
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601 Lighthouse Ave
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Monterey Custom House
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Cannery Row Caboose
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John Steinbeck Statuary
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Monterey Harbor Monument
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Monterey State Historic Park Office
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John Steinbeck Memorial
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monumento a John Steinbeck
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Unmissable attractions to see
Breakwater Cove Marina
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San Carlos Beach Park
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Sanctuary
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Coast Guard Pier
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Monterey Bay Recreation Trail North-North West Seal Lions
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Sister City Park
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Vista Blue Spa
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Presidio of Monterey Museum
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Plaza de Monterey
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Lower Presidio Historic Park
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Watching Over Me
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Cannery Row
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Sail Monterey
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1 Old Fisherman’s Wharf
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Old Fisherman's Wharf
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Essential places to dine
Osteria Al Mare
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Coastal Kitchen
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Schooners Monterey
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Chart House
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Rockfish Harbor Grill
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Wave Street Cafe
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Abalonetti Bar and Grill
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Crab House
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Fish & Chips Cafe
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Café Fina
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Domenico's on the Wharf
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Crab Louie's Bistro
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Mando's Restaurant
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El Torito
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Crabby Jim's seafood
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sea Dreams
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Cannery Row Antiques Mall
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Monterey Bay Silver Company
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Morning Star Pearls
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Sock Harbor
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Gift Shop | Monterey Bay Aquarium
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Pirate's Cove
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Fashion Trade
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Carousel Candies
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Ocean Front
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Wharf's General Store
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Harbor House
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After the Quake
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Sockshop Cannery Row Monterey
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Joseph Boston Store
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Pearl Hour
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Bar Cart Cocktail Co.
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The Wine Experience
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Bulldog Sports Pub
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The Salty Seal Brewpub and Sports Bar
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Segovia's Cocktail Bar & Lounge
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Bargetto Winery Tasting Room
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Sovino Wine Bar & Merchant
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London Bridge Pub
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Dust Bowl Brewing Co. Tap Depot
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Compact Disco
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The Whisky Club (TWC) Monterey
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Britannia Arms
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Alfredo's Cantina
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LindaRose Rooftop Bar & Grill at Hotel 1110
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Indian summer
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Paper Wing Theatre & Supper Club
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Old Capital Club
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Pacheco Club
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Terrace Lounge
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Big Sur Taphouse
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Court's Lounge
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The Hook Sports Bar & Grill
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Khartoum Lounge
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Tessora's Barra di Vino
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Cardiff & Cocktails
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The Vesper
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Katie Bloom's
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