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, often called Reeside Beach Access, sits at the western end of Monterey's historic Cannery Row, adjacent to the Coast Guard Pier. While not ideal for sunbathing due to its smaller size, this beach is a favorite among scuba divers. The well-protected cove offers calm waters, making it an ideal location for both novice and experienced divers to explore the diverse marine life and even remnants of old cannery gear. The beach's history is deeply intertwined with Monterey's sardine canning industry. It was once the site of the San Carlos Canning Company, which burned down in 1956. Today, divers can still see the remains of a pump pipe that once transported sardines to the canneries. The area is now part of the Edward F. Ricketts State Marine Conservation Area, named after the marine biologist who studied the area's rich marine life. Above the beach, San Carlos Beach Park provides a grassy area perfect for picnics and enjoying the Monterey Bay views. The Monterey Peninsula Recreation Trail passes nearby, offering opportunities for biking and walking. The amenities of Cannery Row, with its shops, restaurants, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium, are just a short walk away. The beach provides restrooms, showers, and easy access, making it a convenient and enjoyable destination for divers and visitors alike.
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.
A brief summary to San Carlos Beach
- Monterey, California, US
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.
Attractions Nearby to San Carlos Beach
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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
Landmarks nearby to San Carlos Beach
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Monterey Harbor
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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