San Carlos Beach: Monterey's Scuba Diving Haven

Getting There

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.