Del Monte Beach: Monterey's Coastal Escape
Discover Monterey's hidden gem: Del Monte Beach, a serene coastal escape with stunning views, rich history, and endless opportunities for relaxation and adventure.
Del Monte Beach, nestled in Monterey, California, offers a serene escape with its expansive sandy shores and picturesque views of Monterey Bay. Named after the historic Del Monte Resort, this beach is a favorite among locals and visitors alike for surfing, beachcombing, and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere. The Monterey Bay Coastal Trail runs along the back of the beach, providing scenic views and access to nearby attractions. With its proximity to downtown Monterey and various recreational activities, Del Monte Beach is an ideal destination for a relaxing coastal getaway. Visitors can enjoy the accessible beach mats, bonfires in designated fire pits, and the chance to spot local wildlife, making it a memorable experience for all.
A brief summary to Del Monte Beach
- 653 Del Monte Ave, Monterey, California, 93940, US
- +1831-646-3860
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-10 pm
- Thursday 6 am-10 pm
- Friday 6 am-10 pm
- Saturday 6 am-10 pm
- Sunday 6 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Check the tide charts before visiting to make the most of beachcombing opportunities and to ensure safe swimming conditions.
- Bring layers, as the coastal breeze can make it chilly, especially in the mornings and evenings.
- Take advantage of the accessible beach mats for easy access to the water's edge if you have mobility needs.
- Explore the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail for scenic walks and access to nearby beaches and attractions.
- Arrive early to secure free parking, as spaces can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays.
Getting There
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Walking
From downtown Monterey or Cannery Row, the beach is accessible via a pleasant walk along Del Monte Avenue. Follow the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail eastward, enjoying the waterfront views. The walk is approximately 2 miles from the city center. Look for the turnoff towards Casa Verde Avenue, then Surf Way, which leads directly to the beach access and parking area near the dunes. The Monterey Bay Lodge and Monterey Oceanside Inn are within a 5-15 minute walk to Del Monte Beach.
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Public Transport
Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) offers several routes that stop near Del Monte Beach. From the Monterey Transit Plaza, take MST Line 1 or 2 to the Del Monte Avenue & Casa Verde Avenue stop. From there, walk west on Casa Verde Avenue, then turn onto Surf Way to reach the beach. A single ride on MST costs $2.50. The free MST Trolley also operates during the summer and select holidays, providing a convenient way to reach the area from popular tourist spots like Fisherman's Wharf and Cannery Row.
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Driving
From Highway 1, take the Del Monte Avenue exit towards Monterey. Follow Del Monte Avenue and turn towards the ocean at Casa Verde Avenue. Continue onto Surf Way, a one-way street that leads to the beach. Free street parking is available along Tide Avenue near the dunes. Metered parking may also be available on Del Monte Avenue near the pier. Parking can be limited, especially during peak season. Metered parking costs approximately $1.50 per hour.
Discover more about Del Monte Beach
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Fisherman’s Wharf
0.3 km
Discover the charm of Fisherman’s Wharf in Monterey, a historic waterfront destination with fresh seafood, shopping, and stunning ocean views.
Frank E. Sollecito Ballpark
0.4 km
Discover the natural beauty and community spirit at Frank E. Sollecito Ballpark, a serene park perfect for leisure and local sports in Monterey.
Carmel Valley Wine Tours / Tours Monterey
0.4 km
Explore the exquisite wines and breathtaking landscapes of Carmel Valley Wine Tours, a must-visit for wine enthusiasts in Monterey, California.
The Famous Old Fisherman's Wharf Sign
0.5 km
Explore the iconic Old Fisherman's Wharf Sign in Monterey, a vibrant symbol of the city's rich maritime heritage and coastal charm.
Monterey Harbor Monument
0.6 km
Explore the rich maritime heritage at Monterey Harbor Monument, a captivating historical landmark offering stunning coastal views and a glimpse into Monterey's past.
Monterey Bay Whale Watch
0.6 km
Discover the wonders of Monterey Bay with unforgettable whale watching tours, where marine life meets breathtaking coastal scenery.
California State Historical Landmark No. 1
0.6 km
Explore California State Historical Landmark No. 1 in Monterey, a vital piece of California's heritage showcasing the area's rich maritime history.
Old Fishermen's Grotto
0.7 km
Experience the best of Monterey's culinary scene at Old Fishermen's Grotto, where fresh seafood and steaks meet stunning waterfront views.
Monterey Custom House
0.7 km
Explore Monterey Custom House, a key historical landmark reflecting California's maritime heritage and architectural beauty in the heart of Monterey.
Monterey State Historic Park Office
0.7 km
Explore Monterey State Historic Park Office, a historical gem offering insights into California's rich heritage amidst stunning coastal views.
Old Monterey Foundation
0.7 km
Explore Monterey's rich history and cultural heritage at the Old Monterey Foundation, where stories of the past come to life in engaging exhibits and community events.
Golden State Theatre
0.7 km
Discover the Golden State Theatre, a historic venue in Monterey showcasing live music and performing arts amidst stunning Art Deco architecture.
Monterey City Historic Preservation
0.7 km
Uncover Monterey's historical gems at the Monterey City Historic Preservation, where the stories of the past come alive amidst stunning coastal beauty.
Robert Louis Stevenson House
0.7 km
Discover the literary legacy of Robert Louis Stevenson at his historic house museum in Monterey, California, a charming tribute to a literary giant.
Cooper-Molera Adobe
0.8 km
Discover the charm of California’s rich history at Cooper-Molera Adobe in Monterey, a beautifully preserved historical landmark showcasing early California life.
Unmissable attractions to see
Window on the Bay
0.2 km
Discover Monterey's coastal charm at Window on the Bay, a waterfront park offering stunning views, recreational trails, and a tranquil escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Monterey Bay Park
0.2 km
Discover Monterey Bay Park: A scenic coastal escape offering stunning views, recreational trails, and easy access to Monterey's top attractions, perfect for a day of relaxation and exploration.
Municipal Wharf
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Monterey's Municipal Wharf, where stunning ocean views meet fresh seafood and local culture.
Dennis The Menace Playground
0.4 km
Experience laughter and adventure at Dennis The Menace Playground, a family-friendly attraction in Monterey, California, perfect for kids of all ages.
El Estero Park
0.4 km
Experience the natural beauty and recreational charm of El Estero Park, a serene escape in Monterey perfect for families and nature lovers.
EL Estero lake
0.4 km
Discover Monterey's tranquil heart at El Estero Lake: a scenic urban oasis offering paddle boating, playgrounds, and a rich history, perfect for family fun and relaxation.
Monterey County Youth Museum
0.5 km
Explore, learn, and play at the Monterey County Youth Museum – a vibrant destination for families in Monterey, California.
Monterey History and Art Museum
0.6 km
Explore the captivating blend of history and art at Monterey History and Art Museum, where every exhibit tells a story of the region's rich cultural heritage.
Monterey Sea Lions
0.6 km
Experience the lively spectacle of Monterey's playful sea lions at Fisherman's Wharf, where nature's charisma meets historic charm, creating unforgettable coastal memories.
Sail Monterey
0.6 km
Discover the beauty of Monterey Bay with Sail Monterey, offering unforgettable sailing experiences, boat rentals, and sailing classes for all skill levels.
0 Old Fisherman’s Wharf
0.6 km
Discover the charm of Old Fisherman’s Wharf in Monterey, where fresh seafood meets stunning coastal views and vibrant local culture.
The Original Monterey Walking Tours - guided tours of historic Monterey and Cannery Row
0.6 km
Uncover the rich maritime history of Monterey and Cannery Row with guided tours that blend storytelling with scenic exploration.
GoCARTOURS Monterey
0.6 km
Experience the thrill of go-kart racing amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Monterey, California, at GoCARTOURS Monterey.
Custom House Museum
0.6 km
Explore California's oldest government building, the Custom House Museum in Monterey, and step back in time to witness the state's rich maritime history and cultural heritage.
1 Old Fisherman’s Wharf
0.7 km
Discover the timeless beauty and culinary delights of Old Fisherman’s Wharf, a must-visit coastal retreat in Monterey, California.
Essential places to dine
Loulou's Griddle In the Middle
0.3 km
Experience breakfast like never before at Loulou's Griddle In the Middle—where seafood meets morning favorites in scenic Monterey.
Sandbar & Grill
0.3 km
Experience fresh seafood and stunning ocean views at Sandbar & Grill in Monterey – your go-to spot for coastal cuisine.
Paluca Trattoria
0.6 km
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Melville Tavern
0.6 km
Discover Melville Tavern: Monterey's ultimate destination for American comfort food and craft beverages in a warm and inviting setting.
Turn 12 Bar & Grill
0.6 km
Discover Turn 12 Bar & Grill in Monterey: where delicious Californian cuisine meets an exciting sports bar atmosphere.
Crab Louie's Bistro
0.6 km
Experience fresh seafood delights at Crab Louie's Bistro on Monterey's historic Fisherman's Wharf - where ocean views meet culinary excellence.
Cibo
0.6 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine combined with live jazz in the heart of Monterey at Cibo—a culinary gem offering delightful flavors and vibrant entertainment.
EPSILON
0.6 km
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Domenico's on the Wharf
0.6 km
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Crab House
0.6 km
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Crabby Jim's seafood
0.7 km
Experience Monterey's best seafood at Crabby Jim's Seafood – where fresh flavors meet stunning waterfront views.
Café Fina
0.7 km
Experience exquisite seafood and authentic Italian cuisine at Café Fina in Monterey's scenic Fisherman's Wharf.
Fish & Chips Cafe
0.7 km
Experience authentic fish and chips at Monterey's picturesque Fisherman's Wharf with stunning ocean views.
Abalonetti Bar and Grill
0.7 km
Experience fresh seafood delights at Abalonetti Bar and Grill, where coastal charm meets Italian flavors on Monterey's picturesque Fisherman's Wharf.
Jacks Monterey
0.7 km
Discover culinary delights at Jacks Monterey, where local flavors meet breathtaking coastal views in an unforgettable dining experience.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Feral Market
0.6 km
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Wharf's General Store
0.6 km
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Pirate's Cove
0.6 km
Explore unique souvenirs and local crafts at Pirate's Cove Gift Shop in Monterey's Fisherman's Wharf.
Carousel Candies
0.7 km
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Harbor House
0.7 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Harbor House, the perfect spot for memorable keepsakes in Monterey's charming Old Fisherman’s Wharf.
Ocean Front
0.7 km
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Sock Harbor
0.7 km
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LunaBlu
0.7 km
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Morning Star Pearls
0.7 km
Experience the elegance of handcrafted pearl jewelry at Morning Star Pearls in Monterey's Fisherman’s Wharf, where beauty meets artistry.
Maybe On Monday
0.7 km
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Monterey Bay Silver Company
0.7 km
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Bliss Boutique
0.7 km
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Joseph Boston Store
0.7 km
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Franklin Street Collaborative
0.8 km
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Monterey Imports
0.8 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
London Bridge Pub
0.3 km
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Dust Bowl Brewing Co. Tap Depot
0.4 km
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LindaRose Rooftop Bar & Grill at Hotel 1110
0.5 km
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Sovino Wine Bar & Merchant
0.6 km
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Compact Disco
0.6 km
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Alfredo's Cantina
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Alfredo's Cantina, Monterey's favorite cocktail bar with a lively atmosphere and exquisite drinks.
The Whisky Club (TWC) Monterey
0.7 km
Indulge in artisanal cocktails and a cozy ambiance at The Whisky Club, Monterey's premier destination for whisky lovers and cocktail enthusiasts.
Britannia Arms
0.8 km
Discover Britannia Arms, a lively pub in Monterey offering a delightful mix of traditional dishes and local flavors in a cozy atmosphere.
Trident Room
1.2 km
Discover the Trident Room in Monterey, offering a cozy atmosphere, exceptional drinks, and a perfect spot to unwind after your daily adventures.
Pearl Hour
1.4 km
Experience the eclectic charm and unique cocktails at Pearl Hour, Monterey's hidden gem for nightlife enthusiasts.
Bar Cart Cocktail Co.
1.4 km
Experience the best of mixology at Bar Cart Cocktail Co. in Monterey, where every cocktail tells a story and the atmosphere is always vibrant.
The Wine Experience
1.6 km
Discover the finest wines and a cozy atmosphere at The Wine Experience in Monterey, where every sip tells a story.
Del Monte Bar & Grill
1.6 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Del Monte Bar & Grill, nestled in the scenic beauty of Monterey, California.
Bulldog Sports Pub
2.0 km
Discover Bulldog Sports Pub, Monterey's vibrant sports bar offering delicious food and live sports in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Salty Seal Brewpub and Sports Bar
2.0 km
Discover the lively ambiance of The Salty Seal Brewpub and Sports Bar, where great food, craft beers, and sports come together in Monterey.
