San Carlos Beach: Monterey's Dive Haven
Discover Monterey's underwater paradise at San Carlos Beach, a historic Cannery Row gem offering world-class diving, scenic views, and easy access to top attractions.
San Carlos Beach, also known as Reeside Beach or Breakwater Beach, is a popular destination at the western end of Monterey's historic Cannery Row. Famed as a prime spot for scuba diving due to its calm waters and diverse marine life, it attracts divers of all skill levels. The beach is situated below a bluff-top grassy park, offering picnic areas and benches for relaxation. Its location near Cannery Row provides easy access to shops, restaurants, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium. While swimming is possible, caution is advised due to potential rip currents and cold water. San Carlos Beach combines natural beauty with historical significance, making it a must-visit for those exploring Monterey's coastal charm and underwater wonders. The beach's accessibility and proximity to other attractions make it a convenient and rewarding stop for any traveler.
A brief summary to San Carlos Beach
- Monterey, California, US
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure parking near the beach, as spaces fill up quickly.
- Consider bringing or renting scuba diving or snorkeling gear to explore the diverse marine life in the area.
- Check the tide charts before visiting to take advantage of tide pooling opportunities along the rocky embankment.
- Combine your beach visit with a stroll along Cannery Row and a visit to the Monterey Bay Aquarium for a full day of exploration.
- Pack layers, as the weather in Monterey can be unpredictable, and the water is often cold even on sunny days.
Getting There
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Walking
From Cannery Row, simply walk west towards the Coast Guard Pier. San Carlos Beach is located at the end of Cannery Row, adjacent to the pier. The walk is generally flat and takes about 5-10 minutes from the central Cannery Row area, offering scenic views along the way.
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Public Transport
Take the MST Trolley, which operates daily from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, serving Downtown Monterey, Fisherman's Wharf, Cannery Row, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Look for the green MST Trolley signs to board along the route. The trolley is free. Alternatively, use Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) bus routes to reach Cannery Row; from there, it's a short walk to the beach. A single ride on MST costs $2-3.
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Driving
From Highway 1, exit towards Monterey and follow signs for Cannery Row. Once on Cannery Row, continue west towards the Coast Guard Pier. Limited metered street parking is available, but it fills up quickly. Several parking lots are also available in the area. The San Carlos Beach Lot and Breakwater Lot (Coast Guard Pier) charge $1.75 per hour, with a daily maximum of $12. The Cannery Row Garage on Foam and Hoffman charges $20-$22 per day depending on the season.
Discover more about San Carlos Beach
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Monterey Harbor
0.2 km
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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Explore the Sloat Monument in Monterey, a striking sculpture commemorating Commodore John D. Sloat and a pivotal moment in California's history.
Hippolyte Bouchard Plaque
0.4 km
Explore the Hippolyte Bouchard Plaque in Monterey, a historical landmark that captures the essence of California's maritime heritage.
Monterey Bay Whale Watch
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Discover the wonders of Monterey Bay with unforgettable whale watching tours, where marine life meets breathtaking coastal scenery.
Old Fishermen's Grotto
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Doud House
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Discover the Doud House, a historical landmark in Monterey, California, where history and beauty intertwine in a captivating journey through time.
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
0.8 km
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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
0.1 km
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San Carlos Beach Park
0.1 km
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Sanctuary
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Coast Guard Pier
0.2 km
Discover Monterey's maritime heart at the Coast Guard Pier: a blend of naval history, stunning ocean views, and abundant marine life, nestled between Cannery Row and Fisherman's Wharf.
Monterey Bay Recreation Trail North-North West Seal Lions
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Experience the breathtaking beauty of Monterey Bay Coastal Trail, a serene pathway perfect for biking, walking, and enjoying nature's wonders.
Sister City Park
0.3 km
A peaceful waterfront park on the Monterey Peninsula Recreational Trail, offering stunning bay views and a tranquil escape near Cannery Row.
Vista Blue Spa
0.3 km
Experience ultimate relaxation at Vista Blue Spa, Monterey's premier day spa with breathtaking ocean views and rejuvenating treatments.
Presidio of Monterey Museum
0.4 km
Explore Monterey's military history from its indigenous roots to the present day at the Presidio of Monterey Museum, a hidden gem in the Lower Presidio Historic Park with free admission.
Plaza de Monterey
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A tranquil park offering bay views in the heart of Monterey's historic Cannery Row, providing a peaceful escape amidst the bustling attractions and vibrant waterfront.
Lower Presidio Historic Park
0.4 km
Discover Monterey's hidden gem: Lower Presidio Historic Park, where California's rich history unfolds amidst stunning bay views. Explore trails, monuments, and a free museum.
Watching Over Me
0.4 km
Discover Monterey's maritime past at 'Watching Over Me' on Cannery Row, a historical landmark offering stunning coastal views and a glimpse into the area's sardine-canning legacy.
Cannery Row
0.5 km
Discover Cannery Row in Monterey, a historic waterfront district filled with shops, dining, and scenic views of the Pacific Ocean.
Sail Monterey
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1 Old Fisherman’s Wharf
0.7 km
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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
0.3 km
Experience fresh seafood and local flavors at Coastal Kitchen in Monterey's Cannery Row—where every meal tells a story.
Schooners Monterey
0.4 km
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Chart House
0.5 km
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Rockfish Harbor Grill
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Wave Street Cafe
0.6 km
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Abalonetti Bar and Grill
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Crab House
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Fish & Chips Cafe
0.6 km
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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
0.5 km
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Monterey Bay Silver Company
0.6 km
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Morning Star Pearls
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Sock Harbor
0.6 km
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Gift Shop | Monterey Bay Aquarium
0.6 km
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Pirate's Cove
0.6 km
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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
0.7 km
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The Salty Seal Brewpub and Sports Bar
0.7 km
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Segovia's Cocktail Bar & Lounge
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Bargetto Winery Tasting Room
0.9 km
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Sovino Wine Bar & Merchant
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London Bridge Pub
1.0 km
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Dust Bowl Brewing Co. Tap Depot
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Compact Disco
1.2 km
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The Whisky Club (TWC) Monterey
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Britannia Arms
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Alfredo's Cantina
1.3 km
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LindaRose Rooftop Bar & Grill at Hotel 1110
1.6 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Indian summer
0.8 km
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Paper Wing Theatre & Supper Club
0.8 km
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Monterey Civic Club
1.3 km
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Old Capital Club
1.4 km
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Pacheco Club
1.5 km
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Preez69Studio
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Terrace Lounge
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Big Sur Taphouse
43.0 km
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Court's Lounge
74.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Court's Lounge, Campbell's ultimate cocktail, karaoke, and sports bar destination.
The Hook Sports Bar & Grill
74.7 km
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Khartoum Lounge
75.3 km
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Tessora's Barra di Vino
75.4 km
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Cardiff & Cocktails
75.4 km
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The Vesper
75.4 km
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Katie Bloom's
75.5 km
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