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San Carlos Beach Park, Salinas Valley Travel Guide

4.7 (1479)

A scenic Monterey beach park renowned for scuba diving, Cannery Row access, and stunning views of Monterey Bay and abundant marine life.

San Carlos Beach Park, also known as Reeside Beach, is a popular spot in Monterey, California, known for its access to Monterey Bay and Cannery Row. It's a favorite for scuba divers and families seeking scenic views and a relaxing coastal atmosphere.

A brief summary to San Carlos Beach Park

  • 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
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring San Carlos Beach Park.

  • Arrive early, especially on warm days, to secure parking.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy on the grassy park overlooking the beach.
  • Explore the tide pools along the shoreline to discover sea urchins and hermit crabs.
  • Walk or bike the Monterey Peninsula Recreation Trail for spectacular views.
  • Divers should check local conditions and be aware of spearfishing restrictions.

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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Monterey Bay Aquarium, walk west along Cannery Row for approximately 0.5 miles. San Carlos Beach Park will be on your left, just past the Coast Guard Pier. The walk is mostly flat and takes about 10-15 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Take the free MST Trolley from downtown Monterey towards Cannery Row. Get off at the Coast Guard Pier stop. San Carlos Beach Park is located adjacent to the pier. The trolley runs frequently during peak season.

  • Driving

    From Highway 1, take the Del Monte Avenue exit and follow signs for Cannery Row. Turn onto Reeside Avenue. Limited metered parking is available near the beach. Parking costs $1.75 per hour, with a daily maximum of $12. Consider arriving early, especially during peak season, as parking fills up quickly.

Discover more about San Carlos Beach Park

San Carlos Beach Park, located at the western end of Cannery Row in Monterey, is a vibrant coastal destination offering a mix of recreation and stunning scenery. Often called Reeside Beach, the park sits below a bluff, providing easy access to the beach and bay.Historically, the area was home to the San Carlos Canning Company, which burned down in 1956. Today, it's a hub for scuba diving, with divers exploring the underwater remains of cannery gear just offshore. The protected waters and abundant marine life make it a reliable and excellent dive site.Visitors can enjoy the grassy park with picnic tables and benches, perfect for relaxing and taking in the views of Monterey Bay. The Monterey Peninsula Recreation Trail passes nearby, offering a paved path for bikers, runners, and walkers. While the beach itself is not ideal for sunbathing, it's a great place for a stroll, tidepooling, and wildlife viewing. Keep an eye out for sea otters, harbor seals, and various bird species.
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