Peak Season:
Monterey’s peak season takes place during California’s summer months of June to September. Hotel and flight costs will be at their yearly high during this season, so it is best to book well ahead of time to find the best deal. The majority of the local festivals take place between these months, which acts as an attraction for many of the visitors to the area. Festivals such as the Monterey Beer Festival, “Ink by the Bay” Tattoo Convention, and CIF State Golf Championship all take place in June, and attract the largest international crowds.
Off Season:
From December to March, the off season takes over, as much of the locals will be focused on their festive holidays. However, the flight costs and hotel room prices will be at their yearly low.
Shoulder Season:
The pre-summer months of April to September see pleasant temperatures of around 15-18°C. Festivals and events start to pick up, and visitors can expect to enjoy the likes of The Steinbeck Film Festival in May, or the Pebble Beach Food & Wine Festival in April. It is always ideal to book tickets and hotel rooms in advance to beat the price increases.
SFO Temperature | 11 - 17 °C |
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If weather is an important factor for your trip to Monterey, use this chart to help with planning. For those seeking warmer temperatures, September is the ideal time of year to visit, when temperatures reach an average of 17.0 C. Travellers hoping to avoid the cold should look outside of January, when temperatures are typically at their lowest (around 11.0 C).
The Californian city of Monterey is located in the north-west of the State, and rests on the coast with the Pacific Ocean. Throughout the city’s history, it has been a key settlement for both the Spain and Mexico. The city is brimming with attractions, restaurants, and unique shopping opportunities, as well as a selection of festivals all year round.
Packed with historical, cultural, and fun attractions, Monterey has something for everyone. For the sightseers, Monterey Bay Aquarium is one of the most popular local sites, and is brimming with exotic aquatic life. Families travelling with young ones can visit the Monterey County Youth Museum, which has plenty of fun and interactive activities.
Restaurants, bars, and nightclubs await the more mature visitors when night descends, and there is everything from jazz nights, to comedy clubs and dancing. There is also plenty of shopping to be had no matter the time of day, with an array of shopping streets as well as more unique local markets.
Plenty of the local attractions and entertainment around the city is within walking distance, and is a great way to sightsee. There are dozens of taxi companies for hire, as well as a public bus service.
The closest airport to Monterey is Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC). There are car rental kiosks available throughout the airport, as well as shuttle bus services. Direct travel from the airport to the city is possible via the US-101.