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Best Monterey Beach Day Tips

Aug 7, 2025

Monterey boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in California with each beach so unique. We're sharing our top Monterey beach day tips to help you enjoy the coast and make the most of your day by the sea! First tip, Monterey's temperatures fluctuate throughout the day, even during the summer months so make sure to pack some layers!

Del Monte Beach

Not only is the Portola Hotel & Spa centrally located to popular attractions, it is also located only minutes away from Del Monte Beach! Del Monte Beach is a long sandy beach starting just past Wharf II and stretches up the coast. Its gently lapping waters makes it perfect for young families. Don't forget to bring your volleyball because this beach features public volleyball courts making it the perfect place to get some fun exercise in on your beach day! This beach is also popular for beach combing since the area is known for sea glass so make sure to bring something to put your discoveries in!

walk way to beach access

Asilomar State Beach

Asilomar State Beach is a unique treasure with many different things to do including surfing, laying on the beach or taking a walk along their beautiful wooden path, making it a popular spot for people to walk their dogs. Asilomar State Beach is also renowned for its diverse tide pools filled with a variety of marine creatures such as crabs, sea anemones, starfish, mussels and even octopus! Make sure to dress appropriately, and wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes with a good grip since the rocks can be slippery. Also be sure to look but not touch so that this ecosystem can continue to thrive for years to come.

rocky beach view at sunset

Monterey State Beach

Monterey State Beach is a quintessential spot for a perfect beach day with its stunning views of the Monterey Peninsula and soft sand. Monterey State Beach is made up of three separate beaches about a mile apart and is safe for swimming so it is perfect for families who want to play in the waves. This beach is also a popular spot for scuba diving for those who are looking for more of an underwater adventure!

view of the beach

Lovers Point Beach

Lovers Point Beach is popular with both tourists and locals because of the stunning rock formations that line the coast in this area, making it a popular spot for people to come take photos or practice their painting skills. This beautiful beach offers bicycle, kayak and surrey rentals through Pacific Grove Adventures so if relaxing on the beach isn't your cup of tea then check out this fun option for exploring Monterey! After your adventures you can head next door to Lovers Point Beach Café to get a delicious bite to eat to regain your energy before you continue on your adventures!

shops on the docks near beach

Best Place to Stay after a Monterey Beach Day

No matter which beach you wander to in Monterey, the views are always breathtaking. We hope this list inspires you to explore a few of these special spots and create your own perfect day along the Monterey Peninsula. The Portola Hotel & Spa is centrally located to Monterey's most popular beaches, making it the perfect choice for accommodations. To book your stay today, visit us online or call us at (888)-222-5851 .

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