Monterey State Beach

From the Monterey Municipal Wharf to Seaside, Monterey State Beach shares the shoreline with other municipal beaches, forming a long stretch of public access sand. Monterey State Beach is a wide, gently sloping, and curving beach located across the bay (about a 15-minute drive) from downtown Monterey's famed Cannery Row tourist area.

Many outdoor activities, including surfing, kayaking, surf fishing, and swimming, are popular at this famous beach. At Monterey State Beach, scuba divers frequently emerge from the water. Nature enthusiasts enjoy the tide pools at Monterey State Beach, where beachcombers frequently find sea glass and other treasures. Paragliders take off from Monterey State Beach's Seaside end, which is also a famous kite-flying spot.