Located along the rugged coast of central California, Monterey is famous for its dramatic ocean views, marine life, and charming seaside atmosphere. Thanks to the cool waters of the Pacific Ocean, Monterey enjoys a mild, Mediterranean climate year-round — making it a fantastic destination in any season.
Here’s your complete month-by-month guide to Monterey weather so you can plan the perfect trip.
Monterey Weather by Month
| Month | Avg High °F (°C) | Avg Low °F (°C) | Rainfall | Travel Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 65°F (18°C) | 45°F (7°C) | Moderate | Coolest month, occasional storms |
| February | 66°F (19°C) | 46°F (8°C) | Moderate | Mild, fewer tourists |
| March | 67°F (19°C) | 48°F (9°C) | Light–Mod | Spring begins, greener hills |
| April | 69°F (21°C) | 50°F (10°C) | Low | Comfortable outdoor weather |
| May | 70°F (21°C) | 53°F (12°C) | Very Low | “May Gray” mornings |
| June | 73°F (23°C) | 56°F (13°C) | Minimal | “June Gloom” fog early day |
| July | 76°F (24°C) | 59°F (15°C) | None | Sunny, great beach weather |
| August | 77°F (25°C) | 60°F (16°C) | None | Warmest, festival season |
| September | 77°F (25°C) | 58°F (14°C) | None | Often warmest overall |
| October | 74°F (23°C) | 54°F (12°C) | Very Low | Ideal fall weather |
| November | 70°F (21°C) | 48°F (9°C) | Increasing | Start of rainy season |
| December | 66°F (19°C) | 45°F (7°C) | Moderate | Cool, holiday atmosphere |
🌧 January – Cool and Refreshing
- Average High: 58–61°F (14–16°C)
- Average Low: 44–47°F (7–8°C)
- Rainfall: Moderate (winter is the wettest season)
January is part of Monterey’s rainy season. Expect cool temperatures, occasional storms, and dramatic coastal skies. It’s perfect for:
- Whale watching
- Cozy seaside stays
- Fewer crowds
Pack layers and a waterproof jacket.
🌦 February – Crisp with Clearing Skies
- Average High: 59–63°F (15–17°C)
- Average Low: 45–48°F (7–9°C)
Rain is still possible, but sunny breaks become more frequent. Wildflowers may begin appearing toward late February. It’s a peaceful time to explore coastal trails and scenic drives like 17-Mile Drive near Pebble Beach.
🌤 March – Early Signs of Spring
- Average High: 60–64°F (16–18°C)
- Average Low: 46–49°F (8–9°C)
Spring slowly arrives. You’ll notice:
- Greener hills
- Calmer weather
- Fewer rainy days
It’s an ideal time for outdoor photography and exploring nearby Carmel-by-the-Sea.
🌸 April – Mild and Pleasant
- Average High: 61–65°F (16–18°C)
- Average Low: 47–50°F (8–10°C)
April offers comfortable weather with more consistent sunshine. Coastal breezes can still feel cool, especially in the evenings. Great for:
- Kayaking in Monterey Bay
- Walking along Cannery Row
- Visiting the Monterey Bay Aquarium
☀️ May – Warmer but Fog Begins
- Average High: 62–66°F (17–19°C)
- Average Low: 49–52°F (9–11°C)
Late spring is beautiful, though morning fog becomes more common. This “marine layer” usually clears by afternoon.
Tourist season begins picking up, but it’s not yet crowded.
🌫 June – The Start of “June Gloom”
- Average High: 64–68°F (18–20°C)
- Average Low: 52–55°F (11–13°C)
Despite being summer, Monterey can be surprisingly cool in June. Morning and evening fog are common, and beach days may require a hoodie.
Still, it’s a popular time for:
- Scenic drives
- Oceanfront dining
- Outdoor festivals
🌤 July – Cool Coastal Summer
- Average High: 65–70°F (18–21°C)
- Average Low: 54–57°F (12–14°C)
Unlike inland California cities, Monterey rarely gets hot. Even in July, temperatures remain mild.
Expect:
- Foggy mornings
- Sunny afternoons
- Comfortable evenings
Perfect weather for walking around Cannery Row.
🌞 August – Warmest Month
- Average High: 67–72°F (19–22°C)
- Average Low: 55–58°F (13–14°C)
August is typically the warmest and sunniest month. It’s also peak travel season.
Ideal for:
- Whale watching tours
- Beach picnics
- Golf at Pebble Beach
Book accommodations early — this is a busy time!
🌅 September – Best Overall Weather
- Average High: 67–71°F (19–22°C)
- Average Low: 54–57°F (12–14°C)
Many locals say September offers the best weather of the year:
- Less fog
- Warmer ocean temperatures
- Fewer tourists than August
A perfect balance of comfort and sunshine.
🍂 October – Calm and Comfortable
- Average High: 65–69°F (18–21°C)
- Average Low: 51–54°F (10–12°C)
Fall brings clear skies and mild days. Rain is still minimal. It’s a fantastic month for:
- Hiking
- Scenic coastal photography
- Relaxed wine tasting trips inland
🌥 November – Cooler with Light Rain
- Average High: 61–65°F (16–18°C)
- Average Low: 47–50°F (8–10°C)
Rain gradually returns. The crowds thin out, making it a quiet and peaceful travel month.
Expect fresh ocean air and dramatic sunsets.
🌧 December – Winter by the Sea
- Average High: 58–61°F (14–16°C)
- Average Low: 45–48°F (7–9°C)
December is cool, occasionally rainy, but rarely freezing. Snow is virtually nonexistent.
It’s ideal for:
- Holiday getaways
- Storm watching
- Cozy oceanfront stays
Best Time to Visit Monterey
It depends on your preferences:
- Best overall weather: September & October
- Warmest temperatures: August
- Fewest crowds: January–March
- Best whale watching: Winter & early spring
Monterey’s climate is mild year-round, but always pack layers. Even summer evenings can feel chilly due to ocean breezes.
20 frequently asked questions about Monterey weather
1. What type of climate does Monterey have?
Monterey has a Mediterranean coastal climate with mild temperatures year-round, influenced by the cool waters of the Pacific Ocean.
2. What is the best month to visit Monterey for good weather?
September and October are often considered the best months, with warmer temperatures, less fog, and fewer crowds.
3. What is the warmest month in Monterey?
August is typically the warmest month, with average highs around 67–72°F (19–22°C).
4. What is the coldest month in Monterey?
January is usually the coldest month, with average lows in the mid-40s°F (7–8°C).
5. Does Monterey get very hot in summer?
No. Even in peak summer, temperatures rarely exceed the mid-70s°F (24°C). Monterey stays much cooler than inland California cities.
6. Does Monterey get snow?
Snow is extremely rare in Monterey. Winter temperatures remain well above freezing.
7. When is the rainy season in Monterey?
The rainy season typically runs from November through March, with January often being the wettest month.
8. What is “June Gloom” in Monterey?
“June Gloom” refers to the morning fog and overcast skies common in late spring and early summer, especially in June.
9. Is Monterey foggy all year?
Fog is most common from May through July, but mornings can be foggy in other months as well.
10. How windy is Monterey?
Monterey can be breezy, especially in the afternoons due to ocean winds. Coastal areas feel cooler because of wind chill.
11. Can you swim in the ocean in Monterey?
The ocean is cold year-round (typically 50–60°F / 10–16°C). Swimming is possible but often requires a wetsuit.
12. What should I pack for a summer trip to Monterey?
Bring layers:
- Light sweater or hoodie
- Windbreaker jacket
- Comfortable walking shoes
Even summer evenings can feel chilly.
13. What should I pack for winter?
Pack:
- Waterproof jacket
- Sweater or fleece
- Closed-toe shoes
Rain is possible, but temperatures stay mild.
14. Is Monterey good for outdoor activities year-round?
Yes! Hiking, whale watching, kayaking, and scenic drives are enjoyable throughout the year.
15. Is September warmer than June in Monterey?
Yes. Surprisingly, September is often warmer and sunnier than June due to reduced fog.
16. Does Monterey experience hurricanes or extreme storms?
No hurricanes. Winter storms can bring heavy rain and strong winds, but extreme weather is uncommon.
17. How does Monterey compare to San Francisco weather?
Monterey is similar to San Francisco — cool summers, mild winters, and frequent coastal fog.
18. Is Monterey humid?
Humidity is moderate due to the ocean, but it usually feels fresh rather than muggy.
19. What is the sunniest month in Monterey?
Late summer and early fall — especially August and September — tend to be the sunniest.
20. Does weather affect whale watching in Monterey?
Yes. Whale watching is best in winter and early spring, when migrating gray whales pass through Monterey Bay.