Carmel Beach
Photo Credit: carmelbytheseaca via Instagram
Nestled along the Pacific Coast, Monterey County is an enclave of quaint communities with timeless charm, including the enchanting village of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Just over two hours' drive from the big city lights of San Francisco, Carmel is worlds away from the chaos of modern life. Even the weather is simply better here.
California's Monterey Peninsula boasts a mild, Mediterranean climate with moderate conditions and temperatures throughout the year. On average, temperatures range from the high 50s to the high 60s no matter the season. With so little deviation from a comfortable standard, it's no wonder that the area is an alluring destination year-round. Make no mistake, peak seasons do exist here, but there really is no "off-season". Rather, there are "secret seasons", when the typical traveler may not immediately consider a coastal escape, but it's still an amazing time to be in Carmel!
Are you Carmel-curious and trying to decide when to visit? Or perhaps Carmel is your summer routine but you're considering flipping the script for a winter getaway? Let's take a closer look at the four seasons of Carmel-by-the-Sea!
Fall (September - November)
Earthbound Farm
Photo Credit: seemonterey via Instagram
Sun-drenched days and breezy nights define fall in Carmel. Although the season brings shorter days, this is the sunniest time of year in Monterey County, and one of the best times to plan a visit if you want all of the coastal benefits without the crowds.
From September through November, you can expect daytime temperatures to reach nearly 70 degrees as earthen autumn landscapes come into view. The conditions are ideal to hit the hiking trails or take to the water on a kayak or SUP. Fantastic photo opportunities will be waiting to greet you on both land and water excursions. It's also prime time to take a swing at one of Central California's world-class golf courses, like the legendary Pebble Beach Golf Links. Some might say that these greens are worth the visit all on their own.
Harvest season in Monterey County is bountiful, with local farms churning out fresh produce to consumers via restaurants, farm stands, and farmers markets. Carmel Valley's Earthbound Farm is a popular choice for delicious organic staples nearby. You can also savor the local flavors by visiting 13 tasting rooms on the Carmel Wine Walk as you stroll the one-square-mile village. The $100 Wine Walk Passport entitles the holder to ten full flights at any combination of the participating tasting rooms.
Fall events to plan by: Don't miss the Annual Sandcastle Contest in which competitors vie for the Golden Shovel award, held on Carmel Beach each September. October brings the return of a newer event that showcases the culture of Carmel, Meet the Makers Art & Wine Walk at San Carlos Square and the Su Vecino Courtyard. The Halloween holiday doubles as the anniversary of the city's incorporation, marked by an annual parade, fun costumes, and a hot dog lunch. Just a few miles away in Pacific Grove, you can catch an incredible yearly display if your timing is right. In October, thousands of Monarch butterflies descend on the eucalyptus grove on their annual southbound migration. They will remain here until February before continuing on their journey. Visit the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary to view this breathtaking spectacle - and don't forget your camera!
Winter (December - February)
Holiday Tree Lighting Carmel By The Sea
Photo Credit: Carmel by the Sea via facebook
Carmel winters are mild, with the occasional shower or refreshing cover of light mist. It's an ideal time for shopping, dining, and cultural events. While the waters may not be entirely inviting for a swim, a stroll along the shoreline is a wonderful way to start or end any day, especially if timed right for a sunrise or sunset. The hazy fog of the cooler months creates a spectacular array of hues that are simply indescribable.
The coastal waters host another remarkable event beginning in November - the migration of numerous, majestic humpback whales. Wildlife is abundant on the Monterey Peninsula in the winter months. Beyond the humpback whales, seabirds are also part of the seasonal migratory pattern. In December and January, thousands of gray whales begin to make their way through Monterey Bay as well. Though the region offers year-round whale-spotting potential, the winter is certainly a peak time to partake in a whale-watching tour.
Another perk to a winter visit is easier access to high-demand establishments like restaurants that may tend to have a long wait during the peak season. Temperatures remain fair, rarely falling below 45 degrees, so fresh-air activities in the great outdoors are not off-the-table. Clear, sunny skies and fewer crowds mean that the beaches and trails are still appealing, and you'll practically feel like you own the place!
Winter events to plan by: December finds Carmel coming to life with holiday spirit. A magnificent focal point of the festive season is the brilliant, towering tree illuminating Ocean Avenue. The annual City Holiday Tree Lighting Celebration kicks it all off at the beginning of the month with choirs, city-wide fun, and of course, an appearance from Santa Claus himself! Join us all month long as the festivities keep the cheerful vibes going. January is a great time for foodies as Carmel Culinary Month brings special offers and events to showcase Carmel's tasty side.
Spring (March - May)
May's Carmel Art Festival
Photo Credit: carmelartfestival via Instagram
Spring emerges with refreshingly cool, sunny weather that progressively warms the vibrant Pacific Coast, coming to a peak in May, when Carmel sees some of the highest temperatures of the year. However, into every life, a little rain must fall - even here in paradise, and the early showers of the season will help bring the flood of blooming colors to the Monterey Peninsula as the season marches on.
In the springtime, Carmel and the surrounding coastal communities are blanketed in blossoms representing a range of dramatic colors. From the vivid purples and royal blues to stark oranges and lively yellows, the mountains, valleys, and coastlines absolutely shine with wildflowers and thriving gardens. Throughout the region, discover an array of poppies, lupines, Indian paintbrushes, and irises - just to name a few.
Coming out of a winter that may have hindered your outdoor adventures, you'll be dazzled by the warm embrace of nature in Monterey County, where kayaking, hiking, biking, boating, and basking in the sun are favorite seasonal pastimes. A journey of discovery on water or land is sure to lead to stunning finds as fresh new life is awakening along the coast. It's the perfect time for a visit to Point Lobos or Andrew Molera State Park.
Spring events to plan by: GourmetFest unites some of the world's finest chefs and restaurateurs for a luxurious four-day event in March, including wine tastings, cooking demos, VIP parties, and much more. May's Carmel Art Festival is a Plein-air painting event held at Devendorf Park the weekend after Mother's Day. This non-profit festival supports local and regional artists. Many Carmel galleries host their own art shows, receptions, and demonstrations in correlation with the festival. Also in May, the Winemakers' Celebration pays homage to one of the region's most celebrated crafts.
SUMMER (JUNE - SEPTEMBER)
Carmel Surfabout
Photo Credit: carmelsurfabout via Instagram
Summer days on the Monterey Peninsula often begin with a hauntingly beautiful fog over the endless horizon, keeping the temperatures cool until the afternoon clarity rallies the warmth. You may be surprised to learn that planning a layered wardrobe is wise in the summer months, due to the rapid changes that may take place from morning to noon to night. Even though this is our warmer season, the moderate nature of our climate makes the Carmel area a welcome respite from the sweltering heat of many other beach destinations, while still providing a warm-up for heat-seekers coming from the north.
You already know that Monterey County is one of the largest wine-producing areas in the state, but you may have missed our growing presence in the craft beer market. There are multiple breweries you can visit throughout Carmel, Monterey, and the surrounding areas. After all, nothing pairs better with summer than a cold brew!
With the cool breezes of the California Coast ever-present, outdoor fun is a welcome idea, making biking, hiking, boating, and golf highly appealing against the lush landscapes. Local farmers' markets are a-buzz with in-season fruits, vegetables, and community spirit. Of course, the summertime is also the perfect time for a scenic road trip, and here on the California Coast, those are in no short supply! Check out the drive through Big Sur on Highway 1 or take the 17-Mile Drive through Pebble Beach.
Summer events to plan by: Since 1980, thrill-seekers have congregated on the white sands of Carmel beach to usher in the summer season at the Annual Carmel Surfabout. Even if you aren't up for catching a wave yourself, it's exhilarating to watch the action. The city's 4th of July Celebration takes place each year in Downtown Carmel at Devendorf Park, where tradition and family take center stage. Later in July, musicians from across the globe unite on the Central California Coast for the world-famous Carmel Bach Festival, which features more than 40 performance events spanning Carmel, Monterey, and Pebble Beach. Closing out the summer, Monterey Car Week kicks off the first-class salute to automotive excellence with ten full days of classic car shows, auctions, and more throughout Monterey County, culminating with the Pebble Beach Concours Tour d'Elegance vintage car parade.
Which Carmel season speaks to you? We suggest you try out more than one to make sure you find the perfect fit. Regardless of when you visit, you're sure to find the timing to be just right.