Sandy beach
Yes
Hike-in Required
No
Surfing
No
Snorkeling / SCUBA
Yes
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Monastery Beach, also called San Jose Creek Beach, is a wide sandy beach in a bay within Carmel River State Beach. The beach is bound by Point Lobos State Natural Reserve on its south side, and the scenic Carmel Meadows Trail on its north side. 

Monastery Beach, set just across Highway 1 from the monastery it is named after, has free parking along the widened highway shoulder. The beach is popular amongst divers, however the steep sandy slopes and often powerful surf frequently make it a dangerous location for swimmers and waders. A lifeguard tower is manned during the Summer months.

There are flush toilets and bicycle racks on the beach's south side. On a sunny day, the area's white sand makes this an incredibly scenic spot.

Monastery Beach is open daily from sunrise to 10:00 PM. Aside from the bathroom and trash cans, there are no amenities located at this beach.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Large beach. Great views.

Cons

Frequently dangerous surf conditions.

Pets allowed

Allowed with Restrictions

Features

Family friendly
Flushing toilets
Snorkeling / SCUBA
Wildflowers

Location

Nearby Lodging + Camping

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