Sandy beach
Yes
Hike-in Required
No
Surfing
Yes
Snorkeling / SCUBA
No
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.

Located minutes from Monterey, Seaside State Beach is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. On a clear day you'll enjoy a panoramic view from Pacific Grove all the way down the bay to Santa Cruz. Many come to beach-comb the flat and long shoreline looking for sea glass and sand dollars. With nearly a mile and half of beach, there is plenty of room to walk or to settle in at one spot. 

The beach is rimmed with dunes that are covered in beautiful vegetation. These areas are off limits to protect their integrity. Wildlife viewing is not as abundant here as it is in other area beaches, though there are always plenty of seagulls waiting for you to drop your lunch. 

Swimming, wading, and water sports are not recommended due to unpredictable waves. Parking is free, and portable restrooms are located near the beach entrance. A hotel separates Seaside and Houghton M. Roberts State Beach, so if parking is full at Seaside, more spaces are available at the other parking lot.   

Logistics + Planning

Congestion

High

Parking Pass

Not Required

Pros

Wide open beach with a great view of Monterey.

Cons

High congestion.

Features

Fishing
Surfing
Bird watching
Wildlife

Location

Nearby Adventures

Gabilan + Southern Diablo Mountains, California

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