When to Go

When touring or hiking, dress in "layers", as the temperature can be warm one minute, and then drop rapidly as clouds or fog move in from the ocean.

The weather in Monterey County varies significantly depending upon the time of year, the time of day and the area visited.

The coast is consistently mild, with an average temperature of 57 degrees F. year-round. Warm clear days and cool nights characterize the spring and autumn months, with a distinct rainy season between November and April. Summer tends to bring fog, especially early and late in the day. Inland temperatures tend to be more extreme with higher temperatures in the summer.

Early autumn is the coast's sunniest time of year, but inland areas are much sunnier throughout the year. Sunscreen is a wise precaution especially inland, but also throughout the county year-round.

Dressing in layers is advised since the variations in climate are so great. Generally, light- to medium-weight clothing is appropriate, but jackets and raincoats are a good idea in winter.