For a first trip to Monterey, plan two to three days, stay near Cannery Row or Fisherman's Wharf and expect mild weather all year: NOAA's normal highs range from 61.6°F in December to 70.9°F in September. The City's hotel tax is 12% of the rent, MST's single ride is $2.00 and the Monterey Bay Aquarium lists adult tickets at $65.
Quick plan (our recommendation)
This is an editorial plan from official sources, not a trip we took. See the weekend itinerary for a two-day version.
- Day 1 — Cannery Row and the Aquarium: check the Aquarium's hours for your date.
- Day 2 — Wharf and State Historic Park: Fisherman's Wharf, then the Custom House and Pacific House (Tuesday–Sunday).
What it costs (verified figures only)
| Item | Figure | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Monterey hotel tax (TOT) | 12% of the rent | A $7.90 per paid occupied room per night district assessment applies to luxury lodging. Source: City of Monterey. |
| MST bus | $2.00 single ride; $6.00 daily | Discount $1.00 / $3.00. Source: Monterey-Salinas Transit. |
| Monterey Bay Aquarium | $65 adult (18–69); $50 senior (70+) | Free ages 4 and under; hours vary. Source: Monterey Bay Aquarium. |
| Free summer trolley | Not running now | Daily service resumes May 22, 2027. Source: MST. |
Getting around
See transportation for MST fares and the trolley season.
When to go
NOAA's 1991–2020 normals for Monterey Airport show highs of 61.6–62.5°F from December to March and 68.9–70.9°F from July to October. May to September is nearly dry (0.02–0.51 inches a month); December to February are the wettest (2.83–3.49 inches). See the best-time guide.
Safety and practical tips
Use broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen (American Academy of Dermatology). This guide publishes no crime statistics or neighborhood safety ratings.
What this guide does not cover
We do not rate hotels, restaurants or stores, or claim first-hand visits; see the editorial policy.