Monterey's tiniest beach must be MacAbee Beach, located in the midst of Cannery Row. Kayakers launch from it, scuba divers occasionally wade ashore at it, and children (and their parents) dabble barefoot in the waves there. Ample parking at lots a few blocks inland, plus food, drink and shops galore.
San Carlos Beach marks the end of Cannery Row, right beside the Coast Guard Pier. The large parking areas (pay-and-display) make it a popular 'jumping-off point' for groups of scuba divers, heading for the remains of cannery gear just off shore. A relatively shallow grade makes these sands a good choice for families looking for a place to cool their toes after Cannery Row.
The recently created Window on the Bay Park frames Monterey's largest beach, Monterey State Beach, stretching from Wharf #2 virtually to Seaside. The soft sand shelves gently into the bay, making this one of the safest beaches for paddling with small children. The beach is open dawn to sunset; there is level access to the sands. Public amenities include beach volleyball courts, kayak and canoe rentals, restrooms, snack bars and restaurants, and ample parking (most of it between Wharf 2 and Fisherman's Wharf in a pay lot or meters, plus some free parking off Del Monte Avenue). It's possible to walk to Seaside on the beach or on the adjoining Recreation Trail.
In partnership with Monterey County and the cities of Carmel-by-the-Sea, Del Rey Oaks, Marina, Monterey, Pacific Grove, Salinas,
Sand City, Seaside, Soledad, Pebble Beach, Moss Landing, Carmel Valley, Big Sur, and Salinas Valley.
