Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
grey
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
20 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
1 000 m
Frequently asked questions
Moss Landing State Beach: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — grey, clarity moderate, average temperature +14.0°C, warms up to +18.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Moss Landing State Beach: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — moderate. Average wave height — 0.8 m.
Moss Landing State Beach: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 20 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Moss Landing State Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — grey. Texture — medium. Beach length — 1 000 metres.
Moss Landing State Beach: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in June, July. It ends in September. The best month for a holiday is September. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Moss Landing State Beach: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as good. Rip currents are likely — swim only in designated areas. Jellyfish risk — low. Shark risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Moss Landing State Beach: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: stingrays. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Moss Landing State Beach: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: toilets, parking. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Moss Landing State Beach: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
There are no lifeguards on the beach — be especially careful when swimming.
Moss Landing State Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Moss Landing Harbor Restaurants. Cuisines available: Seafood. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Moss Landing State Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Warm clothes, Flip-flops, Cash, Binoculars.
Moss Landing State Beach: when is the best time to swim?
In the morning the water is calmer and there are fewer people. In the evening — beautiful sunsets.
Moss Landing State Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Swimming is not recommended due to strong currents. Take your rubbish with you.
Moss Landing State Beach: what activities are available?
The beach offers: surfing, kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Moss Landing State Beach: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for surfing enthusiasts and nature lovers. Suitable for picnics, horseback riding and birdwatching. Not suitable for swimming due to strong currents.
Moss Landing State Beach: what makes this beach unique?
An important stop on the Pacific Flyway, a popular birdwatching spot. Dunes protect the beach from winds, creating comfortable conditions for picnics.
Moss Landing State Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Scenic beach, Dunes protect from winds, Excellent surfing conditions, Popular picnic spot, Birdwatching and marine life watching, Free entry, Nearby fishing village with restaurants. Cons: Swimming dangerous, Strong currents, No lifeguards, Limited infrastructure, No shade.
Moss Landing State Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Elkhorn Slough, Monterey, Salinas River State Beach. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Moss Landing State Beach: how do I get to the city of Monterey?
The beach is located near the city of Monterey. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Monterey.