Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
white
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
15 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
200 m
Frequently asked questions
San Carlos Beach: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity high, 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.
San Carlos Beach: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — calm. Average wave height — 0.2 m. Calm water is great for families with children and those who prefer not to deal with strong swell.
San Carlos Beach: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 15 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.
San Carlos Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — white. Texture — fine. Beach length — 200 metres.
San Carlos 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.
San Carlos Beach: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as good. Rip currents are unlikely. Jellyfish risk — low. Shark risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
San Carlos 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.
San Carlos Beach: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: showers, toilets, changing rooms, parking. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
San Carlos Beach: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
Lifeguards are on duty on the beach — an important safety factor. A first aid station is available.
San Carlos Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Cannery Row Restaurants. Cuisines available: Seafood. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
San Carlos Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Flip-flops, Cash, Diving mask.
San Carlos Beach: when is the best time to swim?
In the morning the water is calmer and visibility for diving is better.
San Carlos Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Touching marine life is prohibited. Take your rubbish with you.
San Carlos Beach: what activities are available?
The beach offers: snorkelling, diving, kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
San Carlos Beach: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for divers and marine life lovers. Suitable for swimming, snorkelling and watching sea lions. Not suitable for those who prefer warm water.
San Carlos Beach: what makes this beach unique?
A popular diving spot with rich marine life: sea lions, otters, nudibranchs and anemones.
San Carlos Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Crystal-clear water, Rich marine life, Gentle water entry, Developed infrastructure: showers, toilets, parking, Lifeguards, Nearby Cannery Row and aquarium. Cons: Cold water, Small beach size, Crowded on weekends, Limited shade.
San Carlos Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Cannery Row, Monterey Bay Aquarium, Monterey Coast. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
San Carlos 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.