Monterey, California, is a coastal gem that beckons visitors with its stunning landscapes, vibrant marine life, and charming seaside towns. Having obtained my one-star instructor scuba diving license from BSAC four decades ago—an achievement that still stands as a testament to my love for the underwater world—I find immense joy in undertaking scuba diving trips once a year and capturing the mesmerizing marine life through underwater photography.
While I am not actively teaching scuba diving, the passion for this activity has only deepened with time. Monterey, with its rich marine biodiversity and captivating dive sites, has sparked me interest in exploring this place.
Interestingly, my (adult) children also share in this aquatic passion, having pursued their scuba diving certifications in Monterey through the renowned PADI program.
The British Sub-Aqua Club (BSAC) is a prestigious organization that offers comprehensive scuba diving training programs and certifications. However, BSAC courses are not readily available in the United States. This stems from the fact that BSAC, as the name suggests, is a British-based diving club, and its primary focus and infrastructure are rooted in the United Kingdom. Several factors contribute to the limited availability of BSAC courses in the USA includes geographical Focus, differing Certification Standards, legal and regulatory compliance, popularity of other certification agencies. PADI, NAUI, and SSI have gained significant popularity in the United States, offering easily accessible and widely recognized scuba diving certifications. The familiarity and prevalence of these organizations make them the go-to choices for most divers in the country. My children chose PADI which has become more popular and accessible in recent times due to its widespread recognition and user-friendly approach.
While many consider Monterey a summer destination, there's a unique charm to exploring its treasures in January. As an active person, Monterey's blend of winter charm and summer vitality creates the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable journey. Join me as we dive into the exhilarating experiences awaiting you at Del Monte Beach, San Carlos Beach, Old Fisherman's Wharf, Window on the Bay Park, and the heart of it all, Monterey.
Del Monte Beach:
Winter Activities:
- Whale Watching: Winter is prime time for whale watching in Monterey. Take a boat tour to witness the majestic gray whales on their migration journey. Or opt for a kayak tour for a more hands-on and immersive whale-watching experience in the brisk winter waters.
- Beachcombing: Bundle up and stroll along the pristine Del Monte Beach. Winter storms may bring fascinating seashells, driftwood, and other treasures to the shore.
- Trail Running: The crisp winter air sets the stage for invigorating trail runs along Del Monte Beach. Feel the adrenaline as you explore the coastline's natural beauty.
Summer Activities:
- Sunbathing and Picnicking: Del Monte Beach is perfect for basking in the summer sun. Pack a picnic, spread out a blanket, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the ocean.
- Surfing Lessons: Embrace the California surf culture with surfing lessons available during the warmer months.
- Beach Volleyball: Gather friends for a lively game of beach volleyball under the warm summer sun on Del Monte Beach.
- Stand-Up Paddleboarding: Seize the summer energy by paddleboarding along the coast, blending exercise with panoramic ocean views.
San Carlos Beach:
Winter Activities:
- Scuba Diving: Brave the cool waters and explore the underwater wonders of Monterey Bay. San Carlos Beach is a popular spot for scuba diving, offering diverse marine life and kelp forests.
- Tide Pooling: Low winter tides reveal tide pools teeming with marine creatures. Grab a guidebook, and explore the fascinating world of sea anemones, starfish, and crabs.
- Winter Swim: Take a refreshing winter swim at San Carlos Beach, embracing the brisk water for an invigorating experience.
- Rock Climbing: Embark on a rock climbing adventure along the rugged coastline, combining the challenge with breathtaking winter scenery.
Summer Activities:
- Kayaking: Experience the bay from a different perspective by kayaking in the gentle summer waters.
- Snorkeling: Dive into the warm summer waters and explore the underwater wonders of San Carlos Beach through an exhilarating snorkeling expedition.
- Beachside Yoga Sessions: Embrace the tranquility of summer with beachside yoga sessions, surrounded by the soothing sound of waves.
Old Fisherman's Wharf:
Winter Activities:
- Seal Watching: Winter brings harbor seals to the area. Observe these playful creatures from the wharf or take a boat tour for a closer look.
- Seafood Culinary Tour: Turn your visit into a culinary adventure by exploring the wharf's seafood offerings, blending winter comfort with gastronomic delights. Warm up in one of the cozy restaurants on the wharf, indulging in clam chowder or fresh seafood while watching the winter waves.
- Nighttime Pier Jogging: Keep the winter blues at bay by jogging along the wharf at night, surrounded by glittering lights and the sound of the waves.
Summer Activities:
- Live Entertainment: Enjoy live music and street performances that often grace the wharf during the warmer season.
- Deep-Sea Fishing: Join a deep-sea fishing excursion from the wharf for an active and rewarding summer day, testing your skills against the ocean's bounty.
- Sunset Sailing: Unwind from your active day with a sunset sailing trip, capturing the essence of summer in Monterey Bay.
Window on the Bay Park:
Winter Activities:
- Bird Watching: Winter is an excellent time for bird watching. Bring your binoculars and spot a variety of migratory birds in the park.
- Coastal Hiking: The cooler temperatures make for pleasant coastal hikes along the park's trails.
- Trail Running and Bird Watching: Combine trail running with a bird-watching expedition along the park's trails, appreciating the diverse winter bird species.
- Winter Photography Expedition: Capture the park's winter beauty through a photography expedition, exploring its serene corners and dramatic vistas.
Summer Activities:
- Family Picnics: Gather family and friends for a summer picnic in the park, surrounded by lush greenery and stunning bay views.
- Photography Sessions: Capture the vibrant summer colors and breathtaking sunsets for lasting memories.
- Kayak and Coastal Hike Combo: Integrate kayaking with coastal hikes during the summer months, blending water and land adventures seamlessly.
- Outdoor Fitness Classes: Join outdoor fitness classes in the park, soaking up the summer sun while staying active and healthy.
Monterey:
Winter Activities:
- Monterey Bay Aquarium: Explore the renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium, an indoor haven showcasing marine life from the cold depths to the warm shallows.
- Cannery Row Shopping: Wander through the historic Cannery Row, shop for unique winter souvenirs, and enjoy cozy cafes.
- Coastal Cycling: Explore the coastal bike paths during the winter, combining the thrill of cycling with breathtaking ocean views.
- Indoor Rock Climbing: Escape the winter chill by trying indoor rock climbing facilities in Monterey, maintaining an active lifestyle even on colder days.
Summer Activities:
- Bike Rentals: Take advantage of the pleasant weather by renting bikes and exploring the scenic coastal bike paths.
- Whale Watching Tours: While winter is prime whale-watching season, summer also offers opportunities to spot humpback whales and other marine life.
- Surf Camps: Channel the summer vibes with surf camps and lessons, riding the waves and experiencing the thrill of Monterey's surf culture.
- Outdoor Yoga Retreats: Join outdoor yoga retreats against the backdrop of Monterey's scenic beauty, finding your zen amidst the coastal wonders.
Conclusion:
Monterey beckons throughout the year, providing a diverse array of activities for both winter and summer enthusiasts. It stands as a testament to an active lifestyle, offering an adventure playground that embraces every season. Whether you're drawn to the thrill of exploration in the crisp winter breeze or reveling in the warmth of the summer sun, Monterey's beauty, showcased through its pristine beaches and picturesque parks, promises to create indelible memories. So, prepare your bags and immerse yourself in the unparalleled charm of the Californian coast, where the best of both worlds awaits your discovery.