Discover Monterey Bay
Monterey Bay offers a rare combination of world-class freediving in ancient kelp forests, consistent surf breaks ranging from beginner-friendly to advanced reef breaks, protected coves for paddling, productive fishing grounds, and some of California’s most abundant marine life. This is where the deep Monterey Canyon creates upwelling that feeds a thriving ecosystem, making it one of the most biodiverse ocean environments in North America.
The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary protects 6,094 square miles of ocean, creating a thriving ecosystem unlike anywhere else on the California coast. The underwater kelp forests—some reaching 100 feet from the ocean floor to the surface—create an otherworldly environment where sea otters, harbor seals, sea lions, and countless fish species thrive. The Monterey Canyon, deeper than the Grand Canyon, comes within a mile of shore, bringing deep-water species and nutrients close to the coastline
Surf breaks range from the mellow rollers of Cowell’s Beach to the powerful reef breaks of Steamer Lane and Pleasure Point. Downwind conditions along the coast from Davenport to Santa Cruz offer some of California’s best SUP and foil runs. Water temperatures range from 50-60°F year-round, requiring wetsuits but remaining accessible in all seasons. Visibility for freediving varies from 10-40 feet depending on season and conditions, with fall offering the clearest water. Target fish species include rockfish, lingcod, cabezon, halibut, and seasonal salmon runs.
What We Do in Monterey Bay
Based on conditions and your interests, here are the activities we offer in Monterey Bay
FREEDIVING
Explore underwater kelp forests on a single breath. Encounter sea otters, harbor seals, sea lions, and diverse marine life in one of the world’s premier freediving destinations.
SURFING
Ride waves at iconic California breaks including Steamer Lane, Pleasure Point, and Capitola. From beginner-friendly rollers to advanced reef breaks, we adapt to your skill level.
STAND-UP PADDLEBOARDING (SUP)
Paddle protected coves and explore the coastline from a unique perspective. Learn downwind techniques on the legendary Davenport to Santa Cruz run.
FISHING
Fish from shore, pier, or boat for rockfish, lingcod, cabezon, halibut, and seasonal salmon. Learn sustainable fishing techniques and ocean ecology.
FOILING (Wing, Prone, Downwind)
Experience cutting-edge hydrofoil technology. Learn wing foiling, prone foiling, or downwind foiling in ideal conditions with expert coaching.
A Day in Monterey Bay
Here’s what a typical day might look like. Remember, we adapt to real-time conditions, so this is a flexible framework, not a rigid schedule.
Planning Your Monterey Bay Adventure
- Getting There
By Air
- Nearest Airport: San Jose International Airport (SJC) – 45 miles, 1 hour drive
- Alternative: San Francisco International Airport (SFO) – 90 miles, 1.5–2 hours
- Smaller Option: Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) – limited flights but closest
By Car
- From San Francisco: 90 miles south on Highway 1 (scenic) or Highway 101 → Highway 17 (faster), 1.5–2 hours
- From Los Angeles: 330 miles north on Highway 101, 5–6 hours
- Parking: Free street parking near harbors, paid lots available
- Where to Stay
Santa Cruz (Surf Culture Hub)
- Budget: HI Santa Cruz Hostel ($40–60/night), Motel 6 ($80–120/night)
- Mid-Range: Dream Inn ($200–350/night, beachfront), Hotel Paradox ($150–250/night)
- Luxury: Chaminade Resort ($250–400/night, hilltop views)
Monterey (Marine Science Hub)
- Budget: Monterey Hostel ($45–70/night), Motel 6 Monterey ($90–140/night)
- Mid-Range: InterContinental The Clement ($250–400/night, Cannery Row), Portola Hotel ($180–300/night)
- Luxury: Bernardus Lodge ($400–700/night, Carmel Valley)
- Camping: Veterans Memorial Park ($40/night)
Vacation Rentals
Airbnb/VRBO: $100–300/night for full house, great for groups
- Beachfront options: $200–500/night
Recommendations
- Stay in Santa Cruz for surf-focused trips
- Stay in Monterey for freediving-focused trips
- Book 2-3 months ahead for summer/fall weekends
- Best Time to Book
Peak Season
(June–October)
- Book 2–3 months in advance
- Weekends fill up fast
- Best weather and conditions
Shoulder Season (March–May, November)
- Book 1–2 months in advance
- More availability
- Great conditions, fewer crowds
Off-Season
(December–February)
- Book 2–4 weeks in advance
- Most availability
- Advanced skills recommended for winter conditions
Have questions? Check our FAQ page
Ready to Experience Monterey Bay?
Join us for a multi-sport ocean adventure in one of California’s most biodiverse marine environments. From kelp forest freediving to world-class surf breaks, Monterey Bay offers unforgettable ocean experiences.