Things to Do in Monterey in December
December weather, activities, events & insider tips
December Weather in Monterey
Is December Right for You?
Advantages
- Mild winter temperatures averaging 12-15°C (54-59°F) make December ideal for outdoor exploration without the summer crowds or fog that blankets Monterey from June through August
- Peak whale watching season with gray whales migrating south past the bay - you'll typically spot 2-5 whales per trip, with calmer seas than spring migration months
- Holiday events transform Cannery Row and downtown into festive destinations, with the Christmas in the Adobes walking tour (first two weekends) offering candlelit access to historic buildings normally closed to visitors
- Hotel rates drop 30-40% compared to summer peak, with midweek stays in December averaging $180-240 versus $320-450 in July, though expect premium pricing December 20-31
Considerations
- Rain becomes unpredictable with 10 days of precipitation typical for the month - showers can last anywhere from 15 minutes to all day, and that 70% humidity makes 12°C (54°F) feel colder than the thermometer suggests
- Shorter daylight hours mean sunset by 5pm, limiting your outdoor activity window and making evening beach walks considerably chillier once that coastal wind picks up around 4pm
- Several attractions reduce hours or close midweek in December - the Monterey Bay Aquarium stays open but some tide pool areas become inaccessible during high winter surf and king tides
Best Activities in December
Monterey Bay Whale Watching Tours
December marks the beginning of gray whale migration season, with 18,000+ whales passing through Monterey Bay between December and April. The advantage of December specifically is calmer seas compared to January-February storm season, with average wave heights around 1.2-1.8 m (4-6 ft) versus 2.4-3 m (8-10 ft) later in winter. Morning departures (typically 9am-10am) offer the smoothest conditions before afternoon winds pick up. Water temperature hovers around 12-13°C (54-56°F), so dress warmer than you think - that ocean wind cuts through layers.
17-Mile Drive Scenic Touring
December brings dramatic winter light and storm-watching opportunities along this iconic coastal route. The $11.25 per vehicle entry fee is worth it when you catch those moody gray skies and crashing waves at Pescadero Point. Cypress trees take on a different character in winter, and you'll actually find parking at popular stops like Lone Cypress and Bird Rock. Go midweek if possible - weekends still draw locals even in December. The route takes 2-3 hours if you stop frequently, which you should because the light changes constantly with passing weather systems.
Monterey Bay Aquarium Extended Visits
December is arguably the best month to experience the aquarium without summer crowds of 8,000+ daily visitors. You'll average 3,000-4,000 visitors on weekdays, meaning actual space at the kelp forest tank and time with the sea otter feeding shows (10:30am, 1:30pm, 3:30pm). The jellyfish galleries become meditative rather than shoulder-to-shoulder. Plan 3-4 hours minimum, arriving right at 10am opening or after 2pm when school groups clear out. December's rainy days make this the perfect indoor anchor for your itinerary.
Carmel-by-the-Sea Gallery and Beach Walks
Carmel transforms in December with holiday window displays and fewer tourists clogging Ocean Avenue. The town's 80+ art galleries stay open but are actually browsable, and Carmel Beach becomes a locals scene with dog walkers and storm watchers rather than sunbathers. December's lower sun angle creates remarkable golden hour light from 4-4:30pm, perfect for beach photography before it gets too cold. The village is compact enough to cover in 2-3 hours of walking, though you could easily spend a full day gallery hopping and cafe sitting.
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve Hiking
December brings migrating whales visible from clifftop trails, harbor seals pupping season starting late month, and winter bird migrations. The Cypress Grove Trail (0.8 km / 0.5 miles loop) and Sea Lion Point Trail (0.9 km / 0.6 miles loop) offer the most wildlife viewing with minimal elevation gain under 30 m (100 ft). Trails can be muddy after rain, and that coastal wind averages 25-35 km/h (15-22 mph), so windbreakers are essential. The reserve limits daily visitors to 150 vehicles, but December rarely hits capacity except holiday weekends.
Cannery Row Historical Walking and Dining
December sees Cannery Row decorated for holidays while maintaining its historical character - the perfect time to explore before summer tourist density returns. The free Monterey Path of History walking route connects Cannery Row to downtown's historic adobes, covering 3.2 km (2 miles) in about 90 minutes. December's cooler weather makes this walk comfortable, though rain can interrupt. The area's restaurants and wine tasting rooms are less crowded, with actual seating available at popular spots along the waterfront. Evening visits (5-7pm) offer holiday lights and sunset views over the bay.
December Events & Festivals
Christmas in the Adobes
This annual event opens historic adobe buildings along the Path of History for candlelit evening tours, with docents in period dress explaining California's Mexican and early American periods. You'll access buildings normally closed to the public, including private residences and the Pacific House Museum. Hot cider and traditional music add atmosphere, and the crowds are manageable compared to summer events. Tickets typically sell out 2-3 weeks ahead.
Cannery Row Holiday Tree Lighting and Festivities
The main tree lighting happens early December with local performers, followed by nightly lights through the month. More authentic than major city displays, with local families and fewer tourists. The real value is walking Cannery Row in early evening when businesses stay open late and offer holiday specials. Street performers and carolers appear spontaneously, giving it a neighborhood feel despite the tourist location.