Monterey in February
February weather, activities, events & insider tips
February Weather in Monterey
Is February Right for You?
Advantages
- Dramatic winter storms create spectacular wave watching at Point Pinos and Lovers Point - February has the most powerful swells of the year with waves reaching 4.5-6 m (15-20 ft)
- Gray whale migration peaks in February with 20,000+ whales passing Monterey Bay - best viewing success rates of the year at 85-90% from boats and 60% from shore at Point Sur
- Hotel rates drop 40-60% compared to summer peak season - oceanview rooms at major properties average $180-280 vs $350-450 in July
- Monarch butterfly clusters at Pacific Grove Sanctuary reach maximum density in February before spring dispersal begins - up to 25,000 butterflies in concentrated groves
Considerations
- Frequent rain storms make outdoor activities unpredictable - February averages 10 rainy days with storms lasting 2-8 hours, often arriving without warning
- Ocean water temperature drops to 11-12°C (52-54°F) making swimming and surfing uncomfortable without thick wetsuits - even locals avoid water activities
- Many outdoor attractions close early or cancel tours due to weather - Monterey Bay Kayaks operates only 60% of scheduled trips in February
Best Activities in February
Monterey Bay Aquarium Deep Sea Galleries
February's stormy weather makes this the perfect time for indoor exploration of the world's premier marine aquarium. The new Deep Sea exhibit mirrors the dramatic offshore conditions, and weekday crowds are minimal with 40% fewer visitors than summer. The jellyfish galleries are particularly mesmerizing during gray, contemplative February weather.
Carmel Mission Basilica and Historic Walking Tours
February's cooler temperatures 7-19°C (45-66°F) make walking Carmel's fairy-tale streets comfortable without summer's heat. The mission gardens show winter blooms, and the dramatic stormy skies create perfect photography lighting. Tourist foot traffic is 60% lower than peak season.
Point Sur Lighthouse Storm Watching
February transforms Point Sur into a dramatic storm-watching destination with massive Pacific swells crashing against the 40 m (131 ft) volcanic rock. This is when the lighthouse serves its most dramatic purpose, and guided tours include storm history and shipwreck stories most relevant during winter months.
Monterey Peninsula Wine Tasting Rooms
February is crush season preparation time when winemakers are most available for personal tastings and cellar tours. The Carmel Valley and Santa Lucia Highlands tasting rooms offer cozy fireplace settings perfect for February's cool weather, with new releases from previous harvest.
17-Mile Drive Scenic Photography Tours
February's dramatic weather creates the most photogenic conditions of the year along 17-Mile Drive. Storm clouds, crashing waves at Seal Point, and moody lighting at Lone Cypress provide portfolio-quality shots impossible during clear summer weather. Fewer tour buses mean unobstructed viewpoints.
Gray Whale Watching Expeditions
February offers the absolute peak of gray whale migration viewing with 300-500 whales passing daily during peak weeks. Boats report 85-90% success rates versus 40-60% in other months. Rough seas make this adventure-level whale watching with guaranteed dramatic encounters.
February Events & Festivals
Monterey Wine Festival Winter Tasting
Local wineries showcase new releases and library wines in intimate tasting settings throughout Monterey Peninsula tasting rooms. Features exclusive access to winemaker-led sessions and special pairings with local restaurants.
Point Sur Lighthouse Storm Tours
Special guided tours during active weather systems demonstrate the lighthouse's historical importance during dangerous winter conditions. Includes access to restricted areas and maritime rescue stories.