Monterey in July

July weather, activities, events & insider tips

July Weather in Monterey

23°C (73°F) High Temp

15°C (59°F) Low Temp

2.5mm (0.1 inches) Rainfall

68% Humidity

Is July Right for You?

Advantages

Peak summer weather with minimal rain - only 2.5mm (0.1 inches) across the entire month means outdoor activities rarely get cancelled
Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary reaches peak wildlife activity - blue whales migrate through in July, making it the single best month for whale watching with 90%+ success rates
Morning fog burns off by 11am-noon daily, creating perfect photography conditions with dramatic coastal views and comfortable temperatures for hiking
Kelp forest diving reaches optimal visibility of 15-20m (50-65 ft) as summer upwelling brings nutrient-rich waters and abundant marine life

Considerations

Peak tourist season means accommodation prices increase 40-60% compared to winter months and popular attractions like this destination require advance booking
Highway 1 traffic increases significantly - expect 45-60 minute delays during weekend afternoons between Carmel and Santa Cruz
Morning fog until 11am can obscure coastal views and make early morning outdoor activities chilly at 15°C (59°F)

Best Activities in July

Monterey Bay Whale Watching Tours

July is peak season for blue whales - the largest animals ever to live on Earth migrate through Monterey Bay during summer months. Success rates exceed 90% with humpbacks, blue whales, and dolphins commonly spotted. Morning tours (9am-12pm) offer calmest seas before afternoon winds pick up. The nutrient-rich upwelling creates perfect feeding conditions.

Booking Tip: Book 7-14 days ahead as tours fill quickly in July. Morning departures typically cost $45-65 USD for adults, afternoon tours $50-70 USD. Look for operators with marine biologist guides and hydrophones for whale sounds. Check current availability in booking section below.

Kelp Forest Scuba Diving and Snorkeling

July offers the year's best underwater visibility at 15-20m (50-65 ft) as summer upwelling brings clear, nutrient-rich water. Water temperature reaches 16-18°C (61-64°F) - warmest of the year. Giant kelp forests are at peak growth with sea otters, harbor seals, and colorful rockfish abundant. Perfect conditions for both beginners and experienced divers.

Booking Tip: Two-tank dive trips typically cost $120-180 USD including equipment. Snorkeling tours range $60-90 USD. Book 5-7 days ahead through PADI-certified operators. Wetsuit rentals included but bring your own mask if preferred. See current diving tour options in booking widget below.

17-Mile Drive Scenic Tours

July's clear afternoon conditions (post-fog burn-off) provide perfect visibility for this iconic coastal drive. Pebble Beach Golf Links is tournament-ready green, Seal Point hosts peak pupping season, and Lone Cypress stands out against crystal-clear skies. Self-drive or guided tours both excellent - morning fog adds drama, afternoon clarity shows full coastal beauty.

Booking Tip: Self-drive entry costs $11.25 USD per vehicle. Guided tours typically $80-120 USD per person including stops at Carmel Mission and Point Lobos. Start after 11am when fog lifts for best photo opportunities. Book guided tours 3-5 days ahead during July peak season.

Big Sur Coastal Hiking

July offers ideal hiking conditions with minimal rainfall and comfortable temperatures reaching 23°C (73°F) at midday. McWay Falls, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park trails, and Bixby Creek Bridge viewpoints are accessible with clear coastal views. Morning fog creates mystical atmosphere, burning off by noon for panoramic Pacific views.

Booking Tip: Self-guided hiking free with park entry $10 USD per vehicle. Guided eco-tours typically $75-110 USD including transportation from Monterey. Book accommodations 6-8 weeks ahead - Big Sur lodging fills early for July. Check current hiking tour availability below.

Carmel-by-the-Sea Walking Tours

July's dry weather means perfect conditions for exploring fairy-tale cottage architecture and white-sand beaches. Carmel Beach reaches comfortable afternoon temperatures for beach walks, while the village galleries and wine tasting rooms offer cool retreats. Golden hour photography opportunities are exceptional with clear skies and dramatic coastal lighting.

Booking Tip: Self-guided walking free, but guided historical tours typically $25-40 USD per person. Wine tasting experiences range $15-35 USD per tasting room. Book wine tours 2-3 days ahead as July weekends fill quickly. Comfortable walking shoes essential for uneven cottage-lined streets.

Monterey Bay Kayaking

Peak summer conditions offer calm morning waters before afternoon winds develop. July provides warmest air temperatures at 23°C (73°F) and frequent marine life sightings including sea otters, seals, and seasonal dolphins. Elkhorn Slough offers protected waters perfect for beginners, while open bay tours suit experienced paddlers seeking whale encounters.

Booking Tip: Half-day tours typically cost $60-85 USD including equipment and instruction. Full-day tours with lunch range $120-160 USD. Morning launches (8am-9am) offer calmest conditions. Book 5-7 days ahead through certified operators with Coast Guard permits. Current tour options available in booking section.

July Events & Festivals

Mid July

Monterey County Fair

Four-day agricultural fair featuring local wine tasting, artisan food vendors, carnival rides, and live music. Showcases Monterey County's farming heritage with competitive exhibits, rodeo events, and family-friendly activities. Perfect introduction to local culture and regional specialties.

Mid to Late July

Carmel Bach Festival

Two-week classical music festival featuring baroque and classical performances in venues throughout Carmel-by-the-Sea. Internationally renowned musicians perform in intimate settings including historic Carmel Mission Basilica. Combines world-class music with Monterey Peninsula's scenic beauty.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight layers for 8°C (15°F) temperature swings - mornings start at 15°C (59°F), afternoons reach 23°C (73°F)

SPF 50+ sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 and coastal reflection intensifies exposure during outdoor activities

Light fleece or jacket for morning fog periods and ocean-side dining - fog keeps temperatures cool until 11am daily

Comfortable walking shoes with good traction - coastal trails can be uneven and morning fog creates slippery conditions

Waterproof phone case for whale watching and kayaking tours - ocean spray common during boat excursions

Polarized sunglasses to reduce glare from ocean surface and enhance marine life spotting during tours

Light rain jacket despite minimal rainfall - ocean mist and brief fog can create dampness during morning activities

Breathable cotton or linen clothing - 68% humidity combined with afternoon sun can feel warmer than actual temperature

Binoculars for whale watching and bird spotting - enhances wildlife viewing experiences significantly

Reusable water bottle - staying hydrated essential during full-day outdoor activities in summer temperatures

Insider Knowledge

Fog typically lifts between 11am-noon daily - schedule outdoor photography and scenic drives for afternoon to guarantee clear views of coastline and wildlife

Locals eat lunch early (11:30am-12:30pm) to avoid tourist crowds - restaurants fill quickly after 1pm during July peak season

this destination offers 'Evenings at the Aquarium' in July with reduced crowds and special behind-the-scenes experiences - book these 2-3 weeks ahead

Highway 1 southbound traffic backs up severely Friday afternoons and weekend mornings - use Ecuador Valley routes (101 to G20 west) to bypass congestion

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating morning chill - many tourists pack only summer clothes and shiver through morning activities at 15°C (59°F) with ocean breeze

Not booking whale watching tours in advance - July has 90%+ success rates but tours sell out 7-14 days ahead during peak season

Driving 17-Mile Drive during morning fog hours - wait until after 11am for clear coastal views and optimal photo opportunities