Monterey in September
September weather, activities, events & insider tips
September Weather in Monterey
Is September Right for You?
Advantages
- September is peak whale watching season - blue and humpback whales are most active before their southern migration, with 95% success rates on morning tours
- Perfect weather window with minimal marine layer - clear skies 85% of mornings mean unobstructed coastal views and ideal photography conditions
- Shoulder season pricing kicks in after Labor Day - accommodation rates drop 25-40% while weather remains at its annual best
- September marks the end of tourist season but peak wildlife season - fewer crowds at 17-Mile Drive and Big Sur, but maximum sea otter, seal, and bird activity
Considerations
- Marine layer can roll in unexpectedly by 3pm, dropping temperatures 8-12°C (15-20°F) in minutes - layers are essential even on sunny mornings
- Many local favorites close early or take vacation days after Labor Day weekend before October surge - call ahead for restaurant hours
- September means fire season in nearby areas - while Monterey itself is protected, inland activities like hiking in Carmel Valley can face air quality issues
Best Activities in September
Monterey Bay Whale Watching Tours
September offers the year's best whale watching as blue whales (largest animals on Earth) and humpbacks feed heavily before migration. Morning tours at 9am have 95% success rates with calm seas and minimal marine layer. Water temperature at 16°C (61°F) creates perfect feeding conditions. Book morning slots - afternoon winds pick up and marine layer reduces visibility.
17-Mile Drive Scenic Tours
September delivers the clearest coastal views of the year with marine layer burning off by 10am and staying clear until 4pm. Pebble Beach, Seal Point, and Lone Cypress are photographable in golden light without summer crowds. Self-drive entry is $11.25, but guided tours provide access to private viewpoints closed to individual drivers.
Monterey Bay Kayaking Adventures
September water conditions are ideal - minimal wind, clear visibility, and active marine life. Sea otters are most playful in cooler water, and harbor seals gather for pupping season. Water temperature at 16°C (61°F) means wetsuits are provided but conditions are comfortable for 2-3 hour paddles.
Big Sur Scenic Drive and Hiking
September offers the clearest Big Sur views with minimal coastal fog and perfect 18-22°C (65-72°F) hiking temperatures. McWay Falls and Bixby Bridge are visible from miles away. Hiking trails like Julia Pfeiffer Burns are less crowded but wildlife is most active. Drive time to Big Sur core: 45 minutes (29 km/18 miles) south.
Carmel-by-the-Sea Walking Tours
September's mild weather and reduced crowds make Carmel's fairy-tale architecture and white sand beaches perfect for walking exploration. Morning temperatures of 18°C (65°F) are ideal for the village's steep streets and beach walks. Ocean Avenue shops stay open later in September than winter months.
Monterey Peninsula Wine Tasting
September is harvest season in nearby Carmel Valley and Santa Lucia Highlands - wineries offer fresh crush tastings and harvest activities. Weather is perfect for outdoor tastings with clear valley views. Drive time to Carmel Valley: 25 minutes (20 km/12 miles) from downtown Monterey.
September Events & Festivals
Monterey Jazz Festival
The world's longest-running jazz festival features 500+ artists across 8 stages over one weekend. Since 1958, it's drawn legends like Dizzy Gillespie and contemporary stars. Multiple ticket tiers from $50 single-day grounds passes to $400 weekend packages with reserved seating.
Carmel Mission Harvest Festival
Historic Carmel Mission celebrates harvest season with wine tastings from local vineyards, traditional music, and Mission gardens tours. Admission typically $20-30 includes tastings and historical demonstrations. Features wines from Carmel Valley and Santa Lucia Highlands.