Weather in Monterey

Find out the current weather in Monterey! This section presents current weather conditions, forecasts, and charts to help you plan your day.

The climate in Monterey, located in the United States, can be characterised as moderate Mediterranean, with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. The city is distinguished by stable temperatures throughout the year, without sharp fluctuations or extreme weather conditions, making it attractive to visit at any time.

Two main seasons are clearly defined. The summer months, especially from June to October, are characterised by minimal rainfall and a large number of sunny days. The average temperature during this period ranges from 14.9°C to 17.2°C, with maximum values reaching a comfortable 17.8°C - 20.2°C. This is the ideal time for coastal walks and outdoor activities.

Winter, from December to March, brings more precipitation, although the total amount remains small (about 3 mm per month). Average temperatures in the winter months are approximately 10.8°C - 11.7°C, with minimum values around 8-9°C. Despite the increase in rainy days, the weather remains relatively mild, without frost or snow.

The climate in Monterey is distinguished by distinct mildness throughout the year, without the sharp temperature spikes characteristic of many other regions in the United States. The annual range of average temperatures is small: it fluctuates from approximately 10.8°C in February to 17.2°C in September. The warmest months are usually August and September. During this period, the average temperature is about 16.9-17.2°C, and maximum daytime values can reach 19.9-20.2°C. February is traditionally considered the coolest month, when the average temperature holds at 10.8°C, and minimum night-time temperatures drop on average to 8.0°C.

The summer months in Monterey, from June to September, are characterised by pleasantly warm and comfortable weather. Daytime highs are usually in the range of 17.8-20.2°C, which is ideal for walking and relaxing on the coast, while nights remain fresh with temperatures around 11.9-14.2°C. Winter, covering the period from December to February, is very mild here. Average daytime temperatures fluctuate around 13.5-14.4°C, and night-time temperatures rarely drop below 8-9°C, so frosts are a rarity. Temperature fluctuations between day and night in Monterey are moderate and stable throughout the year, usually amounting to about 5-6 degrees Celsius, which ensures the absence of sharp changes and contributes to a comfortable stay in the city at any time.

In Monterey, a clearly defined seasonality of precipitation is observed. The main rainy period falls during the winter and early spring months, roughly from November to March. Summer and early autumn, conversely, are characterised by very dry weather.

The greatest amount of precipitation falls from December to March. January, February, March, and December receive an average of 3 mm of precipitation each. At the same time, March stands out with the highest number of rainy days – about 12. Given the moderate monthly average temperatures, precipitation falls mainly in the form of rain, which, judging by the amount, is most often light or moderate rather than torrential.

The driest months in Monterey are the summer and early autumn months. From June to October, the amount of precipitation tends towards zero, and in July and August, there may be no rain at all, as data shows 0 rainy days. Even in June, September, and October, precipitation is extremely rare, usually not more than one day with a minimal amount of moisture. Transitional months, such as April (1 mm, 4 rainy days) and November (2 mm, 5 rainy days), show a gradual change in the precipitation pattern.

When planning a trip to Monterey, it is worth remembering that the weather here, as in many coastal cities in California, can be changeable. The key to a comfortable journey is layering your clothing. Even on warm days, the morning and evening ocean breeze can be quite cool, and the temperature during the day can fluctuate noticeably. Therefore, be sure to take comfortable shoes for walking along the picturesque embankments and hills, as well as several clothing options that can be easily combined.

The winter months in Monterey, from December to March, are characterised by cooler weather, with average temperatures around 10-12°C. Although precipitation is usually not heavy (about 3 mm per month), there are up to 10-12 rainy days during this period. You will need warm clothes: sweaters, a fleece jacket, as well as a waterproof and windproof jacket. Do not forget comfortable closed-toe shoes and, perhaps, a light umbrella or raincoat.

From April to November, the weather in Monterey becomes warmer and drier. It is especially comfortable from June to October, when average temperatures fluctuate around 15-17°C (maximum up to 20°C), and precipitation is practically absent. T-shirts, light shirts, shorts, or trousers are suitable for these months. However, even in summer, one should not neglect a light jacket or sweater for evening walks or in case of a cool ocean breeze. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are absolutely necessary, as the sun by the coast can be active even at moderate air temperatures. In transitional months, such as April-May and November, when the temperature is slightly lower and rare precipitation is possible, the principle of layering clothing remains especially relevant.