When is the best time to visit Monterey Bay, CA?

Monterey Bay is most affordable and least crowded in the shoulder seasons, late spring (April-May) and early fall (September-October). Summer is peak for beach activity but rates are 30-60% higher. Off-season (November-March) offers the quietest stays and sometimes the most character.

How are the waterfront rentals in Monterey Bay chosen?

Each property in Monterey Bay is hand-picked for genuine waterfront access, not water view, not a short walk from the beach, but doors-to-water. Listings are selected from public booking platforms (Vrbo, Airbnb, Booking.com, Whimstay) for genuine waterfront access and accurate location. Rates are set by the host and visible at the booking link.

Are the properties on SleepByTheBeach available on Vrbo or Airbnb?

Yes, each property links directly to its listing on Vrbo, Airbnb, Booking.com, Whimstay, or the host's own booking system. We curate from public listings; we don't own or manage these properties. We may earn a small commission when you book through our affiliate links at no cost to you.

What makes Monterey Bay different from other beach towns?

A crescent of sand from Santa Cruz to Monterey, with Carmel and Pacific Grove around the point.. It has the character of a small coastal town without the density of major resort destinations. Our curation focuses on quiet, authentic stays within walking distance of the water.

Monterey Bay

A crescent of sand from Santa Cruz to Monterey, with Carmel and Pacific Grove around the point.

See the 3 waterfront rentals → Get the weekly letter

5418 waterfront rentals·26 shores·Every listing on the water·Updated 2026-11-12

Monterey Bay curves for about 31 miles of nearly unbroken sand between Santa Cruz and Monterey. Santa Cruz has the boardwalk and the surf breaks. Capitola is a small village on its own beach. Aptos, Rio del Mar and Pajaro Dunes have rows of houses and condos set directly on the sand, which is where most of the bay's beachfront rentals are. At the south end, Monterey has Cannery Row and the aquarium, Pacific Grove has a rocky shore with a walking path, and Carmel has a white sand beach at the foot of the village.

StateCA

Peak seasonJune to October

Best forWaterfront stays

Featured3 rentals

The curated list · 3 rentals

Where we would stay in Monterey Bay.

Affiliate links. About our partners.

No. 01

Oceanfront Watsonville Condo w/ Beach Access!

Entire condo

3 bedroom sleeps 10 about $661 a night

Ultimate relaxation in The Golden State awaits at this 3-bedroom, 2-bath Watsonville vacation rental! This lovely condo features 2 flat-screen TVs, a fully equipped kitchen, and close proximity to the area’s most popular attractions. Sip your morning coffee on the furnished balcony, then walk down to the on-site beach and catch some rays! When you’re ready to explore, hit the links at Pajaro Valley Golf Club or embark on a journey with Blue Ocean Whale Watching. It’s up to you! The space 2nd-Floor Condo. Central Location. In-Unit Laundry. Community Tennis Courts Bedroom 1: King Bed. Bedroom 2: Queen Bed. Bedroom 3: 2 Twin Bunk Beds.

Check rates on Whimstay →

No. 02

Beachfront Pajaro Dunes Condo w/ Bay Views!

Entire condo

2 bedroom sleeps 8 about $464 a night

Find your home-away-from-home in the private and gated beachfront community of Pajaro Dunes in Watsonville, halfway between the Monterey Peninsula and Santa Cruz. Pelican Point is at the quiet, south end of the community. The vacation rental condo boasts a modern interior with 2 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, and access to several community amenities. Relax on the uncrowded beach just a few steps away or drive along the epic Highway 1 to Big Sur, Monterey, Carmel, Capitola or Santa Cruz. The space Gated Community. Resort Amenities. 1,050 Sq Ft.

Check rates on Whimstay →

No. 03

Beachfront condo with private patio, beach access, shared pool & hot tub.

Condo

2 bedroom sleeps 6 shared pool about $483 a night

Welcome to your beachfront oasis in Moss Landing, CA, where stunning ocean views and direct beach access await you! This charming house is the perfect getaway for families, couples, or anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With a plethora of resort amenities at your fingertips, including tennis courts, pickleball, and a seasonal pool, you'll find plenty of ways to relax and unwind. Step inside to discover a cozy living space equipped with modern comforts, including a fully stocked kitchen with a fridge, stove, and dishwasher, making meal prep a breeze. Enjoy your meals in the dining area or take them outside to the patio, where you can soak in the fresh ocean air.

Check rates on Whimstay →

Search every stay in Monterey Bay on Booking.com

Hotels, beach houses, apartments, and resorts. Free cancellation on most rooms. Then add a flight in or a rental car for dune drives.

Search stays → Flights to Monterey Bay Car rental

Or browse the same coast on Vrbo: Browse Vrbo →

Affiliate links.

Curated luxury alternative

Prefer a boutique hotel or villa?

If a hand-picked, design-led hotel sounds better than a vacation rental, Skylark Travel Group covers the same destinations with curated boutique stays, Mr & Mrs Smith, exclusive deals, real human concierge.