Revision 11/19/2012 9:11 AM by Greg
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North Monastery Beach
Carmel, CA
Max Depth: Over 150ft/46m
Average Viz: 31-35ft/9-11m
Entry Type: Shore
Bottom Composition: Sand/Rock
Aquatic Life: Plenty To See
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Spring: 50-55°F/10-13°C
Summer: 50-55°F/10-13°C
Fall: 56-60°F/13-16°C
Winter: 56-60°F/13-16°C
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This is an easy-access site toward the Southern end of
Carmel River State Beach. Come here when the main beach, just to the South, is
packed. Because this shoreline is wide open to the Pacific swells, you should
consider yourself an advanced diver before negotiating the entry.
Head South on Highway 1 out of Carmel. Just as you start to
see the first roadside beach, you’re there!
This place is awesome. I got certified here in 1980. If you
disrespect the site it will put you down hard. However, choose your day wisely
and this site is incredible. 40+ foot viz this day. Flat seas. Shore break was
less than a foot. The kelp barely moved while I was down there. Got to spend
some time in the shallows and it was great. Max depth on this one was 60 feet.
Had a local seal diving with me which is not unusual. Many people I talk to
think this dive site is a diver killer. It can be, but there is no reason for
it if you use your head and pick your day. There have been several times where
I roll up to the beach and decide I’ll pass. By far my favorite dive spot in
Monterey.